Spain: Looking for location specifics

Hi Everyone,

We hope to travel to Spain in June 2026 for our anniversary (and likely 1 year anniversary). we will be flying from NYC and plan to go to Barcelon and then to Mallorca. We'll have about 8 days give or take depeding on costs.

Looking for the best areas/neighborhoods/towns to stay in. Neither of us has been to Spain before.

Barcelona: we would like culture and history and good food (likely at least one Michelin level experience). We identified the Gothic Quarter as a possibility for our hotel stay (2-3 nights). Would that make sense? We do not care so much about nightlife, just seeing the things, good food and a nice cocktail here and there (not everything needs to be high end, local places are our jam). But my husband is a chef and wants one night of a luxury meal experience.

Mallorca: I think we are leaning to Soller or Puerto de Pollensa. Thoughts? We will likely rent a car here and plan to explore more of the island but looking for that homebase that can provide stunning views and a touch of relaxation after doing the things.

Also, any thoughts on getting from Barcelona to Mallorca? Is a plane the best? Are there boat options? We would love to do some type of boat or sail during our time but we need to figure out what that will look like for timing and budget.

Other things we would like to do – a beach day and probably a hike as well as explore markets and towns to explore more local areas.

Thanks!