Mallorca: Where to Stay, Best Restaurants & Must Do Day Trips

Magical Mallorca – or Majorca, as it is also known – is the largest of the Balearic Islands, where I spent my first friend trip back in the ’90s! Since then, I’ve returned several times for the rooftop bars, cathedrals, culture, and, of course, the cheap cava. Most recently in 2025, I’m updating this Mallorca travel guide with my favourite places to stay, best restaurants, and must-do day trips, because the island is too stunning to only explore where you’re staying. I hope it helps you make equally memorable memories. Whether you’re a family, travelling solo, or on a girls’ trip chasing sunsets, bustling bars, or beautiful beaches, Mallorca has plenty of things to do for everyone.

I’ll be honest, when Skyscanner threw up the only flights that matched our dates and ticked all our boxes, was Palma, Mallorca – I was slightly disappointed. Having done the 90s pilgrimage to Magaluf back in the day I had fond fun memories but also a stereotypical view of the island. A view that would be proven very wrong! I should have know better having been to many party islands to know that Magaluf is only a tiny part of Mallorca. So much so in 2025 I was back for more! So definitely don’t make the mistake I nearly did or you will miss out on one of the most magical islands in Europe.

What area is best to stay in Mallorca?

Being the largest Spanish island, where you choose to stay in Mallorca will shape your itinerary, as taxis can be expensive and distances between towns and beaches can be long. Choosing a central base like Palma gives easy access to city life, rooftop bars, and cultural sights, while staying in Port de Sóller or Alcúdia offers a more relaxed vibe with stunning sunsets and family-friendly beaches. Picking the right area will help you make the most of your trip and enjoy everything Mallorca has to offer so lets go:

Magaluf, Palma Nova, and S’Arenal are your go-to areas in Mallorca for partying. Palma Nova came close to my criteria: I wanted to be near enough to Palma to enjoy the city sights and rooftop bars, but not right in the heart of party-ville. However, the area didn’t have enough rooftop restaurants for me. The infamous Magaluf is still the main party spot for Brits, though it has now upgraded to a more boujee crowd, with places like Nikki Beach in full swing if that’s your vibe.

Playa de Palma, set east of Palma, has been one of my chosen destinations. Known as the German/Dutch version of Magaluf, it was a bold choice for me but it ticked too many boxes to ignore. Rooftop bars & Restaurants, close to Palma, boat trips and the airport. Plus I found a hotel with two rooftop pools that over looked the sea so that was me sold. One note: if you’re after a beach holiday, this isn’t the area for you. The beaches are fine, but there are far better options if sun and sand are your main priority.

Far north, Alcúdia is perfect for families who love resorts and stunning beaches. I stayed here with the girls back before resources like my website existed! We had no idea how remote it was, but we still had a lot of fun—and even managed a night out in Magaluf. So it is possible to enjoy a bit of everything, even this far up the island. And just beyond Alcúdia is Cap de Formentor and its lighthouse at the northwestern tip, definitely worth the trek if that’s your thing.

East of the island, you have the stunning Cala d’Or and Cala Millor, Cala Millor being near the location for ITV’s TV show Love Island! The area felt quite isolated and secluded from the rest of the island unless you have a car, making it perfect for those who love their privacy… or are filming a reality dating programme!

West of the Island is Soller & Deia. Quaint gorgeous towns, with stunning scenery and a tram system that I was overly excited about. Deia is famed for a restaurant called Ca’s patro March that was featured on a BBC TV show, ‘The Night Manager’. I hadn’t seen the show but was in love with the look of this restaurant as it seems did the whole of Instagram so gave it a miss. My latest visit in 2025 I needed an R&R break so chose Port De Soller and it was ideal for a lazy long weekend.

South east is Cala Lombards is where is THE famous blue water. You will need a car to stay here or visit. It was too remote for us.

South west of Mallorca is Camp de Mar – quiet gorgeous resort with an insane insta worthy restaurant set on the water in a small Spanish village. More on that below.

And of course the city center of Palma. Perfect for a Spanish city break. Right by the airport, rooftop bars galore, small enough to explore on foot and set by the sea. Fly in and out in a weekend and no annual leave needed!

Getting around Mallorca

Car hire is really a must if you want to see the island with ease, if you can forgo rose lunches! Not only are taxis tricky and expensive but some areas and restaurants are impossible to get a cab to. Taxis are scarce! Well not entirely impossible but not so easy beyond Palma and airport drops. Alternatively the bus system is ok but wasn’t good enough for where I wanted to go. So if you aren’t driving and want to explore, plot and plan ahead. This seemed a good blog on the buses. Or… there is the famed wooden train from Palma to Soller and vice versa. Whether you were planning a trip or not, this is not just a way of getting from a to b – this is a whole experience not to be missed, more later on about that.

Best Hotels in Mallorca

I have done extensive research for hotels in Mallorca so will share where I stayed and where I was tempted so you can choose what is best for you.

Bikini Island and Mountain Hotel, Port De Soller

I had visited the Bikini Hotel’s rooftop restaurant, Neni and it’s Donkey Bar a few years ago, and it had been living rent-free in my head as one of my favourite rooftop venues ever since. So, when I was looking for a destination for an R&R break, I knew I wanted to return, this time to stay. The fact they had a rooftop gym & yoga and their breakfast is served in Neni – their magical rooftop restaurant sealed the deal!

With the motto “Life is better in a bikini,” there’s no obligation to actually wear one as they also sell t-shirts! Though, of course, I absolutely did both with garlands in my hair and all, to match the 60s-inspired, playful vibe of this small but perfectly packed hotel.

We were delayed arriving but the reception team were brilliant, they immediately paused check-in so we could grab dinner before the kitchen closed. By the time we were fed and watered, our rooms were ready and waiting. I had a sea-view room, which was small but ideal for one and a spacious balcony with a bed! If it wasn’t for the mossies I would have been tempted as it offered the same breathtaking views as the rooftop bar. I was deliriously happy!

One of the reasons I really rate this hotel is all the thoughtful touches, from providing free chemical-free sunscreen in your room, to a postcard they’ll post for you (who misses postcards? As someone made to collect them as a kid, not so much but they do make nice for little notes!). There is also citrus candles and a filtered water system throughout the hotel with reusable bottles you can borrow.

However it does have a few downsides and the first had orginally affected staying as it’s not a cheap stay. The hotel only has double beds, service at the beach bar was painfully slow, and the lack of shade options meant I couldn’t actually lie out by the pool. The rooftop also closes at midnight, which, when you love a late-night nightcap, is a bit disappointing. BUT the bar staff were amazing and happily let me take my wine to my magical balcony, with the same stunning view.

Overall, this is a dreamy boutique retreat with one of my favourite rooftop settings and views in Mallorca. Perfect for those needing to unwind, sleep, and enjoy the nearby port, just a few minutes walk away. From there, you can hop on the famous wooden train to Palma, grab a taxi, or hire a car. (Though if you’re heading to Sóller town, note that hire cars have recently been banned — the tourist backlash is real, but I personally never experienced any of it.)

HM Ayron Park Hotel or Negresco Hotel or Iberostar in Playa De Palma?

In Playa De Palma I had three hotels in the running: Negresco and Iberostar Llaut Hotel and HM Ayron Park. The latter won on cost and it’s two rooftop pools and I was thrilled with it you can read my full hotel review. Small detail to note, I had concerns the hotel was set on a shady street and appeared to be very small for one offering 5 pools (now in 2026 – 6 pools). I took the risk and turned out it was very safe and found the hotel was like a Mary Poppins hand bag. Also top tip, there’s also a little corner shop directly opposite should you need any supplies.

Greeted with cava, this was one of the most helpful, approachable receptions I’ve ever stayed with. Not only had all my requests had been honoured but there was a genuine desire to go above and beyond. And this level of service remained throughout our stay. Our room was a standard room as all we needed was a base and it was perfect. . Roomy with loads of storage space, spotless bathroom.

Breakfast was a feast taken indoor and outdoor with huge choice of seating and food. Being sung to by the omelette chef as he prepared my bespoke breakfast, then chilling in the warmth of the Spanish heat with limitless cava, made my mornings!

As mentioned, there are 5 amazing pools to choose from. Set in gorgeous gardens, the ground floor one is large, great for laps and kept immaculately. We opted for the two rooftop pools obviously. Yes, not one but two! The other two pools were less notable, one busy, one indoor – thankfully we didn’t need that and the other more secluded.

The main rooftop pool is small but perfect for cooling down and posing for all the photos. The other is tucked up and behind the bar. Ideal for those wanting to sleep off the night before. (That may have been us!) I had to two criticisms to note, first was the lunch menu was a bit limiting, if you are planning a few days just lazing. The other was that the gorgeous Balinese beds were an additional cost to us. I never understand this. I don’t actually like them as they don’t provide enough shade usually. And clearly other felt that or weren’t worth the money either as they were empty all day. Bit of a waste.

At night it was quiet at the hotel bars. Even on a Saturday, in June with a DJ on the rooftop it wasn’t that busy. Which am sure the rooms on the top floor appreciated! So don’t expect a night out here but it makes for a perfect for a rooftop sunset drink before heading out. And this area isn’t the most refined but it has some surprisingly stunning rooftops that unless you knew, you could find yourself trawling streets where shots are free and little clothing worn! You know the vibe! But just a 15 minute walk from the hotel I managed to find 5 gorgeous rooftops bars and restaurants. Click here for more on them but I will highlight a couple below.

Hotels in Palma Nova

As Palma Nova was my second choice I had extensively researched the hotels there and it was between was Barceló Illetas Albatros or Melia. Though I can’t vouch for them personally, either would have been my pick if Palma Nova had been my destination so this may or may not be of help!

Must Do Day Trips in Mallorca

Take a Boat Trip

As Mallorca is such a vast island, one way to see more of it, is by boat. I can’t stomach a whole day at sea and struggled to find shorter trips but finally found this one in Playa De Palma. If you don’t get sick sea like me then there’s a vast number of longer options form full days, party boats or private hire aka over priced for our budget.

For this half day boat trip we arrived and were whisked out to be met with memorising turquoise waters best admired from jumping straight in! It was a the ideal length of time, a little squished on board but for the price – totally worth it. One small consideration, the captain did have a weird sense of humour, joking about fish that eat you and tsunami’s, whilst blasting noisy not great music. Otherwise was totally worth it!

Visit Palma & its Rooftop Bars

The capital of this magnetic island is Palma, perfect for a mini-break in itself or as a day trip from your beach resort to soak up some culture. That said, I actually know someone who once did a day trip to Palma from London — first and last flights, brunch on the beach, dinner at sunset, and back in bed in London by midnight! For most of us though, a day trip from our resort or hotel on the island is adventure enough. Palma is rich in history, museums (including one with a rooftop), and of course plenty of rooftop bars where you can sip a cocktail while taking in the city’s beautiful skyline and cathedral views. For 8 of the best rooftop bars in Palma see my rooftop bar page.

Anssia Gastrobeach Club

Perfectly located near the airport, Anssia Gastrobeach club is ideal as part of a weekend getaway in Palma. If you’re flying in and out, a day of B&B, beach and bubbles, is a must. Or make it the perfect last day in Mallorca. Smaller than I was expecting but just as dreamy as I hoped.

On my last trip, we took a taxi across from Sóller and spent the day lazing over a long lunch. I hadn’t actually booked (losing my touch!), but lucked out, even with our luggage, for the perfect final taste of Spanish sun and sangria. Luggage can be stored under their large reception desk, at your own risk. We soon realised we weren’t the only ones with this genius idea!

I was craving burrata and tuna tartar, and spookily, it was a dish on the menu, delicious! And, of course, one last piña colada for the road. Just a word of warning: visiting this beautiful beach club might make you not want to go to the airport afterward!

Should you take the Palma to Soller Wooden Train?

The 1912 ‘Tren Soller or ‘Ferrocarril de Sóller’ aka ‘The Wooden Train’ that glides through the Mallorca countryside delivering passengers stunning views as it once did to transport produce to the island. This is a true train geeks treat but it is not for everyone. I have taken the train on two different trips and so here are your pros, cons and tips if you do!

We were advised to rock up and get a ticket on the day, but I wasn’t convinced. I had a whole day trip timed to perfection! So, I booked online – which you can only do a week in advance – and it gives a discount. This was for the train departing from Palma to Sóller, which in 2022 was €30 return, including the tram from Sóller to the port. By 2025, it had risen to €40, and the discount was only available on one mid-afternoon train (not ideal when the last train back is at 19:30!). If you’re starting in Sóller, you can’t buy tickets online – you’ll need to go to the station

From Palma, we were also advised to arrive half an hour early as we also had to collect a physical ticket (which made a lovely little souvenir in this digital world), but we went even earlier. We thought we’d grab a coffee and kill some time, but the lovely lady on the platform advised us not to wander away! She explained that boarding starts 30 minutes before departure, not just arrival at the station, and as we were first, we could choose the first-class carriage at the front! That’s not the norm though – since then, I’ve seen (and experienced) it turn into a scramble for seats, even if you arrive early, much like a commuter train from London! It really does need better management in peak season.

The train winds its way through stunning Spanish scenery, beautiful from either side, though if pushed, I’d recommend sitting on the left. Not that it really matters – it’s all incredible. You’ll feel transported back in time as the train whistles its way through the “Valley of Gold”, passing endless olive and orange groves. Yes, it really does whistle! You can also open the windows wide – essential in summer, as there’s no air con. What it really needs, though, is a toilet. Although it’s only an hour’s journey, it’s remiss not to have one. For those with kids or delicate stomachs, there’s a brief stop at Bunyola Station if you alert the driver. Some trains also include a scenic photo stop, but that’s not guaranteed.

As mentioned, the last train back is at 19:30, so the early ones get busy – and it’s such a missed opportunity not to have a later return. Sóller and Port de Sóller are utterly gorgeous, especially at sunset from one of their fabulous rooftop restaurants. And for those staying in Sóller or the port, you can’t miss a night in Palma. The insider tip is to buy a one-way ticket and taxi back – not the cheapest option, but worth it. If you are heading back to Palma, be warned: pre-book a taxi or have your restaurant do it for you. It’s not easy to get one – we almost had our waiter drive us back at midnight before one was finally found!

Is the wooden train worth it? My first experience was a real highlight – but I was lucky. It wasn’t peak season, it wasn’t packed, and we managed to bag the first-class carriage, which also happens to have the only comfy seats (the rest are wooden benches). We loved posing for photos throughout, and it really was a treat. My most recent trip wasn’t quite as special – perhaps the novelty had worn off, or maybe I just wasn’t as excited to take all the photos. If I were travelling across again, for a fraction of the cost, I’d probably just get the bus.

Visit Soller

Sóller is a stunning Spanish town known as the valley of oranges. If you have arrived on the wooden train then head down the steps and you will find yourself in the town in a matter of minutes. You can also head straight from the station, on a tram to the port. The trams run every 30 mins and you don’t have to prebook. There are a few stops in the town you can pick one up from, they also run right through the restaurants – it’s quite an experience to witness.

Head to the majestic Sant Bartomeu Cathedral, the town’s centrepiece, grab a table in the plaza, order a drink, and get your phone or camera ready! Then take a leisurely stroll around Soller. Potter down cobbled streets and explore the shops, art galleries and lunch spots. If you visit on a Saturday, like I did, the town will also be scattered with market stalls.

How to spend a day in Port de Sóller

Port de Sóller is a paradise, set in a picturesque coastal village with a beautiful bay at its heart. It’s easy to see why Chopin chose to compose some of his music here. After exploring for the day, I knew I wanted to return and stay for some pure downtime.

From Sóller, the photogenic tram takes only 15 to 20 minutes. There are two stops to choose from at the Port; I would suggest the first, as it allows you to stroll along the promenade, pinching yourself at this tranquil oasis. If you’re staying in the port or returning to Sóller after a day trip, be aware that the tram can get very crowded later in the day, so be prepared for a wait and a free for all for a spot!

For lunch you will be spoilt, there is so much choice for ocean views and waterside dining. Mar Y Sol, Ran de Mar and Sa Barca were high contenders but so far I have two I have made it to. The Fergus Hotel Ciales restaurant and Blai Bar. .Both are on the seafront and perfect for lazy lunches while the tram trundles past. I loved them both. Blai Bar doesn’t have a website, so I took the risk of a walk-in with no problem. A side note for my planners, I found that many places’ opening times didn’t match what was listed on their socials or websites so contact them directly.

Take a towel and find a spot on the beach, bar hop, or boutque shop. Pop to art galleries or just sip some sangria and take the slow pace.

If you decide to stay for dinner, or if you’re staying in Port de Sóller, I’ve highlighted some of the most stunning sunset restaurants and rooftop bars, where the food is just as incredible as the views. See more below.

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Best Restaurants in Mallorca

Katagi Blau Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, Playa de Palma

A stand out rooftop restaurant was Katagi Blau. A sensational setting, superb sushi and a stunning sunset! Worth every penny. They also didn’t rush us out and we stayed from day to night! Read more here.

Okun Rooftop Restaurant and Bar, Playa De Palma

Okun restaurant was a gorgeous sunset setting though It just didn’t have as many seats with ‘the’ view but it did have great calamari and super friendly staff. Read more here.

Restaurant Illeta, Camp de Mar

South of the island lies a fairytale floating restaurant, Restaurant Illeta. which for a bus that takes around an hour from Palma and a taxi back around €40. Cocktails first at Maria 5 beach club then it was time to walk the plank to another sensational setting for sunset.

‘Roberto’ greeted us warmly, with the perfect table as requested. The food was good, not out of this world but decent despite some reviews and there was no rushing us. We were able to just sit and enjoy the view. Heaven quite literally.

Neni Rooftop Restaurant, Port De Soller

Neni Rooftop restaurant and its Donkey Bar now sits in my top 10 rooftops of all time! Set up in the mountains overlooking the scenic harbourside at the colourful wonderful Bikini Hotel mentioned earlier. Wander up from the port to find painted stairs and Beatles quotes as you enter a 1960’s vibe which transitions through to the Donkey Bar. Or if you are staying then roll up to it from the pool!

It’s accompanying, Donkey Bar is much smaller than expected however the views surpassed all expectations, becoming even more breathtaking as we moved through to the restaurant. The food is Israeli and having stayed here now I would say the breakfast out does the dinner. It is good but not outstanding food but the view more than makes up for that.

Resturant Nautilus, Port De Soller

Nautilus restaurant open for lunch and dinner was an enchanting setting awaited me, carved into the cliff with a sheer drop below, this restaurant was serene and romantic and worth a visit to the port just for it!

Sunset here is sensational as the sun drops into the sea and illuminates this stunning setting. You can’t reserve the best table but can request! Or get there early to ensure front row seating. The food matches the views – this was not all about the setting. Which i can be a sucker for!

Restaurant Agapanto Flor de l’Amor

Agapanto Flor del Amor in set in the port – opposite side to Bikini Hotel, I had read extensive reviews about how popular it was and worth it, so duly booked. They honoured our table request, were spot on recommending the wine and even brought out sparklers for a belated birthday celebration. Food was good and the setting by the sea delightful. Highly recommend.

El Principal Rooftop Restaurant, Palma

El Principal is a hidden rooftop gem that offers not only delicious cuisine but also a warm and welcoming atmosphere courtesy of its delightful staff. The rooftop felt like one for guests between swims but this was a lunch destination with a view to match!

La Marina Beach Club, S’Arenal

If you take a morning boat trip then on return make La Marina your lunch spot on your return. It was very much into the S’Arenal area (worse that Playa on par with Magaluf!) but being June, it was an oasis of chilled cava and calm. I suspect in height of summer it might be different but it was perfect for us hungry from all our sea swimming.

And Don’t Forget to go Dancing on a Rooftop

Sky lounge rooftop set on the sea front should be ideal for sunset but it was giving boujee minimum spend attitude, I wasn’t going to bother. Cue 1am, new friends made and we were partying with no requirements of us. And the fun didn’t end there, we were later whisked off to Beachhouse nightclub for more pretending we were in our twenties. (One serious note – watch the stairs at the club, they are steep and scary and amazingly I did not fall down them.)

Final thoughts on Mallorca

Magical Mallorca, with it’s magnetic energy whether you come to party, dine, cycle, explore or just play, be warned you will most likely will want to stay. I went from being a bit indifferent to it fast becoming somewhere I need to revisit, often and have! Let me know if you have any questions or I can help in anyway!