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The marvelous city of Palma is the capital of the Spanish island Mallorca. There’s a vibrant nature about t it and a subtle elegance that catches the eye. It’s the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway, whether you go with family, your partner, or alone.
It’s an island brimming with fun things to do, like going to a museum or enjoying a day at the beach. You won’t struggle to find a restaurant, bar, cafe, or boutique in this city; they specialize in a good time. Known for its luscious beaches, dynamic art scene, and roaring nightlife, it’s an unforgettable place.
It may be daunting trying to figure out which area you should stay in, especially if you don’t know much about the area. This guide will break down some of Palma’s neighborhoods for you and give you insight into some of the best hotels and homes in Palma de Mallorcca. Let’s get started!
Where to Stay in Palma de Mallorca at a Glance
If you’re in a hurry and need to find a place immediately, here are some hotels that have been hand-picked to help you. They’re broken down into categories so that you can pick what’s best suited for you and not just what’s available.
- Old Town Central – Best for first-timers. In the heart of the Old Town, there’s a great restaurant around every corner. With food to suit every taste, the Mercat del Olivar is one of the most well-liked dining destinations. Pick up some fresh fruit to go or, better yet, stop by one of the many booths for lunch.
- Son Armadams – Best for those on a budget. Son Armadams is a posh neighborhood in Palma that enjoys a prime location between Bellver Park and Paseo Maritimo. Since it enables residents to live like locals in Palma de Mallorca’s center, it naturally draws a lot of foreign buyers looking to purchase second homes.
- Portixol – Best for families. An ancient fishing port, Portixol has grown to be one of Palma’s most fashionable and sought-after neighborhoods. This area boasts a succession of excellent tapas bars, contemporary cafés, and fish restaurants.
- Paseo del Borne – Best for luxury. The Passeig del Born, with the chapel of Santa Maria del Mar at one end and the Born Market at the other, is still reminiscent of the Middle Ages on the terraces of its upscale bars. An attractive road that has changed with the years without losing sight of its history.
- Santa Catalina – Best for nightlife. Santa Catalina is serene, and the creative vibe is palpable. Adjacent to pubs, nightclubs, bakeries, and massage parlors are designer studios and interior design stores. The area really comes alive at night, with people swarming the major streets in search of fantastic eateries and pubs.
Best Neighborhoods in Palma de Mallorca
Old Town Central: Best for First-timers
Old Town Central is perfect for people who need to be in the heart of the action. This neighborhood is ideal for people visiting Palma for the first time because it’s close to the major attractions. Lined with multiple shops and cafes, you’ll have everything you need right by your doorstep.
You’ll be right in the center of the city and that is also an ideal location to have as a base for any day trips that you have considered. Palma’s best transportation options are in Old Town, so you’ll be spoilt for choice. Although, you’ll likely walk to the places you need to get to.
Best Hotels in Old Town Central
- Hotel Basilica – Best for elegance. This hotel is located close to the Basilica of San Francisco and the Mallorca Cathedral. Hotel Basilica is regarded as one of the city’s most upscale accommodations and one of the best hotels in Palma; this is due to the elegant manor that houses it. You’ll be enamored by the ornate details and the craftsmanship that went into it to preserve it. Upon entering the hotel, you’ll notice the beautiful floors that have been handcrafted by local artists. The iron forgings were crafted by blacksmiths, and stunning views from the terrace.
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- Hotel HM Jaime III – Best for an experience. This is where modern art and edgy decor converge. Hotel HM Jaime III is a wondrous exploration of creativity and expression. You’ll be drawn in by the quirky furniture and the gorgeous murals on the walls. This hotel houses a Turkish bath, a sauna, aspa, a hot tub, and a library at your disposal. It’s only a 10-minute walk away from the Mallorca Cathedral and you’ll find a slew of restaurants and shops to indulge in on the way. They offer a buffet breakfast, lunch, and an a la carte dining experience.
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- Hostal Pons – Best for those on a budget. It’s in a historic Mallorcan building and provides Wi-Fi to all its guests. Hostal Pons features a gorgeous garden and a terrace overlooking the city. Its 19th-century-inspired decor is sure to catch your eye and can be found throughout the rooms. There are private and shared bathrooms available to guests. Upon leaving the hostel, you’ll find that La Lonja fish market is a five-minute walk away and that there are numerous bars and cafés along the way.
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Son Armadams: Best for a Budget
Spain is notorious for being a bit on the expensive side; luckily Mallorca has a good balance of affordable and expensive. It offers a variety of economical hotels and hostels, ideal for saving money and still exploring the region.
Son Armadams is a neighborhood in the west of Palma, next to the Santa Catalina district. It’s the perfect spot for budget stays, but that’s not all it renders.
You’ll find a wide selection of restaurants, bars, and cafés surrounding this area. One of the jewels of this neighborhood is that you can catch views of Palma the beach, and watch the sunset from virtually anywhere.
Best Hotels in Son Armadams
- Hotel Armadams – Best for those on a budget. Hotel Armadams is located in the center of the neighborhood and it’s quite close to a lot of attractions, so it will be easy for you to get around. It has 80 spacious rooms, each of them soundproof and positioned to allow the natural light in. The furniture is somewhat traditional and built for practicality. The hotel’s public spaces showcase some contemporary works of art from several Mallorcan artists. It’s been regarded as one of the premier accommodation options in the city.
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- Isla Mallorca and Spa – Best for being central. This urban hotel combines world-class service, Mallorcan charm, and a high level of comfort, all in a smoke-free environment. This hotel has a modern atmosphere and first-class amenities for your convenience. It houses 162 rooms and suites, with free Wi-Fi for guests, conference rooms, and a restaurant. You’ll also find a patio area that leads to a spacious garden and a swimming pool. The hotel has its own parking lot and a wonderful spa that offers top-notch treatments. It’s within close proximity of major attractions such as the Bellver Castle and the Paseo Marítimo.
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- Hotel Costa Azul – Best for aesthetics. This hotel was inspired by the sea, not just for its name but for its whole vibe. The Mediterranean is heavily reflected in the hotel’s identity and throughout the suites as well. Each of the rooms has various sea-related quotes from different authors written on the walls. There’s a fully functional gym with views of Palma Bay at the hotel. Throughout the winter, the hotel’s sauna is open for relaxation, and the swimming pool is covered. The hotel’s contemporary balcony and café provide expansive views of the sea. Both breakfast and dinner are served at the restaurant.
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Portixol: Best for Families
Although Portixol is located outside of Palma, it is only a few kilometers away from the cathedral, making it convenient to bike or stroll along the designated promenade that is free of traffic.
The lively waterfront of bars and eateries is bustling with people, including drinkers and diners. Be careful on the streets of the neighborhood as inline skaters weave amongst dog walkers and bicycles, creating a free-spirited ambiance that truly captures the essence of this town.
Many of these locations are by the ocean, offering breathtaking views over Portixol’s modest beach and Club Nautic.
Best Hotels in Portixal
- Portrtixol Hotel and Restaurant – Best for relaxing. Situated in Palma’s Portixol Harbour, this chic hotel is only five minutes from Portixol Beach. It features tasteful, air-conditioned rooms with an own balcony and views of the sea, as well as an outdoor pool. The Portixol Hotel & Restaurant has flat-screen TVs, DVD players, and complimentary Wi-Fi in its rooms. A minibar, coffee machine, and private bathroom. The hotel’s quaint gourmet restaurant has a view of the waterfront and there’s a cocktail bar for you to enjoy. The Portixol’s spa offers a variety of beauty and relaxing treatments for an additional cost.
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- Bluehouse Portixol – Best for families. Bluehouse Portixol is a Palma de Mallorca lodging option that offers free WiFi, air conditioning, water sports facilities, a tennis court, and accommodations within a kilometer from Playa Ca’n Pere Antoni. The vacation house is located in a place where visitors may go hiking, biking, and golfing. The vacation house also has a TV, a fully functional kitchen, two bedrooms, one bathroom, towels, and a terrace with views of the garden. Ciutat JardI, Es Portixol, and the Palma Convention Centre are a few of the well-liked attractions close to the vacation rental. Bluehouse Portixol is 6 kilometers from Palma de Mallorca Airport, the closest airport.
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- Can Marineta – Best for big families. This tranquil home is positioned away from the town’s constant bustling, creating a peaceful environment for its guests. It’s the ideal location for fun and relaxation. It provides stunning views from the terrace that you can enjoy. The vacation rental with a terrace and views of the sea has three bathrooms with a bath, two bedrooms, a living area, a TV, and an oven and dishwasher in the kitchen. The vacation rental has linens and towels available. The vacation rental is located two and a half miles from Palma Yacht Club and from Palma Port. Can Marineta is three and a half miles from Palma de Mallorca Airport, the closest airport.
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Paseo del Borne: Best for Luxury
Paseo del Born is a passage in the city’s Old Town that’s regarded as Palma’s most elegant road. Flanked by numerous luxury fashion houses, the neighborhood has earned the title “Golden Mile.” Stores such as Louis Vuitton, Rolex, and Carolina Herrera can be found there.
This is the ideal location for lovers of fashion and for those who want to drape themselves in opulence. It can get quite busy with people shopping and enjoying the local cuisine at various restaurants, but it does have its peaceful moments. Paseo del Borne is also home to some of the most high-end restaurants in the city and the best luxury hotels in Mallorca.
Best Hotels in Paseo del Borne
- Posada Terra Santa – Best for aesthetics. The boutique hotel Posada Terra Santa is located in the Old Town and features both indoor and outdoor pools. Housed in a 16th-century mansion, it’s the absolute picture of luxury. The hotel features a spa and wellness area for guests to enjoy. In the rooms, you’ll find a dining table, a satellite TV, air conditioning, and a private bathroom that comes with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. There’s a 24-hour help desk, concierge service, and a library at your disposal. Some of the rooms come with breathtaking views of Palma’s old town.
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- Villa d’Amunt – Best for all-round service. Villa d’Amunt boasts excellent views of the city and is located 300 meters away from the city center. This hotel offers an array of rooms, such as standard and family-size options, for your convenience. Each of the rooms comes with a bevvy of appliances, such as a flat-screen TV, an air conditioner, a minibar, a kettle, and a coffee maker. Some of the rooms have kitchens fitted with refrigerators, dishwashers, and an oven. It has a sun patio that leads out into the garden. All of these amenities are sure to make your stay easier and more enjoyable.
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- Can Cera Mallorca Luxury House – Best for luxury. Palma’s historic district is home to Hotel Can Cera. This hotel is housed in a 17th-century palace, and it includes a spa that has a complimentary sauna, private hot tub, and contrast shower. It boasts spacious rooms that come with antique furniture, a flat-screen TV, and a minibar. All rooms have air conditioning and have access to the Wi-Fi. Some rooms are fortunate enough to have balconies overlooking the city. The bathrooms provide guests with bathrobes, slippers, a hairdryer, a diffuser, and a hair straightener. The hotel has a patio that leads to a picturesque courtyard.
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Santa Catalina: Best for Nightlife
Santa Catalina is Palma’s resident bohemian neighborhood. The low-rise residences and the yacht-filled beaches make this a gorgeous spot. You’ll be close to the shopping district and some of the best nightclubs in the city. A lot of young people tend to flock to the area due to the amazing clubs and bars in it.
One of the best and most popular restaurants in the neighborhood is Calle Fábrica; the food is to die for. Santa Catalina has a wide variety of bars and eateries to entice you, all bringing their own unique flavor to the island. This district is perfect for those of you looking for fun and some memorable (or maybe not) nights.
Best Hotels in Santa Catalina
- Bordoy Continental Parms – Best for convenience. The Bordoy Continental Palms is in a prime location; it’s a 10-minute walk away from Palma’s Cathedral. This means that although it’s in another neighborhood, it’s still quite central. It’s perfect for people who want to enjoy the lively side of Santa Catalina but still explore the historical side of Palma. The rooms in this hotel are all air-conditioned and have some lovely decor. They have heated rooms and private bathrooms for you, as well as a fitness center, hot pool, and sauna. The hotel also has a car rental service available to you.
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- Casa Catalina – Best for those on a budget. This accommodation is ideal for the budget party lover. It has free Wi-Fi, a refrigerator and a TV for your enjoyment. It features a lovely garden and is a short half a mile from the Plaza Mayor. Aside from being budget-friendly, it’s also close to some stunning places, such as the Virgen del Milagro Plaza and Sa Feixina Park. The accommodation has air conditioning and heating as well as a drying rack for your clothing. You can make yourself some coffee or tea in the room as well.
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- Urban Hostel Palma – Best for sharing. This hostel is ideal for people who are looking to stay in a shared space. It has free Wi-Fi and a complimentary breakfast. The rooms have bunk beds, a closet, and shared bathrooms. It has six shared showers, two shared toilets, and a kitchen. There are lockers that you may use and locks may be purchased to keep your belongings safe. Towels may be rented at the hostel. There’s a communal area for all to enjoy. It’s an affordable alternative for those wanting to cut costs or those who are going to be too busy partying even to see their room.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Staying in Palma de Mallorca
What are the Best Hotels Near Palma Aquarium?
One of the best hotels near the Palma Aquarium is Hotel Eden Palma Playa, which is an adult-only hotel that’s ideal for couples and cyclists as they have cycling facilities.
Another great hotel near the aquarium is the HSM Golden Playa, situated right in front of the beach. It has an indoor heated pool and a game room, making it suitable for the whole family.
Which Hotels are Closest to Palma de Mallorca Airport?
The closest hotel to the airport is the Helios Mallorca Hotel and Apartments, known for its white and turquoise aesthetic. It’s a perfect oasis, offering yoga to help relax your body and mind.
Another fabulous option is the Iberostar Cristina Beachfront Resort, that’s just a 5-minute walk away from Playa de Palma. The hotel doesn’t produce any CO2 emissions; its electricity is made from 100% renewable sources. It has numerous activities, from spinning classes to football and tennis.
What are the Best Pet-friendly Hotels in Palma de Mallorca, Spain?
One of the best hotels that allows fur babies is the Súmmum Grand Boutique Hotel; the 5-star establishment delivers stunning architecture and spacious rooms. Make use of their private solarium and pool as your pet gets pampered.
The Puro Grand Hotel is another terrific pet-friendly choice. It has a 19th-century old-Spanish aesthetic and provides excellent service and views.
What are the Best Hotels on the Beach in Palma de Mallorca?
Hotel Ciutat Jardi is a magnificent beachfront wonder that features beautiful gardens and captivating views of the ocean. It has a personalized breakfast where you can choose between a healthy, Mediterranean, or English mealto start your day.
The Palacio Can Marqués is another brilliant beachfront hotel. It features a lively and visually-pleasing beach club that’s available to all guests. The beach club is perched on a rock right above the water and it’s an experience you’ll want to add to your list.
Wrapping Up the Best Places to Stay in Palma
Palma de Mallorca has a lot to offer, from gorgeous beaches to amazing adventures such as quad biking through the island. It’s the perfect destination to relax and enjoy the warm sun.
Luckily, the weather in Mallorca is agreeable all year long, so you won’t have to worry about beating crowds or chasing the sun. Palma is ideal for endless fun, soaking up art, and eating some of the best food you’ll ever have.
We trust the information provided has helped you decide which place is best suited for you and your trip and that it’s gotten you excited to go and explore Palma.
