The Phoenicia Malta has ranked fifth in Central and Southern Europe in the US edition of the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2026.

The ranking comes just months after Delta Air Lines launched the first non-stop flights between New York and Malta.

The hotel retained the Michelin Key it first received last year. The Key applies the same rigorous standards to hotels that Michelin Stars apply to restaurants, with only a select few recognised in the Michelin Guide for their distinctive character, cultural experiences and outstanding service.

Closer to home, The Phoenicia Malta has been named a finalist in two categories at this year’s Malta Business Awards – Customer Service Excellence and Leader in Quality Tourism. Its entries highlight an award-winning team known for adding the personalised touches that set luxury hospitality apart, with team members who returning guests often ask for by name.

The hotel’s own history ties into a range of remarkable experiences that offer guests a taste of local culture and heritage, from a recreation of the 1964 Independence Eve State Banquet, in collaboration with Heritage Malta, to chef-led Catch & Cook outings on a traditional fishing boat. The hotel protects that heritage as carefully as it shares it, with its operations Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certified.

“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,” says Robyn Pratt, General Manager at The Phoenicia Malta.