The Phoenicia Malta Among Europe’s Best in Condé Nast Traveler 2026
October 6, 2026
The Phoenicia Malta Named Among Europe’s Best Hotels in Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2026!
The Phoenicia Malta has been named among Europe’s best hotels in the US edition of the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, ranking fifth in Central and Southern Europe and becoming the only hotel in Malta to earn a place on this year’s list.
The annual Readers’ Choice Awards are voted for by Condé Nast Traveler readers, celebrating the hotels, destinations and travel experiences that have made the greatest impression on travellers around the world.
This recognition comes during an exciting year for travel between Malta and the United States, following the launch of the first non-stop flights between New York and Malta by Delta Air Lines.
Retaining Our Michelin Key
The Condé Nast Traveler recognition follows another important milestone for The Phoenicia Malta: the retention of our Michelin Key for 2026, first awarded to the hotel in 2025.
Much like Michelin Stars recognise exceptional restaurants, Michelin Keys distinguish hotels that stand out for the quality of their hospitality and guest experience. The recognition considers elements including a hotel’s individual character, connection to its destination and consistently high level of service.
Together, these international accolades celebrate an experience shaped not only by our location at the gates of Valletta, but by the people, history and sense of place that have defined The Phoenicia Malta for generations.
Recognition at Home
Closer to home, The Phoenicia Malta has also been named a finalist in two categories at the Malta Business Awards 2026: Customer Service Excellence and Leader in Quality Tourism.
At the heart of both nominations is our team and their commitment to creating thoughtful, personal experiences for every guest. Many returning guests ask for team members by name, a reflection of the genuine relationships built over years of welcoming visitors from Malta and around the world.
Our history also continues to inspire the experiences we offer today. Guests can discover Malta’s culture and heritage through experiences ranging from a recreation of the 1964 Independence Eve State Banquet, created in collaboration with Heritage Malta, to chef-led Catch & Cook outings aboard a traditional fishing boat.
Alongside sharing this heritage, we remain committed to protecting it for generations to come, with our operations certified by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
“To be the only hotel in Malta chosen by Condé Nast Traveler’s readers is a proud moment for all of us,” says Robyn Pratt, General Manager at The Phoenicia Malta. “These awards are voted for by the travellers themselves, which makes them especially meaningful as it tells us that the authentic experience of Malta we work so hard to offer is truly resonating with our guests. Retaining our Michelin Key and reaching the final in two Malta Business Awards categories in the same season shows our team’s dedication is being noticed both abroad and here at home.”
Looking Ahead to 80 Years
These latest accolades become part of a story that stretches back almost eight decades.
In 2027, The Phoenicia Malta will celebrate its 80th anniversary at the gates of Valletta. Since opening in 1947 as Malta’s first five-star hotel, The Phoenicia has welcomed generations of guests while remaining closely connected to the history and culture of the island.
“As we look towards our 80th anniversary, there could be no better way to honour everyone who has shaped this hotel, from Countess Strickland who opened this, Malta’s first five-star hotel, in 1947, to the team who welcome our guests today,” adds Ms Pratt.
As we approach this milestone, these recognitions offer another reason to celebrate the people, experiences and sense of place that continue to make The Phoenicia Malta what it is today.