Mallorca is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea. Each visitor has their own impression of Mallorca. Some view it exclusively as a party destination, while others like to go there with families to enjoy some much-needed peace and quiet. How is it possible that travelers can come to the same place and see it so differently?
The truth is, Mallorca is quite a big island with lots of variety! There are several cities, regions, and municipalities in the Balearic Islands that you can visit. Mallorca caters to everyone, you just have to pick your destination within the island wisely. At the same time, picking the right destination can be quite unnerving, as there is just so much to choose from.
Whether you’re looking for the best sea views and beautiful beaches, clubs and bars, hikes and pine trees, or luxury hotels and historic sights, you’ve come to the right place! Scroll down to the section that speaks to you, and check out the best regions and hotels recommended by us!
Read more : Perfect Mallorca Road Trip Itinerary
Valldemossa old town / Mallorca
Where to Stay in Mallorca for the Best Beaches
Best region to stay in: Cala d’Or
Hotel 1: Hotel Cala d’Or
Hotel 2: Bungalow Cala Dor 27
To some people, going to Mallorca equals a beach holiday. Many can’t even imagine visiting the island and staying in the city. If you are one of those people, you’ll be surprised to find out that the island has visitors all year round, and many come when it’s too cold to swim. However, that’s not your case, and you are looking for a beach destination.
Naturally, Mallorca boasts a wide variety of beach towns and resorts.
Magaluf, for example, is an excellent choice for young people who want to party the night away and sleep on the beach during the day.
The town is located only a short 30-minute drive from the airport of Palma de Mallorca. Most notably, Magaluf has a Nikki Beach, which is a famous beach club with branches all around the world.
Nikki Beach is a luxurious destination for those who want to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine and drink a cocktail from the comfort of a sunbed overlooking the sea.
But, Magaluf is not for everyone. If you’re looking for a more traditional beach holiday destination, you might enjoy Alcudia and its Playa de Muro.
Cala Millor, Santa Ponsa, and Cala d’Or are also great options.
Cala d’Or is a village that is known for its yacht marina, which makes for a romantic walk at sunset. The village is located in the municipality of Santanyi, only about an hour-long drive from Palma.
Cala Dor bay at Cala d’Or city
Cala d’Or is suitable for families and couples. You will have an especially great time if you love yachts, as you’ll see a lot of them in the marina.
Cala d’Or boasts a large number of beautiful beaches, starting from the obvious one – the Cala d’Or beach. If you’re planning to stay for a while, you can visit Cala Egos, Cala Esmeralda, Cala Serena, Cala Gran, Cala Galera, and more. They’re all worth seeing!
Though Cala d’Or is not necessarily one of the best areas for shopping (the capital – Palma, would be a better pick), there are some boutiques you can visit.
In addition to that, you will find a number of restaurants, cafes, coffees shops, and bars in the village. Besides beach clubs and restaurants, you can also explore the actual village. It was initially built to resemble Ibiza, which becomes quite obvious after taking a stroll through the center.
Cala d’Or is pretty small and only has a handful of hotels. You can’t really go wrong with any!
Santanyi old town
Hotel Cala d’Or, for example, describes itself as a small paradise.
The hotel is affordable by most standards and offers private access to the beach to all of its visitors.
If you’re lucky, you might get a room with a breathtaking view of the sea.
The hotel’s amenities include a spacious swimming pool, pool bar, gym, and parking for all guests of Cala d’Or. It is a popular destination for weddings and events.
If a hotel just doesn’t cut it for you anymore, and you want to splurge on more private and luxurious living space, check out Bungalow Cala Dor 27!
If you split the cost 5-ways, you will find that booking an apartment can be even more budget-friendly than staying at a hotel. This particular apartment invites you to wake up with the sun, take a dip in the private pool, sip coffee on the balcony overlooking the sea, and make your way to the beach that is only 300 m away. You will find a number of restaurants, bars, and supermarkets only a short walk away.
Where to Stay in Mallorca with Family
Best region to stay in: Porto Cristo
Hotel 1: Marina Drach
Hotel 2: Porto Drach
Do you want to bring your whole family to Mallorca? There are a number of places that will be difficult to navigate with kids. Take Magaluf, for instance. The nightlife might be too overpowering for your little ones, so it’s best to look for another destination. Porto Cristo is an excellent choice!
The little village has a reputation for being family-friendly and laid back. The town is located an hour’s drive from the airport of Palma de Mallorca. You can rent a car at the airport or get a taxi to drive you straight to your hotel.
Porto Cristo used to be one of the main tourist destinations in Mallorca until the large commercial beach resorts took over. Now, it is a calm place for those looking to relax, soak in the sun, and maybe spend some time doing family-friendly activities.
beach-of-Porto-Cristo
Depending on how much you and your family members enjoy touristy things, you might really like what Porto Cristo has to offer. When you get tired of lounging by the water, you can take trips around the village to see some main touristic sights. Start with seeing the famous burial sites of Sa Gruta and Son Moro. Then, make your way to the Roman Basilica on Avinguda de Joan Amer.
View to the promenade at the fishing port of Porto Cristo
One of the main attractions you might have heard of is the Cuevas del Drach, which can be translated as the Dragon Caves. People from all over the island take trips to Porto Cristo to see the caves. If you’re already there, you might as well make the most of your vacation, right?
Drach Caves
You can book a tour guide that will take you through the caves and explain their significance.
The caves were formed millions of years ago, during the Miocene era. Within the caves, you will find Lake Martel, which is one of the oldest underground lakes in the whole wide world.
The tour of the caves will conclude with a classical music concert on the lake. Even if you are not big on underground adventures, this is a trip you will not forget!
Going somewhere with family can be challenging. If you have small kids, you want to have as much privacy as possible. You might need to cook your own food and do your laundry as you please.
Such services may not be available at some hotels. Because of that, staying in a private apartment can be a lot more convenient. If you agree with that, you should check out Marina Drach apartments.
The apartments are equipped with all the necessities, like a hairdryer, kitchen with a fridge and microwave, and dining table. You will also be pleasantly surprised with a balcony or terrace overlooking the town of Porto Cristo.
Another option is called Porto Drach. As you can see, Porto Cristo really takes pride in its ancient caves! Porto Drach offers a selection of studio apartments and suites to choose from. You can go there alone, with your partner, or with the whole family.
Pick the size that works for you, or get your kids their own apartment if they’re old enough. The accommodation manager or representative can help you figure out how to spend your time in Porto Cristo.
They will have a number of fun activities to choose from, such as horseback riding, a hot air balloon ride, or sailing. Check out this website to see all the activities that are available in Mallorca!
Where to Stay in Mallorca for Boat Trips and Relaxation
Best region to stay in Santanyi
Hotel 1: Casa Can Tatau
Hotel 2: Hotel THB Sur Mallorca
Whether you’re traveling alone or with your loved ones, you might be coming to Mallorca to enjoy some time off. Not everyone likes to stay active on vacation, especially when you have an active enough life at home. If you want to find an oasis of calm and relaxation in Mallorca, you can do so with ease!
Santanyi is the best region to stay in if you want to enjoy fun in the water and avoid the rush of busier places.
Santanyi is a municipality in Mallorca that is located approximately an hour away from Palma by car. People come to Santanyi when they want to relax in a serene atmosphere. You will find a number of excellent restaurants and bars there, but we all know what this place is really about – the beach. Besides being a calm beach area, Santanyi is rich with artists, galleries, and workshops. If you consider yourself a man or woman of the arts, you will surely appreciate the local art scene.
You don’t have to go far to find the art in Santanyi. Walk around the little streets, and you will find an exquisite souvenir to take home. It all depends on what you’re looking for. Fashionistas will enjoy local boutique stores like Es Centre and Cult. For unique visual art pieces, visit Casa de Arte.
Though you might not want to wake up early when you’re on vacation, it might just be worth it on a Saturday.
Saturday is the market day in Santanyi. Get to the market early to grab some of the best souvenirs on the stands. If you’re more of a night owl and local markets don’t excite you, get ready for an early dinner in one of Santanyi’s restaurants.
The region is famous for its boat rides. A great way to spend one of your days in Santanyi is by taking a boat tour to the Cabrera nature park. The boat leaves from the Colonia Sant Jordi harbor, so you can buy your tickets there.
Plan the excursion a day in advance, so you know what time to wake up the next morning. The boat will take you to the nature park and give you some time to explore the local fauna. You can dive, walk around, sunbathe, and even snorkeling! Pack a snack; it’s going to be a busy day!
When you’re looking for a place to stay, consider what exactly you want to get out of this holiday.
Not all the accommodation options will be by the beach.
Casa Can Tatau, for example, is a beautiful villa that is located about an 8-minute drive from the nearest beach.
That isn’t too far, though you will need a car. The house is perfect for a group of people that want to be near the center of Santanyi and have access to all the bars, restaurants, art galleries, and more. In other words, if you want to enjoy the city on your own time, this place is for you! But that’s not all.
The villa has a private pool and terrace, so you can sunbathe all day long before you head out for the night. Casa Can Tatau is suitable for 6 visitors.
If you prefer to be right by the beach, you might want to relocate to Colonia de Sant Jordi. This way, you will be right by the harbor for your boat adventure!
Hotel THB Sur Mallorca is located right on the beach. The hotel is perfect for couples, groups of friends, families, and solo travelers. The hotel boasts a large swimming pool, along with a smaller one for children, and direct access to the beach. If you want to make your trip even more relaxing, enjoy the massage services offered in the hotel.
Where to Stay in Mallorca for Culture and History
Best region to stay in Palma de Mallorca
Hotel 1: Concepcio by Nobis
Hotel 2: Hotel Lis Mallorca
While some people enjoy lounging by the pool and getting cocktails brought to them, others like to see as many sights as possible. That’s totally understandable! If you’re going to spend money on tickets, car rental, accommodation, and insurance, you need to get the best bang for your buck. Besides, when visiting a place you’ve never been to before, you probably don’t want to spend the majority of your time in the hotel, no matter how luxurious and comfortable it is.
Palma de Mallorca
Those who want to walk around the city, people-watch, and actually see historical sights need to visit Palma de Mallorca – the capital of the island. Palma is the most easily accessible location on the island.
After your arrival at the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to the center of the city. The bus goes directly from the airport, and it will take you to the center in under 20 minutes. Taxis are even more convenient and not that expensive, as it’s only a short drive.
The best way to discover Palma de Mallorca is to walk around the city center. You will come across multiple restaurants, cafés, bars, shops, and sights on your stroll. Of course, there are some places that are a must-see on your trip to Palma, but you can discover your own gems if you just walk with no destination.
Mallorca has a rich history and breathtaking architecture. On your walk, don’t miss the Catedral de Mallorca. The cathedral is a grandiose structure located not far from the center of the city.
If you really want to feel the energy of Palma, visit the Castell de Bellver. The 14th-century castle has been with Palma through thick and thin and served as a prison, residence, and museum. Other places like Basilica de Sant Francesc, Iglesia La Porciuncula, and Palau de l’Almudaina are all worth a visit too. Palma is rich in culture and history; if you come for that, you’ll never be bored.
The best thing about Palma is its versatility. When you need a break from sightseeing, you can sit in one of the many restaurants, bars, and cafés, and enjoy a delicious meal with a refreshing Cocktail. You really don’t need any company to enjoy Palma; it is the perfect destination for a solo traveler, as well as a couple or group of friends. You can go shopping, relax on the Playa de Palma, swim in the shallow waters, visit one of the water parks, or go on a boat ride.
Palma de Mallorca has many options when it comes to accommodation, and it is nearly impossible to pick the best one. You can base your decision on many factors, such as location, proximity to the nearest beach, and star status.
Concepcio by Nobis, for example, is a luxurious hotel with the finest rooms and suites. The hotel is more than just accommodation; it is an experience for your senses. The design of the suites and common areas in the hotel will leave you inspired to redecorate your own home. Concepcio by Nobis is located in the Old Town of Palma.
Hotel Lis Mallorca is a far more affordable option for those who don’t want to splurge. If your main goal is to see the city, then you don’t need to spend hundreds on your accommodation anyway. The hotel advertises itself as a place for young travelers who don’t care about luxury. Nevertheless, they promise high-quality service and a delicious breakfast. What’s not to like?
Where to Stay in Mallorca for Nightlife
Best region to stay in: Magaluf
Hotel 1: Elba Sunset Mallorca
Hotel 2: Hotel Samos
Magaluf is known for its wild parties and young visitors. In fact, the place has become a popular destination for stag dos and hen dos. British tourists often choose Magaluf as the destination for saying goodbye to their freedom before getting married. You can only imagine how lively it gets during the night!
To paint you a picture, you will not pass by a bar or club without being approached by a promoter and offered a free drink. If you want to dance the night away, Magaluf is the perfect place for you!
During the day, partygoers like to relax and catch up on sleep on the beach. The cool seawater provides a refreshing relief from headaches and hangovers. The sandy beaches of Magaluf are another reason the town is filled to the brim with tourists in the summer months. Magaluf is one of the nicest beach destinations in all of Mallorca. Add to that lively nightlife, and you won’t get bored no matter how long you stay.
Magaluf-Beach
If you’ve found yourself in Magaluf, and you’re not sure where to go, head to the beach. Walk along the beach, and you’ll find a number of cafés and bars that would love to serve you. The promenade is busy with tourists looking for a place to eat during the day, and the same people looking for a place to dance during the night. Keep in mind that the majority of tourists that go to Magaluf are under the age of 30. If you like to party, you’ll fit right in.
Though Magaluf is rarely considered a classy or luxurious destination, there is one piece of luxury that we cannot overlook. Nikki Beach, a popular beach club with branches all over the world, has a spot in Magaluf too. The beach club invites all party people to drink and dance on the beach during the day.
The place boasts an outdoor pool, sunbeds, a bar, a restaurant, and more. Nikki Beach prides itself on impeccable service and delicious dishes. Though it is quite pricey, the beach club experience is definitely worth it.
If you want to party in style just for one day, we recommend you book a sunbed for yourself and your friends.
Much like other places in Mallorca, Magaluf offers a wide selection of accommodation that goes from luxurious and comfortable to affordable and simple.
Leaning towards the comfortable side, we have a contender by the name of Elba Sunset Mallorca. Right off the bat, it is worth mentioning that the hotel is perfect for photoshoots. It is located on a little hill overlooking the sea. If you choose to take your dinner in the hotel restaurant, you will see the sea blending in with the sky and creating a lot of blues.
Enjoy the hotel’s amenities such as the outdoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and more. The hotel is located a short 10-minute walk from Magaluf Beach.
Hotel Samos is another 4-star hotel in Magaluf, though it’s more affordable than the previous one. The design of this hotel is more minimalistic, but it’s still quite nice. Hotel Samos is located a quick 7-minute walk from the beach, which is perfect if you want to make your way there first thing in the morning.
The hotel features its own bar and a pool with sunbeds that are made for tanning and poolside drinking. If you stay for a while, you will find that there are regular evening shows to entertain the guests. Sure, staying at Hotel Samos won’t be a luxurious experience, but it will be a pleasant one nonetheless!
Where to Stay in Mallorca for Outdoor Activities and Nature
Best region to stay in: Fornalutx
Hotel 1: Fornalutx Petit Hotel
Hotel 2: La Vila Hotel & Restaurant
When we said Mallorca has everything, we meant everything. There is a place for party people, there is a place for boat lovers, there is a place for families, and there is a place for outdoorsy types! If you enjoy outdoor activities and nature, you will love Fornalutx. Fornalutx is a municipality and village in Mallorca that is bordering Soller. The village is surrounded by mountains, which makes for a number of hikes you can take.
Street in the old village of Fornalutx
Though the town of Fornalutx is quite picturesque, it’s not really the town you’d be coming to see. It will take you about a day to walk through the narrow streets and soak in the traditional atmosphere of Mallorca. Most people come to hike or bike in the Serra de Tramuntana. Though you can venture out on your own, we recommend you get a guide to take you through the mountain range.
There are numerous different paths you can take, whether on foot or on a bike. Going out without a guide can result in getting lost, so be careful and pack a map with you.
If you’re thinking of the right time to visit Fornalutx, come in September. That’s when the weather is not so hot anymore, so it’s perfect for hiking and biking through the mountains. Also, there is an annual Fornalutx festival held at the beginning of September. The festival incorporates arts, crafts, activities for children, and even a local market. There is music and refreshments; the whole village transforms into one big party.
Other than that, the village of Fornalutx doesn’t have too many attractions throughout the year. You can sit on the main square and enjoy a croissant with a cup of coffee. When you get bored, we recommend you visit the nearby town of Sóller.
Sóller is a great place for art lovers and fashionistas. You will find some amazing local fashion stores there, as well as a number of souvenir stores.
Fornalutx Petit Hotel is one of the few charming little boutique hotels in the village. Staying there is as much of an experience as visiting Mallorca. If you come to Fornalutx seeking tranquility, then this hotel will only add to the experience. The hotel has an outdoor pool that’s just begging all of its visitors to take a dip. Take your breakfast outside and enjoy the view.
Finding a more affordable option in Fornalutx may be harder than it seems. All the hotels were designed to appeal to the senses and be thoroughly enjoyed by every single visitor.
La Vila Hotel & Restaurant is no exception. The hotel is located in the nearby town of Soller, which has a bit more to offer in terms of traditional entertainment than Fornalutx. Nearby, you will find art exhibits and a botanical garden.
Final Words
Hopefully, you’ve come to realize that it will take more than just one short trip to explore the beauty of Mallorca! You need to make your way from the east coast to the west coast and the surrounding area to really appreciate the island. If you have limited vacation days, you need to pick your destination wisely. Consider what type of entertainment you’re in store for and choose the region you’re going to visit based on that. And, don’t worry; you can always come back!
