The best places in Mallorca to buy property

There are very few places in the Mediterranean that offer such a diverse range of property than in Mallorca. The island is loved for its mountains and sea, but it’s the strength of the island’s second home market that confirms the move of thousands of international buyers. Whether it’s to own a property for vacation use or full-time residence, the property market in Mallorca rarely loses its appeal, and is consistently sought after by British, German and Scandinavian nationalities in particular.

Such demand has inspired architects to design impressive property in Mallorca. Places like Son Vida, Port Andratx, Deià and Puerto Pollensa are peaking at some of the highest prices for luxury property which edge towards the tens of millions in some parts. Therefore, if it’s a sea front luxury villa for sale that peeks your interest, find comfort in the fact that you will have plenty of properties in Mallorca to choose from.

Real estate agents in Mallorca pepper the island’s hotspots, rarely working with just a few specific types of property for sale. The property portfolio is extensive, and open-minded buyers should expect to fall in love with anything from grand fincas for sale in Mallorca, country houses and sea view villas to luxury apartments and penthouses. Mallorca properties are influenced by their surroundings and if the location is beautiful, the property for sale will often follow.

There are multiple reasons for investing in Mallorca and while some buyers will decide on a comfortable family home, others will go down the holiday rental route given the island’s strong tourist market. Particularly in a place like Alcúdia where cyclists will train through the winter months, there is strong income to be made. Otherwise, the summer months promise a lucrative opportunity to rent holiday apartments with an attractive return on investment.

From hundreds of places to buy property in Mallorca, Helen Cummins and her editorial team have selected just a handful of the best places to invest in. Each Mallorca property guide below gives a comprehensive overview of each place including: where to buy property, current properties for sale and advice from trusted real estate professionals. You will also find recommended property services including the best Mallorca-based construction companies, architects and interior designers.

Palma is Mallorca’s only city and is therefore the only place on the island where luxury apartments dominate the property market. At least in the centre and in the Old Town, community buildings are the most common style of property. However, these are no less luxurious with penthouses and multi-storey apartments near the Cathedral and in Santa Catalina skirting around the million mark. Proximity to the sea will greatly increase property value, which is seen no more clearly than in Portixol.

For family villas and larger types of property, then it would be wise to begin your property search in Son Vida. Located high in the Palma hills overlooking the bay, this is where editor Helen Cummins has chosen to reside with her husband and daughter Eva. Take a look inside Helen’s Son Vida home and you’ll get a clearer idea of the kind of property available in the area.

Young couples and retirees after a place with pulse move to the centre of Palma to invest their money in a spacious city apartment. Families too will choose the centre, but due to lack of outdoor space, most prefer to live on the outskirts with a garden or pool. The centre, particularly around the areas of La Calatrava, La Lonja and El Borne, include some very beautiful, old-style apartments.

Son Vida is Palma’s most expensive neighbourhood and includes the best views overlooking Palma bay. The island’s top architects work in this area and usually carry-out modern and contemporary designs. The area is quiet and well-suited to families looking for lots of green space while being close to the city. The Son Vida Hills is where the most impressive property is sold given its elevated position.

Santa Catalina is sought-after for its proximity to Paseo Marítimo and vibrant social scene. Property here is a mix of city apartments and penthouses alongside traditional fishermen’s cottages in the area of Es Jonquet. Properties overlooking the harbour can go for some very high prices, particularly when they have a rooftop or spacious balcony included. Due to Santa Catalina’s vibrant nightlife, the area can noisy in parts particularly around the market.

Portixol is a 10-minute cycle ride from the city centre and is an up-market area with ongoing renovations and improvements. Sea-view apartments are promised here, many of which follow modern and contemporary designs. The promenade is busy at night, given its ideal location for cyclists, skaters and runners to exercise along the sea-front. Portixol is well-suited for those who work in Palma, but desire a home by the sea.

The southwest is home to some of Mallorca’s most expensive property and according to latest real estate figures, has the highest turnover too. This area is characterised by its up-market harbours, meaning that sea-view villas are amongst the most popular on the market, with apartments and fincas falling closely behind.

Places like Port Andratx, Bendinat and Santa Ponsa have seen the work of top architects in recent years, implementing contemporary and stylish designs. Investing in property for a second-home or holiday let is frequent here, particularly amongst the yachting community. Mooring a yacht in Puerto Portals and residing in a luxury villa on the coast for a few months is a typical southwest trend.

Bendinat is a high-end area of the southwest and a hot-spot for luxury property. Its proximity to the sea is an attractive selling point, combined with tranquillity and privacy. Very large detached homes are found in areas like Old Bendinat and Anchorage Hill, which usually come with high hedges and gates for optimum exclusivity. The area is recommended for families, given that most villas come with large gardens and pools.

For prospective buyers in the yachting industry, Portals Nous is an attractive option. Its proximity to Puerto Portals, means that you can live high up in the Portals Hills and overlook the superyachts that come in to anchor. It’s an exclusive area with areas like Costa d’en Blanes famous for its multi-million euro villas tucked behind high stone walls. 4-5 bedroom residences are common here, making it a good option for buyers after a decent-sized family home.

After Golf Santa Ponsa was established, property in Santa Ponsa enjoyed significant interest and hasn’t stopped since. The area has seen more than three decades of investment and is chosen by many as a place to buy a holiday apartment or villa. The property landscape is varied, but luxury villas with sea or golf views are preferred, and even more so the higher-up they are in areas like Nova Santa Ponsa.

This exclusive sea-side town of Port Andratx pulls in wealthy buyers from all over Europe, with Germans accounting for the highest proportion. The property market here caters well for people after second homes, particularly in areas like Cala Marmassen and Monport. Around the harbour, there tends to be more community buildings and complexes, ideal for a summer residence. However, it is in the hilltops that you’ll find beautiful villas with incredible sea-views. Property here is Mallorca real estate gold.

Famous for being a small holiday resort, Camp de Mar in recent years has undergone a radical change thanks to its increase in new-builds. In surrounding areas like Biniorella, major developments are being built using only the best minds in architecture and design. Therefore, the style of property is predominantly modern, meaning buyers looking for something striking will do well to look in Camp de Mar.

Designed by French architect Phillipe Starck, Port Adriano is one of the most high-profile places in Mallorca. Its cosmopolitan community live spread between apartment complexes and luxury villas – some of which are found in gated premises. The most expensive places are found in Cap Adriano, home to just a cluster of multi-million euro villas. It is one of the most sought-after addresses on the island and synonymous of luxury living.

Illetas, Cala Major and Cas Catalá combined are only four kilometres in length yet include some of the most exciting properties for sale in Mallorca. The buzzy neighbourhood of Cala Major has some prime real estate along its seafront, increasing in luxury quality the further up the hill you ascend. Neighbouring Cas Catalá comprises of only half a dozen neatly designed streets, making it a tranquil place to invest in.
Little Illetas is probably the better-known of the three places, thanks to the appeal of its two crystal-clear beaches. Beachfront apartments are popular here and go for top premium prices.

Sol de Mallorca is surrounded by little bays and unspoiled countryside, making it a favourite place to invest in for second-home buyers. Situated just around the bay from Santa Ponsa, Sol de Mallorca has secured itself within the luxury real estate market. Its attracted a number of high profile faces and has managed to retain its discretion, combining both privacy and peaceful tranquillity.

Property in the northwest is defined by its unspoiled natural landscape. To see what luxury looks like in this area, you should visit places like Deià and Valldemossa, and focus your attention to the outskirts. This is where you’ll find some of the island’s most stunning fincas and grand estates all nestled in the heart of the Sierra de Tramuntana.

Plots of land often come with property in the northwest of Mallorca, which would suit buyers searching for a large garden. Very rarely will you find modernist or contemporary buildings here as the style of architecture always includes natural stone. The area is also a UNESCO Heritage site, making it much harder to construct new builds. Therefore, prospective buyers who invest in property in the northwest will do so for their love of authentic Mallorca.

Nature lovers in search of a place in the southwest away from its glitzy coastline will find tranquillity in the small town of Esporles. Situated in the Sierra de Tramuntana, property here is rustic and ideal for those after a large garden, vineyard or olive grove. Es Verger and Son Capaspre are where you’ll find some of the best historic fincas and country houses in the valley. Residents here also enjoy the proximity to Palma, which is just 20mins by car.

Development in Sóller took longer than in other areas of Mallorca, but since the completion of the fast road (and its free admission) real estate has spiked. This mountain village is full of prestigious apartments and villas, particularly around the boulevards of Gran Via and Carrer de Sa Mar. On the outskirts, in places like Biniaraix you’ll find the perfect set-up for country living. However, properties rarely stay on the market for very long due to increasing demand.

Characterised by its family tourism, Port Sóller is a stable choice for any buyer looking for a second home. The area is peppered with attractive restaurants and cafés, and holds a strong position on the tourist map in summer. Therefore, the area has significant holiday rental potential, particularly along the seafront on Playa de’en Repic. Otherwise, those looking for peaceful family living on the outskirts, will find La Muleta of interest.

Deià needs very little introduction when it comes to luxury property in Mallorca. The long list of celebrities that have bought in the area confirms its star appeal. High Deià and Ca l’Abat are home to some of the most expensive properties, given their elevated position overlooking the village and sea. The style of architecture is consistent, in-keeping with the area’s traditional feel. Striking new-builds are not allowed due its UNESCO certificate, meaning that property here holds historic value.

Inhabited by just 2000 people, the property market in Valldemossa is small which makes it even more exclusive. It is one of the island’s prettiest villages, home to sweet townhouses and large fincas. Once owned by Archduke Ludwig Salvator, estates like S’Estaca, Miramar and Shangrila are some of the most privileged addresses on the island. Therefore, prices here regularly slip into the multi-million bracket, especially closer to the coast around George Sand and Port de Valldemossa.

Named the ‘most beautiful village in Spain’ twice in history, Fornalutx is sought-after in Mallorca for its old architecture, mountain views and close proximity to Puig Mayor. Home to just 700 inhabitants and situated in the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana, this little mountain village offers a beautiful range of historical village houses. Its properties off its golden stone staircase promise plenty of character and Mallorcan charm.

Banyalbufar is located on the southwest coast of Mallorca and remains as peaceful as it did hundreds of years ago. It’s a UNESCO-protected village, meaning that new plots and huge developments have not made their mark on this precious place. It has magnificent sea and mountain views and even has its own beach with waterfall. Property prices are generally lower here compared to other Tramuntana villages like Deià and Valldemossa.

The Serra de Tramuntana is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is where, arguably, the most beautiful property for sale is in Mallorca. The Serra de Tramuntana is rural and rustic on the one hand, but no less luxurious when you see the fincas for sale in places like Deià and Valldemossa. Buyers get authentic Mallorcan living here, thanks to the sweet little villages and their friendly communities. Many of these villages remain relatively untouched by the tourist industry, offering true peace and tranquillity.

Front-line apartments and villas are attractive in the northeast which in places like Puerto Pollensa and Port d’Alcúdia reach very high prices, often challenging those in the southwest. There is a lot of interest in property here given its ideal location for second-homes or holiday rental. Investors have realised in recent years the income to be made in the northeast, particularly in Alcúdia which benefits from 365 days of cycling tourism. This is why apartments with holiday licenses are actively sought-after, and even more so if they’re close to the sea. There is a profit to be made in the northeast, which has created a strong, upward curve in its property market.

However, you will find in some pockets of the northeast like the Pine Walk in Puerto Pollensa, a lot of exclusivity with properties kept within local Mallorcan families for generations. In fact, in some areas like Formentor properties rarely hit the market at all.

Popular for its sports and British tourism, the real estate sector in Alcúdia rarely sees a dip in sales. Loved for its mountainous training ground, old apartments are frequently renovated and then rented-out to cyclists and other fitness types. The expat community is strong too, meaning that buyers limited to speaking only English and German can live comfortably. Alcanada is the area’s grandest suburb, counting.

Family-friendly is exactly what defines Puerto Pollensa, thanks to its stable tourism sector. Therefore, as with other places close by, the area is popular for holiday rentals and second homes. The Pine Walk has some of the most stunning sea-front villas on the island, many of which come with large gardens and terraces. Otherwise, further up in the hills is El Vila, which has views overlooking the port and Alcúdia bay. Given its position away from the promenade, this area would suit buyers looking for privacy.

Much further south and away from the main tourist trail is Artá. This property market is much less in demand than Alcúdia and Puerto Pollensa, but no less beautiful. Clusters of grand fincas, historic houses and large Mallorcan villas can be found here, ideal those after rural living. Towards the coast in places like Colònia de Sant Pere and Cala Ratjada, you’ll see prices rise and with it, the style of property too. Large villas with pools are not uncommon, and would suit buyers searching in a lower price bracket than the southwest.

Port d’Alcúdia is the perfect location to invest in if you’re a water sports enthusiast, cyclist or hiker. It has a fantastic marina for yacht owners to berth their boats and there is a good choice of different properties available, including apartments, villas and large duplexes. If you’re looking for luxury, then consider investing in the neighbourhood of Alcanada which has its very own golf course.

Canyamel is still a relatively undiscovered part of the island, offering residents peace and tranquillity away from the main tourist spots. Its surrounding landscape is beautiful with beaches, mountains, countryside and a dramatic coastline. The most exclusive area to invest in is the Cap Vermell Estate which overlooks the Canyamel Valley and has a beautiful 18-hole golf course.

Formentor experiences a healthy demand of houses for sale from prospective homebuyers looking to buy their dream home in paradise. Some of Spain and Europe’s wealthiest families have discretely chosen to take up a second residence here since it guarantees absolute peace and quiet. Property in Formentor is a secure investment and a purchase here will maintain its value firmly in the millions.

Pollensa is situated at the foot of the Tramuntana range and is perfect for those who love nature, the outdoors and spectacular views. There are many properties here that are eligible for a rental license which means there is the opportunity to earn some additional income. La Font is one of the most expensive neighbourhoods in Pollensa and has some incredible plots to build your own country finca or villa.

Real estate in the southeast is characterised by its rural backdrop, offering prospective buyers the perfect Mallorcan finca or country estate. There are areas around Santanyí which, largely led by a strong German market, has put the southeast on the map for beautiful rural property. Opportunities for a renovation project come up frequently and plots of land too, allowing for more creativity to be had if you’re building a new home. Although, like other parts of the island, regulations are tight and the process can take a while. Before starting any new build in Mallorca, we’d recommend getting in touch with a local architect who will be able to advise on the local laws and how to get planning permission.

Holiday rental in Mallorca is also a strong market in the southeast, particularly around  Manacor which is attractive for families looking for a home near the Rafa Nadal Academy. This promises good long-term investment, as most students will carry out their studies for several years. Otherwise, typical beach apartments to buy to rent are recommended around the popular resort of Cala d’Or.

Golden Santanyí is recognised for its beautiful sandstone properties, which are particularly sought-after by German buyers. In the centre of the town, there are some sweet traditional townhouses for sale, but focus tends to sway to towards the coastal areas of Cala Santanyí and Cala Llombards. This is where architects have built beautiful holiday villas over the years, which are normally bought to rent for the tourist market. The countryside offers some attractive options too, where rustic fincas are found nestled in amongst olive, almond and fruit plantations.

Known for being one of the southeast’s first major tourist resorts, holiday apartments and villa rentals dominate the Cala d’Or property market. The area’s typical white-washed villas (similar to those in Ibiza) was no accident, since the design came from Ibiza-born architect Josep Costa I Ferrer. Prices for front-line villas here will slip into the millions, but due to the quiet winter season will stay relatively low compared to other parts of the island.

Just a 15-minute drive from Palma and its airport, Llucmajor is an attractive place to invest in if you want a slower pace of life within close proximity of the capital. It perfectly strikes the balance between local Mallorcan living and international influences, thanks to its diverse expat community. For second homes, Cala Pi offers a great range of seafront properties with views of Cabrera.

Defined by its proximity to the Sierra de Tramuntana, places like Alaró and Santa Maria are popular for families and those wishing to settle in Mallorca permanently. The countryside in this part of the island is at its most expansive and comes well-recommended for buyers looking for a country house or finca with outbuildings. Particularly on the outskirts of its little country towns, you’ll find lots of opportunity to buy a property with land. This will suit buyers looking to keep livestock or start their own farm.

Expect prices to be high in the centre of Mallorca given the land and mountain views, but what you do get in this part of the island is well worth the investment.

Alaró at one stage was barely picked-up by Mallorca’s luxury real estate due to its rural, and quite isolated position. However, improved road access to Palma has helped put this village on the map for some of the best fincas and country houses on Mallorca. In areas like Los Damunts in the centre, you can step back in time to property dating back hundreds of years. Or for a more spacious choice than Cami Es Raiguer and Son Fiol are the perfect places to raise a family and even start your own farm.

Santa Maria is very well-connected to Palma and is just 15-minutes by train. The commute is short which is appealing to families in search of a country residence with easy access to the capital. Fincas and large country estates are prominent in Santa Maria, and its location in the Binissalem wine region mean that most high-end properties have their own vineyards.