CLASSIC BUILDINGS
The hotels in this collection are all in very tastefully refurbished buildings from the 12th to 17th centuries, and feature more classic, Mallorcan building details.
An immersion into an architectural experience, these spaces have that quality that only historical buildings can imbue. They are all a few streets removed from the more hectic hustle and bustle, yet close enough to walk to everything. And as a nice bonus, some of these have pools too.
*unless otherwise noted, photos are via the hotel’s website and/or Instagram
Please note that rates are subject to change based on availability, and will also depend on how far in advance you book your stay.
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Portella opened in early 2024, and is already receiving pretty wonderful accolades. Housed in an authentic 17th-century home, this tasteful and tailored renovation is close to the Arab Baths. Tucked away from the busy streets, yet close to everything, the location is a rather ideal one.
With 14 tastefully furnished rooms and suites, that feature unique pieces sourced from Spanish and European antiques, these rooms feel like someone’s impeccably decorated, yet warm and inviting home. There are doubles and junior suites, and a two bedroom apartment. You can also reserve the entire hotel, which would be very dreamy indeed.
Enjoy the rooftop terrace and courtyard area, as well as the dedicated wellness area with its steam bath. The kitchen offers an excellent breakfast (and it is served until 1pm), and guests have been speaking highly of their lunch and dinner experiences as well.
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If you can book it, Palau Sa Font hotel is a bit of a gem, and tends to sell out earlier in the year. This distinctive and charming pink-hued 16th century townhouse is just west of the busy Passeig de Born shopping street. With a sensitively modernized Spanish aesthetic, their rooms are a minimalist and uncluttered style.
Starting with reasonably priced rooms with single beds, all the way up to XL room options (the latter are worth looking into, if you want a living area and/or terrace). The nightly rates are a great value, and there is also the added bonus of a third floor hotel terrace and a first floor swimming pool.
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A 16th century property that was once a soap factory, it combines its heritage credentials with modern Scandinavian inspired design. This Old Town location is further north than most of hotels, while still remaining within close walking distance to everything. It is also one of the nicest hotels closest to Santa Catalina.
With six different room options for the 30 rooms and 1 suite available, these include attic rooms and superior and deluxe options. Trust that your stay will be a comfortable one, even in the smaller rooms. It also has a first floor pool and a rooftop terrace, and an original stairwell that takes you up to a small watchtower. The menu at Xalest restaurant is a nice modern Mediterranean option for dinner and you can order food and drink poolside as well.
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Part of the same Nobis group as the hotel above, Nobis Hotel Palma is the one of the newest 5-star luxury hotels in Palma, having opened in late 2023. Tastefully refurbished in a historic 12th century building, which originally served as a Muslim Palace during the medieval Islamic era of the Balearic Islands, this hotel is in a peaceful, but well located, part of the Old Town.
The hotel boasts 37 rooms and suites, a smaller lower level plunge pool, sun terrace, rooftop area, and a spa. Stunning attention to original details, with comfortable modern furniture, great lighting, with inspiring design, and all in an incredible building make this a top choice for me.
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Another 5-star option, the Antigua Palma Hotel is closer to the Cathedral. Located in Palma’s old Jewish quarter, this restored 17th-century noble house is set away from the busy streets. Terracotta, their roof terrace has a plunge pool and bar area, and shows off a pretty amazing view of the medieval part of town. There is also a small spa inspired by the Arab Baths.
With 27 elegant and light-filled rooms in five different categories, these include two junior suites and the spacious Palma Suite. One small note is that I heard the elevator lighting is a rather harsh contrast to the otherwise well thought out design.
WKDY Wanderer Custom Google Maps: Connect to the island
For access to island-wide custom maps, the WKDY Wanderer Member platform has everything you will ever need.
The custom maps include all the cafés and restaurants I mention in the guide and via Instagram (more actually), as well as our top picks for shops, beaches and beach clubs, historical sites and destinations of interest.
Once you are connected to the WKDY Wanderer Google Maps, each of our recommended locations and their unique icons and location markers will auto-populate within your own personal Google Maps network.
Wherever you happen to find yourself, you won’t miss out on anything worth exploring