What is the difference between Palma and Playa de Palma?

The name Playa de Palma literally means Palma Beach, because it's the nearest sandy shoreline to Majorca's capital. As such, it's become the most popular strip in this part of the island.



While the names sound remarkably similar, Palma and Playa de Palma refer to two very different experiences on the island of Majorca. Palma (also known as Palma de Mallorca) is the island's sophisticated capital city. It is a historic urban hub famous for its massive Gothic cathedral (La Seu), the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town, high-end shopping boutiques, and a vibrant local culinary scene. It is a working city that operates year-round. In contrast, Playa de Palma is a sprawling resort area located about 10 kilometers east of the city center, stretching from Can Pastilla to El Arenal. It is characterized by a long, 6-kilometer sandy beach lined with high-rise hotels, "Balneario" beach bars, and a high density of nightlife catering primarily to international tourists. While you can easily travel between the two via a short bus or taxi ride, Palma is for those seeking culture and history, while Playa de Palma is for those seeking a traditional sun-and-sand beach holiday.

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Palma de Mallorca is considered to be generally safe, even after dark. Yet, tourists are still warned to avoid walking alone at night in certain areas like El Terreno and Old Town. The Balearic Islands are known to have clubs where people “do drugs”, so be cautious.

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Magaluf is situated on the south-west coast of Mallorca, around a 25-minute drive from Palma Son Sant Joan airport and 15 minutes from the city centre. It is divided from the neighbouring resort of Palma Nova by a headland, although you can easily walk between the two in 10 minutes.

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Safety at night:Safe Overall, Palma is quite safe at night. Streets are well-lit and populated, in most areas, even in the evening hours. However, like anywhere in the world, it is still recommended to remain vigilant. Stick to main streets and avoid alone, isolated areas.

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Around El Arenal, you'll find a good assortment of nightclubs, bars and beer gardens and in Playa de Palma itself, there are a few beach clubs providing cocktails and a chilled-out lounge vibe.

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A lovely little bay lined with restaurants, bars, cafes and palm trees near a little marina sailing club, along the cycle coastal path, 6 miles from Palma Old Town..

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The seaside promenade widens beside it providing a wonderful area with sheltered benches for those wanting to contemplate the view in the shade. The water is not as crystalline as other more distant coves, but it's certainly good enough for anyone craving a stimulating swim close to the city.

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Set on the north coast of Mallorca, in the bay of Pollensa, is one of the island's most beautiful towns: Puerto de Pollensa (also known as Port de Pollença, or Port de Pollenca). This tranquil destination is still lively without being excessive, and makes it a good resort town to stay in Mallorca for families.

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The 13 Most Beautiful Towns in Mallorca
  1. Palma de Mallorca. ...
  2. Puerto Pollensa. ...
  3. Deià ...
  4. Banyalbufar. ...
  5. Fornalutx. ...
  6. Pollensa. ...
  7. Port Sóller. ...
  8. Sóller.


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A visit to Palma's picturesque Old Town is always highly recommended. Known in Spanish as 'El Casco Antiguo', it's where the majority of must-see tourist attractions are located, such as the majestic 'La Seu' Cathedral, the Royal Palace of Almudaina and Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum.

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