Planning your perfect Mallorca getaway requires a bit of savvy, and choosing the right base can truly elevate your experience. This Balearic Island is larger than many first-time visitors anticipate, so strategic planning is key to minimizing travel time and maximizing convenience.
Having explored Mallorca extensively, from an initial week-long trip to a more immersive six-week stay with my family, I’ve delved deep into the island’s diverse towns and accommodations. This research, coupled with personal experience in numerous locations, informs my recommendations for the best places to stay in Mallorca.
Aerial view of coastal town in Mallorca
When planning your Mallorca adventure, the sheer variety of attractions can be overwhelming. My primary advice for trips under a week is to accept that you can’t see everything. However, you can certainly experience the highlights of both the western and eastern coasts within a 7-day timeframe.
On my initial visit, we intentionally bypassed Palma de Mallorca, finding it similar to our home base of Barcelona. Instead, we focused on the captivating coastal areas, charming hilltop villages, and stunning beaches Mallorca is renowned for. This decision proved rewarding, leading us to return for an extended stay of over a month, drawn by the unique experiences beyond Palma.
Therefore, I offer a range of insights and planning strategies to help you decide Where To Stay In Mallorca. I’ll highlight towns that, in my opinion, serve as excellent starting points for exploration, considering factors like accessibility, ease of travel, and local amenities for those days when venturing out feels optional.
Continue reading to discover the best towns to stay in Mallorca, along with specific hotel recommendations in each area.
Top Recommendations for Your Stay in Mallorca: Quick Picks
For detailed insights on these recommended towns, explore my travel guides to Deiá and Santanyí. If you’re planning a comprehensive Mallorca trip, don’t miss my suggested 7 to 10-day Mallorca itinerary, the ultimate island travel guide, recommendations for the best luxury hotels and most beautiful beaches, and dedicated guides to Palma, Valldemossa, Fornalutx, and Cala Figuera!
Travel Tip: The ideal way to navigate Mallorca is by renting a car. For European car rentals, I recommend Discover Cars. Opt for full coverage insurance and reputable companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt for peace of mind. Driving in Mallorca is generally straightforward. Book your car with Discover Cars here.
Where to Stay in Mallorca: Prime Locations to Base Your Trip
The Best Towns to Stay in Mallorca for a 4-7 Day Trip
For those seeking to experience the best of Mallorca within a 4 to 7-day visit, I consistently recommend two strategic locations.
These locations are perfectly suited for first-time visitors aiming to maximize their experience, dividing their time equally between the two. Strategically positioned, they provide convenient access to the major attractions on both sides of the island, while offering distinct landscape and scenery contrasts.
For geographical context, refer to this map of Mallorca:
Map of Mallorca highlighting key towns
Premier Northwest Mallorca Base: Deiá or Valldemossa
Picturesque village of Deiá, Mallorca
Mallorca’s northwestern region is famed for its scenic hilltop mountain villages, stretching from Valldemossa to Sóller. Among the array of villages, Deiá and Valldemossa stand out as my top recommendations for a first-time visit.
While geographically close, Deiá edges out Valldemossa as my preferred choice. Deiá boasts a closer proximity to the coast and a more refined ambiance in its dining, lodging, and boutique offerings. Valldemossa, equally charming, exudes a more traditional, old-world feel and is situated slightly further south.
Charming street in Deia, Mallorca
Deia
Traditional architecture in Valldemossa, Mallorca
Valldemossa
The primary drawback of Deiá is its higher price point for accommodations. This makes Valldemossa a compelling second option if budget is a concern. Both villages offer excellent dining options, allowing for relaxed evenings with local strolls and dinners.
Staying in either village positions you perfectly to explore the northwestern highlights: the enchanting villages themselves, the larger port town of Sóller, hiking trails in the Tramuntana mountains, and much more.
Recommended Stay Duration: 2-4 Nights
Accommodation Recommendations in Deiá
Accommodation Recommendations in Valldemossa
Prime Southeast Mallorca Base: Ses Salines or Santanyí
Coastal town of Santanyí, Mallorca
Mallorca’s eastern coast is the gateway to the island’s most stunning beaches and calas, renowned for their turquoise waters – the quintessential Mallorca imagery. Choosing a base here is crucial, especially during peak season, as early beach access is highly recommended.
Santanyí, or the neighboring Ses Salines, are my top picks for this region. My family and I resided in Ses Salines during our extended stay, finding it ideal for exploring the eastern coast.
Luxury hotel with pool in Mallorca
Secluded beach cove in Mallorca
While Santanyí can become quite bustling, Ses Salines offers a quieter village atmosphere just a 10-minute drive away. Both, or any location in between, provide excellent access to the region’s attractions.
Recommended Stay Duration: 2-4 Nights
Accommodation Recommendations in Santanyí
Accommodation Recommendations in Ses Salines
Discover More Great Towns in Mallorca for Your Stay
For longer visits or those seeking alternative explorations, Mallorca offers a diverse range of villages to consider. Some are smaller and more secluded, while others are well-established destinations.
Any of these towns can be seamlessly integrated into your Mallorca itinerary, or substituted for previously mentioned locations if a particular area resonates with your travel style.
Pollença
Town of Pollença nestled in a valley
Located in northern Mallorca, Pollença sits in a valley at the foothills of the Tramuntana Mountains. It’s conveniently close to Port de Pollença and Port d’Alcudia. While I found Port de Pollença and Port d’Alcudia less appealing (reminiscent of mass tourism destinations), the valley surrounding Pollença town itself is captivating.
Basing yourself in Pollença town or the surrounding countryside provides access to numerous northern attractions. Cala Sant Vicenç and Platja de Formentor (exceptional beaches) are within a 30-minute drive, along with Cala Bóquer and the broader Formentor Peninsula.
Pollença strikes a balance between popularity and tranquility, less crowded than locations like Sóller.
Recommended Stay Duration: 2-3 Nights
Accommodation Recommendations in Pollença
Sóller
Town of Sóller with mountains in the background
If you prefer a larger town compared to the smaller villages of Deiá and Valldemossa, Sóller is an excellent choice. It’s the largest town on Mallorca’s west coast, comprised of two parts: Port de Sóller and the inland village itself.
Sóller is a developed town with numerous attractions, including a tram connecting the village to the port. For those seeking a larger town base on the west coast, Sóller is the definitive option.
Recommended Stay Duration: 2 Nights
Accommodation Recommendations in Sóller
Fornalutx
Picturesque village of Fornalutx
Just north of Sóller lies the tranquil village of Fornalutx. While popular with hikers, Fornalutx is my top pick for an “off-the-beaten-path” experience.
Despite being a short 15-minute drive north of Sóller, Fornalutx offers a world away from the crowds. It’s a worthwhile consideration as a base or a supplementary stop, providing a quiet village atmosphere with breathtaking views.
Recommended Stay Duration: 2 Nights
Accommodation Recommendations in Fornalutx
Sant Elm
Fishing village of Sant Elm by the coast
Located on Mallorca’s southwest coast, Sant Elm is a favored fishing village among locals. It boasts several beautiful beaches and small ports nearby, offering access to the western part of the island.
Sant Elm tends to be quieter than other port and beach towns in Mallorca, making it a valuable base option, situated not far from the lively Port d’Andratx.
Recommended Stay Duration: 2 Nights
Accommodation Recommendations in Sant Elm
Palma de Mallorca
Cityscape of Palma de Mallorca with cathedral
Street scene in Palma de Mallorca
While I often suggest Palma de Mallorca as a final stop for a night or two, it’s a city worth considering within your itinerary. Palma is vibrant, offering exceptional dining and shopping experiences.
Explore landmarks like the grand Cathedral and various museums. Palma de Mallorca is a worthwhile addition to your trip if time allows.
Recommended Stay Duration: 1-2 Nights
Accommodation Recommendations in Palma de Mallorca
Artà
Coastal scenery near Artà, Mallorca
Artà is arguably Mallorca’s rising star. The trendy Es Racó d’Artà has significantly elevated the town’s profile, leading to a surge in new establishments.
Artà provides access to some of the quieter, best calas and beaches on Mallorca’s northeastern side. The town itself retains a local feel, with charming streets and lively restaurants. I recommend Artà for travelers seeking a slower-paced experience.
Recommended Stay Duration: 2-3 Nights
Accommodation Recommendations in Artà
Save This Post for Later on Pinterest
PS — Planning a Trip Soon? My Booking Checklist
These are my go-to websites for booking travel. Using these links supports Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you. For itinerary planning assistance, download my free travel itinerary template here.
1. Find Flights
Skyscanner is my preferred platform for flight searches. It compares numerous airlines and websites to ensure you find the best routes and deals worldwide.
2. Book Hotels & Guest Houses
Booking.com offers the largest inventory and consistently provides the best rates for hotels and guest houses.
3. Rent a Car
For car rentals, I use Discover Cars, opting for full coverage insurance and trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
4. Tours & Experiences
Viator and Get Your Guide are my top choices for finding tours and experiences. I recommend checking both as their offerings vary by destination.
5. Airport Lounge Access
Priority Pass provides access to over 1,400 VIP lounges and airport experiences globally. Their app is my first stop during layovers, enhancing air travel comfort.
6. Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for international trips, offering protection against unforeseen events like illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.
My recommended providers for comprehensive coverage and competitive rates are:
Xx,Jessica
