Palma de Mallorca is basically the dream Mediterranean island that’s been calling your name. Picture this: golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, centuries-old cathedrals, and palm trees swaying in the breeze – all wrapped up in one gorgeous Spanish package. And here’s the best part: you don’t need to drop tons of cash on fancy resorts to enjoy it all.
Hostels in Palma give you way more than just a cheap bed (though that’s definitely a plus!). They’re your ticket to meeting awesome people, scoring prime locations near beaches and nightlife, and getting insider tips from fellow travelers. Whether you’re backpacking solo, traveling as a couple, or working remotely as a digital nomad, there’s a perfect hostel waiting for you in this sunny paradise.
This guide breaks down the best hostels by traveler type, so you can skip the hours of research and book with confidence. Let’s dive in and find your ideal home base for exploring Palma!
Why Choose a Hostel in Palma de Mallorca?
Hostels in Palma are honestly a no-brainer for budget-conscious travelers. Dorm beds average around $27 per night, while private rooms go for about $45 – way cheaper than hotels without sacrificing comfort. You’ll save enough cash to splurge on beach cocktails and tapas instead of blowing it all on accommodation.
But it’s not just about the money. The social atmosphere is where hostels really shine, especially if you’re traveling solo. Most places organize pub crawls, walking tours, cooking classes, and game nights that turn random strangers into travel buddies. Plus, you’re usually staying right in the heart of the action – think walking distance to the old town, beaches, and the buzzing nightlife scene.
And don’t assume hostels mean roughing it anymore. Modern hostels in Palma come with privacy curtains, personal charging stations, rooftop pools, coworking spaces, and even on-site bars. Some of these places are so stylish they rival boutique hotels!
Best Hostels in Palma de Mallorca by Traveler Type
Best Hostels for Solo Travelers
The Boc City is hands-down the top pick for solo travelers looking to make friends. Located just minutes from the breathtaking coast, this colorful backpacker haven has everything you need to connect with other travelers. The phenomenal rooftop setup features a swimming pool, sun loungers for getting that sexy Spanish tan, and long tables perfect for social dinners. The vibe here is friendly and electric, especially during summer when the international crowd really comes alive.
Urban Hostel Palma is another solid choice for meeting people. This converted convent sits in the Santa Catalina neighborhood, just 3 minutes from the coast. It offers affordable beds, lounges for hanging out, and even bike rentals if you want to explore the island with new friends.
Best Hostels for Backpackers
El Josemari Youth Hostel sits in the beating heart of Palma’s old town and is perfect for classic backpackers. Set in an old convent, this hostel offers small dorm rooms with private beds, a quirky common room with a book exchange, and free Wi-Fi. You’re a five-minute walk to the famous Palma Cathedral and another five minutes to the beach. All the best clubs and bars are literally minutes away when you’re ready to party.
Y Hostel hooks you up with some of the cheapest dorm rooms in Palma without skimping on quality. The private bunks have privacy curtains and feel more like capsules than typical dorm beds. Located near Cala Major beach, it’s about a 3km walk to the coast (or grab a cheap taxi). They also organize tours so you can properly explore everything around Palma.
Best Hostels for Couples
We Hostel Palma offers stylish private rooms that are perfect when you want some alone time with your partner. The hostel has an on-site bar and lively rooftop terrace, so you can be social when you want and retreat to your cozy room when you don’t. It’s located in El Terreno neighborhood, close to the seafront and Bellver Castle, with excellent public transport connections.
Hostel Pura Vida puts couples right in the heart of the old city with stunning views from your balcony. This charming historic apartment-turned-hostel serves free breakfast every morning and has a romantic atmosphere that’ll make you want to extend your stay.
Best Party Hostels in Palma
We Hostel Palma doubles as the best party hostel because it literally brings the party to you with its onsite bar and rooftop terrace. You’re also within walking distance of all the best bars and clubs in Palma. The hostel has 72 clean beds across four and eight-bed dorms, plus laundry facilities and a shared kitchen.
The Boc Beach has big party vibes with its eclectic 1920s seaside holiday aesthetic. You can see the sea from the balcony, and you’re about five minutes from the beach. The modern facilities and comfy beds mean you can recover properly between nights out.
Best Hostels for Digital Nomads
Boc Hostel Palma is specifically designed for digital nomads who need to lock in and get work done. This sleek hostel offers in-room desk space, a rooftop terrace for breaks, and a bar for when you’re done working. It’s located out of the busy city center (about a 30-minute walk to town), which helps you focus without constant distractions. Plus, there are laundry facilities so you can multitask while desk-bound.
BRICK PALMA has a creative vibe that’s perfect for working travelers. The reception team is super friendly and helpful, making it easy to settle in for longer stays.
Best Eco-Friendly Hostels
While Palma doesn’t have tons of officially certified eco-hostels, The Boc City markets itself as an “ecological oasis in the city centre”. The hostel incorporates sustainable practices into its operations while maintaining that fun, social atmosphere backpackers love.
What to Look for When Choosing a Hostel in Palma
Location matters big time. Hostels in the old town put you near historic sites and nightlife, while spots near Cala Major or Playa de Palma are perfect if beaches are your priority. Just remember that hostels further from the center are usually cheaper.
For amenities, definitely check if they’ve got free Wi-Fi (most do), air conditioning (summer in Palma gets HOT), lockers for your valuables, and a kitchen if you want to cook. Privacy curtains on beds are a game-changer in dorms.
Always read recent reviews on sites like Hostelworld and Booking.com before booking. Look for comments about cleanliness, noise levels, and whether the social vibe matches what you’re looking for. Safety-wise, check for 24-hour reception, secure lockers, and key-card access.
Budget Breakdown: What You Can Expect to Pay
Dorm beds in Palma hostels typically range from $25-$50 per night, with an average around $27. Private rooms start at $60 and can go up to $150 depending on the hostel and season.
Summer is peak season (June-August), so expect prices to climb and availability to get tight. Booking during spring or fall can save you serious cash – sometimes you’ll find dorm beds for as low as $16-$23 during off-season. Winter is the cheapest time, but some hostels close or have limited services.
For a week-long stay, budget around $190 for dorm accommodation, or $315 for two weeks. That’s incredibly affordable compared to most European beach destinations!
Tips for a Great Hostel Stay in Mallorca
Book early during peak season (June-September) because the best hostels fill up fast. Many hostels require online check-in the day before arrival, so read the booking confirmation carefully.
Pack earplugs for dealing with snorers, a microfiber towel (hostel towels can be sketchy), and a small lock for securing your valuables in lockers. Flip-flops for the shower are also a must.
Stay safe by never leaving valuables unattended, even in dorms with lockers. Get to know your dorm-mates – it makes the experience way better and adds an extra layer of security. And don’t be shy about joining hostel activities – that’s literally the whole point of staying in a hostel!
Palma de Mallorca’s hostel scene is ridiculously diverse, catering to every type of traveler imaginable. Whether you want to party until sunrise, work remotely from a rooftop terrace, or just meet cool people while exploring beaches and historic sites, there’s a perfect hostel waiting for you.
The key is matching the hostel vibe to your travel style. Solo travelers will thrive at social spots like The Boc City, backpackers on a budget can’t beat El Josemari or Y Hostel, and digital nomads should head straight to Boc Hostel Palma. Whatever you choose, you’ll be waking up in one of the most beautiful places in the Mediterranean without emptying your bank account. Now that’s what I call a win-win! Book that hostel and get ready for an epic Mallorcan adventure.
