Hostal Pons

For visitors to Palma looking for a cheap stay in an authentic Majorcan mid-19th-century residence, the Hostal Pons will certainly fit the bill. However, unlike most converted period townhouses in the city, this value-oriented hotel lacks any kind of polish or panache—and only the most basic modernization. A front door opens to a small patio with whitewashed walls, a herringbone tile floor, and potted plants that become more abundant as you pass through to an inner courtyard. Up a terra-cotta staircase is the reception area and lobby, where a scruffy jumble of old-fashioned furniture, eclectic artworks, and general bric-a-brac are scattered amongst the building's original patterned tiling and exposed beams. The look has a hint of charm that's sure to appeal to some, while others will likely find it a turn-off. Unsurprisingly, younger budget-travelers typically account for the majority of the clientele, and cat-lovers will find a resident feline.  

Hostal Pons's main draw is its fabulous location on a quiet street, within easy walking distance of practically all the city's top attractions. It's situated in the La Lonja neighborhood, characterized by narrow streets lined with old houses and medieval architecture. Buzzy restaurants and bars in Carrer de Apuntadors, one of the capital's main areas for nightlife, are just a couple minutes away on foot. The even livelier Santa Catalina neighborhood is less than a 10-minute walk, and the city's iconic cathedral is roughly the same distance in the opposite direction. The leafy, upmarket boulevard of Born is also a short walk away, where there are often plenty of taxis. It's about a 12-minute ride to Palma de Mallorca Airport. Alternatively, there's a bus stop a five-minute walk from the hotel that runs directly to the airport. 

The hostel has 21 guest rooms in all, most of which are doubles, with some single and triples also available. Decor leans heavily toward old-fashioned, with antique-style beds, chunky wooden furniture, and artworks that are often religious in subject matter; original features such as beamed ceilings, traditional tiling, and exposed wooden floors add period charm. Although generally clean, expect some cracked tile, patchy paintwork, and signs of wear. 

Most of the rooms share simple bathrooms with showers (five units have them en-suite), but all have their own sink. There's no air-conditioning or central heating, but fans and heaters are provided when necessary. There's also little in the way of amenities, though TVs are available for a fee, and in-room Wi-Fi is free. With little or no soundproofing, some noise from other rooms, the street, and the old plumbing system is inevitable, but not overly annoying for most guests. 

While the hotel offers several spots in which to relax, there's very little in the way of actual facilities. A lounge provides comfy sofas, an upright (out-of-tune) piano, and an ancient television set. There's also a pleasant, leafy courtyard that has some tables and chairs and a rooftop terrace. A microwave, fridge, coffee machine, electric cooktop, plus a small dining area can be found in a communal (though scruffy) kitchen. Wi-Fi is free of charge throughout, with a decent connection. Reception isn't open 24 hours, so late arrivals should notify staff in advance. Guest with limited mobility should be aware that there are steep staircases and no elevator.