Transportation from Gozo to Malta's main island relies on a 45-minute ferry crossing. Upon arriving near Valletta, use the public elevator from the port to comfortably bypass the steep elevation gain up to the city center. Ride-hailing services like Uber operate across Malta and offer convenient transfers between the port, local accommodations, and Malta International Airport. Short budget flights from Malta to major European hubs like Rome Fiumicino are readily available on low-cost carriers for around $110.
Navigating transfers at Rome Fiumicino Airport requires careful attention to taxi pricing. While standard taxi fares into central Rome are fixed around €50, drivers servicing short trips to local accommodations near the airport often attempt to charge similar amounts. Travelers heading to nearby hotels should ensure they use the designated local taxi queue rather than the main line for central Rome, or check ride-hailing apps to avoid paying standard city-center rates for a 15-minute drive.
Booking last-minute transatlantic flights from Rome back to U.S. West Coast destinations during peak summer travel can exceed $1,100 for non-stop service, though credit card reward points can be applied to offset the cost. For international departures leaving Europe from Rome Fiumicino, plan to arrive at the terminal at least three hours before departure to clear passport control and security.
Guide adapted from Gabriel Traveler's video "It Was a Long, Long Journey Getting Back Home."