A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Palma de Mallorca vs. Houston for Nightlife, Food, Music, and Families

Should you visit Palma de Mallorca or Houston?

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 Houston, 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 cultural, historic, and beautiful island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Houston

Houston is a southern, one-of-a-kind, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Palma de Mallorca and Houston: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Palma de Mallorca than Houston. While Houston is larger than Palma de Mallorca, Palma de Mallorca has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palma de Mallorca is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Houston attracts visitors for its museums and big city activities. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. It is also well known for the turquoise water and white sand beaches. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA.

The turquoise water and white sand beaches

How is Palma de Mallorca different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Houston 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 Houston?

Houston 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 Houston can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Palma de Mallorca is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Palma de Mallorca is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Palma de Mallorca just to party. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

Many people head to Houston for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Houston Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is well known for its live music scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its music scene.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Palma de Mallorca. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Houston Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Palma de Mallorca to choose from. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Houston is not a resort destination.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Houston Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Palma de Mallorca offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Houston is not a beach destination.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

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.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Houston Better for Hiking?

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

Palma de Mallorca offers some nice hiking trails. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palma de Mallorca or Houston?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Palma de Mallorca and Houston.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Palma de Mallorca. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

Houston offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Houston Better for Families?

Palma de Mallorca and Houston are both great destinations for the whole family.

Palma de Mallorca is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Houston is a very kid-friendly island. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Houston Better for Couples?

Palma de Mallorca and Houston are both nice 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.

Houston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

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

Palma de Mallorca is well known for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Houston Better for Students?

Houston is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Houston a more walkable city?

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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.

Houston is generally not a very walkable island. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

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

How long in Palma de Mallorca or Houston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Palma de Mallorca and Houston. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Palma de Mallorca than in Houston. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Palma de Mallorca, and 2-3 days is enough time in Houston.

Families should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca than Houston. 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.

Couples should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca than Houston. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Palma de Mallorca 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 Houston 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.

One day in Palma de Mallorca or Houston?

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

When visiting Houston, people usually allow for lots of time. 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 Houston?

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

When visiting Houston, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Palma de Mallorca or Houston?

Palma de Mallorca is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Palma de Mallorca has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the southern big city of Houston. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Palma de Mallorca or Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palma de Mallorca. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Palma de Mallorca. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Houston is a popular choice for travelers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Spain, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Palma de Mallorca and Houston, we can see that Houston is more expensive. And not only is Palma de Mallorca much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Palma de Mallorca is in Europe and Houston is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Palma de Mallorca would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Palma de Mallorca and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Houston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Houston than you might in Palma de Mallorca.

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 Houston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palma de Mallorca or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Palma de Mallorca. When comparing the sizes of Palma de Mallorca and Houston, 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 Houston?

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 Houston in the Summer?

Both Houston and Palma de Mallorca during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Palma de Mallorca for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Houston in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Palma de Mallorca is cooler than Houston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palma de Mallorca in July average around 24°C (76°F), and Houston averages at about 84°F (29°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in July than Houston. Palma de Mallorca gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Palma de Mallorca and Houston. Many visitors come to Palma de Mallorca in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Houston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Palma de Mallorca is generally cooler than Houston. Daily temperatures in Palma de Mallorca average around 19°C (66°F), and Houston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Houston. Palma de Mallorca gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Palma de Mallorca as well as Houston. Most visitors come to Palma de Mallorca for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Houston because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Palma de Mallorca is around the same temperature as Houston in the winter. The daily temperature in Palma de Mallorca averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in January than Houston. Palma de Mallorca gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Houston and Palma de Mallorca are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Palma de Mallorca because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Houston this time of year.

In the spring, Palma de Mallorca is much colder than Houston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palma de Mallorca in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Houston averages at about 70°F (21°C).

In April, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Houston. Palma de Mallorca gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Houston and Palma de Mallorca