The only real city in the Balearics, and a stunning one to boot, Palma de Mallorca has the cruise ship terminal and representatives from all the big hotel brands. But it also has dignity and character, which might surprise you if you're just expecting glitzy boutiques and tourist hotspots. At the heart of Palma stands its the wonderful old cathedral - reminding the throngs of workers and holiday makers of higher things, and of the fact that this city has existed since the 13th century. And in the narrow streets and alleys of the old town surrounding the cathedral you'll find many of Palma's charming and intimate boutique hotels - which our Gurus recommend as some of the best places to stay in Palma de Mallorca.
Palma de Mallorca has been a popular holiday destination since the 1950s. Early jet-setters flocked here for the wonderful Mediterranean combination of bright blue waters, great beaches and dramatic stretches of limestone coastline, plenty of sun, excellent cuisine and pretty local villages. To this list of Mediterranean pleasures Palma can add: historic sites dating back to the Roman era and several rows of elegant boulevards, lined with graceful mansions, many now converted into galleries, art studios, boutiques and restaurants.
These days the huge ships and ferries crowd to one end of Palma's great bay, in the centre are row upon row of dazzling yachts, and at the other end are the fishing crafts which supply the Mercat d'Olivar and the Mercat Santa Catalina with astonishing displays of fresh seafood.
You could easily spend weeks exploring Palma, and to really do the city justice you should at least book in for a few days.
What not to Miss
Palma’s historic centre has the spectacular cathedral and the mighty Palau de l’Almundaina - which is still technically a royal residence, plus the Arab baths - which date from the 10th century, the impressive Bull Ring, Palau March the palace turned sculpture museum, the Museum of Spanish Contemporary Art with its Miros, Dalís and Picassos, and the Plaça del Mercat.
Beyond that is the Pueblo Español architectural museum and the Castle de Bellver, which dates from the 14th century and is one of Spain’s most distinctive looking castles.
Palma’s beaches are also unmissable,
as is taking a stroll through the port area where you’ll find the bars and clubs, and Titos, the nightclub made famous by Frank Sinatra and Marlene Dietrich.
If you’re travelling as a family you’ll also be interested in checking out Marineland and the Aqualand water park
Palma's not short on hotel choices and many of them are very good. The best places to stay in Palma de Mallorca are largely between split between the converted 'palaces', which tend to have rather heavy, traditional furnishings and sombre oils on the walls, and the newer 'design' hotels, many of which are owned by German or Scandinavians who've opted for a bare, minimalist style.
The Best Places to Stay in Palma de Mallorca For Old-fashioned Charm
The best place to stay in Palma de Mallorca to get close to its Roman history is the Palacio Ca Sa Galesa - its spa is a genuine Roman bath! Decorated with antiques, it also has its own modern art collection - including a Miro and a Calder.
The Hotel Convent De La Missio is a converted convent offering sublime monastic serenity in a central location. And one of Mallorca’s hottest restaurants - which has a Michelin star. And white on white minimalist decor.
For something historically Mallorcan, try Can Cera, a beautifully renovated and restored 12 room townhouse. The rooms are large and romantic and the suites have private balconies. The restaurant is fantastic and the views from the roof terrace are stunning. Rooms start from around £150 per night.
The Hotel Born is a stylish, old world hotel in an historic, converted townhouse right in the heart of Palma. There are 36 spacious rooms and suites with high ceilings, antique furniture - including four-poster beds in some rooms, traditional art and a lovely courtyard. Good value for what it is.
Discover the Most Enchanting Accommodations in Palma de Mallorca
Immerse yourself in a bygone era at the Art Hotel Palma. This distinctive hotel was once a bustling antique store in the heart of Palma's Old City. Enjoy the luxury of sprawling rooms, tasteful antique decor, abundant natural light and a tranquil inner sanctuary where breakfast is served.
Brimming with modern elegance, the Boutique Hotel Calatrava perfectly complements the sparkling beach it overlooks in central Palma. Each of the six suites is adorned in restful pastel hues. The rooftop café offers the perfect blend of gastronomical delights and breathtaking ocean vistas.
Experience the opulence of Can Alomar, a boutique hotel that once served as a grand palace. Situated amidst Palma's prestigious shops and cafés, the hotel offers rooftop relaxation space complete with a plunge pool and lavish accommodations. Despite being located in the hustle and bustle, it maintains a tranquil vibe.
Experience Fun Under the Sun at the Prime Accommodations in Palma de Mallorca
For those seeking a vibrant nightlife and artistic atmosphere, Puro Hotel stands out as one of the ultimate choices. Its bar offers a thrilling ambiance with DJs playing, complemented by sleek leather furnishing and modern art making it a hub for the chic and fashionable crowd.
If a tranquil yet entertaining family spot is what you're after, Portixol is a leisurely ten-minute stroll from the city center. Nestled by the harbour, it has an expansive pool by its restaurant, a cozy music lounge, an impressive array of books and magazines, and complimentary bicycles for guests to discover the area, making it an ideal choice for family vacation.
Top-tier Accommodations in Palma de Mallorca Blending Contemporary Opulence with Tradition
Immerse yourself in the sublime merging of tradition and innovation at the Sant Francesc Hotel Singular; crafted from an opulent Spanish mansion, this establishment offers 39 chic, yet simple rooms and majestic common lounges. A spectacular rooftop pool allows you to splash around while enjoying a sweeping bird's eye view of the city.
Ideally tucked away in a meticulously renovated 16th Century palace, Hotel Très displays the epitome of minimalist design. Its spacious rooms, energizing bar, spirited courtyard, and a rooftop spot with a pool and sauna seamlessly blend comfort and style, all while offering unparalleled views of the cathedral and sea.
Feast your eyes on the Hotel Convent de la Missio, where reverence for the austere aesthetics of the original convent combined with modern luxury. Its unique allure is magnified by a Japanese-style rooftop garden and a gourmet restaurant that teases your taste buds with local delicacies.
San Lorenzo, a cozy, adults-only establishment equipped with a snazzy Art Deco bar and situated near Palma's landmark cathedral and Santa Catalina market, offers an intimate setting. Choose from nine unique rooms, each boasting a balcony or terrace, and a charming courtyard garden equipped with a pool.
Further enhancing Palma's accommodation landscape is the Posada Terra Santa. This stylish boutique hotel, brought to life from a traditional mansion, houses 26 rooms adorned with trendy decor and nestled in the heart of Palma's captivating Old Town. It also features a comprehensive spa and wellness centre, a sanctuary for rejuvenation after a day of exploration.
Top Urban Escapes in Palma de Mallorca
Situated strategically at the core of Palma Port is the Nakar Hotel. The establishment offers a magnificent rooftop lounge area equipped with a bar and pool which provides stunning panoramic vistas of the city. The modern yet cozy interior design and affordability of around £100 per night for any of their 57 rooms will surely heighten your stay.
Immerse in historic Palma with a stay at the Palau Sa Font, a marvelously restored 16th-century building nestled in the vibrant Old Town. With just 19 rooms and a breathtaking roof terrace, the hotel hosts handcrafted furnishings and a unique blend of contemporary art pieces, appealing to those who appreciate originality.
The Hotel Cort, a fresh addition to Palma’s hotel scene, showcases 14 exquisitely decorated rooms. Savor the splendid views from the rooftop pool and bar or take a short walk to discover a range of boutique shops, trendy bars, and flavorful restaurants. Plus, the beach is just a stone's throw away.
Lastly, the Santa Clara Urban Hotel & Spa boasts a modern and sophisticated style within its 20 rooms. Centrally located, this hotel also features a remarkable rooftop sundesk providing captivating views of the city skyline.
Top-Rated Economical Accommodations in Palma de Mallorca
Serving as an embodiment of chic modernity, Hotel Feliz offers breathtaking harbour views from its premises. Known for its 44 exquisite rooms which start from a budget-friendly £70 per night, guests often frequent the stunning rooftop lounge to soak up the picturesque scenery. Also popular is their renowned Mediterranean restaurant, inevitably leaving visitors craving for more.
A lasting legacy of 300 years, Dalt Murada is managed by a family whose roots can be traced back to when the edifice was first built. The owners possess intimate knowledge of every piece of art, Murano glass chandelier, and substantial furniture within the building. They also hold extensive knowledge about Palma, giving you much more than just a hotel stay.
Looking for a Vacation Home?
For those keen on experiencing the comfort of a well-equipped self-catering apartment, an opulent penthouse or a secluded villa, we point you in the direction of our trusted online associate, booking.com. This platform offers a wide range of accommodations allowing you to find the ideal fit for your style of vacation in Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
If you're interested in comparing options before making a booking, book here >> tophotels.com offers another excellent platform that can help find the perfect accommodation for you. It offers a comprehensive catalogue featuring a myriad of diverse and high-quality lodgings.
For those preferring an accommodation closer to the beach, here >> http://www.hotels-of-mallorca.com/en/near-cala-major-beach-409174/ you can find a selection of lodgings near the stunning Cala Major Beach. It's a prime location for those who envision spending their holiday on the sandy shores of sunny Palma de Mallorca.
Consider booking the Casa En Centro Apartment Palma de Mallorca, a centrally located and stylishly appointed option that consistently receives great reviews from visitors. This is our top recommendation. This apartment could be the dream home away from home you've been seeking.
Essential Travel Tips
Your journey to Palma de Mallorca can commence via the Son Sant Joan airport, nestled merely 8km from the pulsating heart of the city. The airport is well-connected, receiving flights from a mixed basket of budget and national airlines across Europe. Alternatively, you can indulge in a scenic sea voyage to Port de Palma, conveniently located in close proximity to the city, with ferries taking you to mainland Spain, or a shorter four-hour journey to the vibrant Ibiza.
Discovering the island's treasures at your leisure becomes a delightful possibility with a rented car. We fervently suggest this option if you wish to explore beyond the city limits. Visit our trusted online partner, Rentalcars, to secure your vehicle during your stay.
The city of Palma de Mallorca enjoys the gift of a Mediterranean climate - sun-soaked summers and gentle winters await you here. Thanks to the sea's warm embrace in the summer, the city comforts you with mild winter temperatures, making it an irresistible destination throughout the year. April, May, October, and November are ideal for those who prefer a more peaceful setting combined with desirable weather. During these months, the city is less crowded yet the climate remains pleasantly warm. The peak summer period of June through September sees the mercury rise to between 27°C and 31°C, during which a soothing sea breeze in the evening offers a much welcomed respite.
Uncertain about where to book your stay?
Take a look at our selected assortment of top-rated accommodations in Palma de Mallorca, or broaden your horizons by considering all of the prized destinations in Mallorca for your stay, before opting for the top-reviewed spaces in our list of 10 finest hotels in proximity to Palma. Don’t forget to contemplate the captivating retreats in Deià, or charming residencies in Sóller as well, or, if you are still unsure, why not reach out to our affable Gurus for some invaluable advice?