Newlyweds Fran Newman-Young and Peter Clarke embark on a minimoon to Malta to discover what this sun-dappled Mediterranean island has to offer.
Two weddings, two countries, and one rather exhausted couple. First, a civil ceremony in Chelsea, then a sun-drenched Mallorca bash – both glorious, both requiring Herculean levels of planning. The Big Honeymoon? That’s for later. For now, a minimoon: short, sweet, and brimming with the sort of luxuries that smooth out post-wedding exhaustion.
Why Malta?
A Mediterranean mix of old-world charm and buzzy new openings, Malta has the history, the beaches, and the kind of seafood that makes you reconsider ever leaving.
Honeymoon style:
For couples who like a little culture with their cocktails, because Malta serves history and hedonism in equal measure. Think Knights of St John, grand Baroque beauty, and hidden harbours whispering smugglers’ tales. Just enough history to keep things interesting, but never at the expense of golden hour on a chic rooftop – a glass of wine from private estate Ta’Betta in hand – watching the Med glisten like it’s been personally polished for your arrival.
When to go?
Malta is one of those places that always looks like it’s been slapped with a sunshine filter. Even in the cooler months, you’ll still need sunglasses, and the sea rarely gets cold enough to be properly off-limits. If you’re here for beaches, May to November is the sweet spot – hot days, warm water, and a vibrant atmosphere. If, however, you like your islands with a side of history rather than a sun lounger, the off-season is perfect for strolling Valletta’s golden streets and exploring Malta’s ancient temples.
Where to stay:
The Phoenicia is the grande dame of Malta, a stately hotel that holds court just beyond the formidable walls of Valletta. Its location is nothing short of regal, perched with effortless grace at the threshold of the city’s historic fortifications. Inside, you’ll find a refined blend of Art-Deco glamour and Maltese heritage. The bed swallows you whole, with sheets as crisp as a perfectly pressed linen suit. The bathrooms are expansive, stocked with Acqua di Parma toiletries. The best suites feature terraces with sweeping views over Valletta’s ancient walls – perfect for a sunset toast.
Once the residence of the late Queen Elizabeth II during her early years of marriage, The Phoenicia was the backdrop to her dances and soirées, long before duty called her back to London. Over the years, it has played host to aristocrats, dignitaries, and dazzling galas, each adding a layer to its storied past.
Wellness:
The Phoenicia Malta’s spa is one of those rare spots where indulgence meets history in the most effortless way. It sits atop an area where ancient ruins were uncovered, so you can almost hear the whisper of history as you drift into blissful relaxation. Treatments range from indulgent massages to skin-reviving facials – the kind of pampering you’d expect from a top-tier retreat. There’s a pool for those who prefer a quiet float, alongside saunas, a Himalayan salt room and a steam room to clear the mind and ease the body. And, while you’re being cocooned in calm, it’s natural to think about the centuries-old stories hidden in the ruins nearby, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the experience.
Where to eat:
Malta’s dining scene is a brilliant mix of tradition and innovation, with some spots truly standing out for their character and flavour.
In Valletta, Rampila is perfect for a romantic evening, tucked inside the city’s historic bastions, where Mediterranean flavours and history collide. If sleek and sophisticated is more your style, The Phoenicia’s restaurant, Contessa, serves up a sumptuous steaks, seafood and decadent pasta – the Benedetto Cavalieri spaghettata with gamberi rossi (red shrimp) is perfection. For something more rustic, Trabuxu Bistro delivers comfort with a twist – bone marrow fettucini is a stand-out plate.
Over in Rabat, Root 81 blends casual vibes with fresh, local Mediterranean fare, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal. For a quieter, more intimate experience, Fork & Cork is a hidden gem, where Chef-owner Carl Zahra’s take on local flavours shines with expertly paired wines.
Browns Kitchen at the Valletta Waterfront is a seafood lover’s dream, with oysters, lobster, and mussels fresh from the Maltese waters. The seafood linguine is a must-try, and the stunning harbour view adds that perfect finishing touch.
AcquaBlu is nestled in Senglea, one of Malta’s three cities, right on the waterfront. With stunning views of the Grand Harbour, this charming spot serves up fresh seafood and traditional fare. Start with their irresistible, traditional antipasto, a perfect introduction to the meal, followed by the catch of the day, grilled with olive oil or salt-baked to highlight the natural coastal flavours. It’s a peaceful, scenic spot to enjoy a relaxed meal while taking in the beauty of the harbour and surrounding historic architecture.
For something elevated, Noni offers modern takes on Maltese classics, while Under Grain delivers an intimate, fine-dining experience with a menu that highlights local ingredients with European elegance. Both places redefine the art of eating out, making every meal feel special.
And when in Gozo, one80 Gozo gives a modern spin on Gozitan classics. Try the seafood pasta or the rabbit ravioli to capture the flavour of the island.
No trip to Malta is complete without a visit to Caffè Cordina in Valletta. This historic café, established in 1944, is one of the most famous spots in the city, beloved by both locals and visitors alike. It’s the perfect place to grab a pastizzi – Malta’s iconic flaky pastry, typically filled with ricotta or peas.
Best bars:
Valletta is alive with romance. Cocktails, soft music, and laughter spill into the warm, golden streets. Tico Tico on Strait Street is a hidden gem, where you can sip cocktails made with Kinnie (the aromatic national soft drink) and feel like you’ve stepped back in time, watching the world go by with your other half. Café Society offers a bohemian escape, perfect for lingering over inventive drinks as the city hums around you, locals and tourists weaving in and out of the evening’s magic. And on Fridays, The Bridge turns into a dreamy jazz haven, where the sound of live music fills the air, and the world feels a little smaller and more intimate.
For something more refined, Trabuxu Wine Bar invites you to sip from a carefully curated list of 300 wines in a 400-year-old cellar. Kingsway is ideal for an Aperol spritz and slow, people-watching, a peaceful moment in the midst of the city’s vibrancy.
For a more secluded experience, Hole-in-the-Wall in Sliema is the perfect spot for craft beers and indie tunes, just the two of you enjoying each other’s company. Fontanella in Mdina offers a panoramic view at sunset, the perfect setting for a glass of wine and stolen glances. And Sea View Café-Bar in Mellieħa? It’s one of the most romantic spots on the island, with views of the Mediterranean stretching out before you, making time feel like it’s standing still. Malta’s bar scene is now a blend of cheeky charm and honeymoon-worthy sophistication.
Cultural highlights / things to do:
Stroll hand-in-hand through Valletta’s cobbled streets, past grand churches and baroque facades, and let the awe-inspiring St John’s Co-Cathedral with its Caravaggio masterpieces steal you away.
A short and scenic ferry ride away is the island of Gozo. Hop on a quad bike and explore the island’s picturesque beauty, from charming villages to hidden coves. Visit the ancient salt pans, where the island’s mineral-rich sea salt is still harvested using traditional methods. You can also take a boat to The Blue Lagoon – with its crystal-clear waters, it’s ideal for a refreshing swim or a spot of sunbathing.
Film and TV buffs will recognise Malta from many shows and blockbuster movies including Gladiator and Game of Thrones, where the island’s dramatic landscapes set the stage for epic battles. Away from the screen, Gozo’s salt pans are a serene sight, where traditional salt collection has been passed down through generations – the perfect spot for a quiet, romantic moment.
With over 350 churches across both islands, Malta’s rich spiritual history offers a serene backdrop to your adventure. Whether you’re in Mdina’s peaceful streets or overlooking the Mediterranean from Gozo’s citadel, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a film of your own.
The Story
Malta’s history isn’t something you read about in a guidebook; it’s something you feel under your feet as you wander through limestone streets. A family-run hotel in a former merchant’s house, where generations have poured their love into every corner. A restaurant where the recipes date back centuries, passed down from one fiery Maltese matriarch to the next. A bar where Hemingway (allegedly) drank – and where you can still order the same classic cocktail today.
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