A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Palma de Mallorca vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Music, Beaches, and Backpackers

Should you visit Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona, 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.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a beautiful, stunning, and cultural island. Palma de Mallorca is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Palma de Mallorca travel costs.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a cultural, friendly, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Barcelona is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Barcelona travel costs.

Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Barcelona than Palma de Mallorca, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Barcelona is more popular for its museums and attractions, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Palma de Mallorca is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Palma de Mallorca is popular for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. Barcelona is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also home to Basilica Sagrada Familia.

How is Palma de Mallorca different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Barcelona 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 Barcelona can be an interesting and educational experience. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Barcelona. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Both Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona have first-rate vibes after the sun sets.

Palma de Mallorca is a world class party destination. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

Barcelona is a must-see party destination. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for live music. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

Barcelona is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Palma de Mallorca has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona Better for Resorts?

Palma de Mallorca is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Barcelona is not a resort destination.

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Barcelona is not a resort destination.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Palma de Mallorca. 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.

Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is renowned for its beaches. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beach.

Palma de Mallorca is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

Barcelona offers a nice beach destination. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

Many visitors go to Barcelona to see the historical old town. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Many people head to Palma de Mallorca to see the old town. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona Better for Hiking?

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

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.

Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

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

Is Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona More Beautiful?

Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona both are comparable with their high quality scenery and beauty.

Palma de Mallorca is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With stunning blue water and beautiful countryside, Mallorca is a beautiful island to visit.

The beauty of Barcelona is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city offers many nice viewpoints that look down on the skyline from the surrounding hills. There are also nice parks and interesting architecture.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona Better for Families?

Palma de Mallorca is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Palma de Mallorca is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Barcelona is a family-friendly island. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona are both good to visit as a couple.

Palma de Mallorca is a nice destination for couples. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

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

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Palma de Mallorca is a great island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

Barcelona is a great destination for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

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

Barcelona is an excellent place to visit 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.

Visitors to Barcelona can move around easily with public transportation. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Palma de Mallorca is somewhat walkable. 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.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable island. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

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

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Palma de Mallorca?

How long in Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona?

Both Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Palma de Mallorca. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Palma de Mallorca, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Palma de Mallorca 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 Barcelona.

One day in Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona?

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.

When visiting Barcelona, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

A weekend in Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona?

You'll find live music and food around the beautiful 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.

When visiting Barcelona, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona?

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.

When visiting Barcelona, people usually allow for lots of time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

A week in Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona?

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.

Barcelona is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Palma de Mallorca. When comparing the sizes of Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona, 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.

When is the best time to visit Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Palma de Mallorca as well as Barcelona. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palma de Mallorca this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Palma de Mallorca is around the same temperature as Barcelona in the summer. The daily temperature in Palma de Mallorca averages around 24°C (76°F) in July, and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palma de Mallorca this time of the year. In the summer, Palma de Mallorca often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Palma de Mallorca gets 334 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in July than Barcelona. Palma de Mallorca gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Palma de Mallorca for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Palma de Mallorca is around the same temperature as Barcelona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palma de Mallorca in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Barcelona averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palma de Mallorca. Palma de Mallorca usually receives more sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. Palma de Mallorca gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Palma de Mallorca gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona in the Winter?

Both Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Palma de Mallorca in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Palma de Mallorca is generally a little warmer than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Palma de Mallorca average around 11°C (52°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Palma de Mallorca often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Palma de Mallorca gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Palma de Mallorca usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Barcelona. Palma de Mallorca gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona. Most visitors come to Palma de Mallorca for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Palma de Mallorca is around the same temperature as Barcelona in the spring. The daily temperature in Palma de Mallorca averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In Palma de Mallorca, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palma de Mallorca usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona during spring. Palma de Mallorca gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Palma de Mallorca gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca