Trying to decide where to stay in Mallorca without knowing what each area of the island is known for can be tricky.
To make things easier for you, we chose the five most popular areas on the island, each with its own charm and attractions, and decided to explore what they have to offer.
We’ll cover everything you can do and see there, and we’ll list the best accommodation options. But first, let’s see what Mallorca is all about.
Why You Should Visit Mallorca
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Spain is so much more than Madrid and Barcelona, and islands such as Mallorca (or Majorca) are proof of it. Mallorca is one of the most visited destinations in the Mediterranean and no wonder!
Its stunning beaches, secluded coves, turquoise waters, and nightlife get all the attention in the world, and justifiably so. When you stay in Mallorca, it feels like nothing else exists, and everything you need is right there.
Want to spend the whole day on the beach doing nothing? Absolutely possible. Want to go fishing, snorkeling, sailing, or biking? Be our guest. Perhaps you want a shop-til-you-drop kinda day? Go for it.
In fact, that’s barely scratching the surface.
Mallorca’s limestone mountains, picturesque villages, wineries, and cuisine are true gems, and you simply shouldn’t go without experiencing them. But how do you make sure you don’t miss out on anything?
Well, with some careful planning and our help. Let’s get into it.
The 5 Best Parts of Mallorca
There are many towns and villages of all sizes on the island, but we believe these are the five best areas worth considering:
- Palma de Mallorca: The place to be if you enjoy shopping, sightseeing, and old-city vibes.
- Soller: Beautiful nature, landscapes, and an unforgettable train journey.
- Arenal: The best place in Mallorca if you’re looking for dynamic nightlife.
- Alcudia: Suitable for families and individuals who appreciate cultural events and history.
- Puerto Portals: The perfect location for an exclusive holiday and going to glamorous places.
The Best Areas & Hotels in Mallorca
Regardless of your accommodation preferences, every area in Mallorca has hotels and rooms that fit any budget — you really can’t go wrong. So, the first thing you need to decide is which area you want to stay in based on how you want to spend your holiday.
This goes hand in hand with choosing a hotel within your budget. So, let’s look at Mallorca’s best areas and hotels and what they offer so you can take your pick.
1. Palma de Mallorca
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Palma de Mallorca, or simply Palma, is the most dynamic city not only on this island but on all of the Balearic Islands. The city is just stunning.
From local shops, cafés, restaurants, and art galleries to the well-known marina and historical landmarks, Palma has something for everyone’s taste and preferences.
Those who prefer the larger beaches can always use public transportation and be there in as little as 15 minutes, or you can just go to the city’s local beach: Ca’n Peratoni. Many decide to visit it due to its central location.
If you want to go on a shopping spree, Avenida Jaime III, Calle de la Unió, or Calle de Sant Miquel are great choices.
For a more adventurous approach and to truly feel the city’s vibes, we recommend sticking to the old town center. It stretches from La Seu Cathedral all the way to the Basilica of Sant Francesc.
There, you’ll come across fancy boutiques, souvenir shops, various cafés, and even street musicians who contribute to the overall vibrant atmosphere. To get a sense of the city’s history, apart from the Cathedral and the Basilica, you can visit La Lonja
It’s another historic district in the old town where you can explore authentic Art Nouveau buildings.
Being a pedestrian-friendly city and with so many things to do and see in such a tiny space, Palma will be an unforgettable experience regardless of whether you end up wandering its city streets or sipping cocktails in a bar near the marina.
Things to Do
- Visit the Royal Palace Almudaina. It’s the official residence of the Spanish royal family whenever they stay on the island.
- Drink a glass of local wine (or two) seated above the lavish yachts of Palma Bay. 49 Steps Mallorca is a must for anyone seeking a 360-degree view of the city’s old town and breathtaking sunset views.
- If you can’t decide what to do or where to go, Passeig des Born is always a good idea. It’s a great place to find a café, have a drink, or simply enjoy your evening with no rush.
- Allow yourself to get lost in Palma’s streets. Don’t check Google Maps all the time to see where you are — you can’t really get lost! This laid-back approach will allow you to appreciate the city’s beauty much more.
Where to Eat
- Brunchit Palma de Mallorca — try it once, and you’ll have breakfast or brunch there every day while you’re in the city. Guaranteed.
- Restaurant Marc Frosh is a must for Michelin-star cuisine lovers. Get ready to be impressed by Marc Frosh, a British chef with an exquisite palate and even more exquisite food ideas. You can find the restaurant behind La Rambla.
- El Camino is another place worth mentioning. It’s perfect for those who want to eat in style and sip their glass of wine on a beautiful counter seat amidst the hustle and bustle of a vibrant restaurant.
Palma de Mallorca Budget Hotels
- Just a stroll from the old town, the Sercotel Hotel Zurbarán is located in a peaceful area, perfect for those who don’t want to be bothered by the city hustle. Although one of the cheapest options on our hotel list, the Sercotel Hotel Zurbarán is quite modern and, more importantly, well-kept.
- Not only does Portofino Mallorca have a great location, but it’s also quite affordable. There’s a bar, a large swimming pool, and the seafront promenade is nearby.
Palma de Mallorca Mid-Range Hotels
- If you want to stay in a centuries-old building, check out Fil Suites. Their rooms are generally well-equipped, and it seems that couples are especially fond of this hotel. Fil Suites is a 17-minute walk from the Palma Yacht Club but only 8 minutes away from the Palma Port — perfect for evening strolls.
- Hotel Araxa – Adults Only features a gym, outdoor pool, spa, and 24-hour reception. There’s a continental breakfast, regional specialties, and international dishes. Outdoor dining is possible during summer.
Palma de Mallorca Luxury Hotels
- Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden is perfect for travelers who are on the lookout for spacious accommodation. There’s individually-controlled air conditioning in all units, and even the swimming pool is climatized throughout the entire year. Bookworms can also take advantage of the library, and food lovers can enjoy the à la carte restaurant.
- Ars Magna Bleisure Hotel is for people who want a luxurious experience without breaking the bank. There’s an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, as well as a shared lounge area. There’s free WiFi in the whole hotel and an Italian cuisine restaurant. The hotel is located 1.9 km from Playa Ca’n Pere Antoni.
2. Soller
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First and foremost, Soller is known for its old wooden train that connects it with Palma’s Plaza de España. The train opened in 1912 for fruit transportation purposes; however, today, this 28 km railway trip has become one of Mallorca’s best tourist experiences.
With spectacular scenery and 13 tunnels, the train journey is the best way to travel back in time and experience Mallorca in a truly authentic way.
Travelers who pick Soller as their Mallorca destination generally enjoy adventurous activities, such as climbing, hiking, open water swimming, and even mountain bike trail riding.
And that this village is located in the Tramuntana mountains makes things that much more exciting for nature enthusiasts. Beach lovers will be thrilled to hear there are two main beaches. One is alongside the harbor and is approximately 200 meters long.
The second one is a bit further away, and while the beach is sandy, the first couple of meters in the water can be pebbly. Along the marina, you’ll find a plethora of cute shops, busy cafés, bars, and restaurants.
It’s the perfect place to enjoy the sun while eating seafood or drinking a cup of coffee. If you’re into architecture, you can’t miss Sant Ramon de Penyafort and Santa Caterina — two impressive churches worthy of daily exploration.
In general, Soller is a great place to visit all year round.
Things to Do
- Take the Soller train ride. The whole trip takes approximately an hour, and the train runs a dozen times on a daily basis. The landscapes you see along the way are simply divine. If you don’t ride on the train at least once, it’s like you never went to Soller in the first place.
- If you’re there on a Saturday, you have to visit The Market. While the town itself doesn’t provide a memorable shopping experience, the market experience is truly something else. You can find crafts, local products, gifts, and fruits and vegetables, among other things. Who knows? It might be just where you find the right souvenirs to take back with you once your Soller adventure is over.
- Visit the Jardí Botànic. You’ll encounter a plethora of Balearic plants and endangered local plant species. The garden is just a short walk from the town’s center.
- Visit the orchard “Sa Vinyassa” and learn all there is to know about the history of oranges and lemons in more than 18,000 m2 while enjoying a snack and orange juice under the Mallorcan Sun.
Where to Eat
- If you want excellent food with marina views, go to the Kingfisher Restaurant. The chefs’ goal is to “tantalize your taste buds with a choice of original dishes that take their personality from travels all over the world.”
- Randemar is a real, local favorite. It takes pride in its stylish seating, professional service, happy customers, and of course, tasty cuisine, only made better by the magnificent sea views.
- Widely known as the place to see (and be seen!) in Soller, NENI restaurant lures travelers with its roof terrace and spectacular Israeli-Oriental cuisine. There are also Mediterranean dishes on the menu.
Soller Budget Hotels
- Hotel Marina is just 10 m away from the Platja d’en Repic Beach. It has a free spa, an outdoor pool, and bright rooms with a private balcony. The hotel’s restaurant offers à la carte food.
- If you’re on a budget yet want to stay in a hotel that’s close to the beach, Sol Port Soller is the way to go. The hotel provides guests with a vegetarian, continental, and even gluten-free breakfast. There’s barbecue and bike hire, too, as the area is popular for biking.
Soller Mid-Range Hotels
- Located in the center of the city, Gran Hotel Soller is known for its plethora of leisure facilities. You can enjoy the jacuzzi area, the heated indoor pool, and the steam room, or opt for a massage instead. A gym is also available, and the Son Termens Golf Course is just a 15-minute drive from the hotel.
- FERGUS Style Soller Beach is yet another great hotel. It has a restaurant with a selection of both international and Mediterranean dishes. There’s an outdoor pool, a lounge area with a TV, and a large garden.
Soller Luxury Hotels
- Overlooking the stunning Port de Sóller Bay, the Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa is a modern hotel for travelers who know how to pamper themselves. There are three restaurants with magnificent sea views and different food options. Its Talise Spa features a heated hydro-pool, a hammam, and a separate thermal area. There are two poolside bars as well.
- Due to its four-star rating, many may not put the Finca Cas Sant hotel in this category; however, large grounds with orange trees, rustic rooms, mountain views, two outdoor pools, and packed lunches upon request sound luxurious enough to us. Also, the hotel is located just 600 m from Soller’s main square, so you’ll be among the city buzz in no time.
3. El Arenal
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El Arenal used to be known as a fishing village until it was transformed into a major tourist area. Today, the entire area alongside its seafront promenade is a major party center embraced by Italians, Dutch, Brits, and especially German tourists who pick this location to have fun and relax.
El Arenal has two beaches, Playa Es Caló de Sant Antoni and Playa del Arenal, and a bit further away is Cala Blava.
While the sandy beaches in El Arenal can get quite crowded (especially during peak seasons), they’re so large that there’s always enough room for all visitors.
Moreover, you’ll see that different areas of the beach are popular with different generations of people. Note that this “crowdedness” factor applies to bars, cafés, and dance clubs in the area as well.
And this is what makes El Arenal such an interesting area — it’s popular among younger generations, but at the same time, families are quite fond of it too. No wonder — it has something to offer to people of all ages.
Another thing that makes El Arenal attractive is that it’s only 14 km away from Palma, which means you can spend your day chilling at the beach or enjoying yourself in a bar, but when you feel like you’re missing some “city vibes,” you can always visit Palma and come back.
Things to Do
- If you’re in El Arenal with kids, you have to visit the Aqualand Water Park. There’s a wave pool, slides, flumes, a café, and an artificial beach — all of them interesting enough to make your stay in Mallorca different and entertaining.
- Avid cyclists will be pleased to hear they can take the Palma to S’Arenal Cycling Route. This is a fairly easy route by the sea, connecting Palma to Playa de Palma. Here’s the itinerary: Paseo Maritimo – Molinar – Coll d’en Rebassa – Playa de Palma. It takes 30 km to get there and come back. Along the way, you can stop in Portixol or Ciudad Jardin — both have nice beaches and areas for refreshment if you feel like taking a break.
- Just spend the whole day chilling at Playa del Arenal (don’t forget to bring your SPF!).
- Visit El Club Nàutic S’Arenal (CNA) and do something interesting. How about spending your day parasailing?
Where to Eat
- Las Sirenas serves seafood, hence its name. There’s a mermaid-themed room, and the food is finger-licking good!
- Restaurante del Sol is not just a random restaurant in the El Arenal area. Allegedly, it’s a whole “concept that people talk about.” The restaurant always opts for fresh products and provides guests with fast and effective service. The staff takes the necessary measure to give their guests the best food experience possible.
- If you feel like eating only Mediterranean food is suddenly too much during your stay in El Arenal, you can always spice things up with a bit of Indian food in India House.
El Arenal Budget Hotels
- Hotel Playa Sol is quite an affordable hotel. It provides guests with basic necessities, and guests like it because it’s close to the beach.
- Hostal Villa Maruja offers great value for money. It’s an affordable solution for those looking for a clean and cute place to stay but plan on spending most of their time exploring El Arenal and the island in general.
El Arenal Mid-Range Hotels
- Located only 350 m from S’Arenal Beach, MLL Mediterranean Bay – Adults Only is a great mid-range hotel. It features an outdoor hot tub, an outdoor pool, and a sauna. There’s a lounge bar and a buffet restaurant. Guests can enjoy breakfast in their rooms upon request.
- BLUESEA Mediodia is located in the center of El Arenal. Its buffet restaurant serves breakfast and international food for dinner. There’s also a game room area, a lounge bar, and an outdoor pool alongside a children’s pool.
El Arenal Luxury Hotels
- Hipotels Playa de Palma Palace & Spa is a great option for travelers who want a spacious room. The hotel’s SPA offers a plethora of beauty treatments for an extra cost. There’s also a sauna and hammam (again, for an extra cost), and free use of the hot tub and fitness center.
- Iberostar Selection Playa de Palma is located in the Playa de Palma area. The hotel provides guests with two restaurants: one à la carte and another buffet style. There’s also Bar Mar Blau, an on-site bar, and a bar by the pool. Guests can relax in the Sensations Spa, visit the fitness studio, or go to the eight golf courses.
4. Alcudia
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Alcudia’s old town has houses that date back all the way to the 13th century. They’re well-preserved, and the town is surrounded by a medieval wall.
What’s more, these six-meter-high walls are still intact, and they’re gorgeous to look at during your daily stroll while the sun paints them in golden colors or later in the day when they glow in the afternoon sunlight.
The wall has 26 towers within a 1.5 km perimeter and two gates: Porta de Mallorca and Porta de Xara, both of which have been proclaimed national monuments.
During your walks, you’re bound to come across the town hall (referred to as Ajuntament d’Alcúdia) as well as its clock tower found in the Calle Mayor area.
Once you’re in that part, you’ll come across the Casas Señoriales. These are magnificent houses that have this air of nobility about them. Only a glimpse of the large patios will inspire you to reminisce about the fascinating and rich history of the area.
If you visit in the summer, chances are there will be all kinds of theater performances and open-air concerts. The interesting thing is that the concerts’ themes may vary from contemporary jazz vibes to medieval tunes.
However, the theater plays are almost always about Alcudia’s history. And what better way to learn history than to be surrounded by actors and actresses dressed up in costumes belonging to the respective historical period?
The best part is that these performances are free to attend. Finally, Alcudia is just one kilometer away from the well-known holiday resort Port d’Alcúdia.
Port d’Alcúdia is an awesome place for people who want to experience sophisticated Mallorcan heritage, walk on beautiful beaches, and stay in nearby hotels and bars.
Alcudia’s pedestrian area is famous for enticing restaurants with cozy terraces and gardens on the back. What’s more, there are fancy boutiques inviting passersby to buy a thing or two.
Things to Do
- Take a stroll in the old town. Pick a street that looks less crowded, find a café and sit to recharge, and buy something for yourself from one of the shops there.
- Visit HidroPark Alcudia. It’s guaranteed fun for the whole family. It has water slides, inflatable castles, trampolines, and floating balls. For those who want a fancier approach, there’s a 54-hole golf course too.
- Visit the Ruines Romanes de Pollentia (Ciudad romana de Pollentia) and get ready for a history lesson in practice.
- Attend one of the town’s weekly market days (usually on Tuesdays and Sundays) and savor the experience like a true local. From artisan jewelry and leather items to fresh fruits and vegetables — you’ll find a little bit of everything.
Where to Eat
- Maca de Castro from Jardín promises an exclusive experience for those seeking to dine in a Michelin-star restaurant. In fact, chef Macarena de Castro is the first Mallorca-based woman to obtain a Michelin star. She said that with the food she serves in the restaurant, she wants her guests to “taste Mallorca, to feel the island in the exact moment of the year.”
- Restaurante Can Polit features Mediterranean, European, Spanish, and Catalan cuisine. The restaurant is a neat fusion of contemporary taste and classical vibes, both in the interior and the food.
- Can’n Costa Celler takes pride in its homemade desserts, wide wine selection, and detailed Mallorcan menu, which includes fish and seafood.
Alcudia Budget Hotels
- Located 200 m from the marina and the closest beach, Elegance Diana is a one-star hotel with a friendly reception desk. It has a bar, and it seems couples are particularly fond of this accommodation.
- Hostal Residencia Alma features a buffet breakfast, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, a garden, and a bar. It’s located 700 m from Port d’Alcudia Beach.
Alcudia Mid-Range Hotels
- Decorated in a recognizable Mallorcan style, Hotel Sant Jaume is situated in a historic building that’s been restored. The rooms feature ceramic floors, and there’s a particular charm to the entire hotel area.
- Hotel Can Mostatxins mixes modern approaches to decoration with its sophisticated design while preserving history by keeping the original stone wall in its rooms. The hotel has a great location and is known for its carefully prepared breakfast with a wide range of German, Italian, and Mallorcan products.
Alcudia Luxury Hotels
- Zafiro Palace Alcudia features a fitness center, an indoor pool, a few outdoor pools, and a pool bar. There’s also a buffet restaurant and four other thematic restaurants. Families with kids will be pleased to learn there’s a children’s area with a pirate ship pool, a wet bubble pool, entertainment staff, and finally, a mini club.
- If you want celebrity treatment with spectacular service, Bordoy Alcudia Port Suites ex-Caprice Alcudia Port should be on your list. There’s a spa, Nordic-style rooms, and an à la carte restaurant that provides guests with vegetarian and international food.
5. Puerto Portals
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If you want a glamorous vacation that offers you the chance to rub shoulders with models, celebrities, and powerful business people, you can’t go wrong by picking Puerto Portals for your stay on the island.
It’s hands-down the most exclusive area, and the fact that celebrities such as Jim Carrey, Paris Hilton, and Bill Gates have stayed here says more than enough.
The place is largely known for partying and designer shopping. Its marina is home to more than 600 berths. In the surrounding area, there’s a plethora of posh designer and jewelry stores, and chances are you’ll find all the latest collections there.
If things get too fancy for you and you want to stray away from all the boutiques and marina life, head to Cala Portals Nous, a sandy cove. It’s quite popular among the Mallorcan residents, and it’s a great way to spend your day.
However, Puerto Portals is more than just a fancy Mallorcan area. In fact, Puerto Portals is said to have one of the most sophisticated nautical complexes in the whole Mediterranean.
The port is absolutely full of life throughout the whole year due to the versatile events that take place, such as:
- The Sailing week (or the Dragon Winter Race);
- The Classic Island Mallorca Rally;
- The international motor racing benchmark;
- The well-known Christmas Market (if you had doubts about visiting Mallorca in winter, here’s a sign you should absolutely go for it).
Things to Do
- Take a sailing class. You can sign up for individual or group classes with experienced instructors from Escuela de Vela Puerto Portals.
- Do some shopping. Blue Marin, Kidama, Farinelli, In-sight, and Le Pirat are only some of the stores you’ll come across. By now, you already know that when we talk about shopping in Puerto Portals, we mean exclusive shopping.
- Attend a local event. Puerto Portals hosts many charity events during the year. Also, there are prominent annual regattas, such as the Winter Dragon Series or the Rolex TP52 World Championship. If you happen to be there in July, for instance, you can’t miss the Classic Car Rally.
- Relax at the beach and just let yourself be.
Where to Eat
- Flanigan has been welcoming guests for more than 30 years and has attained a royalty status among visitors. Everything about it is simply refined — from the decor to the gastronomy bit. All meals are prepared with the best local ingredients. A useful food tip: Its apple tart is the best there is!
- With its spacious terrace and classic design, Cappuccino is a great option for those who don’t mind being seated in a restaurant with many guests. And if you’re not in the mood for a full meal, it’s perfectly fine to relax with a cup of coffee or satisfy your dessert needs.
- If you want magnificent sea views while eating your lunch or sipping local wine, Lila Portals is the perfect spot. The restaurant offers fish, seafood, and meat, as well as vegan dishes.
Puerto Portals Budget Hotels
- Located only 290 m from the Platja de s’Oratori Beach, the YupiHome Holiday Home Kety is recognizable for its furnished balcony and garden. The surrounding area is great for activities such as fishing, hiking, and biking.
- Villa Maria Portals Nous, by Priority is 700 m from the Cala Bendinat Beach and 600 m from the Playa Oratori de Portal. This nice-looking villa has free private parking, a garden, and a private pool (this is Puerto Portals, so even budget accommodation is fancy!). There are three bedrooms in total, so intimacy and quietness are guaranteed.
Puerto Portals Mid-Range Hotels
- Leonardo Boutique Mallorca Port Portals features a bar with a recognizable retro design, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant that serves Mediterranean and international food. There are entertaining weekly events for all guests too.
- Overlooking the Punta Portals Marina as well as the Costa d’en Blanes Beach, Tomir Portals Suites – Adults Only is a nicely-built complex with an outdoor pool and an à la carte restaurant with international dishes. The rooms are bright and larger suites include a terrace. The lounge bar features live music a few days throughout the week.
Puerto Portals Luxury Hotels
- Staying in The St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort means enjoying world-class service (you get personal butler service!), canopy beds, playing golf on the seafront golf course, and luxurious rooms. Each one has a large balcony and overlooks the lavish gardens.
- Portals Hills Boutique Hotel is a 15-min walk from the marina. The hotel features a pool bar, a nightclub, and an on-site restaurant. All rooms are spacious enough for guests to feel comfortable and cozy. Some suites even have their own elevators. The hotel also has a wellness lounge and a well-equipped fitness center.
So, Where Should You Stay in Mallorca?
| 🛍️ Best for Shopping | Palma de Mallorca |
| 🌳 Best to Experience Nature | Soller |
| 🎉 Best Area for Nightlife | Arenal |
| 🏛️ Great for Political Buffs | Alcudia |
| 🥂 Most Luxurious Area | Puerto Portals |
As you can see, choosing where to stay in Mallorca may be a challenge, as every part of the island is as beautiful and entertaining as the next. Let’s share a brief recap to help you make up your mind.
Palma is the perfect place to be if you want to go on a shopping spree, wander the streets, sip cocktails, and eat tasty food surrounded by old buildings, famous landmarks, and the marina — the true all-around option.
Soller is a great option for individuals who want to spend some time in nature, engage in adventurous outdoor activities, and travel back in time with the famous wooden train — perfect for those that aren’t partial to a typical summer holiday.
For those that want to party, El Arenal should be their go-to place on the island. Vibrant nightlife, beaches full of people of all ages, and truly relaxing vibes are the town’s biggest draws.
If you’re looking for something more laid-back, Alcudia is your pick. Simply put, it’s nice for travelers who appreciate historic buildings, want to attend cultural events, yet want to have a beach nearby.
Lastly, Puerto Portals is crème de la crème in every sense of the expression; it’s for those ready for the most exclusive (and probably expensive) holiday they’ve ever had.
All in all, regardless of where you decide to stay, you’ll be surrounded by a magnificent sea, friendly locals, delicious food, and a lot of sunshine! Also, as most areas are near one another, you can always visit at least a few of them during your stay on the island.
Enjoy Mallorca!