Looking for the best places to stay in Mallorca, Spain? You just found them!
The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca (also known as Majorca), is a true island paradise for anything looking for a fun beach and nature getaway.
Mallorca is a popular tourist destination, which has plenty to offer to all travellers. From beautiful beaches to cute medieval towns, or from stunning natural landscapes to a thriving nightlife, Mallorca can give you all that, and more.
Each town and area of Mallorca has a very distinctive vibe, and is best suited for specific types of travellers.
If you’re looking for nightlife, you wouldn’t stay in Valldemossa, and if you’re looking for a quiet beach getaway, you wouldn’t stay in Magaluf.
Lucky for you, I have visited Mallorca multiple times over the years, and know my way around this Spanish island fairly well. In this article I have outlined everything you need to know about where to stay in Mallorca.
I start off with an overview of each town and area, outlining what to expect and who it’s best suited for, and then dive into accommodation suggestions for every budget.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and find the perfect place to stay in Mallorca for you!
Contents
- 1 Best areas to stay in Mallorca at a glance
- 2 Where to stay in Majorca
- 2.1 Magaluf – where to stay in Majorca for nightlife
- 2.2 Palma de Mallorca – where to stay in Mallorca for city life & sightseeing
- 2.3 Puerto de Pollensa – where to stay in Majorca for families
- 2.4 S’Arenal – best area to stay in Mallorca for budget travellers & beach life
- 2.5 Valldemossa – Best place to stay in Mallorca for a cultural trip & to disconnect
- 2.6 East Coast of Mallorca – Where to stay in Mallorca for best beaches & relaxing beach getaways
Best areas to stay in Mallorca at a glance
Before we dive into my hotel and accommodation suggestions, I want to give you an overview of all the best areas to stay in Mallorca, and for who they’re best suited for.
Mallorca isn’t a particularly big island, but each town and area has its own distinctive vibe. You’ll want to choose where to stay based on what type of Mallorca itinerary you’re planning.
Magaluf: Wondering where to stay in Mallorca for nightlife? Magaluf is the most popular place to do so. It’s a no-holds-barred, free for all hedonism of bar crawls and clubs.
Palma de Mallorca: The best area to stay in Mallorca for city life and sightseeing, Palma de Mallorca is the island’s capital and biggest city.
Puerto de Pollensa: If you are visiting Mallorca with your family, you may want to consider Puerto de Pollensa. It’s lively, but nowhere near as crazy as Magaluf, and also has a great beach to its name.
S’Arenal: A stone’s throw from Palma de Mallorca Airport, this beachfront destination has a smorgasbord of affordable accommodation making it ideal for budget travellers.
Valldemossa: Here’s where to stay in Mallorca if you want to truly disconnect. Not that far from Palma, Valldemossa is nestled in the mountains and is packed with culture and history as well as tranquillity.
East Coast of Mallorca: Like beaches? This is arguably the best area to stay in Mallorca for that, with plenty of secluded coves to discover along this lesser trodden part of the island (like the unique Cala del Moro).
Where to stay in Majorca
Magaluf – where to stay in Majorca for nightlife
If you’re in Mallorca and looking to party, Magaluf is the place for you. This major holiday resort has some pretty beaches and some cute streets to wander, but the main focus is partying.
It’s long been a party destination for European party-goers, particularly young British tourists looking to let their hair down on a trip to the Spanish island.
The Magaluf strip is the main centre of attention for the area’s nightlife, and is where you’ll find most of the bars and restaurants.
It gets particularly raucous during the summer months, and evenings feature many a drunk group stumbling around.
I would recommend staying in Magaluf only if you want to go for the nightlife, and are specifically looking for a party trip.
If you’re not looking for loud music and loud nights, there are prettier and more laidback areas of the island waiting for you.
Here are some accommodation options in Magaluf for every budget.
Budget: Apartamentos Inn – This apartment complex has everything you’ll need for a fun holiday in Magaluf.
There are two swimming pools, a terrace with sun loungers, a bar and restaurant, and rooms are either studios or apartments with kitchenettes and balconies.
Click here to book your stay at Apartamentos Inn in Magaluf, Mallorca!
Mid-range: INNSiDE Calviá Beach – Located just metres from Magaluf’s main beach, this fashionable hotel boasts not one but four pools – one of which is a suspended pool with a glass bottom.
The hotel’s restaurant serves up a selection of different cuisines, and there’s also a cool rooftop bar, too.
Check out prices & availability at InnSiDE Calvià Beach in Mallorca here!
Luxury: Dreams Calvia Mallorca – For those looking for somewhere a bit more polished to stay in Magaluf, this recently renewed hotel is the ideal space.
A high-end option, this 5-star hotel has a list of amenities including four swimming pools, seven restaurants, four bars and a coffee shop.
Don’t miss out, book your stay at Dreams Calvia Mallorca here!
Palma de Mallorca – where to stay in Mallorca for city life & sightseeing
Palma de Mallorca is the island’s crowning glory. Its honey-hued stone buildings hide a wealth of history, which has seen the Romans, Moors and Byzantines leave their mark.
It’s a world away from the mayhem of Magaluf, and one of the best towns to stay in Mallorca if you’re looking for a good base from which to explore the island.
The capital of Mallorca, Palma is a bustling city that’s been a tourist destination since the 1950s.
It’s packed with a long list of sights to see among its medieval streets – including a beautiful Gothic church – as well as bars and restaurants galore.
Palma is such a comprehensive destination that you could spend your whole vacation here and not run out of things to do.
Here are some lovely places to stay in Palma for every budget.
Budget: Abelux – This budget hotel in Palma de Mallorca is centrally located to make sightseeing and exploring super easy.
Rooms here are modern and clean, while there’s also a delicious continental breakfast served up each morning (plus, there’s also alobby bar).
Click here to book your stay at Abelux in Palma de Mallorca!
Mid-range: Fil Suites – Fil Suites is a chic aparthotel set in a centuries-old building.
The property has been tastefully decorated throughout, and there are a choice of different rooms, many of which come with kitchenettes and other cool design details.
Check out prices & availability at Fil Suites here!
Luxury: Protur Naisa Palma Hotel – The stylish Protur Naisa Palma Hotel is an ideal place to stay in Palma de Mallorca if you’re looking for a slice of luxury.
Perfectly located in the heart of the city, this hotel boasts clean and comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and a bar and restaurant.
Click here to book your stay at Protur Naisa Palma Hotel!
Puerto de Pollensa – where to stay in Majorca for families
Set on the north coast of Mallorca, in the bay of Pollensa, is one of the island’s most beautiful towns: Puerto de Pollensa (also known as Port de Pollença, or Port de Pollenca).
This tranquil destination is still lively without being excessive, and makes it a good resort town to stay in Mallorca for families.
You can get a taste of the local atmosphere and culture, with plenty of nice terrace cafes and traditional restaurants.
The postcard-perfect Puerto Pollensa is also renowned for its calas (coves) and white sandy beaches. So if you’re considering where to stay in Mallorca for the best beaches, this northerly town very much fits the bill.
As a bonus, Puerto de Pollensa is also close to Formentor Lighthouse, which is one of the best sunset spots on Mallorca. Plus, for those who like hiking, there are some cool trails in the area too.
Here are some lovely places to stay in Puerto de Pollensa for every budget.
Budget: Natural Blue – Located inside a small apartment complex, this private property is a relaxing spot to enjoy local life in Puerto de Pollensa.
The apartment is ideal for couples, with enough room to sleep two people; there’s also a small balcony and direct access to a shared swimming pool.
Click here to see prices & availability at Natural Blue in Mallorca!
Mid-range: Hotel Capri – This seafront hotel is just metres from the beach, making it ideal for those who like spending time lounging around on the sand.
Rooms also feature sea views, while there’s an onsite eatery with terrace dining that overlooks the water too.
Click here to book your stay at Hotel Capri in Puerto de Pollensa, Mallorca!
Luxury: The Sapphire Sky – If you want a stylish apartment to stay independently in Puerto de Pollensa, this one ticks a lot of boxes.
Complete with a large outdoor terrace, with panoramic views of the sea and surrounding mountains, this apartment features tranquil interiors where you can unwind after a busy day exploring.
Don’t miss out, check out prices & availability at The Sapphire Sky here!
S’Arenal – best area to stay in Mallorca for budget travellers & beach life
Once a small fishing village until the booming tourism of the 1970s, S’Arenal comprises a stretch of sandy shoreline from Ca’n Pastilla on Mallorca’s south coast.
This is the ideal place to stay in Mallorca for budget travellers; not only is the accommodation cheap, but there’s a beautiful beach on the doorstep, Playa de Palma, and it’s also close to the airport.
There are also a good amount of activities to get stuck into at S’Arenal. From exploring the charming old town, with its 18th and 19th century buildings, to trying out water sports, there’s always something going on here.
It’s definitely not as loud or as busy as Magaluf, but it’s also certainly not boring. Swimming spots and coves nearby allow for cool day trips, while there are bars and restaurants aplenty.
Here are some of the best hotels to stay in S’Arenal, for every budget.
Budget: Mix Smart – This budget-friendly hotel features simple yet contemporary rooms that come with everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay in Mallorca.
Each room has an ensuite bathroom and balcony, while amenities include a bar and restaurant – and all just a stone’s throw from the beach.
Click here to book your stay at Mix Smart in S’Arenal in Mallorca!
Mid-range: MLL Mediterranean Bay – Spend your trip unwinding in style at this adults-only hotel. The elegant property is only a few hundred metres from the beach, and boasts an eye-catching outdoor pool, modern, polished rooms and a buffet breakfast.
Click here to book your stay at MLL Mediterranean Bay!
Luxury: Grupotel Acapulco Playa – Check in and chill out at another choice of adults-only accommodation in S’Arenal.
Days here start with a delicious buffet breakfast, after which you have the option of kicking back by the pool or taking a stroll on the nearby seaside promenade. There’s also live music in the evenings at this fun resort.
Click here to see prices & availability at Grupotel Acapulco Playa in Mallorca!
Valldemossa – Best place to stay in Mallorca for a cultural trip & to disconnect
Valldemossa is arguably the best town to stay in Mallorca if you truly want to get away from it all.
Located in the Tramuntana mountains around a 20-minute drive from Palma, this mountain town on the north coast is a highlight of the region – and for good reason.
For one thing, the views are completely captivating, as the town is surrounded by mountains, with sea views on one side.
As you walk the cobbled streets of this cute historical town, you’ll find well preserved old houses and hidden plazas, as well as cafes and boutiques – as well as the chance discovery of yet more awesome hillside views, with olive groves dotting the surrounding area.
In the area, there’s also Deia, another town lost in the green hills of Mallorca. Fun fact: Chopin spent a winter in Valldemossa from 1838-39, and is where he wrote the majority of his 24 Preludes.
In short, if you want relaxation, here’s the place to disconnect from city life.
Here are some gorgeous places to stay in Valldemossa for every budget.
Budget: Son Niu Vell-La Hermossa – Offering up an authentic local place to stay, rooms at this old Mallorcan country house are beautifully traditional.
The friendly hosts make sure you have an enjoyable stay, and just a few minutes from central Valldemossa.
Click here to book your stay at Son Niu Vell-La Hermossa in Mallorca!
Mid-range: Hotel Mirabó De Valldemossa – This gorgeous converted country house is a destination in itself.
Here the rustic interiors have been updated with contemporary touches, making for the ideal base where you can relax surrounded by the simple elegance of the 16th-century family-run farmhouse.
Check out prices & availability at Mirabò de Valldemossa here!
Luxury: The Press – Why not treat yourself to stay at this beautifully maintained finca (farmhouse)? Sleeping up to 12 guests across six bedrooms, here you’ll be able to enjoy the ambience of the surrounding countryside. Think panoramic mountain views, a stone-clad terrace, infinity pool and even a tennis court.
Don’t miss out, book your magical stay at The Press here!
East Coast of Mallorca – Where to stay in Mallorca for best beaches & relaxing beach getaways
The lesser known east coast of Mallorca doesn’t have partying, but it does have beaches. Though it’s not one specific destination in itself, here is where you’ll find some of the best calas of the entire island.
The east coast is definitely not as touristy as other parts of the island, making for a quieter place to stay in Mallorca.
As for towns to stay on the east coast, try Cala Millor, a coastal town which boasts a Blue Flag beach and is generally a pretty good place to stay for families in Mallorca.
A bit further along the coast, there’s also Porto Colom – a traditional fishing village with sheltered bays and picturesque streets, used as a port since the Roman era.
Basically whatever town you choose in the East Coast of Mallorca is great for a relaxing beach getaway, just make sure to have a car, so you can go on a road trip and discover the cute calas in the area!
Here are some great places to stay on the east coast of Mallorca for every budget.
Budget: Hotel THB Felip – Situated right on the seafront at Porto Cristo, this adults-only hotel boasts beautiful views out across the Mediterranean Sea.
There’s a selection of room choices on offer, all fairly affordable. Here guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, bar and two swimming pools.
Click here to book your stay at THB Felip, on the east coast of Mallorca!
Mid-range: Boutique Hotel Petit Sant Miquel – This small and elegant boutique hotel is the perfect place to stay away from the crowds, but close enough to the beautiful nearby calas. Set in Calonge, this is an affordable yet clean, calm and stylish accommodation option (bonus: a swimming pool and a bar).
Click here to see prices & availability at Boutique Hotel Petit Sant Miquel!
Luxury: Hipotels Mediterraneo Hotel – Set right on the beach of Sa Coma, this sprawling hotel complex is an ideal place to stay if you don’t want to worry about a thing.
Think multiple restaurants, two swimming pools, a spa, entertainment and even activities such as aerobics and archery!
Don’t miss out, book your room at Hipotels Mediterraneo Hotel for your Mallorca trip!
Final thoughts on where to stay in Mallorca
There you have it, the ultimate guide on where to stay in Mallorca! Have you been to Mallorca before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!
If you’ve read my blog before you’ll know I have a passion for Spain. I travelled extensively to cities like Barcelona and Seville, and have actually set up base in Tenerife lately.
Even though my great love will always be Tenerife, with its surfing spots, epic hikes, whale watching opportunities and winter sun, I have to say that I was very pleasantly surprised by Mallorca.
Mallorca is an island that offers plenty of things to do, and some truly stunning natural landscapes. I also loved the variety of the island, and how you can go from crazy nightlife to quiet beach town within a 30-minute drive.
I hope you found my Mallorca accommodation guide useful, and that it will help you find a great place to stay in Mallorca for your travel style and budget! If you have any questions, just ask me in the comments below!