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Where to stay in Mallorca (2023) – 15 Best Areas

Last updated on March 2, 2023 by Claire / this article contains affiliate links (Info)

Where to stay in Mallorca to best enjoy the island? 
There are options for everyone with resort towns, quieter coastal villages or agrotourism...
Below is my guide where I compare the best places to stay in Mallorca, including:

  • Which side of Mallorca is best,
  • Best areas to stay in Mallorca,
  • Map to get your oriented,
  • best hotels, resorts, rentals,
  • places to avoid
  • ...

Find your gem!

Where to stay in Mallorca Best places Pin

Table Of Contents
Where to stay in Mallorca in 2022? - Quick answers & Map
Best places to stay in Mallorca - accommodation tips
Area 1 - Alcudia Bay
Area 2 - Colonia Sant Jordi
Area 3 - Cala d'Or
Area 4 - Palma de Mallorca 
Area 5 - Port de Soller
Area 6 - Cala Millor
Area 7 - Portocolom
Area 8 - El Arenal - S'Arenal
Area 9 - Alcudia historical town
Area 10 - Port de Pollença  
5 extras - best areas to stay in Mallorca
Places to avoid in Mallorca

// In this article, no ads, no sponsored posts. Just some affiliate links.
If you purchase through them, I get a commission at no extra cost to you (Disclosure).


Where to stay in Mallorca in 2022? - Quick answers & Map

If you don't want to read the entire article describing all the best areas to stay in Mallorca, below are my simple answers, based on what you could be looking for.
In the rest of the article, I detail each location, with accommodation options and numbering for easy reference.

Note that this is only my selection. There are so many beautiful places around Mallorca for everyone's taste...

Let's start with a map to help you get oriented.

Where to stay in Mallorca - Map

Where to stay in Mallorca map best areas towns

Where to stay in Mallorca - Map

Where to stay in Mallorca for beaches?

Mallorca has beaches almost all around the island. So you will never be far away from one.
However, some of the top destinations are:

  • Alcudia Bay (#1) for long sandy beaches - with activities for all ages (see best rated accommodations) 
  • Cala d'Or (#3) for access to the most beautiful calas in Mallorca (see best rated accommodations) 
  • Colonia Sant Jordi (#2) for charming sandy beaches (see best rated accommodations) 
Where to stay in Mallorca for beaches best areas

Romantic places to stay in Mallorca for couples, honeymoon or not?

In depends what kind of couple you are and why type of activities you are looking for, but some of the places with the most charm, are, in my opinion:

  • Portocolom (#7) - peaceful, beautiful bay (see best rated accommodations) 
  • Port de Soller (#5) - vibrant place where mountains meet the sea (see best rated accommodations) 
  • Canyamel (#15) - peaceful beach with views (see best rated accommodations) 

Where to stay in Mallorca for families?

Some of the best coastal towns for families in Mallorca offer a safe beach and great activities for all ages. They include:

  • Alcudia Bay (#1) with beach, water park, fun water activities (see best rated accommodations) 
  • Cala Millor (#6) with safe beach, play area, karting, arcades (see best rated accommodations) 
  • Colonia Sant Jordi (#2) with family friendly beaches, relax vibe, aquarium (see best rated accommodations) 
Port de Alcudia - fun water activities

Port de Alcudia - fun water activities

Best areas to stay in Mallorca to explore the island?

Mallorca is not huge, but it is not small either. Therefore, if you don't want to drive too much every day to explore every corner, you should not stay at a tip of the island. The main road is between Alcudia and Palma de Mallorca, so those are really practical to reduce travel time.

  • Palma de Mallorca (#4) - the capital city (see best rated accommodations) 
  • Alcudia Bay (#1) for the best of both world beach + access (see best rated accommodations) 
  • Alcudia (#9) - for history, good food and access to the island (see best rated accommodations) 

If you have more than a week I recommend staying in 2 different area to reduce driving time - for example Alcudia Bay and Colonia Sant Jordi.

Most famous road in Mallorca - to Sa Calobra

Most famous road in Mallorca - to Sa Calobra

Where to stay in Mallorca for Nature

I think the most beautiful areas in Mallorca are:

  • The North-East end towards Formentor Lighthouse with impressive cliffs  - 
  • The Tramuntana mountains (UNESCO Protected Area), especially between Pollença and Soller - 
  • The many smaller coves South of the East Coast with Mondrago Natural Park, Calo des Moro and many more
  • The region of Capdepera with a good mix of hills, history, beaches, caves...

So the best places to stay are:

  • Stay in Alcudia Bay (#1) or Port de Pollença (#10) or Cala Sant Vicenc (#11) for the first 2 
  • Stay in Valldemossa (#12) to stay directly in the mountains 
  • Stay in Cala d'Or (#3) or Portocolom (#7) for the calas
  • Stay in Canyamel (#15) for the Capdepera region 
Formentor peninsula

Formentor peninsula

Best places to stay in Mallorca for nightlife?

There are 2 main areas famous for their busy nightlife:

  • Magaluf (#13) - most famous party area (see best rated accommodations) 
  • El Arenal (#8) with long sandy beach and many german bars (see best rated accommodations) 

Where to stay in Mallorca for cycling?

The most famous cycling routes are in the Tramuntana mountains. Therefore, to be as close as possible to those with an easy flat warm-up, your best options are:

  • Alcudia Bay (#1) with the beach to relax at the end of the day (see best rated accommodations)  - by far the best option to access the Tramuntana easily, Formentor and the Arta region.
  • Port de Pollença (#10) also with the beach to relax at the end of the day (see best rated accommodations) 
  • Port de Soller (#5) - but departure each day will be more brutal (see best rated accommodations) 
Cycling Sa Calobra

Cycling Sa Calobra

The prettiest resort towns in Mallorca

I think in terms of scenery and ambiance, the prettiest resort towns in Mallorca are:

  • Port de Pollença (#10) with a long beach and Formentor, but quieter (see best rated accommodations) 
  • Port de Soller (#5) - where the mountains meet the sea (see best rated accommodations) 
  • Colonia Sant Jordi (#2) - with open coves (see best rated accommodations) 
Bay of Port de Soller

Bay of Port de Soller

Which side of Mallorca is best? Where to go?

All sides of Mallorca have advantages, it depends what you are looking for.
As a summary:

The West Coast is great for:

  • Nature with the Tramuntana Mountains
  • Hiking and cycling
  • The best drives

The South Coast is great for:

  • Long sandy beaches
  • Party towns
  • The impressive Palma de Mallorca
  • A few beautiful and wild calas

The East Coast is great for:

  • Many many smaller coves with turquoise waters
  • Underground caves
  • Fishing villages

The North Coast is great for:

  • Long Sandy beaches
  • Great boat trips
  • A little of bit of everything - mountains, beaches, history, caves...

Learn more about each coast in my article about the best side of Mallorca.

Which side of Mallorca is best

Which side of Mallorca is best? West, North, South or East Coast?

How long to stay in Mallorca

It depends on what type of vacation you are looking for.

  • If you want to be able to experience a little of everything (beaches, calas, cliffs, mountains, caves, fincas...) then 10 days to 2 weeks would be great
  • If you want to be able to explore most of the island, then 3 to 4 weeks weeks are required

All my favorite locations are included (with GPS coordinates, maps and tips) in my travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your Mallorca road trip:

Plan your dream road trip around Mallorca!

Travel Guide Mallorca ebook cover S2
  • 8 easy-to-plan maps
  • 140+ pre-selected scenic locations
  • Planning tips to make the most of your time
  • 270+ large photos to decide where to go
  • GPS coordinates direct to the carparks

LEARN MORE

Need to rent a car in Mallorca?
My tips:

  • Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com - one of the best rated comparison sites!
  • Choose your car and company (prefer a smaller car for the narrow roads)
  • Consider their full coverage option (I recommend it because of the narrow roads)
  • Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See my 36 tips about renting a car in Mallorca


Best places to stay in Mallorca - accommodation tips

You could also choose where to stay in Mallorca based on your hotel preferences.
Therefore, I am listing some of the best hotels and resorts on the entire island. 

About the selection:
I have created this guide totally independently. None of the hotels has paid to be included. The suggestions are my own selection, based on my experience and my research. But to be transparent, I am informing you that, of course, I have not stayed at all the hotels listed.

What to check when choosing your accommodation in Mallorca - tips

  • Distance to the beach if you want to go for a short swim whenever 
  • Check out comments to see how noisy the area is - you can easily have a loud bar nearby
  • Check out comments for ease of parking, if there is no dedicated carpark. Especially if you are staying near a beach, parking can become a nightmare, with people visiting for the day.
Accommodation feet on the beach

Accommodation feet on the beach

Best Luxury hotels in Mallorca

  • Hotel Gloria de Sant Jaume - in the old town of Palma de Mallorca with charm and stunning pool - check out photos and availability
  • Finca Serena - a small luxury hotel for a peaceful holiday inland - check out photos and availability
  • Pleta de Mar for a peaceful experience in Canyamel, adults only - check out photos and availability
  • Son Brull Hotel and Spa for a mountain retreat in Pollença - check out photos and availability
  • Hotel El Coto in Colonia Sant Jordi close to the beach - check out photos and availability
Crystal clear water in Mallorca

The best resorts in Mallorca

If you are looking for a place to stay that can offer you all you could need during your stay, check out some for the best resorts to be found on the island:

  • Can Sull with stunning gardens and beautiful interior design (inland) - check out photos and availability
  • Hotel Bon Sol Resort & Spa in Illetas, bay of Palma, palm trees and secluded beach - check out photos and availability
  • The St. Regis Mardavall Resort in Portals Nous between mountains and sea - check out photos and availability
  • The Palace Bonanza Paya Resort in Illetas (bay of Palma) with a pool surrounded by the sea - check out photos and availability
  • Pula Suites Boutique Resort near a golf course - check out photos and availability
  • Iberostar Playa de Muro - where white and blue contrast beautifully, and right by the beach - check out photos and availability
Fornalutx

Fornalutx

Boutique Hotels

  • Boutique Hotel Posada Terra Santa has been set in the 16th century Manor in Palma  - see photos and availability - and book!
  • Hotel Can Mostatxins in Alcudia in restored buildings from the 15th and 19th centuries - check out photos and availability
  • Finca Cas Sant in Soller, surrounded by mountains - check out photos and availability
  • Casa Ceiba Maria in Cala d'Or, close to beaches and coves - check out photos and availability
  • Hotel Apartment Sa Tanqueta De Fornalutx for mountain village life - check out photos and availability

Hostels

  • The Boc Palma Hostel in Palma de Mallorca - check out photos and availability
  • Palma Port Hostel - check out photos and availability
  • Sa Fita Backpackers in Esporles in the mountains - check out photos and availability
  • Hostel Floridita in Magaluf to party - check out photos and availability
Museum Finca in Mallorca

Museum Finca in Mallorca

Best Fincas in Mallorca

Fincas are country houses, often offering agrotourism.
They can be found inland on farming lands.

  • Finca Can Carro in Campos surrounded by olive trees - check out photos and availability
  • Sa Estada in Sineu right in the middle of the island - check out photos and availability
  • Finca Son Brondo in the mountains of Valldemossa - check out photos and availability
  • Finca Son Pieras in Llucmajor - check out photos and availability

Sustainable accommodations in Mallorca (ecofriendly)

You can't find totally "green" accommodations, but some are making a significant effort to reduce their impact on Nature.
Below are suggestions:

  • Mar Calma Hotel in Port de Pollenca - check out photos and availability
  • Ecocirer Hotel with vegan and vegetarian food and eco-design, in Soller - check out photos and availability
  • Monnaber nou Finca Hotel with solar panels, in Campanet - check out photos and availability
Sunrise in Alcudia Bay

Sunrise in Alcudia Bay


Area 1 - Alcudia Bay

About Alcudia Bay

Alcudia Bay is a large area with a long sandy beach all along.
It is cut into 3 main "towns":

  • Port d'Alcudia (West side) - more town than resort, with the beautiful end of the lagoon and the port
  • Platja de Muro (middle) - many accommodations feet on the beach
  • Can Picafort (East) - wide choice of accommodations and restaurants

The advantages are a wide range of accommodations, easy access to the beach, easy access to main roads to explore the island and close to the most famous places such as Formentor and Sa Calobra.

Alcudia beach with pier

Why stay in Alcudia Bay - Analysis

  • LOCATION -
    North Coast
    Easy access to the main roads
    45min to 55min drive from the airport
  • BEACHES - 
    Long sandy beach all the way (but narrow)
  • SHOPPING - 
    Many shops for water activities, cycling, food and souvenirs.
  • NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES - 
    Formentor peninsula
    Alcudia Historical town
    Palma de Mallorca is only at 45min
    Sa Calobra
    Campanet Caves
    Hidropark
    Water activities
    Boat tours to Formentor and other
    And so much more, it is a practical location to explore the island.
    See my list of things to do in Alcudia.
  • Popular tours - 
    North Coast Catamaran Cruise - check out program and availability
    Sunrise boat tour and dolphin watching - check out program and availability
Port d'Alcudia Lagoon

Where to stay in the Alcudia Bay - Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions

  • RESORT - Iberostar Playa de Muro - where white and blue contrast beautifully, and right by the beach - check out photos and availability
  • HOTEL - Astoria Playa Adults only - check out photos and availability
  • HOLIDAY HOME - Chalet Falco with private pool - check out photos and availability
  • APARTMENT - The Albers Apartment in Playa de Muro - check out pictures and availability
  • or see best rated accommodations
  • Just be aware that accommodations closest to the lagoon will have even more mosquitoes

Area 2 - Colonia Sant Jordi

About Colonia Sant Jordi

Colonia is a coastal resort town with a great atmosphere.
It offers a lot with promenades, series of beaches, great restaurant, easy access to beautiful coves...
The area has been settled since the Bronze age. Salt and fishing made it a prosperous village.
Despite a few modern buildings, a lot of the town has been able to keep its charm with stone houses.
It is also the gateway to Cabrera island.
Some nightlife, but rather quiet.

Colonia sant Jordi beach

Why stay in Colonia Sant Jordi - Analysis

  • LOCATION -
    Southwest tip of Mallorca 
    Airport to Colonia Sant Jordi = 40min drive
  • BEACHES - 
    Series of beaches with sand and gentle slope
  • SHOPPING - 
    Souvenirs and food shopping
    Local market on Wednesdays
  • NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES - 
    Easy access to Palma de Mallorca and the Palma Aquarium
    Es Trenc Beach
    Mondrago Nationak Park and the many beautiful coves in the South-East area (Cala Pi, Calo del Moro...)
    Cabrera island, a nature reserve
Colonia sant Jordi promenade

Where to stay in Colonia Sant Jordi - Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions

  • LUXURY - Hotel El Coto in Colonia Sant Jordi close to the beach - check out photos and availability
  • RENTAL - Blau Apartamento en Cala Galiota - check out photos and availability
  • APARTMENTS - Edificio Puerto, right by the sea - check out pictures and availability
  • APARTMENTS - Posidonia, close to Marques beach - check out pictures and availability
  • or see best rated accommodations in Colonia Sant Jordi
  • You can find many rentals in Colonia Sant Jordi

Area 3 - Cala d'Or

About Cala d'Or

Cala d'Or, the "Golden Bay", is a very popular area on the South-East Coast.
It is the gateway to many of the most beautiful coves (calas) in Mallorca.
The town is characterized by the many small coves (rather than a long beach and bay). Therefore, there are many scenic places to enjoy.
It is a resort town with all you could need for a holiday - beaches, shopping, nature reserves, nightlife...
The most famous calas in Cala d'Or is Cala Esmeralda.

Cala Esmeralda

Cala Esmeralda

Why stay in Cala d'Or - Analysis

  • LOCATION -
    South of East Coast
    Palma Airport to Cala d'Or = 50min
  • BEACHES - 
    The area is a series of coves, therefore the beaches are very scenic, but small. They can be fast full, especially in Summer.
  • SHOPPING - 
    Cala d'Or has everything with shopping streets, lots of restaurants and a variety of styles
  • NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES - 
    Mondrago Natural Park
    Many of the most beautiful calas in Mallorca (Sa Nau, Llombards, Calo del Moro...)
    Rock formations such as Mirador das Pontas
    Fishing villages, forts and towers
    The Sant Salvador de Felanitx sanctuary with open views of the coast
Cala d'or shopping

Where to stay in Cala d'Or - Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions

  • BOUTIQUE HOTEL - Casa Ceiba Maria in Cala d'Or, close to beaches and coves - check out photos and availability
  • LARGE VILLA - Villa Lumi-Oleanda with swimming pool - check out photos and availability
  • ADULTS ONLY HOTEL - Inner Hotel Rupit - check out photos and availability
  • GUESTHOUSE - Hostal Mistral - check out pictures and availability
  • RENTAL APARTMENT - Beach Suite Playa Cala dor - check out pictures and availability
  • or see best rated accommodations in Cala d'Or

Area 4 - Palma de Mallorca 

About Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is the main town on the island.
It is famous for its impressive cathedral.
If you are looking for history, delicious restaurants, vibrant life and architecture then Palma is the right choice for you.

Palma de Mallorca

Why stay in Palma de Mallorca - Analysis

  • LOCATION -
    Middle of the South Coast
    Palma Airport to Palma de Mallorca = 20min
    If you are staying in the old town, don't forget that to get anywhere you first have to exit the busy town.
  • BEACHES - 
    No beaches right in the center of town - beaches East (smaller coves) and West (long and sandy)
  • FACILITIES & SHOPS - 
    All you could need
  • NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES - 
    The entire old town of Palma de Mallorca with the cathedral, the walls, the Royal palace, the Arab baths...
    The many museums in the area about art, religion, history, maritime...
    The fantastic Bellver Castle with its rare circular shape and amazing views of the city and mountains (as seen in picture below)
    Large Aquarium - get entry ticket
    Easy access to Port de Soller and the mountain villages of the Tramuntana region
  • Popular tours - 
    Skip-the-line ticket to the Cathedral - check out program and availability
    Hop-on hop-off bus around town - check out program and availability
    Old town tour by night and Tapas - check out program and availability
    Boat tour in the Palma Bay - check out program and availability
    Snorkeling in nature reserve - check out program and availability
View over Palma de Mallorca

Where to stay in Palma de Mallorca - Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions

  • LUXURY - Hotel Can Cera is located inside a 17th century palace. And they have done a great job of preserving the charm and character of the building. Such a unique place to stay - see photos and availability - and book!
  • BOUTIQUE HOTEL - Boutique Hotel Posada Terra Santa has been set in the 16th century Manor. I love the arches in the restaurant area, the rooftop terrace and the indoor spa  - see photos and availability - and book!
  • RENTAL HOUSE - Catany Casa Familiar in the old town - check out photos and availability
  • RENTAL APARTMENT - Spot Apartment with beams and Mallorcan style - check out pictures and availability
  • HOSTEL - The Boc Palma Hostel in Palma de Mallorca - check out photos and availability
  • or see best rated accommodations in Palma de Mallorca

Area 5 - Port de Soller

About Port de Soller (a.k.a. Puerto de Soller)

As it has remained isolated for a long time, Port de Soller does not have huge buildings on the waterfront.
The town still has a lot of charm.
Plus, it has a large protected bay where the waters are calm and is surrounded by mountains.
The only drawbacks, it that is so picturesque (especially with the old tram) that it is full of day trip visitors.

Port de Soller beach

Why stay in Port de Soller - Analysis

  • LOCATION -
    Middle of the West Coast
    Palma Airport to Port de Soller = 40min
    Port de Soller is now very easy to access, thanks to tunnels through the mountains
  • BEACHES - 
    2 sandy beach area in the bay: Platja de Soller and Platja de Repic.
  • FACILITIES & SHOPS -
    Many ships and restaurants in town
    Full resort town
  • NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES - 
    The Far de Cap Gros lighthouse with views over the bay
    The Tramuntana mountains with charming villages, reservoirs, monasteries and unique views
Port de Soller marina

Where to stay in Port de Soller - Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions

  • LUXURY - Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa - check out photos and availability
  • HOTEL - Hotel Esplendidto on the beach front - Check out photos and availability
  • VILLA - Can Tamany with stunning views - Ccheck out photos and availability
  • RENTAL APARTMENT - Hartmut Friedrich Apartment - check out photos and availability
  • APARTMENTS - Lili Apartments with sea views and terraces - check out pictures and availability
  • or see best rated accommodations in Port de Soller

Area 6 - Cala Millor

About Cala Millor

Cala Millor is a holiday resort.
No charm of ancient houses, but everything you or your family could want:
Lots of seafront accommodations, plenty of fun activities, shopping, restaurants...
It is one of the best place to stay with families as adults and kids of every age will find something to do.

Cala Millor

Why stay in Cala Millor - Analysis

  • LOCATION -
    Northern half of East Coast
    Palma Airport to Cala Millor = 1h drive
  • BEACHES - 
    Long sandy beaches
  • FACILITIES & SHOPS - 
    Complete resort town with all you could need.
  • NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES - 
    Hams Caves and Drach Caves of Porte Cristo
    Safari zoo
    Capdepera area with castles, sanctuaries, coves, archaeological sites...
    Manacor and its museum (Nadal, history)
  • Popular tours - 
    Half-day Buggy Tour - check out program and availability
    Hot air Ballon flight - check out program and availability
    Sea Caving adventure - check out program and availability
Cala Millor beach

Where to stay in Cala Millor - Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions

  • RESORT - Hipotels Bahia Cala Millor on the beachfront - check out photos and availability
  • HOTEL - Villa Miel close to the beach - check out photos and availability
  • HOLIDAY HOUSE - Ca s'Hereu with pool - check out photos and availability
  • RENTAL APARTMENT - Sa Maniga 6E with splendid views and balcony - check out pictures and availability
  • or see best rated accommodations in Cala Millor

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Area 7 - Portocolom

About Portocolom

In the middle of the East coast, Portocolom is a charming little town with a large bay.
It was a traditional fishing village, and it has remained picturesque.
It is a great place to enjoy a stroll, relax, watch the sun sparkle on the sea...

Portocolom beach

Why stay in Portocolom - Analysis

  • LOCATION -
    Middle of East Coast
    Palma Airport to Portocolom = 50min
  • BEACHES - 
    Portocolom beach and Cala Marcal on the village side
    And S'arenal Portocolom on the opposite side of the bay with the lighthouse.
  • FACILITIES & SHOPS - 
    Rather quiet in terms of shopping. Some locals still live in the area.
  • NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES - 
    Close to Porto Cristo and the caves
    Close to many of the most beautiful calas in Mallorca (Sa Nau, Llombards, Mondrago Natural Park, Calo del Moro...)
Portocolom houses

Where to stay in Portocolom - Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions

  • LARGE VILLA - Villa del Mar. Portocolom with beautiful pool - check out photos and availability
  • RENTAL HOUSE - Villa Garrido right on the beach - check out photos and availability
  • RENTAL APARTMENT - Es Varadero with dreamy views and terrace - check out pictures and availability
  • or see best rated accommodations in Portocolom
  • Many rentals in the area

Area 8 - El Arenal - S'Arenal

About El Arenal

El Arenal is the ideal place for those looking for long sandy beach mixed with active nightlife.
Its 6km long beach ends with a large choice of accommodations and a large amount of bars and clubs.
Also written S'Arenal or simply Arenal.

S'Arenal beach

Why stay in El Arenal - Analysis

  • LOCATION -
    Suth Coast, East of Palma de Mallorca
    Palma Airport to S'Arenal = 10min drive
  • BEACHES - 
    Choose this place if you are looking to spend the day at the beach with space and party every evening.
  • FACILITIES & SHOPS - 
    Mostly bars and souvenirs
  • NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES - 
    Close to Palma de Mallorca
    Close to the Palma aquarium

Where to stay in El Arenal Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions

  • LUXURY - Iberostar Selection Llaut Palma - check out pictures and availability
  • RESORT - Hipotels Gran Playa de Palma - check out pictures and availability
  • RENTAL HOUSE - Can Joan with large pool - check out photos and availability
  • APARTMENTS - Pure Salt Residences with terraces - check out pictures and availability
  • or see best rated accommodations in El Arenal

Plan your trip to Mallorca:

tips key
  • My itineraries : 3 days - weekend, 4 days, 5 days, 1 week, 10 days
  • 36 tips to rent a car in Mallorca
  • Guide to driving in Mallorca
  • Where to stay in Mallorca
  • Where to stay in Palma de Mallorca
  • Best things to do in Mallorca

Area 9 - Alcudia historical town

About Alcudia

If spending time at the beach is not a priority, consider the stunning historical town of Alcudia.
Its location is great to explore most of the island.
And the town itself still has its medieval walls and is home to cultural gems from various historical periods.
Staying in Alcudia will make you travel back in time!

Alcudia gate

Why stay in Alcudia - Analysis

  • LOCATION -
    North Coast of Mallorca
    Palma Airport to Cala d'Or = 45min
  • BEACHES - 
    No beach in town, but Port d'Alcudia is very close with a long sandy beach, and smaller beach are also accessible just 5min north of town
  • FACILITIES & SHOPS - 
    Lots or artisanal and souvenir shops
  • NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES - 
    Port d'Alcudia
    The area of Formentor is very close.
    The Tramuntana mountains and Sa Calobra are not far away.
    If you love history, also visit the town of Pollenca and the archeological sites of Casa Son Real.
Medieval wall of Alcudia

Where to stay in Alcudia - Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions

  • BOUTIQUE HOTEL - Forum Boutique Hotel & Spa - Adults only - check out photos and availability
  • BOUTIQUE HOTEL - Hotel Can Mostatxins in Alcudia in restored buildings from the 15th and 19th centuries - check out photos and availability
  • HOLIDAY HOME - YupiHome Ca Na Serrieta - check out photos and availability
  • RENTAL HOUSE - Casa Sa Pedra in the old town, with stones and beams - check out photos and availability
  • or see best rated accommodations in Alcudia

Need to rent a car in Mallorca?
My tips:

  • Compare car rental prices on Discovercars.com - one of the best customer-rated comparison sites!
  • Prefer a smaller car for the narrow roads
  • Choose the company you prefer
  • Consider their full coverage option - I always take it for peace of mind! 
  • Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

Area 10 - Port de Pollença  

About Port de Pollença a.k.a. Puerto Pollensa

Port de Pollensa is a wonderful area for those looking for a scenic, beachy destination.
It is the gate town to the Formentor peninsula.
The town center has higher building but the rest of the bay has mostly low-level buildings and little nightlife.
It offers a quiet beach experience with stunning views.

Port de Pollenca beach

Why stay in Port de Pollença - Analysis

  • LOCATION -
    North-West tip of Mallorca
    Palma Airport to Port de Pollenca = 50min
  • BEACHES -
    Long Sandy beach
  • FACILITIES & SHOPS - 
    Few shops in the town North of the beach. Otherwise, mostly rental accommodations.
  • NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES - 
    Very easy access to the Formentor peninsula and its cliffs
    Easy access to the Tramuntana mountains
    Close to the roman town of Alcudia
    Boat tours
  • Popular tours - 
    Boat tours around Formentor - check out program and availability
Port de Pollenca Promenade

Where to stay in Port de Pollenca - Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions

  • HOTEL - La Goleta Hotel de Mar, Adults only, on the beachfront - check out photos and availability
  • BOUTIQUE HOTEL - Hoposa Bahia with a Mediterranean style - check out photos and availability
  • HOLIDAY HOME - Cabot Villa Sa Sini with 4 bedrooms - check out photos and availability
  • RENTAL APARTMENT - Sea Two, close to the beach - check out pictures and availability
  • or see best rated accommodations in Port de Pollença

5 extras - best areas to stay in Mallorca

Area 11 - Cala Sant Vicenc

  • LOCATION -
    North-East tip of Mallorca (Formentor peninsula)
    Palma Airport to Cala Sant Vicen = 50min
  • WHY STAY THERE - 
    Beautiful coves with impressive cliffs
    Away from the main crowd but easy access to the most scenic spots in Mallorca
  • BEACHES - 
    Small sandy coves
  • ACCOMMODATIONS -
    Check out the best rated accommodations in Cala Sant Vicenc
Cala Sant Vicenc

Cala Sant Vicenc

Area 12 - Valldemossa

  • LOCATION -
    West Coast, not far from Port de Soller
    Palma Airport to Valldemossa = 30min
  • WHY STAY THERE - 
    To be surrounded by the beautiful mountains of the Tramuntana.
    The charm of a small village.
  • BEACHES - 
    In Port de Valldemossa (20min drive, narrow and sinuous road)
    Can be windy
  • ACCOMMODATIONS -
    Check out the best rated accommodations in Valldemossa
Valldemossa

Valldemossa

Area 13 - Magaluf

  • LOCATION -
    West of Palma de Mallorca
    Palma Airport to Magaluf = 30min
  • WHY STAY THERE - 
    If you are looking for pubs and an active nightlife.
  • BEACHES - 
    2 sandy beaches around a headland - medium size
  • ACCOMMODATIONS -
    Check out the best rated accommodations in Magaluf

Area 14 - Inland Agrotourism - rural accommodations in Mallorca

  • LOCATION -
    Everywhere in the countryside
  • WHY STAY THERE - 
    If you rare looking for charm and peace, avoid the resort town and choose to stay in rural accommodation.
    Many fincas have been transformed into accommodations with views over the farmlands.
    They are often identified with the logo Agrotourism.
  • BEACHES - 
    They are inland, so no beach.
    But many have pools and a beach is never far away in Mallorca...
  • ACCOMMODATIONS -
    Check out the best rated fincas in Mallorca
Mallorca Agrotourism

Area 15 - Canyamel

  • LOCATION -
    Northeast tip of Mallorca, not far from Capdepera
    Palma Airport to Canyamel = 1h drive
  • WHY STAY THERE - 
    If you are looking for a peaceful environement, with beautiful natures and a variety of things to do (historical buildings, beaches, caves, archaeological sites...) - this area is great. But you will need to car to explore! (compare prices)
  • BEACHES - 
    Beautiful beach with nice scenery.
  • ACCOMMODATIONS -
    Check out the best rated accommodations in Canyamel
Canyamel

Places to avoid in Mallorca

If you are looking for a quiet holiday, avoid:

  • Magaluf
  • Palma Nova
  • S'Arenal

As they are famous for their pubs and nightlife. 

If you are looking to explore the entire island, avoid:

  • the mountain villages
  • the area West of Andratx (North West tip of Mallorca)
  • The Capdepera area

staying there would mean a lot of driving to reach many places around the island


Want to see more of Mallorca?

  • 40 most beautiful landscapes in Mallorca (with pictures) - read article
  • 7 Best Mallorca caves - read article
  • 10 best calas in Mallorca (coves) - read article
  • 12 Mallorca hidden gems, off the beaten path - read article
  • 21 most beautiful views in Mallorca - read article

Planning a trip to Mallorca?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

Plan your dream road trip around Mallorca!

Travel Guide Mallorca ebook cover S2
  • 8 easy-to-plan maps
  • 140+ pre-selected scenic locations
  • Planning tips to make the most of your time
  • 270+ large photos to decide where to go
  • GPS coordinates direct to the carparks

LEARN MORE

And keep track of your own trip!

Mallorca travel Journal

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