A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Palma de Mallorca vs. Portofino for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Palma de Mallorca or Portofino?

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 Portofino, 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. The beauty of Palma de Mallorca is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Palma de Mallorca travel costs.

Portofino

Portofino is a breathtaking, opulent, and exclusive seaside village. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Portofino is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Portofino travel costs.

Palma de Mallorca and Portofino: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palma de Mallorca. Although Palma de Mallorca and Portofino are popular destinations, Palma de Mallorca has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palma de Mallorca is very popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Portofino attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Palma de Mallorca is famous 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. Portofino is famous for its picturesque harbor, high end shopping, strikingly blue waters, and popularity with superyachts.

The turquoise water and white sand beaches

How is Palma de Mallorca different from Portofino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

While most people don't head to Portofino specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The village is mostly about soaking up the atmosphere, but you can also visit sights such as Sun Church of St. George and Cervara Abbey.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Palma de Mallorca and Portofino offer a number of very good restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Portofino. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt cod.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Portofino Better for Nightlife?

Palma de Mallorca is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Portofino is not as famous, but is still a good seaside village to visit for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Palma de Mallorca is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

Portofino has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Most of the nightlife is found around Piazzetta (Oliveri Square) and Molo Umberto I. Happy hours (aperitivo) start around 5pm or 6pm and then as the evening continues, the party often moves to Paraggi Beach.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Portofino Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is notable for its live music scene. However, Portofino is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Palma de Mallorca. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Portofino is not a live music destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Portofino Better for Resorts?

Portofino is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Portofino offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Known for it's exclusive luxury, there are a number of high end resorts in the area. Popular options include Splendido, Sublimis Boutique Hotel, and Grand Hotel Miramare.

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Portofino 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.

Portofino is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Portofino Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Portofino is not as famous, but is still a good seaside village to visit for the beach.

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.

Many people head to Portofino to enjoy the beach. Like much of the Italian coast, the beaches in the area are dramatic and beautiful. They're also rocky and pebbly and can get a bit crowded during the summer months.

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

Portofino is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

Many visitors go to Portofino to see the historical old town. Despite evolving into a famous resort town, Portofino still holds on to its fishing village charm.

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 Portofino Better for Hiking?

Portofino is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Portofino. There are many beautiful hikes and treks along the coastline that pass by scenic landscapes and breathtaking views.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Palma de Mallorca. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Palma de Mallorca or Portofino?

Portofino 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 Portofino. The quaint cobblestone streets are lined with high end boutiques that target the opulent jet-setter crowd that frequents Portofino. Much of the shopping is around Martiri dell'Olivetta Square.

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

Is Palma de Mallorca or Portofino More Beautiful?

Portofino is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Portofino is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. From the scenic harbor, to the charming village streets, Portofino is as beautiful as you've heard.

The beauty of Palma de Mallorca is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With stunning blue water and beautiful countryside, Mallorca is a beautiful island to visit.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Portofino Better for Families?

Palma de Mallorca is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its kid-friendly activities.

Palma de Mallorca is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Portofino is not always a place people visit with their families. The town has a picturesque setting and some beautiful pebbly beaches. It's fun for kids to run around the town, explore by kayak, or play in the waters edge.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Portofino Better for Couples?

Portofino is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Portofino has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Set beautifully against the ocean's edge, this famous Italian town makes for a truly romantic holiday. Ogle the mega yachts in the harbor and then wander the charming streets while you soak in the atmosphere.

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 Portofino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palma de Mallorca is notable for backpackers. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Portofino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Known for it's high prices, the town isn't particularly popular with the backpacker crowd. It is possible to stay outside of town and head in for a day trip.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a popular place for its public transit. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for times when you don't have a car.

Palma de Mallorca has a few public transit options. 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 Portofino. The closet train stations are Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli. You can catch a bus from the Santa Margherita train station. There are also some ferry options.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Portofino a more walkable city?

Portofino 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 Portofino. It's easy to walk around the village and then explore the countryside on one of the nearby trails.

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 Portofino Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Palma de Mallorca or Portofino?

In either Palma de Mallorca or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Portofino has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Portofino than Palma de Mallorca. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Palma de Mallorca, and 2-5 days is enough time in Portofino.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca than Portofino 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 Portofino?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the island of Palma de Mallorca. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Even though Portofino is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Portofino?

You'll find live music and food around the cultural destination of Palma de Mallorca. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Portofino is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Portofino?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the cultural island of Palma de Mallorca. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Portofino is a small town with plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this seaside village makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

A week in Palma de Mallorca or Portofino?

Palma de Mallorca is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Portofino is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This seaside village 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 Budget Tours to Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Palma de Mallorca and Portofino, we can see that Portofino 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 Portofino would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Portofino 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 Portofino Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palma de Mallorca or Portofino?

Palma de Mallorca has a larger population, and is about 710 times larger than the population of Portofino. When comparing the sizes of Palma de Mallorca and Portofino, 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.