Visiting Malta for the Heart Smart Malta conference? A Practical Guide for International Delegates

We are delighted to welcome international delegates to Malta for our upcoming conference. If this is your first time visiting the Maltese Islands, this short guide will help you plan your trip, explore the country, and make the most of your stay.

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Malta is a small Mediterranean island nation, but it is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Thanks to its compact size, you can experience historic cities, coastal views, and traditional villages all within short travelling distances.

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Where Is Malta?

Malta is located in the central Mediterranean Sea, just south of Italy. English is an official language, making communication easy for international visitors. The local currency is the Euro (€), and the country is part of the European Union.

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The Maltese archipelago consists of three main islands:

• Malta (the largest and most populated)

• Gozo (quieter and more rural)

• Comino (known for its crystal-clear waters)​

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Getting to Malta

All international flights arrive at Malta International Airport, located in Luqa, around 20–30 minutes from most central areas.

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For detailed advice on:

• Airport transfers

• Taxi services

• Ride-hailing apps

• Public buses

• Car rentals

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You can read this practical guide to get around the islands.

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Where to Stay

Most conference venues are typically located in or near:

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• Valletta - Malta’s historic capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Sliema - A popular coastal area with hotels and seafront promenades

• St Julian's - Known for restaurants, nightlife, and modern accommodation

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If you’re unsure which area suits you best, our guide to the best areas to stay in Malta for tourists and business travellers can help you choose based on budget, convenience, and travel time.

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Getting Around During the Conference

Malta’s small size makes it easy to travel between locations. Public buses connect most towns, while taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available.

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For a full breakdown of transport options, including travel times and tips for visitors, checkout this trip planner by the Malta public transport.

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If you plan to explore more independently, you may also want to read about renting a car in Malta – what visitors should know.

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Things to Do Before or After the Conference

If you are extending your stay, Malta offers a wide range of experiences:

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• Explore the historic streets of Valletta

• Visit the ancient city of Mdina

• Take a ferry to Gozo

• Swim in the famous Blue Lagoon on Comino

• Enjoy waterfront dining in Marsaxlokk

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Safety and Emergency Information

Malta is considered one of the safest countries in Europe. The emergency number is 112.

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As a resuscitation-focused organisation, we are proud to promote public awareness and access to AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) across the islands. During your visit, you may notice increased visibility of AED locations and training initiatives as part of our national awareness efforts.

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Visit aedmalta.eu for more information about our AED awareness campaigns.

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Planning Your Trip

For more detailed travel advice - including weather by season, cultural tips, local food recommendations, and suggested itineraries you can read more about it on this local travel guide.

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We look forward to welcoming you to Malta and to an inspiring, educational conference.