Where to stay in Mallorca

Discover the best areas to stay in Mallorca. From Palma’s urban charm to family-friendly beaches in the North and hidden gems in the South East, find your perfect holiday style.

Planning a holiday in Mallorca but unsure which area suits you best? This guide will help you discover the island’s most iconic regions so you can choose the perfect destination based on your interests, lifestyle, and vacation goals.

From charming mountain villages to glamorous seaside resorts, Mallorca offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a city experience, a family-friendly escape, an active sports holiday, or a quiet retreat, this guide will help you find your ideal area and plan your unforgettable stay.

Palma & Surroundings: For City Life Lovers

Areas: Palma City, Palma Bay, Son Vida, Puntiro, Esporles, Establiments
Ideal for travelers who enjoy culture, nightlife, and a vibrant urban atmosphere.

Urban Beaches

Palma’s urban beaches, including Can Pere Antoni and Playa de Palma, are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or strolling along the promenade. Beachside cafés and casual eateries offer drinks and light meals, letting you relax while soaking up the Mediterranean atmosphere. Paddleboarding and kayaking are also popular for a more active day by the sea.

Cultural Attractions

Culture lovers will be captivated by Palma. Admire the Gothic grandeur of Palma Cathedral, or explore Bellver Castle, a circular fortress with panoramic views over the bay and mountains. Contemporary art enthusiasts can visit the Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and Gallery RED, featuring exhibitions by emerging and established artists, blending tradition with modern creativity.

Rooftops and Panoramic Views

Rooftop terraces and viewpoints provide stunning vistas of the city, the bay, and the Tramuntana Mountains, perfect for a sunset cocktail or a quiet evening enjoying the city lights.

Culinary Scene

Palma’s gastronomy reflects its cosmopolitan spirit. From intimate bistros and tapas bars to gourmet restaurants serving Mallorcan and international cuisine, the city offers a culinary journey. Markets such as Mercat de l’Olivar and Mercat de Santa Catalina showcase fresh local produce, seafood, and artisanal delicacies.

Nightlife and Entertainment

After sunset, Palma comes alive with elegant cocktail bars, live music venues, and trendy lounges. The historic center’s charming squares provide a relaxed atmosphere under the stars, while the city’s nightlife ranges from laid-back sophistication to vibrant energy.

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South West Mallorca: Glamour and Luxury

Areas: Bendinat, Calvià, Portals Nous, Puerto Andratx, Santa Ponsa, Sol de Mallorca
Ideal for travelers seeking luxury, relaxation, and glamorous seaside experiences.

Sun, Sea, and Relaxation

Beaches here feature golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Vibrant beach clubs offer stylish lounges and luxury services, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a cocktail. Quiet coves and scenic viewpoints provide privacy and breathtaking Mediterranean views.

Glamorous Marinas

Marinas like Puerto Portals showcase luxurious yachts, designer boutiques, and fine dining. Stroll along the marina, enjoy a gourmet lunch, or simply take in the sophisticated atmosphere.

Dining and Nightlife

Seaside restaurants, beach clubs, and gourmet venues serve Mediterranean and international cuisine with stunning sea views. In the evening, stylish bars offer live music and cocktails under the stars.

Activities and Convenience

Close to Palma and the airport, the region combines luxury with convenience. Water sports, sailing, and golfing at courses such as Real Golf de Bendinat  make this area ideal for a complete luxury holiday.

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West Mallorca: For Adventure and Nature Lovers

Areas: Banyalbufar, Deia, Fornalutx, Soller, Valldemossa
Perfect for travelers who enjoy mountains, outdoor activities, and scenic landscapes.

West Mallorca is a paradise for travelers seeking a mix of mountains, sea, and outdoor adventure. This region is dominated by the stunning Tramuntana Mountain Range, offering dramatic landscapes, picturesque villages and towns, and some of the best hiking and cycling routes in Europe.

Mountains, Hiking, and Adventure Sports

The Tramuntana Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer iconic hikes like the Torrent de Pareis gorge and the Archduke’s Path, as well as world-renowned cycling routes such as Sa Calobra. Adventure lovers can also enjoy rock climbing, kayaking, and paragliding along dramatic cliffs.

Coastal Charm and Villages

Charming villages like Deià, Fornalutx, and Valldemossa invite visitors to stroll cobbled streets, admire historic architecture, and relax at boutique cafés. Hidden coves along the coast offer swimming, snorkeling, or quiet moments of relaxation.

Gastronomy and Local Culture

Gastronomy here is a true highlight, traditional restaurants invite you to discover traditional Mallorcan flavors, while fine dining restaurants elevate the island’s cuisine with contemporary touches and breathtaking views of the mountains or sea. Weekly markets in Sóller and Valldemossa complete the experience, offering seasonal produce, artisanal goods, and a true taste of local culture.

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North Mallorca: Family Favourite

Areas: Alcudia, Port D’Alcudia, Formentor, Pollensa, Puerto Pollensa, Santa Margalida.
Ideal for families looking for safe beaches, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.

The north of Mallorca is a family paradise, combining long golden beaches, calm turquoise waters, and plenty of activities that keep all ages entertained. With its mix of lively resorts, traditional towns, and breathtaking natural landscapes, this region is the ideal base for a family holiday in Mallorca.

Beaches Made for Families

The wide bays of Alcúdia and Pollensa are among the island’s most family-friendly beaches. Shallow waters and soft sand make them perfect for children, while parents can relax with peace of mind. At Playa de Muro, one of Mallorca’s most beautiful stretches of coast, you can enjoy long walks along the shore or indulge in a seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant. For variety, explore Cala San Vicente with its crystal-clear coves, or venture to Ca’n Picafort and Son Serra de Marina, where you’ll find a more relaxed, natural atmosphere.

Activities for All Ages

The north offers more than just sun and sea. Water sports such as paddleboarding, windsurfing, and kitesurfing are popular in the bays, while cycling routes and hiking trails let families explore the stunning scenery of the Tramuntana foothills.For horse enthusiasts, Rancho Grande Equestrian Center offers memorable rides along the beach, combining scenic views with an authentic Mallorcan experience. Families can also enjoy a fun-filled day in Alcúdia, at the only water park in the north, featuring a variety of slides and pools that promise hours of entertainment for all ages.

Tradition, Culture, and Relaxation

Beyond the coast, the towns of Pollensa and Alcúdia captivate with their historic centers, cobbled streets, and lively markets. Families can enjoy a cultural stroll through medieval walls, visit local artisan shops, or simply relax in a shaded plaza with an ice cream. The Cap de Formentor viewpoint is another must-see: a scenic drive leading to dramatic cliffs and breathtaking sea views that adults will admire and children will never forget.

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North East Mallorca: Off the Beaten Path 

Areas: Artá, Capdepera, Cala Ratjada, Manacor, Son Servera
Perfect for travelers who enjoy tranquil beaches, scenic landscapes, and authentic towns.

The north east of Mallorca offers a serene and authentic escape, perfect for travelers who want to enjoy a relaxed pace amidst stunning landscapes and charming town and resorts.

Relaxed Beaches and Quiet Coves

The coastline of North East Mallorca features beaches and coves that are more tranquil due to their location, away from the island’s busiest hotspots. Cala Mesquida offers wide golden sands framed by pine trees, while Canyamel is ideal for families. Smaller coves, such as Cala Na Clara, provide a peaceful setting where you can swim, snorkel, or simply unwind by the sea. Their slightly more remote positions make these beaches a relaxing alternative for travelers looking to enjoy the coast at a gentler pace.

Authentic Towns and Cultural Discoveries

Inland, the region reveals its rich cultural heritage. Artà is captivating with cobbled streets, a weekly artisan market, and a hilltop sanctuary with panoramic views. Capdepera is home to a medieval fortress that showcases the island’s history, while Manacor, famous for its craftsmanship and the Rafa Nadal Tennis Academy, offers an engaging mix of culture and modern attractions. Towns like Sant Llorenç and Son Servera invite visitors to wander leisurely, enjoy a coffee in a quiet square, or explore local artisan shops, providing an authentic taste of Mallorcan life. 

For golf enthusiasts, the North East is home to excellent courses such as Capdepera Golf and Son Servera Golf Club, offering challenging layouts set amidst beautiful landscapes. These courses provide both a sporting challenge and a serene environment, making the region a great choice for combining beach days with leisure golf.

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South East Mallorca: Hidden Gems

Areas: Portocolom, Santanyí, Cala d’Or, Campos
Ideal for travelers who enjoy luxury experiences combined with cultural discovery.

The south east of Mallorca combines crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and picturesque villages, offering a refined and relaxed holiday experience.

Beaches and Coastal Beauty

The South East coast is known for some of Mallorca’s best beaches, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities. Cala Mondragó, Calo des Moro, and Cala d’Or boast turquoise waters and fine sand, providing perfect spots for family holidays, romantic escapes, or leisure days by the sea. Cala d’Or’s sheltered bays and elegant marina make it a hub for sailing, snorkeling, and luxury seaside experiences. The region’s slightly quieter beaches offer a more relaxed pace while still being easily accessible.

Charming Villages and Local Culture

Towns like Santanyí, Campos, and Felanitx feature cobbled streets, traditional stone houses, and lively local markets that showcase the island’s culinary and artisanal heritage. Santanyí’s Saturday market is a highlight, where fresh fruits, vegetables, handmade crafts, and local delicacies offer an immersive taste of Mallorca’s everyday life.  These towns offer a perfect blend of culture, gastronomy, and history, making them a must-see for travelers seeking authentic Mallorca experiences.

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South Mallorca: Beach Lovers

Areas: Cala Pi, Campos, Llucmajor, Ses Salines

The south of Mallorca is a paradise for beach lovers, offering some of the island’s most iconic stretches of sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This region, including Colonia de Sant Jordi, Llucmajor, and Sa Ràpita, is perfect for travelers seeking sun, sea, and serenity.

Stunning Beaches

The beaches in the south of Mallorca are world-renowned for their natural beauty. Es Trenc, a 3-kilometer-long stretch of white sand, is a highlight where visitors can enjoy long walks along the shore, swim in pristine waters, or watch unforgettable sunsets. 

Other notable beaches include Es Carbó and Es Caragol, offering calm waters and natural surroundings for a relaxing day by the sea. These beaches provide the perfect combination of tranquility and natural beauty, making the south ideal for families, couples, and sun seekers alike.

Leisure

Beyond the beaches, the south of Mallorca offers a variety of leisure options. Golf enthusiasts can visit the prestigious Marriott Son Antem Golf Club, featuring two 18-hole courses set in stunning landscapes. Wine lovers can explore local vineyards and wineries around Llucmajor and Campos, enjoying guided tastings and cellar tours that showcase Mallorca’s emerging wine scene.

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Center of the Island: Traditional Mallorca

Areas: Alaró, Binissalem, Caimarí, Llubí, Selva, Inca, Santa Maria, Sineu, Consell and Sencelles
Ideal for a serene retreat for countryside escapes and authentic Mallorcan life.

This region offers a mix of charming towns, rolling fields, vineyards, olive groves, and traditional architecture, making it perfect for those who value tranquility, culture, and natural beauty.

Authentic Culture and Local Experiences

The central towns of Mallorca are full of character. You can wander through cobbled streets, picturesque plazas, and historic churches, while enjoying weekly markets, local festivals, and seasonal village celebrations. These experiences showcase the rich traditions and everyday life of the island, offering  a genuine connection to authentic Mallorcan culture. 

The pace here is relaxed, offering a calm and restorative environment while still providing all the modern comforts and infrastructure for a refined stay.

Ideal Base for Exploration

Thanks to its central location, this region is an ideal base for exploring the whole island, from the dramatic Tramuntana mountains in the northwest to the sun-drenched beaches and hidden coves in the south. It offers a perfect blend of understated luxury and authentic Mallorcan charm, making it a top choice for travelers who want a refined yet genuine island experience.

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