Where to stay in Palma de Mallorca: The best areas and 16 hotels

Palma is the capital of Majorca and a reference point for those seeking a combination of city, sea, and easy travel around the island. It boasts a lively historic core, a marina filled with boats, beaches within the city limits, and an airport very close to the centre, which is rare for a Mediterranean destination.

Choosing an area plays a big role in your experience. If you fancy strolls, good food, and architecture, you'll want to stay near the historic centre. If your main interest is the beach and lively nightlife, Playa de Palma is more suitable. However, there are also quieter, more local neighbourhoods that combine both.

In this guide, you'll find a detailed look at four areas of Palma, with their pros, cons, and specific hotels for every budget, as well as practical information on transport, costs, and seasonality.

What to see and do in Palma de Mallorca

Palma was built around its bay, with La Seu Cathedral dominating the skyline above the sea. The Gothic cathedral, with elements dating back to the 13th century, is the most photographed spot on the island and is well worth seeing both from inside, with its enormous stained-glass windows, and from the waterfront at sunset. Next to it stands the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, a former Arab fortress that became a royal residence after the island's conquest by James I of Aragon in 1229.

The historic centre, simply known as Casco Antiguo, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, squares adorned with orange trees, and buildings that show traces of Arab, Catalan, and Italian merchants. In the Calatrava area, the so-called old Jewish quarter, you'll find houses with plant-filled courtyards, while in the Barri Gòtic you'll discover small museums and churches like Sant Francesc with its Gothic cloister.

Mercat de l'Olivar market is a good spot for breakfast, offering local products and fresh fish. A little further on, the pedestrian street Jaume III and the avenue Passeig del Born are filled with shops and cafes. The commercial centre around Plaça Major features street artists and small shops selling handmade goods.

Palma's marina, one of the largest yacht harbours in the Mediterranean, stretches west of the centre towards El Terreno and Cala Major. There you'll see luxury yachts alongside traditional fishing boats, while the Paseo Marítimo promenade connects the marina to the centre, ideal for cycling or an evening stroll.

For a city beach, Playa de Palma extends for about six kilometres to the east, while closer to the centre are the smaller beaches of Can Pastilla and Cala Major, approximately four to six kilometres from the cathedral. If you're after something more secluded, Cala Blava is a twenty-minute drive south.

Palma's gastronomy combines Catalan and Majorcan influences. Try ensaimada, the sweet spiral pastry dusted with icing sugar, tumbet de berenjenas with tomato and cheese, and fresh fish at the old market tavernas or in Santa Catalina, the neighbourhood that has transformed into the city's gastronomic hub with over seventy restaurants within a few blocks.

Santa Catalina, an old fishing district west of the centre, boasts a vibrant market from the 1900s and has become the place where locals and visitors meet for drinks and food. It's about a fifteen-minute walk from the cathedral.

If you have time for a day trip, the railway line to Sóller, with its historic 1912 train, crosses the Serra de Tramuntana mountains and reaches one of the island's most beautiful villages in about an hour, complete with orange groves and sea views. The distance by road is approximately 30 kilometres.

Palma also has a vibrant contemporary art scene, with the Es Baluard museum, built within old 16th-century fortifications, housing works by Miró and Picasso alongside contemporary Spanish artists. The view from the museum's ramparts towards the bay is one of the best free experiences in the city, especially in the evening. A little further on, the Miró Mallorca Foundation, in Cala Major, is located in the house where the artist lived his final years and exhibits drawings, sketches, and his studio exactly as he left it.

The real estate market and urban development have significantly changed Palma over the last two decades, with many old city centre buildings being converted into boutique hotels and design restaurants. Nevertheless, the city retains lively residential neighbourhoods, such as Secar de la Real, west of the centre, where old vineyards and small local bars can be found away from the tourist streets.

How to get from Palma Airport to the city centre

Palma de Mallorca Airport (Son Sant Joan) is just eight kilometres from Palma city centre, making transfers quick and inexpensive compared to other Mediterranean destinations. Bus route A1 connects the airport with the centre and Playa de Palma, operating around the clock, and the ticket costs approximately 5 euros, with a journey time of around 20 to 25 minutes depending on traffic.

Taxis are also an affordable option, as the journey to the centre usually costs between 18 and 25 euros, taking approximately 15 minutes. Taxis are available at a rank outside arrivals, and pre-booking is not necessary unless you're travelling very late at night.

If you're hiring a car, which is common for those wishing to explore the island beyond the capital, all rental companies are located inside the airport terminal building. Driving to the centre is via the Ma-19 and takes approximately ten to fifteen minutes. Bear in mind that Palma's city centre has several pedestrianised streets and limited parking, so if you're staying in the historic centre, it's more convenient to leave your car in a public car park.

The best areas to stay in Palma de Mallorca

Historic Centre

Palma's historic centre is the most popular base for visitors who want everything within walking distance. The cathedral, the marina, and the best restaurants are all nearby.

It's ideal for couples and those travelling without a car, although it can get quite busy in the evenings around the main squares.

Advantages:

• Everything within walking distance
• Plenty of restaurants and bars
• Direct access to the cathedral and marina

Disadvantages:

• Higher accommodation prices
• Noise in the evenings on some streets
• Difficult parking for those with a car

Recommended accommodation:

1. ICON Roseto
Boutique hotel in a renovated city centre building, with an excellent location rating and close proximity to the cathedral.

• Average cost: approximately 190€ per night

2. Hotel Basilica
Design hotel next to the Basílica de Sant Francesc, in a historic mansion with modern decor.

• Average cost: approximately 175€ per night

3. Palau Sa Font
Small boutique hotel with a pool in an old mansion, near the Apuntadors area.

• Average cost: approximately 160€ per night

4. Portella
Elegant accommodation in the heart of the old centre, with views of the historic neighbourhood.

• Average cost: approximately 145€ per night

5. Nivia Born Boutique Hotel
Luxurious boutique hotel on the Born pedestrian street, in a building with Art Deco elements and a rooftop with city views.

• Average cost: approximately 320€ per night

6. Summum Boutique Hotel, member of Melia Collection
Five-star boutique hotel in the old town, with a rooftop pool within a historic 16th-century water tank.

• Average cost: approximately 260€ per night

Playa de Palma

Playa de Palma stretches along six kilometres of sandy beach, east of the centre, and is the classic choice for a beach-focused holiday.

The area has many all-inclusive hotels, beach bars, and is popular with families as well as younger crowds, especially in the El Arenal section.

Advantages:

• Direct access to a large beach
• Many all-inclusive options
• Lively nightlife

Disadvantages:

• Approximately 20 minutes from the centre
• Very touristy atmosphere
• Noisy in the evenings during summer

Recommended accommodation:

7. Hotel Hispania
Beachfront hotel with a high rating, ideal for families.

• Average cost: approximately 110€ per night

8. Occidental Playa de Palma
Large hotel complex with gardens and pools, just a few minutes from the beach.

• Average cost: approximately 130€ per night

9. Hotel Pabisa Sofia
Modern hotel with a rooftop pool, popular with younger guests.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

10. HM Dunas Blancas
Hotel next to the sandy beach with simple yet comfortable rooms.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

11. BQ Apolo Hotel
Hotel on the beachfront in Can Pastilla, with two pools and easy access to the entire length of Playa de Palma.

• Average cost: approximately 105€ per night

Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina is an old fishing district that has evolved into the city's hippest spot, with dozens of restaurants clustered around its historic market.

It's a good choice for those who want an authentic atmosphere without being in the hustle and bustle of the historic centre, with the centre about a 15-minute walk away.

Advantages:

• Excellent gastronomic scene
• Quieter than the centre
• Close to the marina and the sea

Disadvantages:

• Fewer attractions in the area itself
• Requires walking to the cathedral
• Limited luxury hotel options

Recommended accommodation:

12. Casa Catalina
Small boutique accommodation within the neighbourhood, with an excellent location rating.

• Average cost: approximately 135€ per night

13. StayCatalina Boutique Hotel-Apartments
Stylish apartments, ideal for those seeking a kitchen and more space.

• Average cost: approximately 140€ per night

El Terreno and Cala Major

El Terreno stretches west of the marina, with views of the boats and easy access to Cala Major beach, about four kilometres from the cathedral.

It's popular with those who want to combine the beach with proximity to the centre, reachable by bus or bike along the Paseo Marítimo.

Advantages:

• Close to the beach and marina
• Quieter than Playa de Palma
• Good bus connections to the centre

Disadvantages:

• Requires transport to the historic centre
• Fewer restaurants compared to Santa Catalina
• Older buildings in some areas

Recommended accommodation:

14. Terreno Suites
Modern apartments with comfort, near the marina and the beach.

• Average cost: approximately 120€ per night

15. Be Live Adults Only La Cala Boutique Hotel
Adults-only hotel on Cala Major beach, with a pool and spa.

• Average cost: approximately 160€ per night

16. Hotel Mirador
Hotel on the Paseo Marítimo with views of the marina and the bay.

• Average cost: approximately 115€ per night

How much does accommodation cost in Palma de Mallorca

Accommodation prices in Palma vary depending on the season and area. A basic double room in an economy hotel costs approximately 70 to 100 euros per night during high season, while a boutique hotel in the historic centre starts from 150 euros and can reach 300 euros for rooms with a view. Luxury hotels in the marina or by the sea often exceed 350 euros per night.

A meal in a local taverna with a daily special costs approximately 12 to 18 euros, while a fish dinner in a mid-range restaurant ranges from 30 to 45 euros per person with wine. Coffee in the centre costs around 2 euros, while an evening drink in Santa Catalina or at the marina costs 6 to 9 euros.

Bus travel within the city costs 2 euros per ticket, while a ten-journey card costs approximately 14 euros. Palma applies the Balearic Islands' tourist tax, known as 'ecotasa', which ranges from approximately 1 to 4 euros per person per night depending on the accommodation category and season, and is usually paid on arrival during check-in.

When to visit Palma de Mallorca

The best time to combine good weather and reasonable prices is May, June, and September. The sea is already warm, the city isn't overly crowded, and accommodation prices are 20 to 30 percent lower than in July and August.

July and August are the busiest months, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees and crowded beaches, hotels, and restaurants. If you plan to visit during these months, book your accommodation at least two to three months in advance, especially if you want a central location or sea views.

Winter is mild, with temperatures around 15 degrees, and many hotels outside the city close for renovation, but Palma itself remains vibrant year-round. The Sant Sebastià festivities in January, with bonfires and parades in the city centre streets, are a good reason for a winter visit. Holy Week in April also attracts many visitors due to the processions.

Practical tips for your stay

• Book early for summer. In July and August, the best city centre hotels fill up very quickly, so if you want a specific area, book at least two months in advance.
• Leave the car outside the centre. If you hire a car for excursions around the island, choose accommodation with parking or a nearby public garage, as the historic centre has many pedestrianised streets.
• Ask about the tourist tax. The ecotasa is usually paid on site and is not always included in the price you see online, so add a few euros per person per night to your budget.
• Try the train to Sóller. It's one of the best day trips from Palma, with views of the Tramuntana mountains, so set aside a day for it.
• Stay near Santa Catalina if you're interested in food. It's the best area to try local cuisine without having to travel far.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best area for a first visit to Palma?

The historic centre is the most practical choice, as you have attractions, restaurants, and the marina within walking distance.

How far is the airport from the city centre?

Approximately eight kilometres, with a journey time of 15 to 25 minutes depending on the mode of transport you choose.

Is it worth staying in Playa de Palma if I'm not interested in nightlife?

Yes, there are quieter hotels at the ends of the beach, but if you want peace and quiet, Cala Major or Santa Catalina are better suited.

Do I need a car to stay in Palma?

Not necessarily if you'll be staying within the city, but if you want to explore the island's villages and beaches, a car is very helpful.

When is it least expensive to stay in Palma?

The months of November to March offer the lowest prices, while May, June, and September provide a good balance of weather and cost.

Is there a tourist tax in Palma?

Yes, the Balearic Islands apply the ecotasa, a tax ranging from 1 to 4 euros per person per night depending on the accommodation category.

Conclusion

Palma de Mallorca combines city and beach in a way few Mediterranean destinations manage, thanks in part to the airport's close proximity. Your choice of area mainly depends on whether you prioritise attractions, gastronomy, or the beach.

Whichever area you choose, getting around the city is easy, so you won't miss anything important. Book early for summer and factor the tourist tax into your budget.

Also see our guides on where to stay in Izmir and where to stay in Tenerife.