You can travel by ferry from Sicily to Malta and many destinations for quick and convenient day trips. In this post, we will explore how to get to Malta and back from Sicily, sharing the best tips and tricks for planning your day tour to Malta from Sicily, and highlighting all the must-see spots and recommendations for accommodation on the island of Sicily.
As the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily is remarkably close to many other islands, including Malta to the south. This makes Sicily an ideal base for anyone looking to island hop and explore the diversity of the Mediterranean.
Ferry services between Sicily and Malta: connections, ports, and schedules
One of the best ways to explore the Mediterranean is by ferry boat, and getting from Malta to Sicily or vice versa is a great chance to enjoy a day on a new island and also along the seas. Why not take advantage of your holiday and add an exciting new destination to your trip? Here’s what you need to know about the ferry services to help when organising your excursion:
Booking and prices for ferry from Malta to Sicily
Booking your tickets couldn’t be easier, regardless if you are travelling as a foot passenger or with a vehicle. You can purchase the tickets for the Malta to Sicily ferry (and Sicily to Malta ferry) online or directly at the port. However, it is highly recommended that you book your tickets in advance, especially during the high season of the summer months to ensure availability.
Ticket prices vary dramatically depending on the time of day, season and whether you are returning the same day or not. The average adult price without a vehicle is between €69 – €90, however, you can normally find cheaper tickets when you plan and book ahead.
Ferry from Sicily to Malta: routes and ports
There is only one ferry route between Sicily and Malta running from Pozzallo to Valletta directly. You can organise your trip from Catania with many ferry service providers who will include the bus shuttle to Pozzallo from Catania. Keep in mind that if you are travelling with your car, you should not take this route, as your private car will not be able to be transported with the bus.
There has been speculation of a new ferry route from Ragusa to Malta since 2022, however as of now, this connection has not been activated.
Travel duration and frequency
The trip from Pozzallo to Valletta is quick, typically taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes. One of the more popular ferry services, Virtu Ferries, has up to 15 daily crossings on this route. If you decide to depart from Catania, your travel time will be just over 4 hours, including the bus from Catania to Pozzallo.
Flight options for Sicily to Malta
If you are looking for faster connections between Sicily and Malta, taking a flight is an efficient option since the flight time is only 45 minutes. This is a good option for anyone who is not taking a bicycle or vehicle along with them and many major airlines fly directly to Malta International Airport.
Many budget airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet connect Catania to Malta, with flights available multiple times a day. However, keep in mind that last-minute flights are usually more expensive than ferry tickets and you miss out on the beautiful scenic trip of being on the Mediterranean Sea.
Day tours from Sicily to Malta
Due to the proximity of Malta to Sicily, it is the perfect opportunity to expand your holiday and discover a new country, full of interesting history and culture in just a single day!
Once you arrive in Malta from Sicily, in the capital of Valletta, there are many UNESCO World Heritage sites throughout the city, with well-preserved architecture waiting for you to explore. Many must-see monuments include St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Upper Barrakka Gardens, and the Grandmaster’s Palace. The National Museum of Archaeology is a must-visit for anyone interested in art and history from the south Mediterranean.
If you prefer taking an organised tour with structured activities, there are plenty of them to choose from. Guided visits to all the key places within the city as well as transportation between the sites are usually included, as well as trips to Mdina, Malta’s former capital city, which is famous for its medieval and baroque architecture. A visit to Malta’s Blue Grotto is another must-do.
For those who are interested in discovering Malta’s culinary scene, a visit to Marsaxlokk, a small fishing village, is perfect for enjoying the fresh catch of the day.
Alternatively, day tours to Sicily from Malta, once in Pozzallo you can enjoy the beautiful beaches along its coast, as the town is known for its promenade and historical significance. You can visit the Torre Cabrera, which was built in the 15 century to protect the town against pirate raids! If you decide to venture out a bit further, we suggest visiting the towns of Modica and Ragusa where you can find beautiful Baroque architecture and art. Both towns are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The cultural and historical link between Sicily and Malta: origins of the islands
Sicily and Malta are only 80 kilometres apart and therefore share a deep connection that dates back to prehistoric times. On the island of Malta, the Megalithic Temples represent some of the world’s oldest free-standing structures, dating from 3600 BC to 2500 BC. While in Sicily, the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento demonstrate a similar glimpse into the ancient civilizations that shaped the region.
Both islands were main points in the trading routes of the Mediterranean and therefore have influenced their archaeological and cultural landscapes similarly. The two islands’ cuisine and traditions are examples of how Sicily and Malta are intertwined and continue to influence one another.
Don’t miss your chance to explore Malta when in Sicily
With ferries connecting Sicily to Malta multiple times a day, staying on the larger island of Sicily as your base for all your island-hoping excursions is a great option.
When planning your stay in Sicily don’t forget to book with Sicily My Home, offering the perfect accommodations for a comfortable and convenient home base. Don’t miss your chance to experience the best of the Mediterranean.
