Where to stay in Mallorca (Majorca)
Mallorca is one of my favourite European beach destinations. With beautiful sandy beaches, old towns to explore, with family-friendly resorts, or lively scenes on the south of the island for those who are party animals – there’s something for everyone.
After travelling to Mallorca a few times over the course of 15+ years, and visiting different areas of the island while out there, I’ve made the ultimate list of the best places to stay depending on how you want your holiday to look!
While I wouldn’t say there are necessarily bad places to stay in Mallorca, there are certain things that aren’t particularly my scene or style of travel.
But it’s good to get an understanding of different areas of the island and what they each have to offer, so you can make the best decision for you!
Before you Travel: If you are planning to travel to multiple places in Mallorca then I recommend renting a car. There are very limited taxi services, with some areas of the Island having absolutely no taxi services at all. Public transport can also run on limited schedules and take a long time, which might limit your travel around the island.
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Palma
Starting with the capital city, Palma is a great city to visit with a huge selection of shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants.
A short 15-25 minute transfer from the airport, Palma is a convenient place to base for easy transport links.
With it being the capital of Mallorca, it has the best public transport connections. If you want to visit Mallorca but are unable to or don’t want to rent a car, then Palma might be your best option to base. This way you can access other areas of the Island more easily with public transport.
Palma is also a popular spot for those who are seeking a party-based holiday – with a variety of bars, clubs, and party boat events going on. However, those who are not into party holidays might want to avoid staying overnight here!
With a large number of cafes, restaurants, and shops to explore in Palma, there’s a lot to see! There’s a great mixture of chain stores as well as independent retailers and restaurants in the city.
I am always impressed with how busy and booming Palma tends to be in terms of shopping – which is a nice change from many other cities in Europe with the rise of high streets dying a bit of a death!
There’s a variety of fun and unique things to do in Palma:
Palma Cathedral
The architecture in Palma is impressive, boasting beautiful buildings – particularly Palma Cathedral!
Check out Palma Cathedral, a huge Gothic-style cathedral that is beautifully decorated! With paid entry to the top of the cathedral from where you get a very beautiful 360-degree view of Palma, it’s a unique way to see the city!
Image from: Get Your Guide
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Get around the city easily and visit all the major sites by jumping on a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour.
Both 24-hour and 48-hour bus passes are available to purchase.
Palma Aquarium
Open from 9:30am until 6:30pm every day, why not visit Palma Aquarium?
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even do a shark diving experience while you’re there! Don’t worry if you don’t have a diving license – there are two different options for the Shark Diving experience, one for people who have a diving license and one for people who don’t!
Image from: Get Your Guide
The Génova Caves
The Génova Caves are the closest caves to Palma city, it’s easy to get there by public transport by bus or by car. These caves are quite small, so the €12 price tag is a bit steep for the length of time it takes to actually explore these caves – nonetheless, if cave tours is something you’ve never tried, it’s worth doing!
These aren’t the only caves in Mallorca, so it’s worth researching which ones might be best for you to visit if you’re not planning to stay in Palma!
Find things to do in Palma Mallorca:
Should I stay in Palma?
While you won’t be able to see and do absolutely everything, you can see a large amount of Palma within one day – so it is not necessary to stay there overnight. I’ve never stayed in Palma but have visited on day trips from elsewhere on the island.
The downside to Palma is that during the summer months (peak season), it can get very busy and overrun. If you’re looking to escape the crowds, then I’d recommend staying elsewhere.
As well as this, the beaches in this area are nowhere near as nice, or as clean, as most other beach destinations in Mallorca. I visited the Platja de Can Pere Antoni beach, and it was largely underwhelming with no shade, no nearby facilities, and dirty water – the beaches almost anywhere else in Mallorca are much nicer.
My personal opinion on Palma is that it’s nice to visit on a day trip, but other than that I’d only consider staying there if I had no car, or was wanting to visit a lively party area of Mallorca.
If you have your heart set on staying in Palma, but want to avoid the crowds and party atmosphere, then consider visiting during the off-season where it is much quieter!
Magaluf
Magaluf is located in the southwest of the island, it’s a lively party town, with plenty of hotel options. If you’re someone who’s looking to go out and party the night away, you’ll have lots of fun options here!
However, if you’re someone who prefers a less party-cantered trip, it’s best to avoid this area.
During peak season (June to mid-September), Magaluf is a popular party destination for younger generations – a common ‘first lads holiday’, or ‘first girls holiday’ spot for younger-party makers. This means that the culture in Magaluf is largely based on alcohol when it comes to tourism.
The Spanish government of the Balearic Islands has cracked down on laws that ban drinking alcohol on public roads, tightened rules on party boats, and prevented stores from selling alcohol late at night. Tourists found to be breaking the rules can face fines of up to €3,000.
During the off-peak months, many of the bars and clubs are closed and this area can then become more popular for older generations seeking warmer weather.
Outside of drinking activities, Magaluf is home to many beaches, waterparks, and shops.
Things to do in Magaluf:
Waterparks and theme parks
Magaluf is home to two popular waterparks, the Western Water Park and the Katmandu Theme Park and Water Park.
The Western Waterpark is the largest park in Magaluf, which is home to the 11th tallest slide in the world!
With multiple slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and more – there is something for all ages, making it a great option for a day out regardless of who you’re holidaying with!
Keep in mind that as well as the entry ticket, there are additional costs such as parking, locker hire, and hammocks.
Although Katmandu Park has a waterpark with slides located in it, it’s actually considered to be more of a theme park. It’s home to a variety of activities such as mini golf, a virtual rollercoaster, character meet-and-greets, life-size games, and more!
Most of the attractions at Katmandu Park tend to be focused on children up to 10 years old, so this can be a place to spend the day as a family!
Image from: Get Your Guide
Party the night away
As a popular party destination, Magaluf has plenty to do for party-goers, from a range of bars and nightclubs, to boozy bingo nights, and even party boats!
Note: The Balearic Islands have toughed laws surrounding alcohol in an attempt to clamp down on the negative behaviour seen from tourists in destinations such as Magaluf. These laws effect where you can drink alcohol, when you can purchase alcohol, and regulations surrounding party boats. Always read up on laws and rules before you travel for the most up-to-date guidance.
Sightseeing Cruise
If you don’t fancy a booze cruise, then why not try a sightseeing cruise?
Head out on a boat and explore the coastline, dine out on the sea with lunch, and experience an exciting guided tour of the coastline between Magaluf and Palma!
If you fancy, some boats will offer a dedicated swimming time, where you can dive off the boats and enjoy a swim in the water!
Enjoy the famous Pirate Acrobatics Dinner Show!
The Pirates Adventure Dinner Show is a well-known theatre show in Magaluf, which can seat over 800 guests!
Enjoy the acrobatic pirate show while enjoying a meal and drinks throughout the evening!
The show is designed to be appropriate for all ages, so this is a great option for evening entertainment regardless of your group dynamics!
Image from: Get Your Guide
Have a beach day
Cala Vinyes Beach
Cala Vinyes Beach, which is a short distance outside of Magaluf, is a beautiful cove with a sandy beach, featuring a number of sunbeds as well as space to bring your own towel and chill out.
Cala Vinyes Beach is often a bit quieter than some other beaches in the area, there is both a beach bar and supermarket nearby if you’re looking to spend the whole day here.
Cala Falcó Beach
A little bit further out again, you’ll find the beach of Cala Falcó. A beach located within a secluded cove, it is quite small and can get busy during peak season as it’s a popular spot. Cala Falcó has a beach bar located on-site, selling a variety of food and drinks, including fresh smoothies!
Sunbeds can be rented out, but during peak season these need to be booked in advance as they tend to get full very quickly! However, there is still space to bring your own towel to lie on as well.
Find Things to do in Magaluf:
Should I stay in Magaluf?
Magaluf could be a great choice for you if you want a lively party-based destination – but if that’s not your holiday preference, then I’d avoid this area and stay in one of the following areas Mallorca…
Port d’Alcudia
At the opposite end of the Island, you’ll find Alcudia. Port d’Alcudia is a beautiful beach town, with plenty of hotel and villa options.
The Port d’Alcudia beach is one of my favourites on the island, with plenty of space it stretches across 7 kilometres in length and up to 200 metres wide, making it both the longest and largest beach in Mallorca.
When visiting Alcudia beach, I would recommend heading towards the middle of the beach, away from the Port. This is a more common spot for locals to hang out and tends to be a lot quieter, so you’ll have a lot more space!
There’s also plenty of shade along this area, with trees lining the back of the beach.
Not to mention that the beach and sea are significantly cleaner the further away from the Port you go – so it’s definitely worth the longer walk down the beach!
If you’re looking for an active holiday, with a variety of water-based activities – from Jet Ski’s to boat tours, to dolphin sightseeing, snorkelling, waterparks and more… then Alcudia is the place for you!
Does Alcudia have much nightlife?
Although Alcudia can be a lively town, containing a strip with lively bars and clubs for the vast majority of Alcudia, you’ll find it to be family-friendly with plenty to do for all ages – from the beautiful beach, the boardwalk, a vast selection of restaurants, shops, and hotel resorts, as well as ferry trips to the nearby island of Menorca.
If you’re looking for somewhere with a lively atmosphere, without it being quite as party-based or as intense as Palma or Magaluf – then Alcudia is the place to go!
What is there to do in Alcudia?
Port d’Alcudia Beach
The longest and largest beach in Mallorca, Port d’Alcudia Beach has plenty of room for everyone! A popular, but clean and large beach – with plenty of amenities such as restaurants, supermarkets, take-aways, and shops nearby!
Here you will find sun loungers, as well as plenty of space to bring your own towels to lie on. Areas of the beach have trees running down the side to shade you from the sun!
Day trip to Menorca
Head to Puerto Alcudia and hop on a boat tour to the smaller neighbouring island of Menorca! Explore the island before heading back to Alcudia!
Water sports
Alcudia is a great spot for getting involved with water activities, rent some Jet skis, try stand-up paddle boarding, go snorkelling, or head out on various different types of boat tours!
There’s something for all ages and abilities depending on what you want to do!
Dolphin watching tours
Head out on a guided trip along the coast and have the chance to see dolphins out in the wild! Although it’s not guaranteed you’ll see them, these tours offer beautiful scenic views along the coast and into the Balearic sea!
Image from: Get Your Guide
Image from: Get Your Guide
Buggy Tours
If you want a unique way to explore Alcudia, why not hop on a buggy tour and explore the area?
Join a tour guide in a buggy, quadbike, moped, or scooter and spend the day exploring Alcudia and surrounding areas!
Hidropark Alcudia
Alcudia is home to the waterpark known as Hidropark – with something for all the family, this can be a great day out regardless of page! Hidropark offers a variety of slides, wave pools, as well as a shallow play area for younger children.
Hidropark is a convenient and fun option for a day out if you’re staying in Alcudia!
If you’re visiting Hidropark, keep in mind that as well as the entry fee, there are additional costs such as locker and sunbed hire.
Image from: Get Your Guide
Alcudia Old Town
The stunning Alcudia Old Town is a beautiful place to explore, walk along the medieval streets and explore the Church of St. Jaume.
Make sure to visit the Alcudia Market which is held every Tuesday and Sunday from 8:00 am until 1:30 pm!
Vineyard Tour
If you fancy some Spanish wine tasting, why not head to a local Vineyard? Alcudia is only a short trip away from several vineyards, offering wine tasting and vineyard tours!
Image from: Get Your Guide
Find things to do in Alcudia:
Should I stay in Alcudia?
If you’re looking for somewhere with a lively atmosphere (without it being quite as rowdy as Palma or Magaluf), as well as plenty of adventurous activities and a large beach – Alcudia is the place for you!
It is recommended that you have a car to explore further areas surrounding Alcudia, but it is possible to see and do a lot in the town without a car, as long as you stay near the town centre!
Campanet
Just a 20-minute drive away from Alcudia, you’ll find a town called Campanet!
Campanet is a town in the northeast of Mallorca, which isn’t a particularly touristy area compared to everywhere else mentioned in this blog. This is a popular choice for people who want to be close to Alcudia without staying in Alcudia itself. Campanet also attracts tourists who want beautiful mountain views, and a desire to stay in a more authentic town in Mallorca.
With a good choice of restaurants, bars, cafes, as well as local bakeries in its main square – there are however, very few shops apart from your typical small grocers and a weekly market, which appears on a Tuesday.
Campanet is well-known for its spring water and natural springs, which flow from the mountains and ancient wells – which you can still see when you visit!
Things to do in Campanet:
Coves de Campanet (Campanet Caves)
Campanet is home to the Campanet Caves (Coves de Campanet).
I found these caves particularly interesting; they were large enough for me to spend about 45 minutes to an hour exploring!
What made this place even better was the treetop café attached to the entrance/ exit of the cave! The views were beautiful and the staff were lovely!
These caves aren’t as well-known to tourists due to Campanet not being a hugely touristy area, which meant the crowds were low and there was plenty of room to walk around the caves and find a place to sit in the café!
Sant Miquel de Campanet
A small and quiet Christian Church with a café, located in the main square of Campanet. It is thought to be one of the oldest churches on the island of Mallorca!
Ses Font Ufanes
Ses Font Ufanes is a nature reserve that has great hiking and walking trails. Surrounded by nature. It’s best to visit Ses Font Ufanes after a period of rain, as you will get to see the natural springs!
It is not unusual for some to stop flowing when there has been a long period of dry weather, but even if you don’t get to see them, the walk through Ses Font Ufanes is beautiful regardless!
Ses Font Ufanes is an easy walk/ hike, which is suitable for children.
Campanet Summer Festival
On the second Sunday of July there a festival that runs in Campanet, during the late afternoon into the evening. This happens for eight to ten days!
I actually visited while the festival was on in 2023, with homemade fancy dress costumes, Spanish bands playing a mix of Spanish and English covers, as well as food trucks, and loads of decorations – the atmosphere was incredible!
I didn’t plan to visit specifically for this event, it just happened to be on, but it was a great experience to celebrate among the locals and I’d definitely recommend it if you happen to be in the area around this time!
Take a trip to Alcudia
The beach town of Alcudia is only a 20-minute drive away from Campanet, which makes Campanet a great place to stay if you want to visit Alcudia while staying somewhere a bit quieter!
Should I stay in Campanet?
Campanet still has a number of villas and Airbnb’s which you can rent for your stay, these tend to be cheaper than many other places in Mallorca due to Campanet not being right on the coast. Often you can get more for your money here, as it’s not a major tourist area.
Campanet is great if you want to stay somewhere that feels more authentic, so you can embrace the day-to-day lifestyle in Mallorca. However, if you’re looking for somewhere with a bit more to do on your immediate doorstep without having to drive anywhere, then Campanet is probably not the place for you.
It is recommended to rent a car so you can get around easily. However, Campanet does have a bus running semi-regularly to towns and cities such as Inca (where you can change to catch another bus to Palma and other places), as well as changing to catch a bus to the beach towns of Pollensa and Alcudia.
Sóller and Port de Sóller
Sóller is a traditional and charming town, located in the Tramuntana Mountains on the northwest coast of Mallorca.
Sóller is a popular town with many shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants, as well as the famous Sant Bartomeu Church in Sóller town centre.
Things to do in Soller:
Hiking
If you’re into hiking, then Sóller is the perfect place to base on your Mallorca trip.
From Sóller, you can easily get to the Barranc de Biniaraix to Cornador Gran peak hike, Puig des Tossals Verds circuit trail, and Cúber to Puig de l’Ofre hike!
Port de Sóller
Hop on a tram from Sóller and head to the coastal village of Port de Sóller, where you’ll find beautiful views of boats, water, and waterside restaurants.
Port de Soller is also home to the sandy beaches of Platja den Repic and Sóller Playa.
Jardines de Alfabia – House and Botanical Garden Tour
Just a short drive outside of Sóller, you’ll find Jardines de Alfabia – one of Mallorca’s oldest buildings and its stunning gardens!
Jardines de Alfabia is a beautiful property set in a stunning mountain view landscape, with breathtaking botanical gardens to roll around!
Go on a Boat Tour
Hop on a boat tour and leave the port of Sóller, stopping at multiple beautiful areas along the coast – exploring caves, beaches, and more!
Should I stay in Sóller?
Sóller and Port de Sóller are charming towns, popular but not as touristy as many other locations in Mallorca. It’s close proximity to Palma makes it an easy choice for getting to-and-from the airport, as well as doing day trips to Palma!
If you’re looking for great views and tranquility , then Sóller would be a great option for you!
Cala d’Or
Cala d’Or, also known as the ‘Golden Bay’, is a beautiful and popular beach area on the southeast coast of Mallorca.
In this area, the beaches are often smaller, but are some of the most beautiful beaches on the island!
Beaches in Cala d’Or tend to be within coves, where the sea often looks sparkly with more of a green-blue colour as a result of the combination of the sun and surrounding pine trees.
This was the first place in Mallorca I ever visited, and safe to say that there is plenty to do! With a wide range of water sports, excursions, shopping, and restaurants.
Cala d’Or has plenty of nighttime entertainment but is not a clubbing or party destination, unlike Magaluf. If you want a place where you can enjoy a few cocktails in the evening, without the noise of nightclubs – then Cala d’Or is the place for you!
There are plenty of family-friendly hotel resorts, adults-only sites, or private villas and apartments in Cala d’Or – so there’s something for everyone!
However, it can get rather busy during school holidays – as the years have gone on, Cala d’Or has grown in popularity when it comes to Mallorca destinations, which is something to keep in mind if you’re looking for somewhere a little quieter!
Things to do in Cala d’Or:
Beaches
There are a variety of beaches in Cala d’Or, such as Cala Petita Beach, Playa Cala Gran Beach, and Cala Esmeralda Beach!
Sit back and relax on some sun loungers or go snorkelling in the sea!
Explore the Marina
The Marina de Cala d’Or is a great area with a lot going on! A popular place to dine at, the port offers some gorgeous views!
There are also a number of designer clothing boutiques along the port, which are interesting to browse.
You’ll commonly find a lot of water sports and diving companies offering excursions and courses near the port, which you can book on!
Drach Caves (Coves del Drach)
The Drach Caves is an approximate 1200m long walk in underground caves, which tend to take around an hour to walk through.
The caves themselves offer a fairy-tale-like experience and are hugely popular due to the giant lake at the end of the cave tour where a classical music concert is hosted!
Water sports
From jet skis to diving courses, there are plenty of water sports-based activities to do in Cala d’Or. If you’re looking for some adventurous activities to do on your Mallorca holiday, Cala d’Or has plenty to offer in terms of water activities!
Should I stay in Cala d’Or?
Cala d’Or is a great option regardless of your group dynamics. It’s family-friendly, and also has many options for adult-only resorts.
However, it is very popular during peak season, so if you’re looking for somewhere a bit quieter then you might want to consider places outside of Cala d’Or!
Cala d’Or tends to have everything you need to keep you and the rest of your party occupied during your trip to Mallorca, so is a great option!
