Malta: 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Harbour Cruise (CMO)

This review takes a close look at a popular way to see Malta—through a combined 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and Harbour Cruise pass offered by iSeeMalta. If you’re visiting for the first time or just want a flexible way to cover major sights, this package might be worth considering. It promises the chance to hop between highlights like Valletta, Mdina, and the Three Cities, plus enjoy a scenic Harbour Cruise within five days of activation.

What I like about this experience is that it offers two non-consecutive days of unlimited bus travel on both the North and South routes, giving you plenty of flexibility to explore at your pace. The Harbour Cruise adds a memorable water-based view of Malta’s coastline—something that really enriches the visit. Plus, the entire package is wheelchair accessible and includes live English guides, which enhances the overall experience.

On the flip side, a small consideration is that some travelers have found the café/restaurants associated with the experience somewhat disappointing, with a quote from a review mentioning “substandard” evening meals. While this doesn’t impact the core sightseeing, it’s worth noting if you’re planning to dine there. Also, because the bus pass is valid for two separate days, you’ll want to plan your itinerary carefully to maximize time and avoid overlaps.

This offer is a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive Malta overview without the hassle of navigating public transport alone. It balances value and convenience, making it an attractive option for most travelers—especially those who enjoy land and sea views.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Flexibility: Valid for two non-consecutive days, giving you control over your sightseeing schedule.
• Multiple routes: Travel on both the North (Blue Line) and South (Red Line) routes, covering major attractions like Mdina and Valletta.
• Scenic Harbour Cruise: Redeemable within five days, offering stunning waterfront views that land-based tours can’t match.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all travelers.
• Live Guides: Guided in English, which helps enrich your understanding of Malta’s sights.
• Value for Money: Combines bus and water tours, often a better deal than separate tickets, especially considering the flexibility.

If you’re looking to see Malta without a rigid schedule, this 2-day hop-on, hop-off bus pass combined with a harbour cruise is a smart way to go. Malta is a compact island, but its historical sites, coastal scenery, and charming towns deserve more than a quick glance. This package gives you a good mix of land and sea experiences, with enough flexibility to explore at your own pace.

How the Itinerary Breaks Down

The bus routes cover Malta’s key areas, with the Blue Line taking you northward and the Red Line heading south. You can hop on and off at major attractions like Mdina, the ancient silent city, or the Three Cities—Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua—that pack a lot of history and waterfront charm. Valletta, Malta’s bustling capital, is also easily accessible from these routes.

The Harbour Cruise is redeemable within five days after activation, so you can plan it on a day that’s sunny and not too busy. Expect scenic views of the waterfront, with some reviews highlighting that the cruise adds a memorable perspective to the island’s beauty.

What To Expect When Riding the Buses

The buses are generally well-rated for their live guides speaking in English—a huge plus if you want to understand the stories behind the sights. They run at a frequency that is suitable for most travelers, but always check the schedule for the specific routes on the day you plan to ride.

The bus stops are conveniently located near major tourist sites, and the buses tend to be comfortable and clean. Because tickets are valid for two days, you can split your sightseeing over a couple of days, which helps avoid rushing and allows you to linger at favorite spots.

Highlights of the Land Tour: Valletta, Mdina, and the Three Cities

One of the biggest advantages of this type of ticket is the freedom to hop off and explore. Valletta’s St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grandmaster’s Palace are must-see sights, easily reached from stops along the route. Mdina, the “silent city,” offers a step back in time with its narrow streets and ancient walls—perfect for a peaceful stroll away from the busy tourist areas.

The Three Cities offer a different vibe: quieter, more authentic, with scenic waterfronts. You’ll love the views from the bus, but I recommend dedicating some time to walk around and soak in the atmosphere if you can.

The Harbour Cruise Experience

The cruise provides a stunning vantage point of Malta’s coastline and historical fortifications. Many travelers find that seeing the city from the water adds a sense of scale and beauty that land-based sightseeing can’t replicate. The cruise is also a chance to relax and enjoy the breeze after a busy day on land.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Plan your days: Since the bus pass is valid for two days (non-consecutive), think about your priorities. If you want to visit Valletta and Mdina, schedule those stops on different days.
• Timing: Buses run regularly, but check schedules especially for the South route—some stops might have less frequent service.
• Booking: Reserve your ticket in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak season.
• Eating: Be aware that some reviewers found local cafes and restaurants disappointing in quality, particularly in the evenings—pack snacks or plan to dine elsewhere.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This package is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown without the hassle of public transport or multiple tickets. It’s also good for those who prefer flexibility, as you control your schedule across land and sea. If your goal is to see the main sights and enjoy a scenic harbour cruise, this offers good value.

However, if you’re seeking deep dives into history or want a more luxurious cruise experience, you might look elsewhere. The focus here is on efficient sightseeing and viewing highlights with a touch of adventure.

In the end, this Malta hop-on hop-off and harbour cruise combo provides a balanced, flexible, and scenic way to explore the island’s key locations. The value for money is solid, especially if you appreciate being able to set your own pace and enjoy both land and sea perspectives.

While some might find the dining options associated with the experience less than stellar, the overall route coverage, accessible guides, and stunning views make this a practical choice for most travelers. It’s particularly suitable for those who want a convenient, comprehensive, and budget-friendly way to see Malta’s highlights.

Is the bus pass valid for consecutive days?
No, the pass is valid for two non-consecutive days, giving you flexibility to spread your sightseeing over multiple days.

Can I take the Harbour Cruise more than once?
The cruise is redeemable within five days of your first activation, but typically, you get one opportunity to enjoy the cruise included in your package.

Are the buses accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the buses are wheelchair accessible, making this tour inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are live and speak English, ensuring clear communication about the sights and stories.

Do I need to book the tickets in advance?
It’s recommended to reserve your tickets beforehand to secure your spot, especially during busy periods.

Is the Harbour Cruise scenic?
Absolutely, many travelers appreciate the stunning waterfront views that the cruise offers—it’s a relaxing way to see Malta from the water.

What should I do if I want to visit a specific site?
Use the hop-on hop-off flexibility to disembark at your desired stop, explore, then hop back on to continue your tour.

What about food options?
The experience doesn’t include meals, and some reviews mention disappointing dining options nearby, so plan accordingly if you want good meals.

This Malta tour package strikes a good balance for casual explorers who want a convenient overview with beautiful views and a bit of adventure. With thoughtful planning, it can be a highlight of your trip, offering a practical way to see the island’s most enchanting sights.