Jess Bergin

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Where to Stay in Mallorca

Jessica Bergin

As a mecca for all things Mediterranean, Mallorca musters up something magical for every visitor. Whether you're on the hunt for a mountain hideaway or a soul-filled stay, there are ample finds in the accommodation scene. Here's a local's guide on where to stay in Mallorca, Spain.

Replete with ravishing cuisine, history-ridden landmarks and sun-drenched beaches, Mallorca is an island from godsend.

As one of Spain’s most sprightly retreats, this Balearic Island is brimming with baffling escapes at every end.

Whether you want to hike the hilltops of the Sierra de Tramuntana, snorkel in the postcard-worthy crystal clear waters or relish in the medley of Mediterranean cuisine, Mallorca is a must-see destination.

The lyrical landscapes are lapped with luxe stays, adventure playgrounds, beach resorts and snug, mountain-carved cocoons. Whatever your style, you’ll find something satisfying!

Here’s an in-depth guide on Where to Stay in Mallorca, Spain.

22 Best Areas to Stay in Mallorca

Similar to the high degree of hot spots in Spain's mainland, the manifold of hotels, hostels, Airbnb's and rental apartments can vary greatly.

Counterbalancing luxurious living and pocket-friendly accommodation, Mallorca hones in on the best of both worlds and everything else in between. Whether you want to stay central in the beating heart of Palma de Mallorca or indulge in the natural oasis of the east coast, this Balearic Island has got you covered.

Here are the best areas to stay in Mallorca:

  • Palma de Mallorca

  • Pollença

  • Sóller

  • Valldemossa

  • Magaluf

  • El Arenal

  • Ses Illetes

  • Port de Sóller

  • Santa Ponça

  • Palma Nova

  • Deià

  • Sineu

  • Andratx

  • Puerto Portals

  • Cala Ratjada

  • Colonia de Sant Jordi

  • Cala d’Or

  • Cala Millor

  • Port de Pollença

  • Port d’Alcudia

  • Porto Colom

  • Cala Santanyí

So, your upcoming vacation is just around the corner. You’re ready to bury your butt in the sand and swoon over some impossibly blue water. Wild styles. But there’s one thing that’s bugging you, and it’s figuring out where to stay. Whether you want to be in amongst the action or far away from it all, this destination guide has got you covered.

We’re going to dive into the nitty-gritty details. And just like Spongebob Squarepants had Patrick’s back, I’ve got yours too. When it comes down to the Balearic Islands, I’m an absolute fanatic. Having lived in Barcelona for half a decade, you can bet that I’ve gotten to know Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza like it was my own backyard. So, in saying that, I believe I’m qualified to take you through Mallorca’s most captivating corners. Venga, vámanos!

Palma de Mallorca

As the island’s capital city, Palma de Mallorca poses plenty of pursuits for every type of traveller. Hemmed in by honey-coloured stone, the glistening waters of Badia de Palma and an intriguing fusion of cultural influences. Combining Christian, Moorish, Roman and Talayotic cultures, this place is a mysterious melting pot.

Honing in on a huge haul of highlights, you’ll have history and tradition sitting right on your doorstep. Navigate the network of ancient streets, gaze at the glorious galleries and sip on a glass of cava in the buzzing bar scene.

Stand in awe at the Gothic Catedral de Mallorca, shop for local delicacies at the markets and soak up island life from the hearty public squares.

If you’re looking to stay in amongst all the action, Palma de Mallorca is your best bet. Teeming with bohemian neighbourhoods, you’ll find plenty of wallet-friendly hostels, affordable apartments and lavish resorts here.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Mallorca for the first time, the capital city is an ideal option.

Where to stay in Palma de Mallorca:

Pollença

Pinned with a picturesque, old-school charm, Pollença caters to a completely different crowd from the capital city. Sheltered by glowing stone houses, cafe-fringed terraces and boutique-lined backstreets, this place oozes enchantment.

Boasting bohemian living, Pollença poses art lovers, history buffs and sustainably-focused visitors a rural respite. Scale up the peak of the Santuari de la Mare de Déu des Puig, trek to the top of El Calvari and enjoy the extravagant architecture of the Església de la Mare de Déu dels Ángels.

Sip on espresso as the afternoon light paints the Plaça Mayor pink, gather local ingredients at the boutique stores and dazzle your taste buds over a delectable meal. In this corner of the Balearic Islands, you’ll encounter spacious villas, luxurious hotels and serene apartments. Encapsulating local living and a more rugged charm, Pollença is one of the best places to stay in Mallorca.

Where to stay in Pollença, Mallorca:

Sóller

Tucked in the soaring mountains of the Sierra de Tramuntana, Sóller poses the ultimate mountain hideaway. This treetop-tucked escape is etched with eclectic authenticity at every end.

The Vall d’Or, or Golden Valley, is veritable in orange and lemon groves that paint the region with fragrant colours. Gawk at the galleries, meander around the modernist architecture and seek out serenity in the nearby mountain range.

Admire the work in Ca’n Prunera Museu Modernista, learn about famous artists in Sala Picasso & Sala Miró and get some greenery in the Jardí Botànic.

Stop by the striking Banco de Sóller and indulge in some tapas in the Plaça de la Constitució as you appreciate the Església de Sant Bartomeu.

If you're interested in day-tripping, Sóller is one of the best places to stay in Mallorca without a car. Simply jump aboard the scenic train and trams that connect the town with Palma and the Port de Sóller. 

Where to stay in Sóller, Mallorca:

Valldemossa

Set on the slopes of the Sierra de Tramuntana, Valldemossa merits an appealing old-school charm. This hilltop hideaway is woven with a wealth of blonde stone houses, verdant forests and panoramic views.

Enclosed by olive, oak and almond trees, Valldemossa illuminates an authentic insight into countryside living. Home to quaint stays, creative art galleries, traditional restaurants and a fair few shops, this part of the Balearic Islands is truly unique. Dive deep into the history of the real Crtuja de Valldemossa, relish in the scenery of Son Marroig or Miramar and taste the cuisine at Costa Nord.

Providing a gateway into the island’s top treks and nature activities, this destination is dowsed with adventure-loving pursuits. Here you’ll find impressive villas, ancient stone houses and postcard-worthy apartments. If you’re wondering where to stay in Mallorca, Valldemossa makes for a stellar sojourn.

Where to stay in Valldemossa, Mallorca:

Magaluf

Sheltering the southwest of Mallorca, Magaluf has made quite the name for itself over the years. Coined as one of the island’s biggest partying hot spots, this destination is decked out with holiday resorts, thrilling theme parks and lively beach clubs.

Fringed with a stretch of golden sand, turquoise waters and convenient amenities, this is a suitable place to stay in Mallorca if you’re not looking to travel much. With go-karting, watersports, golf and events dotted all around, Magaluf is ideal for families, partygoers and couples.

Where to stay in Magaluf, Mallorca:

El Arenal

Anchoring the southern coast of Mallorca, Arenal is arrayed with powdery-white sands, azure-blue beaches and a lengthy palm-lined promenade.

Sitting at the eastern end of Playa de Palma, this dazzling destination is set in a prime location.

Situated a short 7km from the Son Sant Joan Airport and just 15km east of the capital, Palma de Mallorca, Arenal is a suitable central stay.

Known by locals as S’Arenal, this part of the Balearic Island is equipped with rowdy bars, vibrant markets and endless activities.

Shop ’til you drop at the FAN Shopping Centre, snag some bargains at the local open-air markets on Thursdays, or get wet at the island’s largest waterpark, Aqualand.

In this chunk of charismatic Mallorca, you'll find a wide range of accommodations. With everything from all-inclusive resorts to affordable hostels, there's no doubt there'll be something for you.

Where to stay in El Arenal, Mallorca:

Ses Illetes

Spanning the southwest of Mallorca, sitting just on the outskirts of Palma, Ses Illetes is as idyllic as it gets. Also known as Illetas, this area is arrayed with soft sandy beaches and cobalt-blue waters.

Ses Illetes is woven with archetypal Mediterranean whitewashed villas and a fascinating mix of modern and old. Swim around in Playa de Illetes, snorkel around Cala Comtessa and pop over to Puerto Portals for some more watersports action. Harbouring three different beaches, local restaurants, cute cafes and sprawling shops, this is a top-notch resort town.

In this area of Mallorca, you'll encounter 5-star luxury hotels, as well as a handful of pocket-friendly hotels. If your idea of the perfect trip is spending time at the beach, the Ses Illetes is one of the top places to stay in Mallorca.

Where to stay in Ses Illetes, Mallorca:

Port de Sóller

Hugging the weathered west coast of Mallorca, Port de Sóller is a seaside haven. This petite village embraces the horseshoe-shaped bay, making it an ethereal endeavour for beach enthusiasts. Sitting on the cusp of the Sierra de Tramuntana mountains, the Port de Sóller is teeming with traditional charm and unique scenery.

Quench your appetite at a seafood restaurant, admire the rustic stone architecture and stop by the Saturday market to shop for local art. Learn about the town’s history in the Sóller Marine Museum, walk to the 17th-century Torre Picada and pop into the church of Sant Ramon de Penyafort.

Get your heart rate up hiking or cycling in the Sierra de Tramuntana, feel the ocean breeze on a boat trip or live life to the max on a private yacht charter.

Considering its location on the west coast, this gem boasts whimsical sunsets. If you’re wondering where to stay in Mallorca as a couple, Port de Sóller is the perfect fit.

Where to stay in Port de Sóller, Mallorca:

Santa Ponça

Speckled in the southwest of Mallorca, Santa Ponça is pinned as one of the island’s top resort destinations. Also known as Santa Ponsa, this hot spot hones in on mountain views, sublime beaches and family-friendly attractions.

Stretched with saline-white sand, crystal-clear waters and a buzzing promenade, this is one of the top places to stay in Mallorca for beaches. You’ll find classic restaurants, lively bars and a few shops scattered around too.

Daydream over the super yachts in Port Adriano Marina, splash around in the paradisal cove of Sa Caleta and go wild in the watersports scene at Santa Ponsa Beach. Go deep and learn how to scuba dive, get sweaty over a game of golf or mix it up with some tennis. Keep the kids happy at the Jungle Parc theme park or splash on down to the neighbouring Western Waterpark.

Where to stay in Santa Ponça, Mallorca:

Deià

Situated on the weather-sculpted west coast of Mallorca, Deià is deemed one of the most picturesque places on the island. Sitting in the shadow of Teix Mountain, this coast-hugging hot spot is a highlight of the Sierra de Tramuntana mountains.

Enclosed by emerald hills, this honey-coloured town is touted as an artist’s haven. The UNESCO-listed Deià is home to teeming hiking routes, winding cycling trails, an archaeological museum and a gallery from godsend.

Dabble in the delectable flavours of paella, scale down to the quaint waters of Cala Deià or investigate the findings in El Clot Archaeological Museum.

Where to stay in Deià, Mallorca:

Palma Nova

Sitting on the rim of the southwest coast, Palma Nova is a tourist-targeted town that poses plenty of pursuits. Situated in between the rowdy nightlife scene of Magaluf and the exclusive-loving Portals Nous, this destination is pinned as a prime destination.

This former fishing village serves as the perfect base if you want a taste of the neighbouring areas, without having to stay there. If you’d like to sprinkle in a little luxury, partying or sightseeing, Palma Nova is a gateway to it all.

Get your adrenaline up at the island’s best theme park, Katmandu Theme Park, make the kids laugh at the Pirates Adventure Show or get stuck into the fun at Fantasia Mini Golf. Whatever your choice, Palma Nova is an all-in-one type of place. If convenience is key on your next holiday, this is one of the best areas to stay in Mallorca.

Where to stay in Palma Nova, Mallorca:

Andratx

Set south of Mallorca, Andratx is coined as a rural respite. Sandwiched between orange groves and almond trees, this area sits on the tip of the famous Sierra de Tramuntana mountains. This sleepy town embodies one of the very few, authentic sides of Mallorca. Tucked inland away from the Port d’Andratx, Andratx hones in on a hefty history.

Shop for fresh cheese at the Wednesday markets, swing by the 13th-century Santa Maria Church and get your dose of contemporary art at the Andratx Art Centre. Drive down for a day at the beach to built-up Camp de Mar or coastal-loving Sant Elm. Hit the ‘longest hole in Spain’ at the Andratx Golf Course or head out to the uninhabited island, Sa Dragonera Natural Park.

Where to stay in Andratx, Mallorca:

Sineu

Carved in the centre of Mallorca, congenial Sineu is steeped deep in solitude. Touted as one of the few regions for sustainable travel, Sineu invites you to take a step away from the tourist-targeted resort towns.

Adorned with eye-catching architecture and blonde stone buildings, this countryside village holds more than what meets the eye. Swing by the weekly Wednesday market, enjoy a crispy pastry in the main square Plaça des Fossar or see the former palace Convent de la Concepció.

Sineu harbours local cafes, little tourism and just a handful of petite hotels. If you appreciate history, culture and nature, this is one of the best places to stay in Mallorca.

Where to stay in Sineu, Mallorca:

Puerto Portals

Sitting on the southwest coast, Puerto Portals is one of Mallorca's most glamorous resorts.

Yielding in the rich and famous, this chic marina merits lavish experiences at every end. In fact, this is one of the few spots that's buzzing year-round.

Just a stone's throw away from Palma, Puerto Portals sits close to the humbler Portal Nous. You’ll pass by curated boutiques, designer stores and gourmet waterfront restaurants.

Soak up the sun at Oratori Beach, sip a cocktail at the beach bar in La Cala de Portals or charter your own private yacht.

Where to stay in Puerto Portals, Mallorca:

Cala Ratjada

Planted in the northeastern stretch of Mallorca, Cala Ratjada is replete with rugged terrain and resort facilities. It’s a mix of both! Brimming with bars, restaurants, an old fishing port and a charming harbour, this destination is fit for your next summertime foray. Prance along the promenade, bury your feet in the golden sand of Playa Son Moll and get entranced by the ambience in Cala Gat.

Peer over at the Punta de Capdepera Pensinula, squint your eyes to see nearby Menorca, or get your walking boots on to reach the lighthouse at Punta de Capdepera. Gallop through the sculptures at Jardins Bartolomé March, dabble in the serenity of Cala Agulla or shop for goods at the Saturday morning market in Plaça del Pins.

Where to stay in Cala Ratjada, Mallorca:

Colonia de Sant Jordi

Encompassing the southeast coast, Colonia Sant Jordi is home to some of the island’s best beaches. Also referred to as Port de Campos, this former fishing town is hemmed with history, culture and natural splendour.

Famous for the nearby Es Trenc Beach and the Ses Salines d’es Trenc salt lakes, Colonia de Sant Jordi is stepped deep in natural pursuits. Hop on a boat and explore the neighbouring Cabrera Archipelago and go walking in Es Caragol, Es Carbo or Es Dolç. 

In addition to the notorious beach, you can enjoy the saline sands at Es Carbo, Es Caragol or Platija d’Es Port. Talk about a sun worshippers oasis…

Where to stay in Colonia de Sant Jordi, Mallorca:

Cala d’Or

Notorious as the ‘Golden Bay’, Cala d’Or is drenched in blissful beaches.

Encapsulating the east coast of Mallorca, Cala d'Or includes a stretch of coves like Cala Ferrera, Cala Esmeralda, Cala Serena, Cala Gran and Cala Llonga.

Soaked in sunshine, these former fishing harbours cater to a distinctive character. Combining the original charm with a contemporary edge, Cala d’Or is crowned with whitewashed buildings, decadent eateries and waterfront activities.

Stroll around the woodland, hit the heights of the clifftops or swim in the idyllic waters in Cala d’Or. Head up the Felanitx to the Santueri Castle, marvel at the 14th-century monastery Sanctuary of Sant Salvador or make a day trip out to Mondragó Natural Park.

If you're planning on exploring the collection of nearby beaches, there's a mini train that connects them. If you're visiting without a car, staying in this area of Mallorca is a stellar option. 

Where to stay in Cala d’Or, Mallorca:

Cala Millor

Located on the west coast, Cala Millor is home to a huge haul of experiences. Bursting with blue-water beaches, weekly markets and centuries-old churches, this is a stellar spot to stay in. Etched with alluring art, nature reserves and a countless collection of festivities, Cala Millor is surprisingly dynamic.

Shop like a local at the weekly market in Sa Coma, Son Carrió, Sant Llorenç des Cardassar or S’Illot, grab some fresh ingredients and head down for a picnic at the beach. Highlights include the beaches at Sa Marjal, Es Ribell, Sa Coma, Es Ratjoli, S’Illot and Port Roig. Walk barefoot around the Natural reserve Sa Punta de n’Amer and don’t forget to suss out the landscape from the Costa dels Pins viewpoint.

Where to stay in Cala Millor, Mallorca:

Port de Pollença

Nestled in the northwestern stretch of Mallorca, Port de Pollença is framed by forested mountains and a horseshoe-shaped bay. Steeped in ocean activities, this seaside retreat is also a top-notch spot for avid hikers and cyclers.

Sitting on the foothills of the Sierra de Tramuntana, Port de Pollença is the perfect place to get the best of both worlds. Bask in the beauty of the Port de Pollença Beach, stroll along the pedestrianised Pine Walk Promenade and admire the architecture in this former fishing village. Also known as Puerto Pollensa, this is one of the best places to stay in Mallorca if you’re looking for an immersive experience.

Where to stay in Port de Pollença, Mallorca:

Porto Colom

Exaggerating the east coast’s eclectic beauty, Porto Colom takes it one step further.

As the former port for Felanitx, this fishing village is a popular destination among Spaniards and Mallorcans. Perched with pastel-coloured houses and waterfront eateries, Porto Colom is one of the most peaceful places to stay in Mallorca.

Discover the dazzling Natural Park of Mondrago, set out on a day trip to Santanyí or kick back in the sunshine at Cala Marcal.

Beach fanatics can enjoy the scenes at Cala Sa Nau, S’Algar, S’Arenal Grand and S’Arenal Petit. Marvel at the veritable vineyards, check out the history at Naveta or navigate the network of cave systems at Coves des Hams or the Cuevas del Drach in Porto Cristo.

Where to stay in Porto Colom, Mallorca:

Port d’Alcudia

Burrowed in the Bay of Alcudia, this destination is dowsed in divine shallow waters and golden sand beaches. Also referred to as Puerto de Alcudia, you'll find ample amenities dotted around. This is the Balearic Islands' biggest beach resort, so you're sure to find something for you!

Hang out in Ciudad Blanca, eat at a local Mallorquín restaurant and swim around Playa de Alcudia, Playa de Muro or Can Pocafort. Hit the seas on a fishing trip, be dazzled by a dolphin-watching tour, live luxe on a private yacht charter or hit a hole-in-one at the Alcanada Golf Course.

Cycle around the Sierra de Tramuntana, get your F1 stats up go karting at Kartingmania or belly flop in the pools at Alcudia’s Hidropark. For something a little more low-key, get in among the natural splendour at S’Albufera Natural Park. Port d’Alcudia is undeniably one of the best places to stay in Mallorca for beaches.

Where to stay in Port d’Alcudia, Mallorca:

Santanyí

Anchoring southeast Mallorca, Santanyí straddles gold stone architecture, cobblestone streets and slow-paced living. This history-packed rural town is a fantastic foray for those looking to get off the radar.

Appreciate the sandstone-made Sant Andreu Church, get a dose of greenery in the tropical-plant fringed Botanicus and bask in the beauty of this rugged terrain.

Burrowed between Cala Santanyí and Cala Llombards, you’ll find the natural arc-shaped rock known as Es Pontas.

Spend the day at the beach hopping between Cala Figuera, Portopetro, Calo des Moro, Cala S’Almonia or Cala Sa Nau, before grabbing a bite to eat in town.

Scale the old city walls and Porta Murada and stand in awe at the towering Torre d’en Beu. Channel your inner sommelier as you enjoy a wine-tasting in the surrounding vineyards, or take a tour of the Bodega Es Fangar estate.

Santanyí is home to boutique-style hotels, rural agritourism hotels and beachfront hotels. As one of the top places to stay in Mallorca, Santanyí is a place that'll leave you with memories to last a lifetime! 

Where to stay in Santanyí, Mallorca:

More Places to Stay in Mallorca

Mallorca is decked out in dazzling destinations. If you’re seeking more, you might find what you’re looking for in the following areas:

  • Can Pastilla

  • Inca

  • Muro

  • Esporles

  • Vilafranca de Bonany

  • Cala Figuera

  • Port Adriano

  • Colonia de Sant Pere

  • Ses Covetes

  • Peguera

  • Algaida

  • Petra

  • Arta

  • Portixol

  • Puigpunyent

  • Orient

  • Binissalem

  • Manacor

  • Santa Eugenia

Things to do in Mallorca

So, now you know where to stay in Mallorca. But why stop there? Keep the vibes up high with these activities and attractions:

Best Time to Visit Mallorca

This depends highly on your travel preferences. Generally speaking, the best time to travel to Mallorca is in the shoulder season, from March to May. You’ll encounter pleasant weather, fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation, flights and activities.

The least busy time to visit Mallorca is during autumn, from September to November. This is when the summertime crowds come to a halt. You can bask in the warm Mediterranean Sea, and enjoy more pocket-friendly prices too.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Mallorca, you might find that a lot of accommodation is closed during the off-season.

And vice versa, if you’re visiting during the summer season, you might find a lack of options. If a summertime vacation is on the radar, book in advance!

How to Get Around Mallorca 

If you’re flying into Mallorca from Spain’s top destinations like Barcelona, Madrid, Ibiza, Valencia or Alicante, you’ll be landing at Palma de Mallorca Airport.

From here, you can make your way into the city centre via bus, taxi or car.

Mallorca is the biggest of the Balearic Islands, and getting around can be fairly hassle-free if you’re renting a car or motorbike.

Having your own set of wheels allows you freedom when it comes to timetables and routes. You can explore hard-to-reach destinations that are not otherwise covered by public transit routes too.

Public transport runs to the major towns and tourist areas, with buses, trams and two overground trains operating frequently. Getting around Mallorca is straightforward, but the summer and winter schedules can vary greatly.

Research ahead of time, and keep in mind that there are limited services on weekends. Additionally, you could hire a bike. After all, this is a cyclist's paradise.

The Ultimate Guide to Mallorca

If you’re planning a trip to Mallorca, look no further. This complete travel guide includes local’s tips, hidden gems and all the highlights. Covering travel logistics, where to stay, what to eat, packing lists and a whole lot more, you’ll be set for gold.

Whether you want to prance around limestone clifftops, medieval fortresses or snorkel in crystal clear bays, I’ve got you covered. For a conundrum-free trip, save this Ultimate Guide to Mallorca!

FAQS

Which part of Mallorca is the best to stay?

That depends on your travel style, preferences and budget. Most travellers choose to stay in the capital, Palma on their first visit to Mallorca. For quaint villages, the best places to stay are Deià and Valldemossa. For the best beaches, the top areas would be Pollença, Alcúdia and Sóller.

Which is the most scenic Mallorca?

Mallorca boasts beautiful scenery at every end, from the soaring Sierra de Tramuntana mountains to the honey-coloured village of Deià. One of the most picturesque towns is Fornalutx.

What is the most lively part of Majorca?

The best nightlife in Mallorca is found in the areas of Magaluf, Puerto Portals and Palmanova. With countless clubs, bars and lively restaurants, there’s something here for every type of traveller.

Which part of Majorca is best for families?

As the biggest Balearic Island, Mallorca has plenty of variety to suit families, couples and solo travellers. The best part to stay for families is Puerto Pollensa, Cala Bonsa, Santa Ponsa and Alcudia.

Why Visit Mallorca?

Spain’s Mallorca merits a sense of wonder within.

As you traverse the teeming turquoise-coloured beaches, climb the Sierra de Tramuntana mountaintops, and discover hidden villages, you’ll fall more in love with every step. This Balearic Island is a traveller’s treasure trove, with whimsical experiences etched into every corner.

Whether it’s a mountain hideaway or a seaside retreat, save this guide on Where to Stay in Mallorca, Spain for your next getaway.

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