Best areas to stay in Mallorca (by traveller type)
Mallorca offers diverse regions, each catering to different types of travellers. Whether you are searching for “best place to stay in Mallorca with family”, “where to stay in Mallorca for nightlife” or “most romantic areas in Mallorca”, there is a part of the island that matches your needs. With mallorcard you can then add value on top, by discovering local deals on activities, excursions and attractions near your chosen base.
1. Palma – best for culture, nightlife and city breaks
Palma, the island’s vibrant capital, is ideal if you are looking for a city break in Mallorca with culture, shopping and nightlife. Visitors come for the Gothic La Seu Cathedral, the historic old town and harbour views, then stay for the restaurants, tapas bars and late‑night venues along Paseo Marítimo.
Best for: Adults, couples, solo travellers, and city lovers.
Highlights: La Seu Cathedral, Bellver Castle, marina and seafront nightlife.
2. Alcúdia & Port d’Alcúdia – best area in Mallorca for families
Located in the northeast, Alcúdia is often recommended as one of the best family resorts in Mallorca thanks to its long, shallow, child‑friendly beach and wide choice of family hotels. Nearby attractions such as Hidropark Alcúdia, the medieval old town and easy access to S’Albufera Nature Reserve make it perfect for kids who like both beach time and activities.
Best for: Families with young children.
Highlights: Playa de Alcúdia, Hidropark, Alcúdia Old Town, S’Albufera Nature Reserve.
3. Magaluf – best for nightlife and young adults
In the southwest, Magaluf is known as Mallorca’s main nightlife hotspot, with the famous Magaluf Strip offering clubs, bars and late‑night events geared towards younger visitors. Travellers searching for “where to stay in Mallorca for nightlife” or “party holidays in Magaluf” usually end up here, with easy beach access by day and a very lively scene at night.
Best for: Teenagers (older teens) and young adults who want a party atmosphere.
Highlights: Magaluf Strip, themed bars and clubs, nearby water parks and beach clubs.
4. Port de Sóller – best for couples and nature lovers
On the northwest coast, Port de Sóller sits between the Tramuntana Mountains and a sheltered horseshoe bay, making it one of the best areas in Mallorca for couples who want scenery and a relaxed pace. It is a great base for hiking, coastal walks and boat trips, and is frequently recommended for “where to stay in Mallorca for couples” thanks to its mix of sea views, small hotels and laid‑back restaurants.
Best for: Couples, nature lovers, hikers.
Highlights: Historic Sóller Train, Tramuntana hiking, bayfront promenade, boat trips.
5. Pollença & Port de Pollença – active and family‑friendly north
Pollença, in the north, offers a more traditional town feel with narrow streets, a central square and local markets, while nearby Port de Pollença has a long, scenic beach and promenade. This area works well for visitors searching “family friendly resorts in north Mallorca” or “best area in Mallorca for walking and cycling”, because you can combine beach days with hikes, cycling routes and trips to the Formentor Peninsula.
Best for: Active families, culture‑minded travellers and couples.
Highlights: Port de Pollença beach, Roman bridge and Puig de Pollença, access to Formentor.
6. Cala d’Or – calm coves for families and couples
On the southeast coast, Cala d’Or is known for its small sandy coves, marina and compact resort layout, and is often mentioned in guides to “best places to stay in Mallorca for families” and “quiet beach resorts”. It has a relaxed, village‑like feel with low‑rise hotels, kids’ facilities and easy access to beaches and nearby Mondragó Natural Park.
Best for: Families and couples who prefer a calmer beach resort.
Highlights: Cala d’Or Marina, multiple coves, Mondragó Natural Park, waterfront restaurants.
7. Deià – romantic mountain village
Deià, in the Tramuntana Mountains, is one of Mallorca’s most romantic and exclusive villages, popular with artists, writers and couples looking for a quiet escape. It frequently appears in “best place to stay in Mallorca for couples” lists thanks to its stone houses, sea and mountain views and boutique hotels.
Best for: Couples, honeymooners, adults seeking a peaceful, upscale stay.
Highlights: Cala Deià, hiking trails, art and literary heritage.
8. Santa Ponsa – balanced, family‑friendly southwest
Santa Ponsa, also in the southwest, combines a large sandy beach with plenty of family‑friendly facilities and activities. It is a common choice in family guides as it offers safe swimming, parks, nearby golf and adventure attractions, without being as intense as Magaluf.
Best for: Families and active travellers who want a mix of beach and activities.
Highlights: Santa Ponsa beach, golf courses, adventure park, coastal boat trips.
9. Cala Millor – long beach and water sports
On the east coast, Cala Millor is a popular resort with a long, flat, sandy beach and plenty of hotels, often recommended when people search for “best beach resorts in Mallorca for families” or “east coast resorts Majorca”. Its promenade, bike‑friendly routes and access to places like Punta de n’Amer and the Caves of Drach make it a good base for active families.
Best for: Active families and water sports lovers.
Highlights: Cala Millor beach, Punta de n’Amer Nature Reserve, access to caves and bike routes.
Once you’ve chosen your base in Mallorca, use mallorcard to find discounts on nearby excursions, boat trips, family attractions and activities in that area.