Some of our Palma de Mallorca collections:

• 7 of the Best Beach Hotels in Palma de Mallorca
• 10 of the Best Contemporary Hotels in Palma de Mallorca
• The 5 Best Family Hotels in Palma de Mallorca
• The 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Palma de Mallorca
• The 10 Best Value Hotels in Palma de Mallorca
• Our Top 10 Best Places to Stay near Palma de Mallorca

The only real city in the Balearics, and a stunning one to boot, Palma de Mallorca has the cruise ship terminal and representatives from all the big hotel brands. But it also has dignity and character, which might surprise you if you're just expecting glitzy boutiques and tourist hotspots. At the heart of Palma stands its the wonderful old cathedral - reminding the throngs of workers and holiday makers of higher things, and of the fact that this city has existed since the 13th century. And in the narrow streets and alleys of the old town surrounding the cathedral you'll find many of Palma's charming and intimate boutique hotels - which our Gurus recommend as some of the best places to stay in Palma de Mallorca.

Palma de Mallorca has been a popular holiday destination since the 1950s. Early jet-setters flocked here for the wonderful Mediterranean combination of bright blue waters, great beaches and dramatic stretches of limestone coastline, plenty of sun, excellent cuisine and pretty local villages. To this list of Mediterranean pleasures Palma can add: historic sites dating back to the Roman era and several rows of elegant boulevards, lined with graceful mansions, many now converted into galleries, art studios, boutiques and restaurants.

These days the huge ships and ferries crowd to one end of Palma's great bay, in the centre are row upon row of dazzling yachts, and at the other end are the fishing crafts which supply the Mercat d'Olivar and the Mercat Santa Catalina with astonishing displays of fresh seafood.

You could easily spend weeks exploring Palma, and to really do the city justice you should at least book in for a few days.

What not to Miss

• Palma’s historic centre has the spectacular cathedral and the mighty Palau de l’Almundaina - which is still technically a royal residence, plus the Arab baths - which date from the 10th century, the impressive Bull Ring, Palau March the palace turned sculpture museum, the Museum of Spanish Contemporary Art with its Miros, Dalís and Picassos, and the Plaça del Mercat.
• Beyond that is the Pueblo Español architectural museum and the Castle de Bellver, which dates from the 14th century and is one of Spain’s most distinctive looking castles.
• Palma’s beaches are also unmissable,
• as is taking a stroll through the port area where you’ll find the bars and clubs, and Titos, the nightclub made famous by Frank Sinatra and Marlene Dietrich.
• If you’re travelling as a family you’ll also be interested in checking out Marineland and the Aqualand water park

Palma's not short on hotel choices and many of them are very good. The best places to stay in Palma de Mallorca are largely between split between the converted 'palaces', which tend to have rather heavy, traditional furnishings and sombre oils on the walls, and the newer 'design' hotels, many of which are owned by German or Scandinavians who've opted for a bare, minimalist style.

The Best Places to Stay in Palma de Mallorca

For Old Town Romance

• Canavall has 11 individually decorated rooms with artisanal crafts, handmade patterned tiles and exposed beams. Apartments with private kitchens and terraces promise a little more independence. A romantic hideaway in a restored heritage property in the old town. 
• Can Cera, a beautifully restored 12-bedroom townhouse, boasts elegant interiors with antique furnishings and a soothing palette of creams and light pinks and blues. A romantic choice for fans of heritage luxury, complete with an excellent restaurant. 
• Art Hotel Palma, formerly an antique shop, now has 13 spacious rooms with whitewashed interiors, exposed wooden beams, elegant antique furnishings and lots of light. A peaceful pick for couples, with a quiet inner courtyard for lazy breakfasts and an intimate, easygoing feel. 
• Can Alomar is a luxurious, adults only hotel with 16 guest rooms. Originally a private palace, it's now a stylish city pad for well-heeled romantic couples, complete with enormous beds, beautifully tiled bahtrooms and a rooftop terrace boasting a plunge pool and massage area. Very indulgent. 
• San Lorenzo has just nine rooms, and was reputedly one of the first hotel conversions in the old part of Palma. The best rooms have terraces; all are classic and charming, with wooden antiques and crisp white linens. The courtyard garden and pool are ideal for putting your feet up after mornings at the Santa Catalina market.

For a Hip Design Hotel

• Hotel Calatrava has six sleek, minimalist suites set against warm terracotta-coloured walls. Tucked in a 19th-century building in a quiet part of the old town, it's a chic, design-led spot with cosy beds, exposed wooden beams and private terraces. The cavern-like spa has whirlpool baths and a soothing sauna, too. Intimate and stylish. 
• Hotel Cort is a swish boutique bolthole with 14 rooms and suites in a converted 18th-century bank. Cool off in the rooftop plunge pool or unwind in hip rooms with busy bookshelves, leather headboards atop big beds, ikat textiles and velvet sofas. A seriously cool spot.
• Hotel Capuccino, inspired by the flamboyant Parisian designer Jacques Grange, is a bold lesson in the magic of colour. A glamorous boutique spot, it will fascinate fans of patterned textiles and retro cool. The eclectic lobby bars serves unmissable cocktails. 
• Hotel Très fuses two 16th-century buildings in the heart of the old town. Heritage façades hide very modern rooms, with bold art pieces, large low beds and a minimalist feel. Swedish-owned, the property has a Scandinavian feel with a palette of white and light wood. The little rooftop pool overlooks the cathedral. For fans of modern design. 

For Families or Groups

• Sheraton Mallorca Arabella Golf Hotel will be a sure-fire hit with golfers. It's also a wonderful hotel with families, with a well-run kids' club, stacks of onsite activities - including tennis, cycling and of course golf - and a plyaground for little ones. Perfect for a family resort holiday close to Palma. 
• Stay Catalina Apartments offer modern studios as well as two-bedroom apartments in the heart of the historic quarter. With private terraces, whitewashed interiors and rustic furnishings, these are a brilliant base for independent travellers eager to make the most of the self-catering facilities. Perfect for families or groups of friends.  
• Castillo Hotel Son Vida, in the hills above the city, has a classic Spanish feel. Boasting four pools, a kids' club, access to the Sheraton's three golf courses and all manner of activities, it's great for guests of all ages. Very elegant and historic. 

For Foodies

• Hotel Sant Francesc is a 19th-century mansion turned boutique hotel in the heart of the historic quarter. The Quadrat Restaurant specialises in contemporary Mediterranean cuisine and is led by acclaimed Chef Alfonso Lillo. Foodies will also adore the popular sushi bar and rooftop terrace -- perfect for sundowners within sight of the cathedral. 
• Hotel Convent de la Missió was originally a convent. Its modern-day incaranation retains the tranquil feel of these reflective origins, yet promising understated contemporary interiors. Expect regular exhibitions showcasing local artists in the Art Bar, and fabulous fare at the innovative, Michelin-starred Marc Fosh restaurant. Book well in advance for a table at this gastronomic hotspot. 
• Portixol, a harbour-side hotel with a nautical feel and beautiful sea views, is another foodie favourite. The chic ocean-facing restaurant serves delicious fresh seafood dishes, paired with an excellent selection of wines. Deservedly popular and buzzy. 
• Hotel Sant Jaume is a design-led hotel with 36 sophisticated rooms and suites. Those keen to taste top Mallorcan produce will be thrilled with the Mediterranean-inspired menu in the hip bar. Enjoy artisanal cheese and traditionally smoked meats with fresh sourdough, accompanied by Spanish wine and quirky craft cocktails. 

For Modern Luxury

• A traditional stately home, the Posada Terra Santa has been converted into an elegant boutique hotel with 26 rooms and trendy interiors. You’re in the heart of Palma’s Old Town. And there’s an extensive spa and wellness centre.
• In the heart of the Old Town, close to some of Palma’s best nightlife, the Palau Sa Font is a 16th century conversion with 19 rooms and a spectacular roof terrace. The furniture is handmade and the art original and contemporary.
• The Santa Clara Urban Hotel & Spa is a 20 room hotel in a great central spot. The decor is contemporary and elegant and there’s a fantastic rooftop sundeck with great city views.

For Great Value

• Hotel Feliz is a simple, contemporary spot overlooking the harbour. Pick this place for the great location, the good Mediterranean restaurant and the excellent value. Just 10 minutes by bus from the old town, with a swimming pool for relaxing after days of exploring. 
• BO Hotel also also very reasonably priced, with modern interiors, oak floors and polished-ceramin bathrooms. Communal areas include a bright lounge bedecked in local artwork and a refreshing rooftop plunge pool. Very stylish. 

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Palma de Mallorca's Son Sant Joan Airport, and travel into town by car or bus. Alternatively, arrive into Port de Palma by ferry or cruise ship. Mallorca is four hours from Ibizaby boat, and eight hours from mainland Spain. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport or port pick up in advance.
• Mallorca is wonderful to explore by road! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot, sunny summers, with temperatures averaging between 22°C - 28°C from June to August. Winters are mild, but the autumn months tend to be very rainy. If you're keen to avoid the peak season crowds on beach outings, travel in late April or May when you can expect cooler climes and great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Sóller.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Mallorca.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

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