Spending a few days among the restaurants and terraces of Palma offers a vastly different experience from waking up in the mountains near Sóller or strolling to the beach in Alcúdia each morning. During my journey around Mallorca, I explored various parts of the island and discovered how distinct they each feel. These are the places I’d consider, not because they’re the only wonderful ones in Mallorca, but because they’re the ones I’d choose if I were booking a hotel again.
Where Is the Best Place to Stay in Mallorca?
For a first visit, I’d mix Palma with Sóller: start with two or three nights in the city, then head to the mountains.
For a romantic weekend, I’d go straight to Deià.
For a large sandy beach near your hotel, choose Alcúdia. For the most beautiful coves, consider a day trip by car.
For food and city life, head to Palma. Nowhere else on the island offers such a range of restaurants and vibrant urban experiences.
1. Palma de Mallorca: For Restaurants, Shops, and Culture
Palma is the only true city on Mallorca and feels like one too. Wide boulevards, stellar dining, a historic center with the cathedral visible from afar, and a harbor perfect for evening strolls.
Staying in Palma allows you to walk to restaurants in the evening and explore the center in the early morning before the tourists rise. A car isn’t handy within the city itself, but it’s beneficial if you want to explore the rest of the island. Palma isn’t a beach destination, but that’s not why you’d book here.
I’d plan two to three nights in Palma, certainly at the start or end of a longer Mallorca trip.
Hotels in Palma
Can Alomar is a 5-star luxury boutique hotel in a former mansion in Palma's historic center. Stylish, well-located, it embodies Palma at its finest. Ideal for a city stay with character. Prices from 330,- per night. Check prices for your dates →
Terreno Barrio Hotel offers a different vibe (also 5-star): more modern, larger, with a clear design language. Newer hotel with a pool, garden, and even a cinema. Parking is available here too. Price from 210,- per night. Check prices for your dates →
Palau Sa Font, a 16th-century palace with modern interiors in Palma's heart. Prices from 170,- per night. Check prices for your dates →
Prices are indicative and can vary significantly based on the date and season.
Restaurants in Palma
LivingDreams offers an incredible venue with an atmospheric garden and delicious dishes. My choice for a fine dinner in Palma.
Tast Club is an elegant, stylish spot, a true hidden gem in a small alley. Delicious food. Reservations recommended.
El Camino is a long counter where you sit side by side and order the tastiest tapas. Booking is a must. A spot worth visiting.
2. Sóller and Port de Sóller: For Mountains and Charm
Sóller is the village with its squares, orange trees, and tram connection to the harbor. Port de Sóller is the harbor itself: an arc-shaped bay, waterside terraces, and a beach that captures the atmosphere perfectly. Choosing between the two is essential when booking a hotel.
Stay in Sóller if you wish to relish the vibe of an old village and be surrounded by mountains without the sea at your doorstep. Sóller has a market, good restaurants, and a lively square.
Opt for Port de Sóller if you want seaside access and beach days on your agenda. The bay is beautiful, and you can tram back and forth to the village.
The mix of mountains, village, and Port de Sóller made this one of my favorite places to linger.
Hotels in Port de Sóller and Sóller
Bikini Island & Mountain (adults only) is located in Port de Sóller, boasting magnificent views of the bay. An ideal hotel for combining sea and mountains. Very stylish with a lovely pool. Rates from 220,- per night. Check prices for your dates →
SolleRooms, in Sóller itself, is more intimate, tailored for those who prefer village life. No reception; breakfast is best enjoyed outside. Starting from 150,- per night. Check prices for your dates →
Restaurants in Port de Sóller
Patiki Beach for a lunch by the water, overlooking the bay. Many delectable shared plates.
Luna 36 in Sóller, trendy with the feel of a fantastic Italian family restaurant. Delicious pastas.
La Romaguera also in a small Sóller alley. A few tables outside. We dined delightfully here.
3. Deià: For a Special Romantic Stay
Deià was one of the most enchanting spots of my trip. The village lies on a slope near the sea with a handful of quaint streets.
Deià is not a budget-friendly destination. The mountain roads are narrow, and if you stay multiple nights: driving in the dark requires skill. However, if ambience and uniqueness are top priorities, it’s one of the best choices on Mallorca.
I’d choose Deià for a short two to three-night stay rather than as the sole base for a longer trip. For a romantic getaway, Deià tops my list.
Hotels in Deià
Hotel des Puig offers rooms and apartments with stunning views of the surroundings. It features two pools and a lovely terrace for breakfast. Rates from 150,- per night. Check prices for your dates →
Hotel Es Mollí is a romantic spot in Deià with a beautiful garden and breathtaking views. A vibe that matches the village. For those wanting the true Deià feeling, with the price to match (from 180,- per night). Check prices for your dates →
Restaurants in Deià
Ca'n Lluc is a top spot. You dine on a terrace directly by the sea. A wide choice of delicious fish dishes. Lovely ambience. Parking is tricky.
Ca's Patrò March is similarly idyllic, perched on a sea rock. Simple, with plenty of fish, and tough to book. Very much worth it.
4. Valldemossa: For Mountains, Charm, and Tranquility
Most people visit Valldemossa as a day trip: an hour’s stroll, take photos, and return to the hotel. But the question I aim to answer is different: is Valldemossa worthwhile as a place to stay?
If you want the Tramuntana mountains as a backdrop, not just as an outing, Valldemossa is a more logical choice than Palma or Sóller.
A car is a necessity here. The village itself is walkable, but if you wish to pair Valldemossa with other island areas, a car is the easiest option.
Hotel in Valldemossa
Agriturismo Son Viscos is a rural spot on Valldemossa's outskirts. Beautifully located, it offers a delightful breakfast. I’d choose this for tranquility and to stay away from the bustle. Rates from about 200,- per night. Check prices for your dates →
Restaurants in Valldemossa
La Posada in a stunning setting with mountain views. Many grilled dishes. A nice spot.
Es Roquissar on a car-free square. The menu is displayed on a chalkboard. Great for a lunch or dinner overlooking the surroundings.
5. Alcúdia: For Beach and Historic Center
Alcúdia combines an old, walled city center with a large beach a few kilometers away. It’s perfect if you want both.
The old town of Alcúdia is compact, with excellent dining options and the authentic feel of a Mallorcan village. Staying here offers a quieter base than the beachfront.
Port d'Alcúdia is all about the beach, the promenade, and that holiday vibe. More activities with the sea at your door.
Personally, I’d prefer staying in or near the old town and visiting the beach on a day trip.
Hotels in Alcúdia
Finca Predio Son Serra, a countryside estate outside the city, for those who value peace and space over beachfront convenience. A gorgeous garden with towering palms and a vast pool if you seek space. Around 200 euros per night. Check prices for your dates →
Bordoy Mostatxins (adults only) is in two restored 15th and 19th-century buildings in Alcúdia's old town. This hotel would suit those wanting the old town vibe paired with beach proximity, from 130,- per night. Check prices for your dates →
Restaurant in Alcúdia
Ponderosa Beach for a beachfront lunch. Good food, sea views, exactly what a beach lunch should be. At the end of Playa de Muro.
Most Beautiful Bays of Mallorca: Caló des Moro and Cala s'Almunia
Alcúdia is convenient for a large sandy beach nearby, but it’s not the most picturesque slice of Mallorca's coast. Of the coves I’ve visited, Caló des Moro was among the most stunning.
Caló des Moro is a small bay in the island's southeast with crystal-clear turquoise waters nestled between rocks. Nearby lies Cala s'Almunia, a more rugged and equally beautiful cove.
Bear in mind that Caló des Moro is popular and can be crowded in peak season. Go early and don’t expect a well-equipped beach with loungers and a promenade.
Which Place on Mallorca Suits Your Vacation?
For city & dining → Palma
For mountains & ambiance → Sóller
For romance → Deià
For tranquility → Valldemossa
For a large sandy beach → Alcúdia
If I had to choose one place for a first journey, I’d go with Sóller. For a longer trip, I’d combine Sóller and Palma.
One Hotel or Multiple Places in Mallorca?
3–4 days in Mallorca: choose one base. Palma or Sóller are the most versatile for a short visit.
A week in Mallorca: two accommodations offer a more complete perspective. For instance, Palma and Sóller, or Palma and Deià.
10 days or more: Traveling around the island becomes worthwhile.
Do You Need a Car in Mallorca?
In Palma, a car is more hassle than convenience. However, a car is useful for day trips to explore the island.
In Sóller and Port de Sóller, you’ll manage without a car. If you want to pair Sóller with Deià and Valldemossa, a car is the easiest option.
In Deià and Valldemossa, having your own vehicle is highly recommended. The surroundings are difficult to access without a car.
In Alcúdia, a car is handy for day trips but not strictly necessary if you prioritize the beach and old town.
Frequently Asked Questions About Staying in Mallorca
What’s the nicest place on Mallorca?
Personally, I found Sóller the most complete address: mountains, charm, a lovely village, and the sea a tram ride away. Deià was more unique but also more specific in who it’s suited for.
What’s better: Palma or Sóller?
Palma if you love cities. Sóller if the mountains and a slower pace are more appealing. If I had to pick one spot for a first introduction to Mallorca, I’d choose Sóller, adding Palma if you’re staying longer.
Where’s the best place to stay on Mallorca without being in the thick of it?
Valldemossa or Deià. Both offer a different feel in the evenings compared to busier vacation spots.
Should you stay in one place or travel around Mallorca?
For three to four days: one spot. For a week or longer: two bases offer a far more complete image of the island.
How many days do you need for Mallorca?
A week is a solid base for two locations and a few day trips. With less than five days, I’d pick one spot and immerse myself.
