Can Cera: A 17th-Century Palace In The Heart Of Palma
Whether you’re looking for some last-minute sun or already planning your 2026 holidays, Hotel Can Cera, Mallorca, needs to be on your radar. Having been fortunate enough to visit two of its Mallorca Hotels before (check out our Palma to Pollença guide), I had high expectations for Can Cera and it didn’t disappoint…
What sets it apart?
Hidden away in Palma’s Old Town, the location couldn’t be better and feels like one of those spots you only hear about through a well-travelled friend. As part of the It Mallorca collection, it was the first hotel they opened, setting the tone for the group’s signature mix of heritage and style.
Set inside a 17th-century palace, Can Cera is rich in detail – from the sweeping marble staircase and crystal chandeliers to the stone arches and antique furniture.
Can Cera is rich in detail – from the sweeping marble staircase and crystal chandeliers to the stone arches and antique furniture.
Harriet, Head Of Partnerships
It’s also worth mentioning that Can Cera has just been awarded two MICHELIN Keys for the second consecutive year, a recognition that celebrates the hotel’s timeless character and design, as well as exceptional service and hospitality.
First impressions
From the outside, Can Cera blends into the narrow, winding streets of Palma’s Old Town. Step through the doors, and it’s another world. High ceilings, soft lighting, and a sense of calm that instantly puts you in holiday mode.
The first thing that catches your eye is a sculpture by Jordi Alcaraz, one of Spain’s best-known contemporary artists, as well as the gorgeous Patio Jaume Roig ceramics.
Check-in is relaxed and personal, and the staff have that easy professionalism that makes you feel like they genuinely know the building and the city inside out. It’s one of those hotels where you can tell that every detail has been thought through, allowing for full peace of mind.
The rooms
The rooms are an interior dream, both luxurious and laid-back with soft lighting, neutral tones and the beds, well, you know you’re in for a good night’s sleep the moment you get in. You get all the character of the old palace, thick stone walls, high ceilings, carved wood, but with a modern update in all the right places, including the bathrooms, with a very inviting bathtub and waterfall shower.
You’ll also receive a sample of the hotel’s signature scent to take home, which is a nice touch and one less souvenir to buy.
Dining
While the hotel’s initial draw is its design and atmosphere, the food here definitely plays its part. Expect local produce, Mediterranean flavours and relaxed presentation, the kind of dishes that work equally well after a day exploring Palma or before a slow evening in the courtyard. Expect Russian salad with tuna belly, roast chicken and Iberian ham croquettes and fresh pasta stuffed with mushrooms and truffle with cacio e pepe sauce.
Breakfast is a highlight of any stay, and Can Cera has taken it to the next level. Expect a selection of fresh pastries, fruits and some healthy granola and yoghurts. The spread of cured meats and cheeses is also far too tempting. We also opted for the cooked breakfast, featuring all the classics, including poached eggs and avocado and for the pancakes, well, you won’t leave hungry…
Things to do
Can Cera is the kind of place where you could happily spend an afternoon doing very little, reading a book with a glass of wine on the cosy roof terrace or booking the private spa and sauna for some R&R, making it particularly hard to leave. Having said that, Can Cera’s location couldn’t be better.
Step outside and you’re right in the middle of Palma’s Old Town, surrounded by independent shops, cafés and centuries-old architecture. The cathedral, the markets, and the harbour are all a short walk away, so you can dip in and out of the bustle whenever you like.
Palma also has an incredible food and drink scene, with plenty of intimate tapas restaurants to choose from. El Camino (part of Barrafina) is one of the most popular and definitely worth booking months ahead.
Other spots worth visiting include La Rosa, Periplo Portixol and De Tokio a Lima, located in Can Alomar.
The verdict
Can Cera nail the balance between classic and contemporary? The mix of heritage design, modern art and easy comfort makes it feel both sophisticated and welcoming. The recent two MICHELIN Keys award feels totally deserved, if you’re looking for somewhere in the centre of Palma that captures the essence of the city, old soul, new energy – this is it.
If you’re looking for somewhere in the centre of Palma that captures the essence of the city, old soul, new energy – this is it.
Getting there & booking
Located 10km from the airport, you’re only a 20-minute taxi or transfer from the airport. And with regular flights from all London airports, averaging just over 2 hours flight time, you can catch an early flight out and be enjoying a class of fizz in the hotel lobby by noon.
Room rates start from £380 at Can Cera, check availability & book online at www.cancerahotel.com.
