Where to Stay in Mallorca: Your Ultimate Guide

Mallorca, the crown jewel of Spain’s archipelago of the Balearic Islands, is a paradise of sun-soaked beaches, rugged mountains and vibrant culture. Whether your perfect getaway is a luxury stay, a family-friendly break or a budget trip, deciding where to stay in Mallorca can impact your entire trip. With many choices — from stylish beach resorts to friendly inland villages, and everything in between — this ultimate guide will help you find your perfect base for a Mallorca getaway in 2025. Let’s look at the island’s best areas, the top lodging options and some insider tips to make your trip unforgettable.

Why You Should Be Paying Attention to Mallorca

Mallorca is not just another Mediterranean destination; it is a chameleon-like island that suits every variety of travellers. No wonder millions visit yearly, with over 550 kilometres of coastline, picturesque historic towns and an emerging culinary scene. But where you stay matters. The island has a range of regions, each with its vibe — from energetic beach towns to serene countryside getaways and everything in between. This guide explains everything to help you select the best Mallorca accommodation and also provides insights into the local culture and customs, as well as the weather conditions that can impact your travel experience.

Palma de Mallorca: The Island’s Beating Heart

If you’re unsure where to stay in Mallorca for a combination of culture, nightlife and convenience, Palma de Mallorca is the answer. As the island’s capital, Palma combines old enchantment with contemporary pizzazz. Stroll the Old Town’s cobbled streets, admire the Gothic La Seu Cathedral or down cocktails at trendy rooftop bars.

Best Places to Stay in Palma

• .  Luxury Option: Hotel Can Alomar — A boutique gem in the city centre with plush rooms and a rooftop pool with cathedral views. Great for couples or solo travellers looking for sophistication.
• .  Mid-Range Pick: Brondo Architect Hotel – A quirky and stylish choice a short walk from all of Palma’s major sights, this hotel is cheap without being dull.
• .  Budget: Hostal Pons – A lovely guesthouse in a 16th-century building, excellent for travellers looking for endearment on a budget.

Palma’s central location also makes it an excellent base for day trips, with other parts of the island easily accessible by transport links. Stay here if you want urban energy mixed with easy access to the beach — Playa de Palma’s a quick ride away, providing a convenient and enjoyable travel experience.

Alcúdia: Family-Friendly Hospitality and Historic Significance

Alcúdia in northern Mallorca is a strong contender for families or history buffs. The area has the island’s longest sandy beach, Playa de Alcúdia, and a well-preserved medieval old town. It’s quieter than Palma but still has plenty on offer, from water sports to Roman ruins to explore.

Where to Stay in Alcúdia

• Family Friendly: Zafiro Palace Alcúdia — A sprawling resort with kids’ clubs, multiple pools, and huge suites. Parents can unwind while the tots stay occupied.
• Romantic Escape Cas Ferrer Nou Hotelet: This boutique hotel will do the trick for a mix of rustic and contemporary in the old town.
• Budget Gem: Petit Hotel Hostatgería La Victoria — Simple but scenic, on a hilltop overlooking the Bay of Pollensa.

Alcúdia works for travellers looking for a more low-key vibe, quick access to nature (such as the S’Albufera Natural Park), and kid-friendly attractions. It’s also by the swanky Port d’Alcúdia marina if you’d like a touch of opulence.

Port de Sóller: A Coastal Retreat

Between the Tramuntana Mountains and a horseshoe-shaped bay, Port de Sóller is where you can stay in Mallorca for postcard-worthy vistas and relaxing serenity. This treasure trove to the west is far less crowded than the East Coast for a tranquil getaway with a dash of flair. Ride the old tram to Sóller village or sample fresh fish along the promenade.

Best Hotel in Port de Sóller

• Luxury HavenJumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa — A cliffside retreat featuring infinity pools, a world-class spa and sea views. Best for Honeymooners or wellness seekers
• Mid-Range: Hotel Esplendido — A stylish, retro-inspired hotel directly on the promenade – combining comfort with a great location.
• Value Stay: Hotel Citric Sóller — A bare-bones choice with beautiful bay vistas, ideal for wallet-sensitive explorers.

Stay in Port de Sóllerif you have a hankering for the outdoors — hiking paths in the UNESCO-listed Tramuntana range await on your doorstep — mixed with a laid-back coastal vibe.

Magaluf: Party Central

Where to stay in Mallorca if nightlife is your priority: Magaluf. This southwestern hotspot is known for its buzzing bars, clubs, and sandy beaches. Soak up the sun at Playa de Magaluf by day and dance on the dark side of the island at clubs such as BCM Planet Dance by night. Not for everyone, but party people will do well here.

Where to Stay in Magaluf

• Party Hub: BH Mallorca Hotel — Adult-only, with a water park, DJ events and good vibes. Book early—it’s a hot ticket.
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• Upgrade Option: Sol Katmandu Park & Resort – Great for families but also close to Magaluf’s nightlife. 
• Budget Stay: Hostal Jakiton is clean, basic , and inexpensive, and it is near the action.

Magaluf is ideal for young travellers or groups looking for budget-friendly Mallorca accommodation. If you like it quiet, this may not be your place.

Deià: Artistic and Luxe

For a taste of Mallorca’s bohemian spirit, head to Deià. Perched in the Tramuntana Mountains, this village has long seduced artists, writers and celebrities (Robert Graves, Mick Jagger). It is small, tranquil and beautiful, with steep streets leading to a tiny cove, Cala Deià.

Best Stays in Deià

• Splurge-Worthy: Belmond La Residencia — A storied hotel with lush gardens, art studios and mountain views. Pure indulgence.
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• Mid-Tier: Hostal Villaverde — A homey, family-run place with rustic charm and a personal touch.
• Budget Pick: There are few options, but nearby finca rentals (traditional farmhouses) through Airbnb are charming and affordable.

Deià is ideal for creatives, couples or those looking for a luxurious, off-the-beaten-path Mallorca getaway.

Pollensa: Old-Fashioned Quiet

In the north, Pollensa combines old-world Mallorca with new comforts. Highlights include the town’s Sunday market, historic Plaça Major and the 365-step Calvari climb. Around the bay, Port de Pollensa brings a stylish marina and beach promenade.

Where to Stay in Pollensa

• Luxury: Son Brull Hotel & Spa — A former monastery with a sleek design in a tranquil rural area.
• Mid-Range: Hotel Juma — A boutique stay in the centre of Pollensa, with a rooftop terrace overlooking the square.
• Budget: Posada de Lluc — Simple, authentic, and rich in local character.

Avoid this place for a slower pace, genuine culture, and access to mountains and the sea.

Insider Tips on Choosing Mallorca Accommodation:

From understanding the local transportation system to knowing the best time to visit, these insider tips will help you make the most of your Mallorca trip. We’ll also share some lesser-known but must-visit spots and local customs to remember during your stay.

• When to Visit: Summer (June–August) is the high season, so reserve early, particularly at coastal places. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) provide gentler weather and fewer crowds.
• Transport: A car rental is best if you want to venture outside Palma. Public buses link the larger towns, but services can be infrequent.
• Location Fit: Alcúdia or Magaluf for those who like the beach; Palma or Pollensa for culture; Deià or Sóller for scenery.
• Hidden Costs: Look for resort fees, parking fees or tourist taxes (you’ll be charged around €1-4 per person per night).

Final Thoughts: Where to Stay in Mallorca?

The magic of Mallorca is in its variety. Whether drinking sangria in Palma, enjoying Alcúdia’s beaches or swimming in the mountains near Port de Sóller, your lodgings will set the vibe. This where-to-stay guide has highlighted the island’s best areas and properties, from budget hostels to five-star retreats. So, where should you stay in Mallorca? It all boils down to your vibe, budget, and travel dreams. So start planning, and let Mallorca sweep you off your feet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is the best place to stay in Mallorca for first-time visitors?

For first-timers, Palma de Mallorca is the top choice. It’s the island’s capital, offering a mix of culture, beaches, and nightlife, plus easy access to other regions. Hotels like Hotel Can Alomar or Brondo Architect Hotel cater to various budgets while keeping you central to the action.

2. What’s the most affordable area to stay in Mallorca?

Magaluf and parts of Alcúdia offer budget-friendly options. In Magaluf, Hostal Jakiton provides cheap stays near the beach, while Alcúdia’s Petit Hotel Hostatgería La Victoria combines affordability with scenic views. Booking in the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) can also save you money.

3. Where to stay in Mallorca for a quiet, relaxing holiday?

Port de Sóller and Deià are perfect for peace and quiet. Port de Sóller’s Hotel Esplendido offers serene bay views, while Deià’s Belmond La Residencia provides a luxurious, tranquil escape in the Tramuntana Mountains. Both areas are away from the party crowds.

4. Is it better to stay in Palma or Alcúdia?

It depends on your vibe. Palma suits travelers who love city life, history, and nightlife—think Hostal Pons for budget or Hotel Can Alomar for luxury. Alcúdia is better for families or beach lovers, with options like Zafiro Palace Alcúdia offering kid-friendly amenities and sandy shores.

5. Where to stay in Mallorca for nightlife and partying?

Magaluf is the go-to spot for nightlife. Stay at BH Mallorca Hotel for an adults-only party vibe with DJs and a water park, or Sol Katmandu Park & Resort if you want a mix of fun and family options. The area’s bars and clubs, like BCM Planet Dance, keep the energy high.

6. What’s the best area in Mallorca for families with kids?

Alcúdia shines for families. Its long, shallow beach is safe for kids, and resorts like Zafiro Palace Alcúdia offer pools, kids’ clubs, and suites. The nearby old town adds a cultural touch without overwhelming the little ones.

7. Where to stay in Mallorca without a car?

Palma is the most car-free-friendly thanks to its walkable streets and solid public transport—buses connect to beaches and towns. Brondo Architect Hotel puts you in the heart of it all. Port de Sóller also works, with its tram to Sóller village and walkable waterfront.

8. Are there luxury accommodations in Mallorca?

Absolutely! Deià’s Belmond La Residencia offers five-star indulgence with mountain views, while Port de Sóller’s Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa boasts infinity pools and spa bliss. Palma’s Hotel Can Alomar delivers urban luxury with a rooftop twist.

9. When’s the best time to book a stay in Mallorca?

Book 3-6 months ahead for summer (June-August) to secure prime spots like Magaluf or Alcúdia, especially for resorts. For deals, target spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when crowds thin out—Pollensa’s Son Brull Hotel & Spa is a great off-peak pick.

10. Where to stay in Mallorca for nature and hiking?

Port de Sóller and Deià are hiking havens near the Tramuntana Mountains. Hotel Citric Sóller in Port de Sóller is budget-friendly with trail access, while Deià’s Hostal Villaverde offers rustic charm for nature lovers. Both spots promise stunning scenery.