A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hong Kong vs. Palma de Mallorca for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a diverse , compact, and dense city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a stunning, cultural, and historic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Hong Kong and Palma de Mallorca: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hong Kong than Palma de Mallorca. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Hong Kong is very popular for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Palma de Mallorca attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Hong Kong and is known for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. Hong Kong is famous for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. It is also well known for Victoria Peak.

How is Hong Kong different from Palma de Mallorca?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Palma de Mallorca and Hong Kong. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Hong Kong is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hong Kong can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Hong Kong is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Palma de Mallorca. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

Is Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca Better for Nightlife?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Palma de Mallorca is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

Hong Kong is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

Is Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca Better for Music?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Hong Kong is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Palma de Mallorca while you're in town. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Hong Kong is not a live music destination.


Is Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca Better for Resorts?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Hong Kong is not a resort destination.

Palma de Mallorca is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Hong Kong is not a resort destination.

Is Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hong Kong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palma de Mallorca has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Hong Kong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is an unbeatable place for the beache. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

The beaches in Palma de Mallorca are among the best in the world. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

The beaches at Hong Kong attract visitors from all over. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.


Is Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca Better for its Old Town?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Palma de Mallorca. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Hong Kong is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Palma de Mallorca. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Hong Kong. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Palma de Mallorca offers some nice shopping areas. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.


Is Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca Better for Families?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Hong Kong is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

Palma de Mallorca is a very kid-friendly city. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

Is Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca Better for Couples?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Hong Kong has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Palma de Mallorca makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

Is Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Palma de Mallorca. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.


Is Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Hong Kong has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

You'll find some public transit in Palma de Mallorca, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

Is Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca a more walkable city?

Hong Kong
Palma de Mallorca

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

Palma de Mallorca is a somewhat walkable place. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Hong Kong Worth Visiting? and Is Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palma de Mallorca or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca?

In either Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Hong Kong than Palma de Mallorca because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Hong Kong, and 3-5 days is enough time in Palma de Mallorca.

Families should spend more time in Hong Kong than Palma de Mallorca. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hong Kong, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Hong Kong than Palma de Mallorca. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hong Kong that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca than Hong Kong if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Palma de Mallorca.


  • How many days in Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hong Kong 3-7 
    Palma de Mallorca 3-5

One day in Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca?

When visiting Hong Kong, people usually allow for lots of time. It's also a great beach destination, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the island of Palma de Mallorca. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca?

When visiting Hong Kong, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find live music and food around the cultural destination of Palma de Mallorca. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca?

When visiting Hong Kong, people usually allow for lots of time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the stunning island of Palma de Mallorca. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca?

Hong Kong is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Palma de Mallorca is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Palma de Mallorca or Hong Kong?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hong Kong is $160, while the average daily cost in Palma de Mallorca is $148. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hong Kong and Palma de Mallorca in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hong Kong $75
    Palma de Mallorca $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hong Kong $150
    Palma de Mallorca $148
Compare Hotels in Hong Kong and Palma de Mallorca

Looking for a hotel in Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hong Kong


Hotels in Palma de Mallorca


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hong Kong Hotel Prices and Palma de Mallorca Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hong Kong $8.73
    Palma de Mallorca $26
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hong Kong:


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.82
  • Local Bus
    $2.82
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $15

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Palma de Mallorca

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Palma de Mallorca are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    $7.29
  • Bus Ride
    $1.34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palma de Mallorca

Also for Palma de Mallorca, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer from Palma de Mallorca Port to Mallorca Airport (PMI): $35
  • Round Trip Transfer from/to Palma Aquarium: $29
  • Private transfer from Alcúdia to Mallorca Airport: $175
  • Private Transfers from Palma to Palme de Mallorca Airport PMI in Luxury Van: $130
  • Private Transfer from Palma de Mallorca city to Mallorca airport (PMI): $59
  • Private Transfer from Palma de Mallorca Port to Palma de Mallorca: $35
  • Private Transfer from Mallorca airport (PMI) to Soller : $104
  • Private Transfer from Mallorca airport (PMI) to Pollensa: $144
  • Private Transfer from Mallorca airport (PMI) to Peguera : $96
  • Private Transfer from Mallorca airport (PMI) to Palma de Mallorca city: $59
  • Private Transfer from Mallorca airport (PMI) to Magaluf: $73
  • Private Transfer from Mallorca airport (PMI) to Deyá: $104

Is it cheaper to fly into Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca?

Prices for flights to both Palma de Mallorca and Hong Kong change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hong Kong $33
    Palma de Mallorca $48
Typical Food Prices in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner for 2
    $12

Typical Food Prices in Palma de Mallorca

For Palma de Mallorca, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Soda
    $2.68

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Palma de Mallorca

For Palma de Mallorca, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Spanish Cooking Class Experience in Palma with 5+ Tastings: $21
  • Spanish Cooking Experience in Mallorca: $109
  • The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Mallorca: The 10 Tastings: $130
  • Mediterranean cooking experience in nature: $131
  • 4-Hour Market Visit and Traditional Cooking Workshop in Palma: $147
  • Sailboat Dinner and Movie Night: $650

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hong Kong $95
    Palma de Mallorca $36
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Hong Kong's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Peak Tram
    $7.68
  • Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
    $24

Tours and Activities in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ma On Shan Climbing Adventure: $115
  • Plover Cove Bicycling and Hiking Adventure: $110

Tours and Activities in Palma de Mallorca

For Palma de Mallorca, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hour Deluxe Segway Tour from Palma: $83
  • 1.5 H Electric Kick-Scooter Tour: $49
  • 1H Self-Guided Electric Scooter Tour around Palma de Mallorca: $22
  • 2 Hours sightseeing E-Bike Tour in Palma de Mallorca: $44
  • 2hrs Snorkeling Experience in Sa Foradada: $47
  • 3 Hour Slingshot Sunset Tour from Paguera: $129
  • 3 hours quad tour from Paguera: $163
  • 4-hour tour on a sailing ship in the Bay of Palma: $104
  • 5-hours Tour: Mallorca Inland Charming Villages: $71
  • 90 Minute Jet Ski Tour Cave of Sea Lions in Mallorca: $218
  • 90' Stand Up Paddle tour in a small group in Cala Ratjada: $49
  • AbenteuerDate Alcudia, Interactive Fun Tour in German Language: $9.83

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hong Kong $21
    Palma de Mallorca $32

Typical Alcohol Prices in Palma de Mallorca

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Palma de Mallorca are as follows:


  • Coffee
    $3.32

Sample the Local Flavors in Palma de Mallorca

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Palma de Mallorca:

  • Wine tasting with wines from the smallest wineries in Mallorca: $43
  • Gourmet Tapas and Wine Tour in Alcudia Old Town: $43
  • Guided tour of the Winery with wine tasting, Vineyard and much more!: $49
  • Gourmet Tapas and Wine Tour: $53
  • Gourmet Tapas and Wine Tour in Palma de Mallorca : $54
  • Gastronomic Mallorquin Wine Tasting & local delicacies: $71
  • Wine Tasting Experience with Mallorcan Delights in Alcudia: $87
  • Sa Clasta Mallorca Wine Tours: $158
  • Sa Clasta Wine Tours, Mallorca: $158
  • Mallorca Bodega & Olive Tour with Wine Tasting (full day): $163


When comparing the travel costs between Hong Kong and Palma de Mallorca, we can see that Hong Kong is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Hong Kong is in Asia and Palma de Mallorca is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hong Kong Expensive? and Is Palma de Mallorca Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Palma de Mallorca?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Palma de Mallorca. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong and Palma de Mallorca, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.