Where to Stay in Palma
Spain
|Pop. 438K
|4 neighbourhoods covered
|Updated March 2026
Photo: Atharva Tulsi / Unsplash
Quick Answer: Best Area to Stay
For most visitors, Old Town (Casco Antiguo) is the best neighbourhood to stay in Palma. Historic labyrinth of narrow streets, charming plazas, and centuries-old architecture. Ideal for first-timers, couples, culture. Budget travellers can get by on EUR 70/day.
Areas to Avoid in Palma
Safety rated "safe". See which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Best Neighbourhoods at a Glance
| Neighbourhood | Vibe | Budget | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Town (Casco Antiguo) | Historic labyrinth of narrow streets, charming plazas, and centuries-old architecture. | Luxury | first-timers, couples | Generally very safe during the day, but ... |
| Santa Catalina | Trendy and bohemian, known for its vibrant market, diverse restaurants, and lively bars. | Mid-range | foodies, nightlife | Very safe during the day and evening; ni... |
| El Molinar / Portixol | Chic waterfront area with a picturesque harbor, trendy restaurants, and a relaxed, upscale feel. | Luxury | couples, luxury | Extremely safe day and night, with well-... |
| Plaça d'Espanya / Avinguda Jaume III | The bustling commercial and transport hub, offering wide avenues, shopping, and easy access to the rest of the city. | Budget | first-timers, budget | Generally safe, but busy areas can attra... |
Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
LuxuryHistoric labyrinth of narrow streets, charming plazas, and centuries-old architecture.
Generally very safe during the day, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas...
Santa Catalina
Mid-rangeTrendy and bohemian, known for its vibrant market, diverse restaurants, and lively bars.
Very safe during the day and evening; nightlife areas are generally safe but alw...
El Molinar / Portixol
LuxuryChic waterfront area with a picturesque harbor, trendy restaurants, and a relaxed, upscale feel.
Extremely safe day and night, with well-lit promenades and a generally affluent ...
Plaça d'Espanya / Avinguda Jaume III
BudgetThe bustling commercial and transport hub, offering wide avenues, shopping, and easy access to the rest of the city.
Generally safe, but busy areas can attract pickpockets; exercise caution around ...
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Palma
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
Santa Catalina
Trendy and bohemian, known for its vibrant market, diverse restaurants, and lively bars.
Our top picks in Santa Catalina
Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
Historic labyrinth of narrow streets, charming plazas, and centuries-old architecture.
Our top picks in Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
El Molinar / Portixol
Chic waterfront area with a picturesque harbor, trendy restaurants, and a relaxed, upscale feel.
Our top picks in El Molinar / Portixol
Stylish waterfront hotel known for its excellent restaurant and harbor views.
Book NowLuxury resort experience with direct beach access and spa facilities (technically just outside Molinar but often associated).
Book NowWell-appointed apartments offering more space and a kitchen, near the harbor.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Things to Do in Palma
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
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Palma at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Palma
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Instead of just visiting the main Palma Cathedral, explore its exterior at different times of day and consider visiting the Fundació Miró Mallorca for a different artistic perspective.
Getting Around
Purchase a rechargeable 'tarjeta intermodal' card for discounted fares on buses and trains if you plan on using public transport frequently.
Watch Out For
Pickpocketing in crowded markets and tourist attractions.
Solo Female Travel
Palma is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Stick to well-lit, populated areas at night, especially in the Old Town's smaller alleys, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded tourist spots.
Hidden Gems in Palma
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Mercat de l'Olivar
FREEThis bustling indoor market is a feast for the senses, offering a vibrant array of fresh local produce, seafood, meats, and artisanal products. It's a fantastic place to grab a casual bite or soak in the authentic local atmosphere away from the main tourist crowds.
Sa Llotja
FREEWander through the narrow, atmospheric streets of the old fish market district, known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and lively evening scene. It's a charming area perfect for an evening stroll and discovering hidden tapas bars.
Es Baluard Museu d'Art Contemporani
Perched atop the ancient city walls, this contemporary art museum offers impressive exhibitions alongside breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the bay. You can often enjoy the views and exterior without paying admission.
Parc de la Mar
FREEThis expansive seaside park stretches along the waterfront, featuring a large saltwater lake, playgrounds, and performance spaces. It's a favorite spot for locals to relax, exercise, and enjoy outdoor concerts during the summer.
Bar Bosch
A historic Palma institution, Bar Bosch is famous for its delicious and generously portioned 'bocadillos' (sandwiches) made with fresh ingredients. It’s a no frills, authentic experience where locals gather for a hearty and affordable meal.
Castell de Sant Carles
FREEThis historic military fortress offers unparalleled, sweeping views of Palma Bay, the cathedral, and the city skyline. It's a less crowded alternative to other viewpoints, providing a sense of history and spectacular photo opportunities.
Things to Do in Palma
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Top-rated Palma tours and activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided walking tours, food experiences, and day trips. Reserve now, pay later; free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
What It Costs in Palma
Daily budget per person in EUR
💡62% cheaper than New York
EUR 70/day
EUR 150/day
EUR 350/day
Where to Stay in Palma
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Palma Cathedral5 min
- Royal Palace of La Almudaina7 min
- Mercat de l'Olivar10 min
Pros
- +Incredibly picturesque and atmospheric
- +Abundant historical sites and cultural attractions
- +Excellent dining and shopping options
Cons
- -Can be very crowded, especially in peak season
- -Some streets can be noisy at night
Top stays in Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
Hotel Cort
$$$Charming boutique hotel with a prime location overlooking a beautiful square.
Nakar Hotel
$$$Modern hotel with a rooftop pool offering stunning city views.
Canavall
$$$Elegant boutique hotel set in a beautifully restored historic building.
Palacio AS
$$$Luxurious suites within a former 17th-century palace.
Best for
Walk to
- Santa Catalina Market3 min
- Paseo Marítimo15 min
- Old Town20 min
Pros
- +Excellent culinary scene with global influences
- +Lively evening atmosphere
- +Good mix of local and expat residents
Cons
- -Can be noisy on weekend nights
- -Accommodation can be pricier due to popularity
Best for
Walk to
- Portixol Harbor2 min
- Playa Ca'n Pere Antoni10 min
- Palma Aquarium20 min
Pros
- +Beautiful seaside promenade
- +Excellent seafood restaurants
- +Close proximity to a city beach
Cons
- -Can be expensive
- -Limited public transport within the immediate area
Top stays in El Molinar / Portixol
Portixol Hotel & Restaurant
$$$Stylish waterfront hotel known for its excellent restaurant and harbor views.
Hotel Pleta de Mar, Gran Lujo
$$$$Luxury resort experience with direct beach access and spa facilities (technically just outside Molinar but often associated).
Apartamentos Portofino
$$Well-appointed apartments offering more space and a kitchen, near the harbor.
Best for
Walk to
- Plaça d'Espanya1 min
- Parc de les Estacions3 min
- Old Town10 min
Pros
- +Central transport hub with excellent connectivity
- +Wide range of shopping and dining options
- +More affordable accommodation choices available
Cons
- -Less charming and atmospheric than the Old Town
- -Can be busy and noisy due to traffic and crowds
Top stays in Plaça d'Espanya / Avinguda Jaume III
Hotel Saratoga
$$$Classic hotel with a rooftop pool and bar offering panoramic city views.
AC Hotel Ciutat de Palma
$$Modern hotel with good amenities and a convenient location near the commercial center.
Hostal Pons
$Budget-friendly hostel offering clean dorms and private rooms in a central location.
Ayre Hotel Palma
$$Contemporary hotel with a rooftop pool and easy access to transport links.
Areas to be cautious
- Industrial outskirts or areas far from the center without specific tourist interest.: These areas lack tourist amenities, offer little of interest, and may have poorer lighting or fewer people around at night, making them less appealing and potentially less safe for unfamiliar visitors.
Insider tip: Instead of just visiting the main Palma Cathedral, explore its exterior at different times of day and consider visiting the Fundació Miró Mallorca for a different artistic perspective.
Where to Stay in Palma
Compare hotel deals across the best neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Stay in Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
Historic labyrinth of narrow streets, charming plazas, and centuries-old architecture.
Stay in Santa Catalina
Trendy and bohemian, known for its vibrant market, diverse restaurants, and lively bars.
Stay in El Molinar / Portixol
Chic waterfront area with a picturesque harbor, trendy restaurants, and a relaxed, upscale feel.
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Places to Stay in Palma
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List Your PropertySafety in Palma
SafeSolo Female Travel
Palma is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Stick to well-lit, populated areas at night, especially in the Old Town's smaller alleys, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded tourist spots.
At Night
Main tourist areas like the Old Town (near the cathedral and main squares) and the Paseo Marítimo are well-lit and busy; quieter side streets in the Old Town can feel less secure after dark.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Pickpocketing in crowded markets and tourist attractions.
- 2Overcharging by unlicensed taxis.
- 3Distraction theft (e.g., spilling something on you to distract you while an accomplice steals your bag).
Compare hotel deals in Palma
See today's prices across hundreds of hotels. Free cancellation on most bookings, so you can lock in a great rate risk-free.
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Travel Insurance for Palma
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Stay Connected in Spain
Skip expensive roaming. Get an eSIM for Spain and have data the moment you land.
Get an eSIMGetting Around Palma
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Bus A1 (€5, approx. 30 mins to Plaça d'Espanya) or Taxi/Rideshare (approx. €25-30, approx. 20 mins).
🎫
Day Pass
€7 for a 24-hour tourist pass (Palma Tour).
Single: €1.50 - €2.50 depending on the zone.
🚶
Walkability
Very WalkableUber, Bolt, Cabify
📶
WiFi
Good30-60 Mbps
Public Transport
EMT Palma buses (extensive network across the city and surrounding areas).
Ride-share
Cabify, Bolt (similar to Uber); typically €8-15 for short city rides.
Transport Tip
Purchase a rechargeable 'tarjeta intermodal' card for discounted fares on buses and trains if you plan on using public transport frequently.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Many cafes, public squares (e.g., Plaça Major), and some public transport hubs offer free Wi-Fi.
Coworking
There are several coworking spaces like WeWork Palma or Impact Hub Palma, typically costing around €15-25 per day.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Apr, Oct, Nov
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Hotels & Accommodation in Palma
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Who Is Palma Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
Provides an immersive experience with immediate access to major historical landmarks and the city's charming core.
Foodies
Offers a vibrant culinary scene with diverse restaurants and the famous local market.
Couples
Offers a romantic waterfront setting with upscale dining and a relaxed, chic atmosphere.
Budget Backpackers
Provides access to more affordable hostels and hotels, with excellent transport links and budget-friendly dining options.
Culture Enthusiasts
Is the historical heart of Palma, packed with museums, palaces, churches, and ancient architecture.
About Palma
Palma or La Palma means palm in a number of languages and may also refer to:.
Frequently Asked Questions About Palma
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