The Nomad Files

Where to Stay

Old Town (Casco Antiguo) ⭐ Best for First-Time Visitors

This is the heart of Palma and where I recommend most visitors stay. It’s also where I’ve stayed on both of my trips to Mallorca.

Perfect if you want:

Beautiful historic streets
Walking distance to everything
Boutique hotels
Great restaurants and tapas bars
Easy access to the cathedral and marina

You’ll be surrounded by centuries-old architecture, hidden courtyards, cafés, rooftop bars, and luxury boutiques. Most major attractions are within a 10-minute walk.

Hotel Options

El Llorenç Parc de la Mar – luxury
Palma Riad – boutique
Palma Suites Hotel Residence – Apartment-style accommodations

Hostel

El Josemari Youth Hostel – Located in the heart of Palma’s historic Old Town, El Josemari is a modern, budget-friendly hostel that’s perfect for travelers looking to stay within walking distance of the city’s top attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. With a relaxed social atmosphere, comfortable dorms and private rooms, and great communal spaces, it’s an excellent option for solo travelers, groups, or anyone looking to experience Palma on a budget.

Santa Catalina 🍷 Best for nightlife & food

Santa Catalina has become Palma’s trendiest neighborhood and is known for its lively atmosphere and fantastic dining scene.

Perfect if you want:

Cocktail bars
Brunch cafés
A younger crowd (20s–30s)
Late-night restaurants
A walkable neighborhood with a local feel

It feels more authentic than the Old Town while still being only a 10–15 minute walk from the city center. If nightlife is a priority, this is one of the best areas to stay.

Hostel

Urban Hostel Palma – Located in the heart of Santa Catalina, Urban Hostel Palma is a modern, budget-friendly hostel surrounded by the neighborhood’s vibrant restaurants, cafés, bars, and the famous Santa Catalina Market. Offering both dormitory-style and private rooms, along with a relaxed social atmosphere and shared common spaces, it’s an excellent choice for travelers looking to experience Palma’s trendiest district without breaking the bank.

Hotel 

Hotel Hostal Cuba – Located in the heart of Santa Catalina, Hotel Hostal Cuba is a stylish boutique hotel known for its vibrant atmosphere, rooftop terrace, and panoramic views over Palma’s marina and cathedral. Surrounded by the neighborhood’s trendy restaurants, cafés, and nightlife, it’s the perfect choice for travelers looking to experience one of Palma’s most lively and fashionable districts while staying just a short walk from the Old Town.

La Lonja 🍸 Best for nightlife

Located between the marina and the Old Town, La Lonja is one of Palma’s liveliest neighborhoods after dark.

Best for:
Rooftop bars
Tapas
Live music
Evening atmosphere

It’s lively until late but still elegant, making it a great choice if you enjoy going out without staying somewhere overly touristy.

Hotel

Can Bordoy Grand House & Hotel – Tucked away in Palma’s historic Old Town, Can Bordoy is a luxurious five-star boutique hotel set within a beautifully restored 16th-century palace. With spacious all-suite accommodations, a stunning private garden, rooftop pool, spa, and exceptional dining, it’s the perfect choice for travelers seeking an elegant and peaceful stay just steps from the city’s top attractions.

Transportation

The easiest way to reach Palma is by flying into Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), located about 8 km (5 miles) from the city center.

🚌 Airport Bus (Best Budget Option)

The EMT A1 Airport Bus takes approximately 20–25 minutes to reach the city center and costs around €5. It stops at major locations including Plaça d’Espanya, Passeig Mallorca, and near the Old Town.

🚖 Taxi (Most Convenient)

A taxi takes approximately 10–15 minutes to reach the Old Town or Santa Catalina and typically costs €20–30, depending on traffic and luggage.

🚗 Rental Car

If you plan to explore the rest of Mallorca—including Sóller, Valldemossa, Deià, Cala d’Or, or the island’s many beaches—a rental car is highly recommended. However, if you’re only staying in Palma, you won’t need one. The city is extremely walkable, and parking can be both difficult and expensive.

Where to Eat and Drink

Restaurant Bugambilia – Waterfront restaurant on a small beach tucked away off a main road. Smash burger is amazing. It is a drive/taxi ride from Old Town but not too far. They accept some walk-ins but reservations are recommended.

Sa Placeta – Cozy wine bar with a variety of unique high quality wines and an educated staff. A good place for lunch/dinner or a nice stop if you just want to have a glass of wine.

La Malvasia – located in Plaça del Mercat, right in the heart of Palma’s historic center, just a few minutes’ walk from Passeig del Born, Plaza Mayor, and the cathedral. It’s known for Mediterranean cuisine, tapas, seafood, and its own local Malvasia wine from Banyalbufar. Reservations needed. 

Fría Sophia Weinbar– a hidden gem for wine lovers. Good place to stop before or after dinner for a drink and small bites. 

El Camino – is one of the most popular restaurants in Palma. I would say its  one of the city’s best places for modern Spanish tapas. Reservations are needed.

OMBU – Located right in the city center, this restaurant has a lively setting and amazing food. We were able to walk in but reservations are highly recommended. I would request a terrace level table if possible. 

Café 22 – A small little specialty coffee and brunch café in the center of Palma, just a few minutes’ walk from Plaza Mayor and the Old Town. Good spot if you are craving a traditional breakfast like avocado toast. 

Forn – A great restaurant in Old Town, offering refined Mediterranean and Mallorcan cuisine in a beautifully restored historic building with indoor and garden seating. 

Abaco – One of Palma’s most unique and iconic cocktail bars. Hidden behind an unassuming door in the La Lonja district, it feels like stepping into a lavish 17th-century palace.  

Things To Do

Paella Cooking Class in the Tramuntana Mountains – This was such a cool unique experience. It’s about a 40 minute drive from Palma but so worth it. You go to a local’s house tucked away in the mountains and get to learn from her and her husband how to cook authentic paella. 

Boat day – Rent a boat for a half or full day. You can go to all the quiet hidden spots to snorkel, paddle board and cliff jump.

La Seu Cathedral – Palma’s most iconic landmark and one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe. Overlooking the Mediterranean and the Parc de la Mar, it is a must-visit for anyone exploring Mallorca.

The Jazz Lounge – This is a small, intimate jazz club with live performances almost every evening, with crafted cocktails in a cozy atmosphere. The venue focuses on authentic live jazz and is known for showcasing talented local and international musicians.