We review The Phoenicia Malta, Queen Elizabeth II’s beloved Maltese address and the island’s very first five-star hotel

The Phoenicia Malta is more than just a Maltese hotel; it’s part of the island’s DNA. This was the first luxury property built on its sunny shores, opening in 1947 and attracting the world’s who’s who, most notably Queen Elizabeth II. As a newlywed princess, Liz lived in Malta while Prince Philip was stationed as a Royal Navy Officer. Her Majesty later on described these as some of the happiest days of her life. The Phoenicia quickly became a regular haunt of the royal lovebirds, and to this day Elizabeth’s entry in the hotel’s guestbook can be found on display in the lobby. We checked in for a full lowdown on what her Buckingham Palace in the Mediterranean is like today.

While this stay was complimentary, all thoughts and opinions are our own

The Phoenicia Malta review

Hotel snapshot

Hotel: The Phoenicia Malta
Address: The Mall, Floriana, FRN 1478, Malta
Neighbourhood: Floriana / Valletta
Rooms: 132 rooms and suites
Year opened: 1947
Style: Art Deco heritage meets contemporary Mediterranean luxury
Family-friendly: Yes, connecting rooms and complimentary cots are available on request
Wellness: 1,200sqm Phoenicia Spa & Wellness with indoor pool, sauna, steam room, Himalayan salt room and fitness centre, plus seven acres of landscaped private gardens
Pool: Seasonal outdoor infinity pool overlooking the harbour, plus heated indoor spa pool
Best for: Luxury city breaks, couples, history and design lovers, wellness escapes and first-time visitors to Malta
Prices starting from: Around €350 per night, depending on room and season.

The location

Perched on the doorstep of Malta’s capital city, Valletta, itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Phoenicia Malta is within walking distance from all the main draws, and easily accessible to the rest of the island. Both a landmark and a luxury retreat, the striking art-deco property is surrounded by seven acres of beautifully manicured gardens that offer a respite from the city whilst still within its parameters. It’s large, but there are just 132 rooms and suites, making it more of a boutique stay but with plenty of room to breathe. It’s no wonder so many return year after year. This isn’t just a one-time kinda place.

The property also offers its dreamy corners for weddings and special occasions. The team are wonderfully inclusive, and we felt ever so welcome. Maybe we’ll come here to renew our vows one day.

Rooms and suites

You’d be forgiven for assuming that a favourite of royalty would be decked in red and gold, but the rooms and suites at The Phoenician are distinctly Mediterranean, which is, after all, why you came. There’s something about whitewashed walls on deep blues that lifts a weight off your shoulders. That’s what happens when you’re on island time, we suppose.

Designed in collaboration with Peter Young, the interiors of our Junior Suite are up to date, yet retain original features such as the marble flooring and beautiful little balconies that have impressive sights no matter what side they face. Locally sourced furniture complements the space and invites lounging by the Samsungs or balcony windows. It was tempting to stay in our robes all day.

The perks are sweet. We were able to get some business done on the fast and complimentary Wi-Fi and didn’t need to leave for refreshments. Every room comes with a complimentary non-alcoholic mini-bar, stocked with soft drinks and local Cisk Lager beer. We loved that the coffee machine was a luxury Lavazza model, with both caffeinated and decaffeinated pods in the drawer above. Note that there is plenty of spring water at various points of the room, as the local tap water, while safe to drink, is a rather acquired taste (!).

The bathroom was beautifully outfitted in light marble, with a stand-alone tub in addition to a shower, both carrying Acqua di Parma toiletries. The shelves have dental, shaving, and vanity kits.

Food and drink

The Phoenicia has five F&B outlets on-site, but if you only do one, make it Contessa. The fine-dining concept features a mesmerising conservatory that overlooks the harbour, ideal for sunset romancing. The menu changes seasonally, but at our time of visit, we enjoyed the Rabbit Porchetta (rabbit is a popular protein on the island), fresh catch of the day, and tiramisu. Now, we have to talk about Maltese wine, which is exquisite. If you see an ‘Isis’ Chardonnay on the menu, order the bottle.

Breakfast was served here too, buffet style with a la carte options from the kitchen. We were impressed with the variety of fruit and delicious pastries and baked treats.

Other outlets on the property include the Bastion Pool Bar & Restaurant and Beefbar in the City.

The gym and spa

It might be tough wrestling punters away from Malta’s idyllic natural wonders, but the spa sure puts up a mighty fight. The underground facility is large and extensive, with a modern fitness centre and spa area comprising an indoor pool, salt room, sauna, steam room, and multi-jet showers. There is a cap on the number of visitors every two hours, so do plan ahead. 

Things to do

We loved the capital of Valletta and managed to visit the Grand Master’s Palace, plus the absolutely breathtaking St John’s Co-Cathedral, a structure which dates back to the 1570s. Two full days definitely wasn’t enough time, particularly as we wanted to properly explore Gozo Island and Popeye Village. If you’re able to get a week in there, use Visit Malta as your tool for inspiration.

We did manage to get close on the second day, however, with a four-hour quad bike tour on GetYourGuide. This took us to the village of Mellieħa, in the North. Being on quad bikes allowed our small group to go off the beaten track, driving along the coastal and country trails to some gorgeous natural landscapes. It was great for photos.

Finally, we came across a brilliant little family-run restaurant called Legligin, where it’s all about a ‘surprise’ multi-course tasting meal. 95% of everything here is procured from local farmers and suppliers, and there’s plenty of Maltese wine on the menu (the wine pairing is therefore a must). It’s on St Lucia’s Street about a 10-minute walk from the hotel.

Getting there and around

Malta is incredible value for British holidaymakers, with lots of airlines coming into Malta International Airport at bargain prices. The average flight time is three hours and 15 minutes. 

We flew from Luton, taking the National Express from Finchley Road right up to the terminal door. This was cheaper than taking the train and the duration was pretty much the same. There are over 50 daily services to Luton Airport on this route, and prices start at £5 one way. On board, expect free Wi-Fi, charging ports, and lots of luggage space.

Upon arrival, a standard rideshare to The Phoenician takes 10-15 minutes, or you can pre-book Zarb Coaches for peace of mind. Buses also run right up to the hotel, their terminus stop. The airport is small, so you’re unlikely to get lost finding any ride. Easy.

From the hotel, public transport is particularly convenient. Valletta’s main bus terminal is next to the hotel, with services connecting to destinations across Malta. 

For exploring the harbour, the Valletta Ferry connects Valletta with Sliema and the Three Cities, while fast-ferry services also provide connections towards Gozo. The Grand Harbour is approximately 1.5km from the hotel, and the Phoenicia estimates around five minutes by taxi or shuttle.

Once in Valletta, much of the historic centre is best explored on foot. For trips further afield, buses, taxis and ferries are the easiest options. A hire car can be useful if you want to explore Malta independently, particularly the more remote beaches, villages and archaeological sites, but it isn’t necessary if your trip is centred around Valletta.

Frequently asked questions: The Phoenicia Malta