Hotel Antigua Palma
Palma Old Town, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Reviewed by
Leon Beckenham
Set deep among the labyrinthine lanes that wind through old town Palma, this gorgeous boutique hotel beautifully captures the richly storied past of the Mallorcan capital. Opened in 2019, and formerly the residence of one of the city’s aristocratic families, the sensitive restoration of this ‘casa noble’ has preserved much of its centuries-old charm. Inside, maritime motifs and ancient maps celebrate the island’s trading and seafaring history, while lush greenery cascades down over the palazzo’s beautiful Baroque courtyard. There's an air of hushed 'luxury hotel' opulence, alongside the secluded intimacy you'd expect in a private home.
Hotel Antigua Palma's location makes it a superb base if you’re keen to have all the city’s main attractions within an easy stroll. After a day’s sightseeing, tired limbs can be soaked and steamed in a bookable spa area, while a rooftop terrace provides a splash pool, push-button drinks service, and cityscape vistas. The Gastro Bar is the perfect spot for light meals such as tapas and a great selection of drinks. When you’re ready to turn in, each of the 27 guest rooms and suites is a haven of calm, with soothing tones and top-end comforts providing a peaceful night’s slumber in Palma’s medieval heart.
Hotel Antigua Palma's location makes it a superb base if you’re keen to have all the city’s main attractions within an easy stroll. After a day’s sightseeing, tired limbs can be soaked and steamed in a bookable spa area, while a rooftop terrace provides a splash pool, push-button drinks service, and cityscape vistas. The Gastro Bar is the perfect spot for light meals such as tapas and a great selection of drinks. When you’re ready to turn in, each of the 27 guest rooms and suites is a haven of calm, with soothing tones and top-end comforts providing a peaceful night’s slumber in Palma’s medieval heart.
Highs
- A beautifully restored 18th-century building with a genuine sense of history
- Tiered rooftop terraces with dipping pool, sun loungers and cityscape views
- Soundproofed rooms with spacious beds and 24-hour room service
- A free spa session for i-escape guests, with plunge pool, sauna and sensation shower – perfect for couples
- Most of Palma’s historic sights and shopping are within easy strolling distance
Lows
- The grown-up vibe may not be ideal for families with smaller kids
- Some of the guest rooms only have views to the inner courtyard
- The rooftop pool is a welcome treat, but a little on the shallow side
- Breakfast, where not included, can be pricey
- No other formal meals available. There are dozens of eateries on your doorstep in Palma
Best time to go
Palma is a fabulous city to visit any time of the year, though temperatures for exploring the city are best around spring or autumn. Winters are also much milder than northern Europe, plus it’s a wonderful time for enjoying the season’s busy calendar of festivities and events. Summer months are mostly sweltering and the city and its sights can also feel overcrowded.
Our top tips
Between May and October, the capital’s famous cathedral offers tours of its elevated terraces. Get up close to the medieval gargoyles, stroll under the flying buttresses and enjoy some of the finest views over the Bay of Palma. Its 215 steps require a certain level of fitness, and tours have to be booked in advance online.