Imagine arriving on a KM Malta Airlines flight from London Heathrow in just 3hr 20min and stepping back in time to what feels like a film set, where honey-coloured limestone streets, fortresses rising from the sea like they were designed for cinema, ancient walls, and breathtaking views transport you to a bygone era. Enter Malta. It’s perfect luxury weekend break territory.
And the only place to really set up base for a few nights of exploring is at The Phoenicia Malta. A unique and spectacular hotel that balances old-world 1920s grandeur with modern luxury, where old-school glamour is at the forefront and royalty is in the roots of the hotel. Located in Floriana, right outside the capital city walls of Valletta, and built in 1947 as Malta’s first luxury five-star hotel, this iconic and historic property is just a 20-minute transfer from Malta International Airport. From the moment you pull up in your airport transfer and are greeted by the doorman in a pristine, regal suit, you know you’ve arrived somewhere special.
This was also a favourite with royalty – Queen Elizabeth II visited many times and celebrities galore have stayed here. It remains a preferred hotel for certain high-profile guests and loyal regulars – one guest, we hear, has stayed over 200 times across 60 years.
Do as guests at The Phoenicia do and, after check-in, make your way to the Palm Court Lounge, the hotel’s central meeting point set beneath a circular dome. Expect a tight list of well-executed cocktails, served strong and cold, alongside an approachable wine list and only the finest Jing tea – we opted for a bellini to start. It’s the place to enjoy a tipple or two, a slice of cake freshly baked by the in-house pastry team (the decadent chocolate cake is a must), or their ever-popular afternoon tea, with a rotating art display showcased on the walls, featuring a different artist each month.
There are 132 bedrooms here, ranging from signature rooms to suites. The first and second floors have been fully refurbished to a very high spec – we hear the third and fourth floors are set to follow towards the end of 2026, so watch this space.
The rooms have a real Mediterranean feel, in keeping with the historic nature of the hotel, with pops of blue and Maltese heritage tile prints appearing in deep blues against whitewashed walls. The décor feels calm, clean and inviting, with plenty of natural light in keeping with the 1940s architecture. Balconies ensure the ever-present historic city views take centre stage, offering the perfect excuse to enjoy a glass of something chilled while admiring the surroundings.
You’ll find a complimentary minibar, stocked daily, while beauty lovers will adore the Acqua di Parma toiletries and hair styling tools such as the Supersonic dryer and Airstraight – this is what we call true five-star amenities.
Turndown service is always memorable, with a friendly team that really do have an eye for detail; a complimentary chocolate to come back to and slippers thoughtfully placed on each side of the bed, ready for you to step your tired sightseeing feet into.
The grounds are just as impressive as the interiors, with seven acres of gardens to explore and get lost in with a book. There’s a relaxation garden, citrus and herb garden, and vegetable plots – all utilised by the kitchen – you have to try the marmalade, made from the array of orange trees.
Then, it’s time to claim a spot by the Bastion Pool, where you could easily spend the whole day gazing out across the infinity pool and panoramic views over Marsamxett Harbour. Days are spent lunching at the Bastion poolside bar and sipping cocktails on the ultra-comfortable sun loungers, with the sound of birds in the background.
It’s hard to tear yourself away, but do venture out – the city is right on The Phoenicia’s doorstep. Explore the Archaeology Museum, the Grand Master’s Palace, and cross over to the Three Cities via a traditional Maltese harbour boat, which is quite the experience. Be sure to stock up on traditional Maltese ceramics and specialist food – a roomy suitcase is highly recommended (especially when taking advantage of the generous 30kg business class luggage allowance on KM Malta Airlines).
There are clear Sicilian influences, given Malta is just a ferry ride away from Pozzallo. Expect viral sandwich shops, upbeat bars with live music, and plenty of Kodak-moment restaurants.
Really, though, nothing compares to dinner at Contessa, the Phoenicia’s main restaurant. If you’re looking to sample the best of both worlds – fresh fish from the sea and meat from the land…this is the place. Seasonal dishes are showcased in a relaxed setting, with alfresco dining available on the terrace, offering some of the best views in Floriana, paired with equally impressive décor, colour pops, greenery and a cosy, laidback ambiance perfect for a romantic dinner.
The whole grilled seabass for two is not to be missed, served at the table for that extra touch of theatre. The tagliatelle all’uovo with Italian sausage and fresh truffle is everything you want in a pasta dish – comfort food at its best. Tableside tiramisu is another standout, constructed in front of you and one to capture on camera. The knowledgeable staff will guide you through wine pairings – do opt for the Maltese wine.
Sparkling weekend brunch at Contessa has also become a firm favourite with both holidaymakers and locals, thanks to its generous buffet starter, à la carte mains and traditional dessert trolley. There’s also the hotel’s Beefbar, showcasing the best cuts of meat in a sophisticated, glamorous setting, and the Club Bar, which stays open until midnight, perfect for a post-dinner whisky or pre-dinner cocktail.
Breakfast is a sophisticated affair, also served in Contessa. Expect a generous bread selection, meats, freshly baked Maltese pastries, alongside an egg station and made-to-order dishes such as eggs benedict and pancakes. Freshly squeezed orange juice is served at your table, and the level of service is pristine – down to the detail of perfectly pressed tablecloths.
The Phoenicia Spa & Wellness, an award-winning spa located in the basement, features an indoor heated pool, sauna, steam room and salt room. After a day of sightseeing, this is the place to recover. The menu of Korres facials and VISIA® Skin Analysis sounds appealing, but we feel the only spa that offers Himalayan Salt Stone massage in Malta is the treatment of choice. The heated stones work deep into knots in a way that traditional massage can’t, and the spa team go above and beyond to ensure total comfort.
It’s also worth mentioning the state-of-the-art gym – an inspiring space to work out – alongside complimentary fitness classes launching in the gardens this month.
Every element has been thoughtfully considered here. It’s rare to find a hotel where the general manager is also a lifestyle coach, but it speaks to the wider, more holistic approach.
This is five-star, but without the pretence – service that is warm, intuitive and personable. The team are a true testament to the hotel; when people genuinely love what they do, it shows, and it’s what makes guests return time and time again.
The Phoenicia, The Mall, Floriana, FRN1478
