Planning a trip to Mallorca and wondering where to stay? Look no further! Palma de Mallorca offers a variety of neighborhoods, ensuring there’s a perfect spot for everyone. From the bustling Old Town, with its charming 17th-century buildings and vibrant nightlife, to the serene beach resorts outside of Palma, there’s something for every traveler. Explore Palma and its surroundings, finding the best areas that cater to different tastes, whether you prefer luxury hotels or quaint boutique stays.
Best Hotels in Palma de Mallorca: 🏩
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá
- ✨ Unique Stay: El Llorenc Parc de la Mar - Adults Only
- 🏨 4-Star: Nakar Hotel
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Abelux
- 💸 Cheap: Youth Hostel Central Palma
- 🏢 Apartment: Palma Old Town Apartments
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Hotel Victoria Gran Meliá
- 🏩 For Couples: Antigua Palma
If you’re looking for the best nightlife, head to areas around Palma’s central Palma. For those wanting a more laid-back vibe, consider staying in resort towns like Port de Soller or Port de Pollenca. Families will love neighborhoods that are perfect for days in Palma, with beautiful beaches and kid-friendly activities.
No matter where you choose to stay, Palma de Mallorca hotels offer a range of accommodations, from affordable options to the best hotels in Mallorca. Rent a car to explore further afield, visiting stunning spots like Colonia de Sant Pere or taking scenic drives along the mountain range. Enjoy delicious cuisine at local bars and restaurants, and make the most of your trip to Mallorca!
Best Places to Stay in Palma de Mallorca: Quick Guide 📙
- 🏨 For First-Time Visitors: Old Town
- 🎉 For History and Nightlife: Santa Catalina
- 🏡 For Local Atmosphere: Portixol
- 🚉 For Convenience: Paseo Maritimo
- 🍴 For Foodies: Cala Major
- 🌳 For Luxury and Nature: Son Vida
1. Old Town – Historical Heart of Palma 🏯
🏛️ Step Back in Time: When you step into Palma’s Old Town, it’s like stepping back in time. The narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with stunning architecture, each building whispering tales of the past. I recommend starting your journey at La Seu, the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria. This Gothic masterpiece dominates the skyline and offers breathtaking views of the city and the sea. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the Palau de l’Almudaina, a royal palace that blends Gothic and Moorish styles.
🛁 Ancient Baths: Don’t miss the Banys Àrabs, the ancient Arab Baths. It’s a serene spot that offers a glimpse into the city’s Moorish past.
📍 Must-See Spots: One of the best ways to explore Old Town is on foot. The area is compact, and you’ll find hidden gems around every corner. Here are some must-see attractions:
- La Seu (Cathedral of Santa Maria)
- Palau de l’Almudaina
- Banys Àrabs (Arab Baths)
- Plaça de Cort with its iconic olive tree
- Can Forteza Rey, a stunning example of Modernist architecture
🍽️ Foodie’s Paradise: After soaking in the history, it’s time to indulge in some local cuisine. Old Town is a foodie’s paradise, with a plethora of restaurants offering everything from traditional Mallorcan dishes to modern fusion cuisine. We love La Despensa del Barón for its cozy atmosphere and delicious tapas. If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, Fera Palma Restaurant offers a creative menu that blends local ingredients with international flavors.
🍷 Casual Bites: For a casual bite, head to Quina Creu Tapas & Restaurant. It’s a local favorite, known for its vibrant atmosphere and tasty tapas.
🎶 Best Nightlife Vibes: The charming Old Town isn’t just about history and food; it’s also a great place to experience Palma’s vibrant nightlife. The area comes alive in the evenings, with lively bars and clubs offering everything from live music to DJ sets. OMBU Passeig del Born is a fantastic spot to start your night with some cocktails and people-watching.
Best hotels in Palma de Mallorca, Old Town 🏩
⭐ Luxury hotels in Mallorca
- Concepció by Nobis This stylish hotel in Palma de Mallorca offers modern rooms with Scandinavian design and an outdoor swimming pool. Guests can enjoy a fitness center, a bar, and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
- Antigua Palma Located in the heart of Palma, this elegant hotel features rooms with classic décor, a rooftop pool, and a spa. Guests can indulge in Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant and relax in the wellness center.
- Nivia Born Boutique Hotel This boutique hotel offers luxurious rooms with modern amenities, including a Nespresso machine and smart TV. It also features a bar and a restaurant.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Palma Old Town Apartments These stylish apartments in Palma’s Old Town provide a fully equipped kitchen, living area, and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy the central location, within walking distance to major attractions and restaurants.
- Fil Suites - Turismo de Interior Located in a historic building, this hotel offers contemporary suites with kitchenettes and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy the central location, close to Palma’s best attractions and dining options.
- Ca n'Alexandre This charming hotel in Palma features rooms with rustic décor, a terrace, and a bar. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast and easy access to the city’s main attractions.
🛏️ Best hostels
- HM Jaime III This modern hotel in Palma offers spacious rooms with contemporary design, a spa, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy a restaurant, a bar, and a central location close to shopping and cultural sites.
- BRICK Palma - Turismo de Interior This trendy hotel offers minimalist rooms with free WiFi, a shared lounge, and a bar. Located in the heart of Palma, it’s within walking distance to popular attractions and dining options.
- Canavall This charming hotel in the heart of Palma de Mallorca offers rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and some with balconies. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a rooftop terrace, and easy access to La Rambla, Plaça Major, and Cala Major Beach.
2. Portixol – Where to Stay in Palma de Mallorca for Beachside Relaxation 🏖️
🏞️ Coastal Charm: Portixol is a picturesque coastal suburb of Palma that has transformed from a quiet fishing village into a trendy hotspot. The area is known for its beautiful promenade, where you can enjoy scenic walks, cycling, and rollerblading along the seafront. The former fishermen’s cottages have been converted into stylish homes, adding to the area’s unique charm.
🚶♀️ Easy Access: One of the best things about Portixol is its proximity to the centre of Palma. It’s just a short walk or cycle ride along the dedicated traffic-free promenade, which offers fantastic views of the sea and the city. This makes it easy to explore both Portixol and Palma without the need for a car.
🍽️ Seafront Dining: Portixol is a food lover’s paradise, with a great selection of restaurants and bars lining the seafront. We recommend Restaurante Portixol for its Mediterranean cuisine and stunning views. For something more casual, Blau Resto Bar offers delicious tapas and panoramic views of the promenade. If you’re in the mood for Italian, Cocco is a popular spot for pizza and pasta.
🌅 Sunset Spots: The nightlife in Portixol is more about enjoying a relaxed evening with a drink rather than late-night partying. Prosecco on the promenade is perfect for a sundowner, while Nassau Beach offers a chic beach club vibe. For those looking to continue the night, a short taxi ride will take you to the vibrant nightlife of Palma.
🚴♂️ Active Lifestyle: Apart from dining and relaxing, Portixol offers plenty of opportunities to stay active. You can rent a bicycle or Segway to explore the coastline, or try your hand at water sports like kayaking and sailing at the local marina. The promenade is always bustling with joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers, making it a lively spot to enjoy the outdoors.
💡 Hidden Gems: For a quieter beach experience, head to the smaller cove in Portixol, away from the more touristy Playa de Palma. It’s a favorite among locals and offers a more peaceful setting.
📍 Must-See Spots:
- Portixol Beach
- Playa de Palma
- Portixol Marina
- Colorful Fishermen’s Houses
- Promenade to Palma Cathedral
Best Palma de Mallorca hotels in Portixol 🏩
⭐ Luxury hotels
- El Llorenc Parc de la Mar - Adults Only This adults-only hotel in Palma offers luxurious rooms, a rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, and a spa with a hammam and sauna. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant and stunning views of Palma Bay.
- Hotel Victoria Gran Meliá Located in central Palma, this hotel features rooms with views of the sea, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and dine at the on-site restaurant with a terrace overlooking the marina.
- Es Princep - The Leading Hotels of the World This luxury hotel offers elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace with an outdoor pool, and a spa. Guests can enjoy fine dining at the on-site restaurant and explore the nearby attractions in Palma’s historic center.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Melia Palma Bay Situated near Palma’s seafront, this hotel features modern rooms, a rooftop terrace with a pool, and a wellness center. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant and easy access to Palma’s top attractions.
- Hotel Palma Bellver, Affiliated by Meliá Overlooking Palma Bay, this hotel offers spacious rooms with balconies, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and dine at the on-site restaurant with views of the sea.
- INNSiDE by Meliá Palma Bosque This modern hotel features stylish rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy local cuisine at the on-site restaurant and explore the nearby Bellver Castle and Palma’s city center.
🛏️ Best hostels
- Hotel Abelux Located in a quiet area of Palma, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with free WiFi and a buffet breakfast. Guests can easily access Palma’s main attractions and public transportation from the hotel.
- Hotel Costa Azul Overlooking Palma Bay, this hotel offers modern rooms with balconies, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and dine at the on-site restaurant with panoramic views of the sea.
3. Paseo Maritimo – Best Area to Stay in Palma de Mallorca for Waterfront Luxury 🌊
🌅 Scenic Promenade: Paseo Maritimo, or Passeig Marítim, is Palma’s stunning waterfront promenade that stretches along the seafront. It’s a perfect spot for leisurely walks, cycling, and enjoying the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea. The promenade is lined with palm trees, luxury yachts, and offers a picturesque setting for both tourists and locals.
🚶♂️ Easy Access: You can easily walk to the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Royal Palace of Almudaina, and the Bellver Castle. The area is well-connected, making it convenient to explore the city without needing a car.
🍽️ Dining with a View: Paseo Maritimo is a food lover’s haven, offering a variety of dining options with stunning sea views. We recommend Restaurante Marítimo for its fresh seafood and local dishes. For a more casual experience, Café Mares offers delicious tapas and a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for something upscale, El Nautico provides a fine dining experience with panoramic views of the sea
🎉 Nightlife Hotspot: The nightlife along Paseo Maritimo is vibrant and diverse. From trendy bars to lively nightclubs, there’s something for everyone. Tito’s Mallorca International Club is a legendary spot known for its energetic atmosphere and stunning views of the bay. For a more laid-back evening, Garito Café offers live music and a cozy ambiance.
🚴♂️ Active Lifestyle: Paseo Maritimo is perfect for those who love to stay active. You can rent a bike or rollerblades to explore the promenade, or join a boat tour from the marina. The area is always bustling with joggers, cyclists, and people enjoying water sports, making it a lively and dynamic place to be.
💡 Insider Tip: Don’t miss the Parc de la Mar, an artificial sea water lake that mirrors the Cathedral. It’s a serene spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll, especially during sunset.
📍 Must-See Spots:
- Cathedral of Santa Maria (La Seu)
- Royal Palace of Almudaina
- Bellver Castle
- Parc de la Mar
- Tito’s Mallorca International Club
Where to stay in Paseo Maritimo? 🏩
⭐ Luxury hotels
- Hotel Ciutat Jardi This beach resort in Palma de Mallorca is housed in a stunning early 19th-century mansion with tropical gardens, an outdoor swimming pool, and a terrace. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant and easily reach Palma’s city center by car, public transport, or bicycle.
- Hotel Nou Baleares Located in Palma de Mallorca, this hotel offers modern rooms with air conditioning, a rooftop terrace, and an outdoor swimming pool. Guests can enjoy a fitness center, a bar, and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
- Boutique Hotel Petit Montisión This boutique hotel in Palma features stylish rooms with modern amenities, a rooftop terrace, and a bar. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, a shared lounge, and easy access to Palma’s main attractions.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Youth Hostel Central Palma Located in the heart of Palma, this hostel offers dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms, a communal kitchen, and a terrace. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, a bar, and easy access to Palma’s nightlife and attractions.
- Art Hotel Palma This art-themed hotel in Palma offers elegant rooms with unique décor, a bar, and a shared lounge. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, a continental breakfast, and proximity to Palma’s cultural sites and shopping areas.
- Hostal Regina Situated in central Palma, this budget-friendly hostel offers simple rooms with private or shared bathrooms, free WiFi, and a 24-hour front desk. Guests can easily explore Palma’s attractions and public transport options.
4. Santa Catalina – Best Place to Stay in Mallorca for Trendy Vibes 🎨
🌟 Trendy Hotspot: Santa Catalina is the trendiest neighborhood in Palma de Mallorca, known for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and shops. This area, often referred to as “Soho Balear,” has a unique charm with its 17th-century buildings and modern amenities. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to experience the best of both worlds – historical charm and contemporary vibes.
🚶♂️ Central Location: Located close to Palma’s city center, Santa Catalina is within walking distance to many of the best attractions in Palma. You can easily explore the nearby Passeig del Born, the Cathedral of Santa Maria, and the bustling Plaza Mayor. This makes it an ideal base for visiting Mallorca and discovering the city of Palma.
🍽️ Culinary Delights: From trendy cafes to gourmet restaurants, you’ll find everything here. We love Mercat de Santa Catalina for its fresh, local produce and lively atmosphere. For a more upscale experience, Sant Francesc Hotel Singular offers a rooftop terrace with stunning views and exquisite dining.
💃 Nightlife Scene: When the sun sets, Santa Catalina transforms into Palma’s nightlife hotspot. The area is packed with bars and clubs where you can enjoy everything from live music to DJ sets. Bar Cuba is a top choice for its rooftop terrace and vibrant atmosphere. For a more laid-back evening, head to Soho Bar with its 60s aesthetics and cozy vibe.
🚴♂️ Active Lifestyle: Santa Catalina is perfect for those who love to stay active. You can rent a bike and explore the surrounding areas, or take a short trip to the beautiful beaches nearby, such as Cala Major. The area is also close to the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventures.
💡 Hidden Gems: Don’t miss the original old mill at the top of Santa Catalina. It offers a wonderful view over the harbor and is a great spot for some quiet reflection away from the bustling streets.
📍 Must-See Spots:
- Mercat de Santa Catalina
- Bar Cuba
- Passeig del Born
- Cathedral of Santa Maria
- Plaza Mayor
- Original Old Mill
Where to stay in Santa Catalina? 🏩
⭐ Luxury hotels
- Casa Catalina Located in the trendy Santa Catalina district, this guest house offers air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy easy access to Palma Yacht Club, Palma Port, and the vibrant local dining scene.
- Nakar Hotel This modern hotel in central Palma features stylish rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, and a spa. Guests can enjoy local cuisine at the on-site restaurant and explore nearby attractions like Paseo del Borne and Palma Cathedral.
- Hotel Saratoga Located in the heart of Palma, this luxurious hotel offers elegant rooms, a rooftop pool with city views, and a jazz club. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and easy access to Palma’s top attractions, including the Contemporary Art Museum and Jaime III shopping avenue.
5. Cala Major – Best Neighborhood for Secluded Beachside Retreat 🏠
🏖️ Beach Bliss: Cala Major is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a secluded beachside retreat. Nestled just a few kilometers from Palma, this charming neighborhood offers a beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is Cala Major’s main attraction, and it’s easy to see why – it’s a slice of paradise right on the edge of Palma.
🍽️ Dining Delights: Cala Major boasts a variety of dining options that cater to all tastes. We love El Sótano by Folies for its Mediterranean and Asian fusion dishes. For a more casual meal, Italian Fusion offers delicious pizzas and pastas. If you’re in the mood for seafood, Restaurante Calanova provides fresh catches with a stunning view of the sea.
🚤 Water Activities: For those who love the sea, Cala Major offers plenty of water activities. You can rent a jet ski, take a speedboat tour, or join a catamaran trip from the nearby Port de Calanova. The marina is a hub of activity, with sailing lessons and flyboarding also available. It’s a fantastic way to experience the beautiful coastline of Mallorca.
🎨 Cultural Spots: Cala Major isn’t just about the beach. The area is home to the Joan Miró Museum, dedicated to the famous painter who lived and worked here. The museum offers a fascinating insight into his life and art. Additionally, the Palace of Marivent, the summer residence of the Spanish royal family, is located here. During certain months, the palace gardens are open to the public for free.
📍 Must-See Spots:
- Cala Major Beach
- Joan Miró Museum
- Palace of Marivent
- Port de Calanova
- Nearby Coves
🏞️ Outdoor Adventures: If you’re up for some adventure, take a trip to the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. The mountains offer spectacular hiking trails with breathtaking views. It’s a great way to experience Mallorca’s natural beauty.
🎢 Family Fun: For families, Cala Major is close to some of Mallorca’s best attractions. The Western Water Park and Aqualand are just a short drive away and offer a fun day out with slides, pools, and entertainment. The Palma Aquarium is also nearby, perfect for a family-friendly excursion.
Where to stay in Cala Major? 🏩
⭐ Best hotels
- Catalonia Majórica This hotel offers stunning views of Palma Bay, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy modern rooms with balconies, a restaurant with international cuisine, and easy access to Palma’s historic center.
- Barceló Illetas Albatros - Adults Only Located in Illetas, this adults-only hotel features modern rooms, an outdoor pool, and a spa. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant and relax on the private beach.
- Hotel Be Live Adults Only Marivent This beachfront hotel in Cala Major offers modern rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, a beach club, and easy access to Palma’s city center.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Belle Marivent Mediterranean Petit Hotel Located near Cala Major Beach, this boutique hotel offers stylish rooms, a rooftop terrace with a pool, and a restaurant. Guests can enjoy personalized service and easy access to Palma’s attractions.
- Hotel Nixe Palace This luxury beachfront hotel in Cala Major offers elegant rooms, an outdoor pool, and a spa. Guests can enjoy fine dining at the on-site restaurant and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Hotel Joan Miró Museum Located near Cala Major Beach, this hotel features modern rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy a restaurant, a bar, and easy access to the Joan Miró Museum and Palma’s city center.
6. Son Vida – Best Area of Mallorca for Luxury and Nature 🌳
🌳 Luxurious Retreat: Son Vida is the epitome of luxury and nature combined. Nestled in an elevated position, this exclusive neighborhood offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, countryside, and the Bay of Palma. It’s one of the best places to stay if you’re looking for a serene escape with all the comforts of high-end living.
🏌️♂️ Golf Paradise: Son Vida is a golfer’s dream, home to some of the best golf courses in Mallorca. The Arabella Golf Mallorca complex includes three outstanding 18-hole courses: Son Vida Golf Course, Son Muntaner, and Son Quint. These courses offer a unique blend of challenging play and stunning scenery. The Son Vida Golf Course is particularly famous, having hosted two European Tour Events.
🍽️ Fine Dining: When it comes to dining, Son Vida doesn’t disappoint. The area boasts several top-notch restaurants that cater to all tastes. We love Restaurant Son Vida for its terrace views over the 18th hole and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. For a more intimate dining experience, El Castell offers fine dining with panoramic views of Palma.
🏞️ Outdoor Activities: Beyond golf, Son Vida is perfect for those who love outdoor activities. The area is surrounded by lush greenery and offers numerous hiking and cycling trails. You can explore the nearby Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which provides some of the best hiking routes in Mallorca.
📍 Must-See Spots:
- Son Vida Golf Course
- Son Muntaner Golf Course
- Son Quint Golf Course
- Castillo Hotel Son Vida Spa
- Serra de Tramuntana mountain range
🎨 Cultural Experiences: For those interested in culture, Son Vida is close to several historical and cultural sites. The Joan Miró Museum and the Palace of Marivent are just a short drive away, offering a glimpse into Mallorca’s rich artistic and royal heritage.
Where to stay in Son Vida? 🏩
⭐ Best hotels
- HM Balanguera This boutique hotel in Palma offers modern rooms with minimalist design, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy a rooftop terrace, Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant, and easy access to Palma’s city center.
- Hotel Joan Miró Museum Located near Cala Major Beach, this hotel features rooms decorated with Joan Miró’s artwork, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant and visit the nearby Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró.
- Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá This luxury hotel in Illetas offers elegant rooms with sea views, an outdoor pool, and a spa. Guests can enjoy fine dining at the on-site restaurant, relax on the private beach, and explore nearby golf courses.
FAQs About Trips to Palma de Mallorca ❔
What is the best part of Mallorca to stay in?
The best part to stay in Mallorca depends on personal preferences. For scenic exploration, the West coast is ideal, while the North coast offers easy access to famous attractions and nice beaches. For a mix of beach and mountain activities, the Southwest region is a good choice.
How many days is enough for Palma de Mallorca?
For a short break, 5-6 days are recommended for Palma de Mallorca, allowing for sightseeing and photography-oriented activities.
Which part of Mallorca has the best beaches?
The southeast coast of Mallorca is known for its picture-perfect bathing coves, such as Cala Figuera, Caló des Moro, and Cala S’Almunia. The South coast is also popular for long sandy beaches like Arenal and Es Trenc.
Where do celebs go in Majorca?
Celebrities often visit Puerto Portals, a glamorous marina with luxury yachts, upscale boutiques, and exquisite dining options. Other popular spots include Port d’Andratx, Palma de Mallorca, and Valldemossa.
Where is the clearest water in Majorca?
The clearest water in Mallorca can be found in the southeast coast, particularly in beaches like Cala Santanyí, known for its fine white sand and crystal-clear water.
