A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Palma de Mallorca vs. Utrecht for Nightlife, Old Town, Food, and Families

Should you visit Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht?

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 Utrecht, 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Utrecht

This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Palma de Mallorca and Utrecht: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palma de Mallorca than Utrecht, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Palma de Mallorca is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Utrecht is known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Utrecht and is popular for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. It is also home to the turquoise water and white sand beaches. Utrecht is popular for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town.

The turquoise water and white sand beaches

How is Palma de Mallorca different from Utrecht?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Utrecht is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Utrecht is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Palma de Mallorca makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Utrecht has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht Better for Nightlife?

Palma de Mallorca is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for nightlife and partying.

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

Utrecht has a large number of nightlife venues. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is a well-known place for live music. However, Utrecht is not a live music destination.

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

Utrecht is not a live music destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht Better for Resorts?

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

Palma de Mallorca is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Utrecht is not a resort destination.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Utrecht is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palma de Mallorca has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Utrecht is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Utrecht is not a beach destination.

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

Utrecht is not a beach destination.

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

Utrecht is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

The rich history of Utrecht can be explored in its historical center. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

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 Utrecht Better for Hiking?

Palma de Mallorca is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Utrecht is not a hiking destination.

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for hiking. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Utrecht is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht?

Utrecht is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Utrecht. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

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

Is Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht Better for Families?

Palma de Mallorca is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good 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.

Utrecht is a family-friendly island. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht Better for Couples?

Utrecht is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Utrecht makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palma de Mallorca and Utrecht are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Palma de Mallorca is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Utrecht is a great island to visit for backpackers. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht Better for Students?

Utrecht is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

Utrecht is a great to visit as a student. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

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

Utrecht 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 Utrecht can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

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 Utrecht a more walkable city?

Utrecht 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 Utrecht. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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 Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting? and Is Utrecht Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Palma de Mallorca and Utrecht. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Palma de Mallorca than in Utrecht. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Palma de Mallorca, and 1-3 days is enough time in Utrecht.

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

One day in Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht?

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.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Utrecht, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht?

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.

With museums and nightlife around the quaint of Utrecht, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Utrecht?

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 food when visiting the quaint destination of Utrecht. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Utrecht?

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.

Utrecht is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Palma de Mallorca and Utrecht, we can see that Utrecht is more expensive. And not only is Palma de Mallorca much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Utrecht would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Utrecht 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 Utrecht Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palma de Mallorca or Utrecht?

Palma de Mallorca has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Utrecht. When comparing the sizes of Palma de Mallorca and Utrecht, 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 Utrecht?

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 Utrecht in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Palma de Mallorca as well as Utrecht. Many visitors come to Palma de Mallorca in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Utrecht for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Palma de Mallorca is a little warmer than Utrecht in the summer. The daily temperature in Palma de Mallorca averages around 24°C (76°F) in July, and Utrecht fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

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 Utrecht. Palma de Mallorca gets 334 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 194 hours of full sun.

Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in July than Utrecht. Palma de Mallorca gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Utrecht and Palma de Mallorca are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Palma de Mallorca for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Utrecht because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Palma de Mallorca is much warmer than Utrecht. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palma de Mallorca in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Utrecht averages at about 11°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palma de Mallorca. Palma de Mallorca usually receives more sunshine than Utrecht during autumn. Palma de Mallorca gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 100 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Utrecht. Palma de Mallorca gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Utrecht and Palma de Mallorca during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Palma de Mallorca because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year.

It's quite cold in Utrecht in the winter. In January, Palma de Mallorca is generally much warmer than Utrecht. Daily temperatures in Palma de Mallorca average around 11°C (52°F), and Utrecht fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Palma de Mallorca often gets more sunshine than Utrecht. Palma de Mallorca gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 38 hours of full sun.

Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in January than Utrecht. Palma de Mallorca gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Palma de Mallorca and Utrecht. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Palma de Mallorca this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Utrecht for the natural beauty.

Palma de Mallorca is much warmer than Utrecht in the spring. The daily temperature in Palma de Mallorca averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Utrecht fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In Palma de Mallorca, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palma de Mallorca usually receives more sunshine than Utrecht during spring. Palma de Mallorca gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Utrecht. Palma de Mallorca gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Utrecht and Palma de Mallorca