tourist guide mallorca

A first-timer's guide to Palma de Mallorca

May 30, 2024 • 10 min read

With 300 days of sunshine a year, there's no bad time to visit Palma de Mallorca © Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

Set dramatically by the sea and rooted in Moorish mystery,  Palma de Mallorca is instant love.

The city is splashed with Joan Miró’s modernist art, liberally sprinkled with historic palaces in honey-colored stone, botanical gardens and cafe-rimmed plaças  (plazas), and topped off by one of Europe’s most staggering Gothic cathedrals.

Add in a hotter-than-hot food scene, a Spanish passion for parties, 300 days of sunshine and glorious beaches but a pebble-throw away and you are looking at one of the most enticing cities in the Med .

Where to begin? Perhaps by stuffing a pair of the island’s famous Camper sandals in your suitcase as you’re going to be doing a fair bit of walking – this is a city for aimless ambling, full of intricate detail, street life, beauty and banter. Our first-time guide to Palma de Mallorca gives you a taste of what’s here and helps you piece it all together, but you’re bound to find treasures of your own, too.

When to go to Palma de Mallorca, Spain

With year-round flights and each season delivering its own merits, there’s no bad time to visit Palma de Mallorca – when you go basically boils down to taste and budget.

Spring and autumn can be gorgeous, with crisp skies, trees in bloom, warm days averaging between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F) brilliant for getting out and exploring, and far fewer crowds than in summer. It’s cheaper and more relaxed to visit during the shoulder seasons and you should be able to score good deals on flights and room rates. Diary dates include April’s  PalmaVela regatta and Semana Santa (Easter) parades, and September’s  Nit de l’Art , cranking up culture with street art and late-night gallery visits.

In summer, temperatures (expect highs of up to 35°C/95°F) and visitor numbers soar. Book well ahead as the best places fill up in a flash. During the July and August school holiday rush, the island is heaving and you’ll want to decamp to the surrounding playas and beach clubs to cool off with dips in the Med. This is peak fiesta time, too, with a flurry of DJ-spun parties, starlit cinema nights and pumping festivals. The biggies to bookmark are in June: the  Mallorca Live music festival in nearby Calvià and the unmissable  Nit de Foc , with fireworks, bonfires, gigs, and devils and demons tearing through  Parc de la Mar by the cathedral.

Flights slow to a trickle and much of Mallorca shuts up shop in winter – with the exception of Palma. Days can still be mild, with highs of around 18°C (64°F), rates and crowds are low, and culturally there’s a good buzz, with lots still happening: December’s Christmas market on Plaça Major, high-spirited partying, flaming pyres and fireworks at January’s Fiesta Sant Sebastián and flamboyant pre-Lenten carnival parades at Sa Rueta and Sa Rua.

How much time should I spend in Palma de Mallorca, Spain?

A few days? Great. A week? Ay, sí, now you’re talking. Palma de Mallorca is often billed as a quick weekend destination or as a springboard for a longer trip around the island, but really you could devote multiple weeks to getting right under the skin of this liveable, loveable city.

Five days is long enough if you’re just planning on sticking around the center, giving you ample time to roam the Renaissance-era sea walls, tick off trophy sights like the showstopping Gothic cathedral and galleries like  Es Baluard , as well as lose yourself in the tangle of Moorish backstreets, historic patio courtyards, gardens and cafe-rimmed plaças .

But why rush straight off? With a week or more, you can tie in a few days in Palma with day trips to the surrounds, maybe hopping aboard a  vintage train to rattle through the citrus orchards and ragged limestone peaks of the  Serra de Tramuntana to  Sóller , driving (by car or bus) the rollercoaster MA-10 to the ochre-colored hill towns of the north, like improbably lovely Deià, or chilling out beaches in the Badia de Palma.

Is it easy to get around in Palma de Mallorca, Spain?

In a nutshell: yes, very. As one of the main holiday hubs in the Med, Palma is extremely well connected when it comes to flights, with regular direct services to 134 destinations in Europe. The city’s airport is Spain’s third largest and sees impressive levels of traffic. All of the big-name budget airlines and car rental agencies operate here. Bus A1 runs very frequently from the airport to the center – a journey of 20 minutes – and on to the entrance of the ferry terminal.

If you would prefer not to fly, you can reach Palma de Mallorca by boat (and, let’s face it, what a way to arrive – the views of the Gothic cathedral rising up above the sea are incredible).  Baleària and  Trasmediterránea run a good ferry service between mainland Spain (Barcelona and Valencia) and other Balearic islands like Ibiza and Menorca.

EMT runs a reliable and inexpensive bus service to the airport, port and surrounding towns and beaches. But central Palma is compact enough never to need a car or public transport. Indeed, the old town’s cat’s cradle of historic alleys and plaças can only really be seen on foot. Parking is a pain and cycle lanes are everywhere, so it’s more fun to rent two wheels – either a bike or e-bike with  Palma on Bike or a vintage Vespa with  Vintage Motors . A great way to breeze to nearby beaches is on the coastal bike path between Palma's port and S'Arenal.

Top things to do in Palma de Mallorca, Spain 

You can cram tons into a few days in Palma, but you’d be wise to avoid just randomly ticking off the sights. With its sunny nature, laid-back Mediterranean rhythm and love of alfresco living, this slowly savored city really works its magic when you dip down that nameless alley, wander along the sea walls in the blue dusk, or kick back at a cafe with no plan whatsoever.   

Flinging up above the sea in a riot of golden stone, soaring pinnacles and flying buttresses, Palma’s whopping great Gothic cathedral is unmissable – in every possible sense of the word. Get there nice and early to see morning light stream through the rose window (Europe’s largest) and cast rainbow patterns across the vaulted interior, climbing up to the roof terraces for a closer look. Right next door – and just as special – is the  Palau de l'Almudaina , originally an Islamic alcázar (fort), converted into a royal residence in the late 13th century, and now the King of Spain’s plush summer digs.

The cathedral is a terrific starting point for nudging deeper into the historic, alley-woven Sa Calatrava quarter of Palma, once the heart of the old medina. Here you’ll be taken by medieval streets lined with aristocratic townhouses, looming churches like  Gothic Basílica de Sant Francesc  and palm-shaded gardens.

Art? Top billing goes to Es Baluard, built into the fortifications of the city’s 16th-century sea walls, which wows with a permanent collection showing works by Miró, Barceló and Picasso. Hot on its heels is  Museu Fundación Juan March , lodged in a beautiful 17th-century mansion, zooming in on contemporary masterpieces of the Miró, Picasso, Dalí and Eduardo Chillida ilk.

Palma de Mallorca’s increasingly exciting food scene has made it one to watch. For a feast of island produce (cheese, fish, meat, fruit and veg, plump olives, wafer-thin jamón serrano – you name it) and tapas and oysters on the hoof, graze your way around atmospheric  Mercat de l’Olivar . In a former 17th-century convent, Michelin-starred  March Fosh is the table to book well ahead, putting imaginative riffs on clean, bright Balearic flavors.

Shop local at our five favorite spots in Palma de Mallorca .

My favorite thing to do in Palma de Mallorca, Spain 

Seeing the morning light stream through the rose window and cast rainbows across Palma’s resplendent catedral is a moment to remember. But my ideal time to appreciate the cathedral in all its Gothic grandeur and ochre-stone beauty is while everyone is still asleep. I love getting up in the pink of sunrise for a run along the waterfront – through the fountain-splashed  Parc de la Mar and on along the Renaissance ramparts,  Dalt Murada , as the first light dances on the sea.

As the city begins to wake up, I might go for a cortado (espresso topped with warm milk) and ensaïmada (Mallorca’s featherlight, snail-shaped pastry) at time-warp bakery-cafe  Ca’n Joan de s’Aigo in Carrer Can Sanç.

Palma is a knockout looks-wise, but really it’s the city’s laid-back beat and rich history that grab me. One of my all-time favorite ways to spend a couple of hours is by wandering through the tightly packed alleys in the old Moorish quarter, diving into lanes like Carrer de la Portella, Carrer de la Puresa and Carrer de Ca'n Angluda to alight upon patis (patios), hidden courtyards with ornately carved stonework, columns and foliage. The  Jardí del Bisbe makes a shady botanical escape from the crowds amid palm, pomegranate and citrus trees, and the  Banys Àrabs baths and gardens recall the island’s fascinating Muslim heritage.

How much money do I need for Palma de Mallorca, Spain?

Budget-wise, Palma is on par with many destinations in the Med. How much you spend depends on the trip you have in mind – you’ll find everything here from cheap-as-chips hostels to sweet, simple guesthouses and five-star boutique hotels with all the luxe suite and infinity pool trimmings. You can save euros on flights and room rates by visiting in the low and shoulder seasons. Restaurants also run the full spectrum. If you want to economize, grab breakfast in one of the city’s bakeries and check out the menú del día (fixed lunch menu), where you’ll often get three courses for as little as €15. Not all sights charge entry so there is plenty here you can do for free.

Average daily costs in Palma de Mallorca

• Boutique hotel room for two: from €200
• Dorm bed in a hostel: from €30
• Self-catering apartment: from €100
• Car rental: from €40 per day for a small car
• Dinner for two at a top restaurant: €80-100
• Coffee and an ensaïmada : €3.50
• Menú del día lunch: €15–20
• Beer: €3.50
• Gallery or museum entrance: €6
• Bus tickets to nearby towns and beaches: €2-5
• Bike rental: €10 a day

The most impressive views and photo ops are from the roof terraces popping up above Palma. Time it right and you'll catch a fiery sunset. There are uplifting views reaching out across the city to the brilliant blue band of the Med from the cathedral rooftop, if you’re willing to stomp up 280 steps. Sitting astride a wooded hillside, the Castell de Bellver , a 30-minute bus hop west of town, entices with views reaching across woods to Palma, the Badia de Palma and out to sea.

If you would prefer to see city and sea twinkle with an expertly mixed cocktail in hand, make for one of the city’s many rooftop bars, including faves like the Sky Bar at Hostal Cuba and Nakar rooftop bar. 

What to pack when visiting Palma de Mallorca

Avoid the tendency to over-pack – light, floaty layers, linens, flat shoes or sandals (for historic cobbles and seafront strolls), swimwear and towel (for days at the playa), sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen is pretty much all you are going to need. The vibe is casual island chic even in the smartest of places. In the cooler days of autumn and winter, you might want to throw in a warm fleece and waterproof.

This article was first published May 23, 2024 and updated May 30, 2024.

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Mallorca   Travel Guide

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Why Go To Mallorca

Mallorca, the largest of the collection of islands located off the east coast of Spain, is also the most diverse of the Balearics. Although it's true that the same aquamarine waters that lap Ibiza – its southwestern neighbor – also roll onto Mallorca's pristine shores, Mallorca's landscape holds many more treasures. For examples, look no further than the island's Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, which lines the northern coast and drops into the rocky Cap de Formentor, or the inland's swaths of green that are draped in olive, almond and carob groves. And its medieval town – Palma – with its soaring cathedrals and palaces and its quaint streets and squares, are in their own way just as delightful to behold. Couple that with a local culture that appreciates good food, good wine and fun – summer is a nonstop party! – and you'll start to wonder, why not Mallorca?

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• # 4 in Best Beaches in Spain
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Best of Mallorca

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Popular Tours

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Mallorca Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Mallorca is from March to May, when average temperatures are in the 60s and 70s and the crowds of summer tourists haven't yet descended on the island. Summer has a long stretch in Mallorca – from June to September – and it's characterized by sweltering temperatures, hordes of tourists and high room rates. Fall is another nice shoulder season with mild temperatures and cooling rains, but January and February are the best times to score decent deals on room rates.

Weather in Mallorca

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

You're on island time Some shops and businesses will close from 2 to 5 p.m. daily for the afternoon siesta.

Avoid the tap water Full of minerals and prone to contamination, the tap water in Mallorca isn't drinkable. Stick to bottled water to avoid a sore stomach.

Find souvenirs at Placa Major This pedestrian square in Palma brims with souvenir shops, selling Balearic vases and jugs, as well as knickknacks like magnets and keychains.

How to Save Money in Mallorca

Book bargain accommodations Look for all-inclusive resort deals in areas like Port d'Alcúdia to save yourself a bundle during the offseason in January and February.

Negotiate your car rental rate There are plenty of car rental companies, so do your homework and find one that will cut you the best deal.

Travel in the low season Everything from flights and ferry rides to accommodations will have much lower price tags in January and February.

Culture & Customs

Throughout its centuries-long history, Mallorca has experienced many different rulers and reigns, from Phoenicians to Romans. The strongest influence on its culture is perhaps James I the Conqueror – who assumed multiple titles during his life as the King of Aragon, Count of Barcelona, Lord of Montpelier, and finally King of Mallorca in 1231 – and his successors, who commissioned art and architecture that are still beloved to this day, including Palma Cathedral and Bellver Castle . 

Although there is no official religion, a good portion of the population is Roman Catholic, which is reflected in the many festivals that fill the calendar. But Mallorca is an open and friendly place to people of all backgrounds and religions. 

Mallorca is a safe place for tourists. Still, it's a good idea to use your common sense by keeping your money and credit cards out of sight at the beach or in your rental car. The blinding summertime sun will likely be your biggest threat during a Mallorcan vacation. Pack sunscreen, and make sure to bring plenty of bottled water for your beach days.

Mallorcans speak Spanish – or a variant of Spanish, called Castilian – and Catalán. But you'll find that many Mallorcans working in the tourism industry speak proficient English. Still, it's not a bad idea to brush up on a few helpful phrases, including "por favor" (please); "gracias" (thank you);  "hola" (hello); and "adios" (goodbye). The official currency in Mallorca is the euro. Since the U.S. dollar to euro exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to check the current exchange rate before you visit .

What to Eat

You might think that Mallorca only has three main food groups – pork, seafood and vegetables – since they feature so heavily in traditional dishes, such as arroz brut (Mallorca's take on paella) and llom amb Col (pork loin and cabbage). For local specialties like these, head to Finca es Serral , located on the island's northeast side outside of Artà.

Mallorca does sweets well, too: You absolutely shouldn't miss ensaïmadas Mallorquina , Mallorca's signature pastry that is sometimes described as a cross between a croissant and brioche. You can find them at  Ca'n Joan de S'aigo sprinkled with sugar, topped with apricot and apple, or even stuffed with pumpkin, among other ways.

Despite its small size, Mallorca is a culinary heavyweight, with nine of the island's restaurants boasting a total of 10 Michelin stars. Zaranda , located in the Castell Son Claret hotel, is the establishment that earned two of those for its inventive tasting menus and interesting wine list. But you don't have to have a thick wallet to dine well in Mallorca. Like the rest of Spain, Mallorca has its fair share of delectable tapas bars – some with sleek, modern vibes and others adorned more traditionally. Try The Tapas Club for the former or La Boveda for the latter; both are located in Palma. Mallorca also offers a wide array of thrumming nightlife. You'll find the greatest frequency of lively bars and clubs in places like Magaluf, Palma and El Arenal.

Palma's gourmet food market,  Mercado Gastronómico San Juan , is another can't-miss spot. About 20 vendors sell everything from tapas to paella to fresh fish.

Mallorca is a safe destination to visit, but you should use common sense. As with any tourist hot spot, petty theft and pickpocketing is common. Be sure to keep an eye on your valuables and be aware of your surroundings.

Getting Around Mallorca

The best way to get around Mallorca is by car. Having your own set of wheels gives you the most freedom to explore the island on your time. Buses are an option, too, but service is limited, especially on weekends. In towns like Palma, there are plenty of taxis, but these are more of an option for inter-city trips rather than for island treks. The same goes for walking and biking. Although there are some lovely pedestrian areas in Palma, Alcúdia and other towns, not to mention beaches, the island is too large to explore on foot or bicycle alone.

To get to Mallorca from the United States, you have several options. You can fly to a mainland Spanish city, such as Madrid or Valencia , and then catch a connecting flight from a carrier like Iberia, Vueling or Air Europa to Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) – also known as Son Sant Joan Mallorca Airport – located just southeast of Palma. Alternatively, you can take a ferry (which can accommodate cars) to Palma from a variety of neighboring destinations, including Barcelona , Ibiza or Valencia.

Entry & Exit Requirements

To travel to Spain, you'll need a passport that's valid for at least three months beyond your departure date (though six months is recommended). To stay longer than three months, you'll need to obtain a tourist visa before you arrive in Spain. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State's  website .

Mallorca is a paradise of soft sandy beaches and aquamarine waters just off the coast of Spain.

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Popular categories, magic of mallorca: a complete guide for first-timers + detailed map.

By: Charlotte · Last updated 25. July 2024 · In: Spain , Travel

Mallorca , also known as Majorca, is one of my all-time favorite summer destinations. But I’m not alone, with tens of millions of people visiting Mallorca every year, I recommend planning your trip well in advance.

To make sure you get the most well-rounded Mallorca guide possible, I have teamed up with Mallorca expert Linda from “She Knows Islands”. Together we have visited Mallorca more than 25 times.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before visiting Mallorca, including how to get around, the top things to do, the best calas, as well as hidden gems and photo spots.

So let’s get to it!

Article overview

What is the best time to visit Mallorca?

How many days do you need for mallorca, quick mallorca tips & facts, how to get to mallorca, 1. rent a car, 2. take the bus, 3. ride the trains and metro, 4. rent a vespa or motorbike, 5. take a taxi, 6. book a rideshare, 7. ride a bike, 8. join a guided tour, mallorca highlights map, 1. bellver castle, 2. palma cathedral & old town, 3. valldemossa & deia, 4. sóller and port de sóller, 5. fornalutx, 6. torrente de pareis, 7. mortitx canyon, 8. pollenca, port de pollenca & cap formentor, 10. mondragó natural park, 11. hiking in mallorca, 12. rent a boat, what is mallorca known for, best beaches mallorca tour, 10-day mallorca itinerary for first-timers, palma de mallorca – south, cala d’or – east, port de pollença – north, sóller – west, diferent restaurant cala do’r, cassai gran café, ca’n joan de s’aigo, café ca’n toni, how much for 1 week in mallorca, like this please help me share 🤗.

The best time to visit Mallorca is between May and October , with the main season beginning in June and ending in September

Spring (April to June): Spring is an excellent time to visit Mallorca with mild weather, fewer crowds and flowers in bloom. It’s the perfect time for hiking and cycling, especially in the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.

Summer (July to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Mallorca, with HOT, sunny weather and big crowds.

Autumn (September to October): This is my favorite time to visit, as the high-season crowds have thinned out, but the weather remains sunny and the water is still warm enough for swimming.

Winter (November to March): Winter in Mallorca is the low season, with cooler temperatures and few crowds. It does rain quite a bit in winter and some hotels and restaurants close down.

10 days is the perfect amount of time to visit Mallorca. If you can’t dedicate 10 days to one destination, a week will get you a long way.

Mallorca is an island, but distances are longer than they appear. There are more than 200 beaches (some say 262) scattered along the coast, as well as nature hikes, charming old villages and historical sights.

While a one-hour drive to reach an attraction might not sound too bad, it is draining to do this every day. With 10 days on the island, you can base yourself in two/three different places so you don’t spend all your time on the road.

What is a Cala?  In the context of the Spanish Balearic Islands, including Mallorca, a “cala” refers to a small, cove-like beach or inlet that is typically surrounded by rocky cliffs or headlands.

Mallorca or Majorca? Mallorca is the Spanish spelling, pronounced with a soft ‘ll’. When the name was anglicized, it was adapted to “Majorca” with a ‘j’ to represent the same sound, which is more familiar to English speakers.

Currency: The local currency in Mallorca is the Euro. These days, most places take credit cards – restaurants, shops, gelaterias, petrol stations, etc. However, I still like to have some cash on hand for the markets and roadside vendors.

Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory in Mallorca, but in the most touristy areas, I felt it was expected and everywhere else appreciated. Leaving around 5-10% of the bill in restaurants and rounding up taxi fares is common practice.

Siesta time: Many shops and businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon for siesta, usually from around 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Plan your shopping and activities accordingly.

Activities and tours:  Book in advance if you’re interested in popular activities like boat trips, winery tours or hot air balloon rides during the high season.

Mallorca is the largest of Spain ‘s Balearic Islands which also include Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera and the smaller islets Cabrera and Dragonera.

Getting to Mallorca from Europe is super easy thanks to budget airlines such as Ryanair, Wizzair and EasyJet. Flights usually start around €50 (+ luggage fee), but sometimes they run sales starting at €12.

I know that United Airlines runs a direct route from New York to Palma, which is great. However, it might be more affordable to get a connecting flight through a bigger European city.

Additionally, ferries connect Mallorca to several destinations in Spain including Ibiza, Menorca, Barcelona and Valencia.

8 best ways to get around Mallorca

Spanning almost 80 kilometers from north to south and 100 kilometers from east to west, getting around Mallorca takes a bit of planning. Here’s a quick overview of all transportation options:

A car is a must to get the most out of Mallorca. Some of the most beautiful attractions are not connected to public transport. I usually don’t like driving in unknown places, but it was totally fine in Mallorca.

Pro tip >> You can rent a car through offUgo , it is the best car rental experience I’ve ever had. Pick-up and drop-off is 100% contactless and the price includes full insurance without excess fee, in addition to 24/7 pick-up.

How long does it take to drive around Mallorca?

To get an idea of how big the island is, it takes around one hour and 30 minutes to drive from Port de Sóller on the west coast to Cala d’Or on the east coast. And you can add another half hour during the high season in July and August.

The longest route running in a loop around the island is just over 300 kilometers long, which means it takes around 6 hours if you drive non-stop.

For those not driving, there are two main bus services in Mallorca. The blue and white EMT buses run throughout the greater Palama area, and the yellow and red TIB buses link the capital with smaller towns and villages.

You can buy single tickets or a 10-ticket bono pass from centrally located tobacco shops and kiosks for the EMT buses.

The TIB buses leave from Palma’s main Intermodal station which is at Plaza de España (follow the yellow line underground).

Tickets can be bought beforehand at the ticket office, on the bus or online. You can also buy 20 or 40 ticket passes for a slightly cheaper price.

Pro tip >> Outside of Palma, paying your bus fare with a card instead of cash can save you up to 40%. Just tap your card when you get on and off the bus, or transfer to another line.

TIB also runs trains from Palma to Manacor and Sa Pobla, stopping at lesser-known villages, such as Santa Maria, Lloseta and Binissalem. On most trains, you can take your bicycle with you for free.

Mallorca’s small metro service consists of two lines (M1 and M2) that operate in Palma. The M1 line connects the center of Palma with the University of the Balearic Islands, while the M2 line runs between Palma and the town of Marratxí.

Also, consider taking the historic train from Palma to Sóller, known as Ferrocarril de Sóller, which has been operating since 1912.

Many of the older towns and villages have very narrow streets, so getting around on two wheels can be a great option. There are many rental places in and around Palma, and you can also book online.

Make sure to take pictures of the scooter or motorbike at the rental place before you leave, and that your travel insurance covers it.

For the adventurous, cycling is a popular option, with well-marked routes showcasing the island’s natural beauty.

Sometimes hailing a taxi is just more convenient than relying on public transport. Especially if you’re limited on time. Taxis are readily available in Palma, but also in other tourist hubs such as Cala d’Or or Magaluf.

To hail a taxi on the street, look for white cars with blue license plates and a green rooftop light. If you’re staying in Palma, download the Palma Taxi app to order in advance.

Is Uber available in Mallorca? Yes, Uber is now operating in Mallorca. You can choose between standard Uber , vans for larger groups, comfort reserve for higher-end cars and order a local taxi through the Uber app.

However, from my experience, a standard Ubur costs a lot more than taking a local taxi running on a meter.

Mallorca’s varied terrain of flat plains, rolling hills and challenging mountain routes in the Serra de Tramuntana, makes it a haven for cyclists. Take advantage of the numerous well-maintained cycling paths and quiet country roads.

Additionally, the capital has a scenic almost 16-kilometer-long bike lane along the Bay of Palma.

Bike rental shops are abundant, with options ranging from basic models to high-end road bikes and many also offer guided tours and support services. 

Are you docking in Mallorca during your cruise? Or maybe you only have a few days on the island? The best way to maximize your time is by joining a private tour!

On this half-day private tour of Mallorca , Miguel will take you to charming villages such as Deia and Valldemossa. You will also stop by Port de Sóller and the capital, and along the way, you can enjoy the views of olive groves, mountains and the sea. It is great for groups as the price is the same for up to 8 people.

🌟 Click here to check price and availability >>

Below you can access my Mallorca highlights map, with pins for all the best restaurants, photo spots, calas and things to see. Click on the rectangle in the upper right corner to access it in full size, or on the star to add it to your maps.

Top 12 things to see and do in Mallorca

There are so many amazing experiences to be had in Mallorca, so we can’t cover them all, but here are some of our favorites:

Bellver Castle is a gem that is often overlooked, even though it is located just 3 kilometers southwest of Palma city center.

Built in the 14th century, Castell de Bellver is one of the few circular castles in Europe. You can explore the central courtyard, the Gothic-style chapel and a small museum that chronicles the history of Palma. But let’s face it, the main reason to visit is the gorgeous panoramic views.

To get there from Palma, you can drive or take the EMT bus to “Plaça Gomila”, from where it’s about a 15-minute walk uphill to the castle. Alternatively, you can walk all the way along the seafront promenade and then uphill.

Palma Cathedral, also known as La Seu, dominates the capital’s skyline and is the most iconic landmark in Mallorca. Built from sandstone in a Gothic style, it boasts one of the world’s largest stained glass windows and a stunning interior that includes work by the famous modernist architect Antoni Gaudí.

Adjacent to the cathedral, the Old Town of Palma awaits with its labyrinthine streets, historic buildings and hidden courtyards. I love to wander around exploring a variety of shops, cafes, museums and photo ops such as the Roman arch below.

Deià and Valldemossa are two beautiful villages on the northwest coast, in the heart of the Tramuntana Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Popular with tourists, you should arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid large crowds.

Deià attracts visitors with its traditional stone houses, winding streets and the main sight, a charming church boasting panoramic views. It’s easy to see why the beauty of Deià has inspired artists and writers for centuries.

Just south of Deià, you’ll find Valldemossa , famous for its former Carthusian monastery, the Real Cartuja. I love strolling through the narrow, streets, exploring the local craft shops and admiring the traditional Mallorcan architecture.

The villages are linked by one stage of the GR221 long-distance trail , also known as the “Ruta de Pedra en Sec” (Dry Stone Wall Route) which I highly recommend for everyone who wants to explore Mallorca’s beautiful nature. 

Pro tip >> On the road from Deia to Valldemossa, I suggest stopping at a spectacular viewpoint called Mirador de Valldemossa II. You’ll find it in the map above.

Sóller, a picturesque town nestled in a lush valley of orange groves between the mountains and the sea, is a gem of Mallorca’s west coast.

Known for its historic charm, Sóller is connected to Palma by a vintage wooden train that winds through the scenic Tramuntana range. The town’s main square, Plaça Constitució, is surrounded by cafes and is home to the beautiful Church of Sant Bartomeu.

A short tram ride away from Sóller town lies Port de Sóller, a tranquil harbor with a curved bay, sandy beach and a promenade lined with shops and restaurants. This coastal village is a haven for water sports, relaxation and enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle.

Pro tip >> Stop by Ecovinyassa, a stunning orange and lemon farm, on the way from Sóller to Fornalutx.

If you couldn’t tell by now, I love a charming old village and Fornalutx in the Tramuntana mountains is no exception. Surrounded by lush orange and lemon groves, the village offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the serene countryside. You should stop by on your way to Sa Calobra.

You have to see this place, it is truly spectacular. Torrent de Pareis , a dramatic limestone gorge, is one of the island’s most spectacular natural wonders. Carved over millennia, the 200-meter-tall cliffs descend dramatically into the sea, culminating at the stunning pebble beach of Sa Calobra.

Get there early to find a parking spot clearly marked on Google Maps, and from there, it is a short walk (400 meters) towards the outlet of Torrent de Pareis. Read more about hiking the area further down.

Are you up for a thrilling canyoning experience? Then you have to see Mortitx Canyon, also located in the rugged and dramatic landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains.

Known for its challenging terrain, the area is a hotspot for canyoning, an outdoor activity that involves descending through narrow gorges, rappelling down waterfalls and swimming through natural pools.

The canyon is also in close proximity to the Mortitx vineyard, allowing you to combine your outdoor adventure with a taste of local Mallorcan wines.

Pollença, Port de Pollença and Cap Formentor are three highlights in Mallorca’s northwest that you can easily combine and visit in one day.

Pollença is located inland and is a historic village with beautiful narrow streets around the main square, Plaça Major. My personal highlight is the impressive staircase that leads to the El Calvari chapel. After 365 steps (one for each day), you are rewarded with a great view over the village.

Just on the other side of Pollença, I can recommend the walk up to Puig de Maria . After a steep 30-45 minute climb, you will have a great view of the north coast and of course Pollenca from the former monastery.

Port de Pollença , a popular coastal town with a beautiful beach promenade. Perfect for a lunch break and stroll along the coastline. The harbor, where traditional llauts lie alongside modern yachts, gives the town a special flair. From here you can go sailing, windsurfing and diving.

Cap Formentor , the spectacular peninsula, forms the northernmost point of Mallorca and is known for its striking lighthouse and breathtaking views. From June to September, the road is now closed for private vehicles (I was once stuck in a jam here for 2 hours) so take the bus departing from Port de Sóller instead.

The old town of Alcudia is another gem in Mallorca most people seem to miss, instead many are drawn to the all-inclusive resorts next to Port de Alcudia.

But I highly recommend you set aside a few hours to explore this charming town renowned for its beautifully preserved medieval walls, Bougainvillea-covered houses and cobbled streets. Twice a week you can browse local produce, crafts and souvenirs at the local market.

Alcudia also serves as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the northern part of the island, including the nearby S’Albufera Natural Park.

This is where I stayed during my last visit to Mallorca, and I love it! Mondragó Natural Park, situated on the southeastern coast of Mallorca, is a haven for nature and beach lovers.

Declared a natural park in 1992, this protected area spans over 700 hectares, showcasing a diverse landscape of sandy beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, rocky coves and a network of trails winding through wild olive and pine forests.

You’ll find two of my favorite beaches in Mallorca, S’Amarador and Cala Mondragó, within one minute of each other. More on those further down.

One of my favorite pastimes in Mallorca is hiking. Due to the summer heat, it is best to explore the island by foot only during the shoulder and off-season, from approx. October to May.

The east and south coasts are not only famous for their beautiful beaches but there are also some great coastal hikes and walks to explore.

I recommend the lovely half-day walk that connects Cala Agulla , at the northern end of Cala Rajada , with the beautiful bay of Mesquida , a large sandy beach. Halfway, you’ll have to make a small climb to reach a mountain with a watchtower ruin. It offers an incredible 360-degree view of both beaches. 

My second suggestion is the fantastic cliff walk from the Cap Blanc lighthouse to Cala Pi . The cliff views all along the way are simply spectacular.

Mallorca’s west coast is a different story. The Serra de Tramuntana spans from north to south with peaks reaching nearly 1500 meters.

If you have time, you should hike the famous GR221 , which connects Port Andratx with Port de Pollenca, 140 km further north. Alternatively, you can do what I did and hike several sections as day hikes.

🌟 If you want to hike the GR221 as part of a group, I highly recommend this 4-day guided hiking experience .

My absolute favorite trek in Mallorca is the challenging route through Mallorca’s Grand Canyon. Only in summer, you can hike along the dry riverbed of the Torrent de Pareis with rock walls up to 300 meters high to reach the beautiful beach of Sa Calobra.

One of the best things you can do in Mallorca is to get out on the water. Guided boat tours are available in most port cities, but you can also rent your own boat.

You do not need to have a license to rent a small day cruiser as we did in Santa Ponsa. And at €160 it was surprisingly affordable for our group of 4.

Mallorca is first and foremost known for its varied coastline with many stunning calas and beaches. Some are hidden away and only reached through steep inclines, and some you can drive right up to, all lined by crystal-clear turquoise water.

In addition, Mallorca is known for its Mediterranean lifestyle, with an abundance of fresh produce including seafood, citrus fruits and local grapes turned into wine, and a slow way of life.

Best Calas in Mallorca

Most of my favorite calas and beaches are located on the east and south coasts.

Cala Varques: This remote and unspoiled beach is only accessible by foot via a dirt track from the main road. The cove itself is a haven of fine white sand flanked by rugged cliffs and turquoise waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. There are no facilities such as sunbeds and umbrellas, so bring everything you might need.

Cala Mondrago & S’Amarador: I love these beaches surrounded by the forest of Mondrago Natural Park. You can walk back and forth between the two in just a few minutes along a path running along the water’s edge. It is so fun to jump from the cliffs at S’Amarador, and in Cala Mondrago you’ll find a little shop, restaurant and sunbeds.

Cala Santanyí: One of the most beautiful beaches in Mallorca, located about 10 kilometers from the charming town of Santanyi. The cove is over 100 meters long and made up of fine, white sand and clear and calm water. Perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It is a Blue Flag beach , meaning it is clean and has high environmental standards.

Cala Llombards: Located in a town with the same name, this is one of the most popular calas in Mallorca. The water here is some of the clearest I’ve ever seen. You need to arrive before 8:30 am to secure a spot on the sand. There are some picturesque fishermen’s houses on the left of the beach, perfect for a little photo shoot.

Calo des Moro: Just down the coast, Caló des Moro was long one of Mallorca’s best-kept secrets. While the secret is out, it is still very worth a visit. Take in the breathtaking views from the top, and then it’s a short hike down to the water. The beach itself is surprisingly small, on high tide it disappears altogether. So find yourself a bolder to lie down on and enjoy.

Es Trenc: If you get tired of the narrow rocky calas (is that even possible?), spend a day at Es Trenc, a 2-kilometer-long sandy beach further down the coast. Still wild and undeveloped, this vast cove of powdery white sand and Caribbean blue water is a must on any Mallorcan bucket list.

Cala Pi: This little cove is an Instagrammer’s dream. There are several popular viewpoints at the top. The beach is accessed via a steep set of stairs that descend between two high cliffs, leading to a beautiful stretch of fine, white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Cala Mesquida: Cala Mesquida is a stunning beach on the northeastern coast, known for its wide expanse of fine, white sand and crystal-clear azure waters. It is part of a protected natural area and a favorite among surfers when the conditions are right.

Cala Deia: This is a stone beach, but I just had to include it, Cala Deia is stunning. The water sparkles in deep shades of turquoise, it’s the ideal setting for sunbathing, swimming, cliff jumping and snorkeling. Get there early to secure the best spot on a cement block at the base of the Ca’s Patro March staircase (see map). 

Don’t have a car? Or maybe you’re limited on time? Then I highly recommend this guided tour to three of the most beautiful beaches and coves on the island.

🐚 Click here to check price and availability

If I were to go back for the first time, this suggested Mallorca itinerary outlines exactly how I would spend my time.

Day 1: Sóller and Port de Sóller

•   Afternoon:  Arrive in Palma (Son Sant Joan Airport) and collect your car. Drive to Sóller, where you will be based on the West Coast. If you’re a lover of old-world architecture and gardens as I am, stop by Jardins d’Alfàbia on the way.
• Evening: Explore the town of Sóller and take the vintage tram to Port de Sóller for a seafood dinner at Kingfisher Restaurant.

Day 2: Cala Deià and Valldemossa

• Morning:  Visit Cala Deià, a small, scenic beach perfect for a morning swim.
• Afternoon:  Enjoy lunch on the beach in Ca’s Patró March, or head into the little village of Deià. If you want to get moving, walk along the coast from Cala Deià to Cala Llucalcari.
• Evening:  Drive to Valldemossa, visit the Royal Charterhouse and explore the quaint village. Make sure to get a photo of the town from “Mirador de Valldemossa II” viewpoint.

Day 3: Fornalutx and hiking

• Morning: Start your day in Fornalutx, often called one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, and explore its picturesque streets. This area also boasts so many gorgeous hikes , I recommend Sóller – Binibassí – Fornalutx – Biniaraix.
• Afternoon:  Stop by Ecovinyassa Citrus Farm on your way back, whether you choose to hike or not.
• Evening:  Spend the rest of your day exploring Sóller, if you didn’t have the time on day 1. Have dinner at La Romaguera, my favorite restaurant in Sóller serving everything from tacos to dumplings.

Day 4: Sa Calobra and Port de Pollença

• Morning:  Drive to Sa Calobra, enjoy the dramatic drive and visit the Torrent de Pareis gorge. As mentioned above, this is one of the best hikes in Mallorca, though challenging. You can also visit without hiking.
• Afternoon:  Check into your hotel in Port de Pollença and go for a walk along the waterfront.
• Evening:  Have dinner at Voramar 57 Pizzería right on the water, one of the best pizza places in Mallorca.

Day 5: Cap de Formentor and Pollença

• Morning:  Drive to Cap de Formentor, the northernmost point of Mallorca, and take in the breathtaking views from the lighthouse. Stop at one of the viewpoints on the way back, such as Es Colomer, and marvel at the view.
• Afternoon:  Head to the charming town of Pollença, explore the historic center and climb the 365 Calvari Steps for stunning views.
• Evening:  Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Pollença.

Day 6: Alcúdia and Playa de Muro

• Morning:  Visit the medieval town of Alcúdia, walk along its ancient walls, enjoy the city and explore the local market (every Tuesday and Sunday).
• Afternoon:  Spend the afternoon relaxing on the sandy shores of Playa de Muro, known for its clear waters and family-friendly atmosphere. If you’d rather escape people, go for a walk in Parc Natural de s’Albufera de Mallorca.
• Evening:  If you’re a seafood lover I highly recommend stopping by Restaurant Celler Ca’n Costa Alcúdia on your way back.

Day 7: Caves and beaches of the East Coast

• Morning:  Drive to the east coast and visit the Cuevas del Drach (Dragon Caves) in Porto Cristo, famous for their underground lake and stunning formations.
• Afternoon:  Head to Cala Varques or Cala Romantica for a relaxing beach afternoon.
• Evening:  Stay overnight in a coastal town somewhere between Cala d’Or and Santanyí. In Cala d’Or, there are lots of restaurants and bars. If you prefer somewhere more quiet, the area around Santanyí is a great choice.

Day 8: S’Aramador , Santanyí and Cala Figuera

• Morning:  Head to the beach. My favorites are S’Aramador in Mondrago Natural Park and Cala Llomards.
• Afternoon:  Visit the town of Santanyí, known for its charming market and artisanal shops.
• Evening:  Continue to Cala Figuera, a picturesque fishing village and enjoy dinner overlooking the harbor.

Day 9: Cala Pi and Palma

• Morning:  On your way back to Palma, stop by Cala Pi. Remember to get some photos from the viewpoint I have marked on the map.
• Afternoon:  Explore Palma’s historic center, visit the stunning Palma Cathedral (La Seu) and explore Almudaina Palace. Stop by Can Joan de s’Aigo for an ice cream and pastry.
• Evening:  Go for a stroll through the Santa Catalina neighborhood, my favorite area of Palma. Have dinner at La nueva burguesa.

Day 10: Enjoy Palma

• Morning:  Head to Bellver Castle for panoramic views of Palma and the bay.
• Afternoon: It’s time to head home after an incredible 10 days.

Best areas to stay in Mallorca

Choosing where to stay in Mallorca depends on your travel interests, style and length of stay. Here are some of the best areas, each with its own unique character and attractions:

The vibrant capital, Palma de Mallorca, is perfect if you love a mix of history, culture, and nightlife. If you only have a weekend or very little time, the capital is also a great base as it is close to the airport and quite central.

If you have more time but decide to explore Mallorca without a car , consider Palma as well, as almost all buses and trains start and end in Palma.

🌟 My favorite hotel in Palma de Mallorca is Hotel Basílica overlooking the beautiful Basílica de Sant Francesc.

Cala d’Or is ideal if you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation. This area is known for its stunning coves, crystal clear waters and family-friendly atmosphere. There are also some great restaurants and fun bars up and running during the summer months.

The marina area is dotted with lovely cafes and restaurants, making it a nice spot for evening strolls. It’s perfect for water sports, rent a boat or jet ski and cruise around to the five different calas in town.

🌟 For accommodation in Cala d’Or, I love Eques Petit Resort , the pool area and grounds are stunning.

Port de Pollença offers a mix of beautiful beaches and mountainous landscapes, making it a great area for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The town has a lovely promenade lined with cafes and shops, and it’s a gateway to the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, ideal for hiking and cycling. 

🌟 MarSenses Puerto Pollensa Hotel & Spa is my favorite place to stay in this area.

Located in the Tramuntana mountain range, Sóller is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of mountain and coastal scenery. The port of Sóller, just a short tram ride away, offers beautiful beaches and delicious fresh seafood.

I highly recommend this area for hikers, cyclists, and anyone who wants to be in the mountains and close to the sea with lots of natural highlights around and easy access to the rest of the island.

🌟 I love love love L’Avenida , a manor house in the middle of Sóller that feels very exclusive and old-worldly.

Best restaurants in Mallorca

This one is for my fellow foodies. You might already know that I usually plan my trips around the restaurants I want to try. I did not do that in Mallorca this time, but I still had one of the best food experiences I’ve had in years.

Below I have included some of my favorites, and you’ll find many more in the highlights map.

OMG, I don’t know how to describe this, my mouth is literally watering. We had dinner at Diferent Restaurant several nights in a row, and all the dishes I tried were delicious.

I recommend treating this restaurant as a tapas place and ordering 3-4 of the starters/raw bar for each person. The pulled pork tacos are my absolute favorites. One day I ordered three servings haha. The truffle croquettes, crispy rice and fried zucchini blossoms also have to be mentioned.

Pro tip >> Right across the street, you’ll see a colorful boho bar called Lola. You can sit down at one of their tables closest to Diferent and order food from there and drinks from Lola.

If you’re looking for the cutest cafe in Mallorca, you have to visit Cassai Gran Café in Ses Salines. Think sushi, paella, burgers and pizza under hanging flowers and fairy lights. They make their own iced tea and even have a pink cotton candy machine, need I say more?!

The town itself is also super charming, with boutiques and a botanical garden called Botanicactus, focusing on cacti.

Ca’n Joan de s’Aigo , established in the 18th century, is a beloved institution in Mallorca’s capital. Steeped in history, this charming café exudes an old-world atmosphere, inviting locals and tourists alike to step back in time as they cross its threshold.

Renowned for their rich and creamy hot chocolate, famous ensaimadas (flaky spiral pastries) and an array of homemade ice cream flavors, Ca’n Joan de s’Aigo is a testament to traditional Mallorcan confectionery.

Café Ca’n Toni , nestled in the heart of Palma’ de Mallorca’s Old Town, is an authentic tapas restaurant, known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Reservations are recommended at night, and I highly recommend getting a table on the patio.

Frequented by tourists and locals alike, the restaurant offers a delightful array of traditional tapas, from succulent jamón ibérico and patatas bravas to freshly prepared seafood dishes.

El Olivo , located in the picturesque village of Deià, is a renowned fine dining restaurant set within the luxurious Belmond La Residencia hotel. During the summer months, a reservation is a must.

Housed in a beautifully restored 16th-century olive press, the restaurant offers an enchanting atmosphere with its rustic stone walls, candlelit tables and stunning views of the Tramuntana Mountains.

Kingfisher is another one of my favorite restaurants in Mallorca. Set on the water’s edge in Port de Sóller, overlooking yachts and sailboats, it is the perfect place to feast on fresh seafood.

Is Mallorca expensive?

Yes and no. What is expensive is relative, but I would say that Mallorca falls somewhere in the middle of travel prices globally, with a daily average travel cost of $150. It is cheaper than Scandinavia and the US, but more expensive than let’s say Murcia Spain or Albania.

During peak tourist season, which typically runs from late spring to early autumn, prices for accommodation, car rentals and activities often double from the low season.

How to travel Mallorca on a budget:

• Travel during the shoulder season
• Stay in lesser-known areas
• Eat where locals dine, buy fruit to eat on the beach
• Enjoy the many natural attractions
• Use public transportation
• Book your accommodation as soon as possible. I booked a week in a hotel in Cala d’Or for my sister for €1300, and a month later that same room cost €2200 for the same time period.

I spent €800 during my last trip to Mallorca in July , including accommodation and traveling with a friend. I got a great deal on Hotel Playa Mondragó in Mondrago Natural Park, set right on the beach. Breakfast was included in the room price, and we had two meals in restaurants every day.

Other than that, we took the bus back and forth to Cala d’Or most days, we got a taxi to and from the airport for €100 each way and bought a few souvenirs.

About Charlotte

Charlotte is the passionate traveler and online business coach behind Sunshine Seeker. She started working as a content creator on Instagram in 2014, before social media was even a thing, and as a travel blogger in 2015. Over the past 14 years she has explored 45+ countries and lived in Oslo, Kraków, Bali and Lombok. Every month she helps more than 50,000 people plan their adventures and learn how to create more freedom by working online.

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6. July 2024 at 13:08

I loved Mallorca when I visited. I bought one of my favourite pieces of Nao there – a girl holding a duck. Can’t wait to go back.

7. July 2024 at 13:42

Love it! Hope you get to go back soon, I’ heading over again next week 🤗

6. July 2024 at 13:39

I have always wanted to visit this island. You are so lucky to live in Europe so it is a cheap budget flight to the destination. It is a little more expensive to travel from the U.S. Your photos are gorgeous.

6. July 2024 at 21:25

Thank you! 😊 Yes, we are lucky that it’s so easy and affordable to get around. But you have all the states to explore 😉

6. July 2024 at 14:02

Mallorca is on our list. I like the idea of visiting in Fall, when the water is still warm enough to swim, but the crowds have thinned out.

7. July 2024 at 13:39

Yes, fall is definitely the best time to visit 😊

6. July 2024 at 17:19

What a wonderful post. Very informative. I got a great sense of the island and it makes me want to plan a trip.

6. July 2024 at 21:24

I’m so happy to hear that, Angela 😀

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Mallorca Travel Guide

Mallorca is quite possibly the ultimate holiday island! Fantastic for families and with a welcoming, laid back vibe that encapsulates everything that’s great about Spain (and with a few surprises of its own) there’s loads to see, do and eat. Want to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the best stuff? We’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you get the very best from your holiday on the heart of the Balearic Islands .

Geographically, Mallorca consists of a fertile plain sandwiched between two mountain ranges: the spectacular Serra de Tramuntana to the north and the Serres de Llevant to the south. The lowlands are bookended by the Bay of Palma – home to the island’s historic capital city – and the Bay of Alcudia . Both are characterised by long sandy beaches and shallow, warm seas; all around them you’ll find great places for watersports and safe swimming. On rockier parts of the coast you’ll see adventure operators taking groups of thrill-seekers ‘coasteering’ – a mix of rock-climbing, abseiling, scrambling and cliff-jumping that offers a whole new way to enjoy Mallorca’s coastline.

Best time to visit Mallorca?

Summer temperatures are hot, averaging the high twenties with negligible rainfall in the lowlands – it’s the best and the most popular time for beach breaks and traditional family getaways. If you’re planning a holiday around land activities, it’s also worth considering the cooler spring or autumn months , which are ideal for exploring the island on foot or by bike. It’s a paradise for hikers and cyclists, with the heights of Serra de Tramuntana offering challenging ascents and spectacular views with some excellent timeshare options for those who plan on coming back in the future. If you sign a contract but unfortunately have to cancel then make sure you call Timeshare contract Cancellation services for some assistance .

Alcudia’s Old Town

• Palma de Mallora:  The capital of the Balearic Islands is lively, full of history and a great place to enjoy local bars and restaurants.
• And in the city itself, Palma Cathedral  (also known as La Seu ) is an architectural wonder that’s bound to impress all ages.
• Almudaina Palace is also found in Palma – it’s a fairytale castle and residence of the Spanish royal family.
• Alcudia’s Old Town on the island’s north side boasts a 14th Century wall and colourful markets on Tuesdays and Sundays throughout the year.

Mallorca travel: How to get there and around

Public transport: Thanks to decades of tourism, Mallorca is easy to get around, with a well-developed road and bus network, three train lines and a Metro service operating within Palma, if you like taking trains then consider checking out these Old West Trains . With so much to see, we highly recommend hiring a vehicle – check out our activities section for some original ideas on that front. If you prefer public transport, your first stop will be Palma’s Intermodal Station , reached by the 1 and 21 buses from the airport. From there, local EMT buses and Metro services will get you around the city, TIB (Transport de les Illes Balears) buses will take you to destinations further afield, and trains will take you to the towns of Inca, Pobla and Manacor.

By bike:  Touring Mallorca by bike is a fantastic way to see the island (Bradley Wiggins is a big fan) and there are loads of places to hire cycles from – your luxury villas might even include them as part of your rental.

Taxis:  There’s an abundance of taxi companies on Mallorca to help get you to where you need to go – though as with many destinations, it’s worth booking in advance (if possible) and agreeing on a price with the driver before heading out.

Hiring a car or other private transportation:  If you’re staying inland or in one of the more remote coastal areas, hiring a car or a  bus rental will probably be necessary. There are several local firms as well as multinational staples, but once you’ve got your own set of the wheels the entirety of the island is yours to explore! Companies like Europcar ,  Hertz and Avis all provide services direct from the airport.

Hidden Gems

• The truly adventurous – or anyone after the quietest beaches they can find – should explore the northern coast. Here you’ll find fantastic spots only accessible on foot, such as Es Canyaret , a beach just outside the village of Llucalari that is renowned for its waterfall and refreshing mud pools; Port des Canonge , a secluded spot east of the ancient, terraced village of Banyalbufar ; and Coll Baix , a stunning, cliff-fringed bay with turquoise waters.
• While you’re in the region, take time out to visit Deia , a small coastal village popular with the creative set. It has been attracting writers and musicians for decades, and when you see it you’ll understand why – it’s a charming jigsaw of traditional flat-roofed buildings and lush gardens, and also boasts a superb Michelin-starred restaurant in the shape of Es Racó d’Es Teix. For another food treat from northern Mallorca, track down fresh prawns from Port de Soller ; they’re exceptionally good, and 2015 saw the town launch a festival dedicated to them (held in early March).
• Over on the other side of the island, enjoy an underground adventure at the jaw-dropping Caves del Drach . The tour winds past clear pools and intricate rock formations for just over a kilometre, leading you to Lake Martel, a 170 metre-long underground lake – your guide will take you on a boat ride across it, accompanied by live classical music. With good paths and lighting and a temperature of over 20C, you don’t need to be a hardened caver to enjoy it!
• Make sure you take the breathtakingly beautiful tram journey from the town of Soller to the port! If you’re into your scenic drives, try going from Valdemossa to Sa Calobra (via the village of Deia), or visit and the charming town of Estellencs and hunt down its stunning hidden cala – don’t forget to bring a picnic!
• One more thing – if you find yourself on the long road through the Tramuntana mountains that runs east to west, stop for lunch in Es Grau for some tasty treats and breath-taking views.

Did you know…?

• Famed architect Gaudi was meant to design new changes to Palma Cathedral, but he dropped out after a spat with a contractor.
• The English poet and novelist Robert Graves spent a large portion of his life on Mallorca – he eventually died there in 1985.
• Es Tranc beach apparently loses about 25 tons of sand each year due to it being taken away by holidaymakers in their towels, bags and sandals.
• The delicious local pastries known as Ensaimada are notoriously difficult to make off the island – it’s said that the sea air helps the dough to rise!

Mallorca makes a superb choice for a family holiday. It’s not too far away (so travelling with little ones isn’t too taxing) and you can enjoy the tourism infrastructure of the island while staying in the beautiful countryside in one of our luxurious villas in Mallorca . Better yet, there’s loads of things to do to keep everyone entertained and tons of soft, sandy beaches to while your days away.

Things to do in Mallorca

• There are plenty of new ways to take on the Mallorcan landscape, like scuba diving adventures that’ll take you to places that’ll leave you wanting to hire an underwater photography professional.  Jungeparc take you up into the treetops, using ziplines, ropes and bridges to navigate a pine forest.
• Or you could take in the whole island with a guiding tour, enjoying everything from the heights of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains to a boat trip around the coast.  No Frills Excursions  are your go-to guys for a tour you’ll never forget.
• Surprisingly, Mallorca has some fantastic golf courses – whatever level you’re at, a day or an afternoon on the Mallorcan links is the ideal tonic. You can find out more through our friends at where2golf.com .
• And if you like heights but think Jungleparc sounds like a bit too much effort, you can appreciate Mallorca from above with a hot air balloon flight. We recommend Mallorca Balloons if you feel like taking to the sky.
• One of the nicest tours of the island you can take is the perfect pairing of walking and wine – you’ll really feel like you’ve earned that drink! You can find out more about some great itineraries at  Mallorca Hiking .

What to do in Mallorca with kids

• There are loads of great museums and art galleries on Mallorca, and the local artists often feature their own work in smaller exhibitions. Something that’s bound to enrapture kids of any age is the Toy Museum in Palma, which features toys from all over the world.
• There are some great water parks across all of the Balearics, and all of them make for an exciting family day out.  Aqualand is worth a try if you’re heading to Mallorca!
• There’s plenty of nature on the island kids will love to explore, with wild new creatures to find and see – try a nature walk and see where it takes you! If the kids love their animals, La Reserva is a private reserve full of beautiful beasts – and there’s even adventure activities too.  Katmandu is a huge adventure playground chock full of rides and things to do, with the highlight being the unforgettable upside-down house.
• Getting on your bike is a great way to see the island too – there’s loads of great trails suitable for all ages too.  Nano Bicycles in Palma offer a cycling tour of the old town or bike rentals to suit you and your family.

Nothing here your cup of tea? There’s loads more suggestions over at our blog on the best family activities in Mallorca .

Recommended experiences

• Why not try some cooking classes courtesy of mymuybueno ? Better yet, they can tailor their lessons to suit you!
• You could mix a bit of exercise with fine wines with Bicillevant’s tour through the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, stopping at wineries on the way fir tastings.
• Beer tastings in the comfort of your villa rental with  Beer Lovers Mallorca ! This would work best followed by a bbq!
• Macia Batle is one of Mallorca’s longest established wineries, and the tours will give you a fascinating insight into wine on the island – along with a few samples!

We’ve even spoken to the locals to find out what their favourite suggestions are! Have a read of our insider’s guide to Mallorca to find out more.

If you need more ideas, just check out our blog on the best family activities in Mallorca .

Best restaurants in Mallorca

• By far the best vegetarian restaurant on the island is Bon Lloc , which serves great lunches in the day and meat-free haute cuisine in the evenings.
• Mare Nostrum is the perfect combination of amazing food that comes at a reasonable price – you can find it in Sa Poblo towards the north of the island.
• If you feel like introducing the kids to something a little bit different, Las Olas Bistro in Palma is family friendly and offers a neat take on tapas.
• And if you are looking for traditional Mallorcan dishes with a twist, Santi Taura is the place to go! The restaurant is named after the young, ambitious chef, Santi Taura, that weekly creates new tasting menus for its diners. Fine dining at its best!
• Flanigan has spent the best part of the last thirty years delighting the tastebuds of visitors and locals alike, specialising in fresh seafood and eclectic Mallorcan cuisine.

You can find more inspiring delicacies by checking out our blog on the best foodie experiences in Mallorca .

Dishes to try

• Tumbet is more of a side dish than a main event, but this Balearic take on ratatouille makes any meal better.
• Sobrassada is a local spicy sausage cooked in a huge number of ways – it’s even eaten on bread with honey!
• And any trip to Mallorca wouldn’t be complete without trying some seafood – the lobster stew known as calderata is one of nicest ways to get a taste of the ocean.

Tempted by a stay in wonderful Mallorca? We’ve got a huge selection of beautiful luxury villas in Mallorca ideal for any kind of holiday – whether you’re going with the kids, want to totally relax with a few friends or challenge yourself with some exciting activities. If you need a hand with anything, feel free to contact our friendly concierge team !  

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• Majorca (Mallorca)

Everything You Need to Know About Mallorca: Where to Stay, What to Do, When to Visit, and More

See recent posts by Leon Beckenham

Mallorca is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Europe — and it’s easy to see why. The largest of the four main Balearic Islands , it offers a stunning coastline, an enviable climate, a rich and fascinating history, and a vibrant capital city. But before you book your flight, get the lowdown on when to go, what to see and, of course, where to stay on this unique, diverse, and spectacular Mediterranean island.

Beach at HYB Eurocalas/Oyster

The Best Time to Visit Mallorca

Summer in mallorca.

Melia Calvia Beach/Oyster

It is no surprise that the vast majority of visitors to Mallorca arrive during the sweltering summer months. Of the 10 million-plus annual tourists, many are northern Europeans — namely, British and German. Most visitors are absorbed into the high-rise hotels of the main resorts such as Magaluf and El Arenal on the south coast, and spread across the huge sweeping bays of Alcúdia and Pollenca in the northeast. Inevitable crowding aside, the weather during these months (June through August) is ideal for lounging on one of the many outstanding beaches with clear, calm waters, guaranteed sunshine, and an occasional gentle breeze to help with overheating. In fact, from July onwards, it is usually too hot to do much else beyond reclining next to water, so choosing a hotel with a decent-sized pool or easy beach access is a good idea. Head to the beach early, though, as most fill up quickly.

Fall in Mallorca

Mountains in Mallorca, Spain; Stefan Kunze/unsplash

For many, fall is the best time to visit the island, when most of the summer crowds have melted away, but the weather is still beach-friendly and the sea still warm. September is a particularly popular time for couples, as kids are back at school, leaving more space (and peace and quiet) for child-free visitors. The beginning of fall is also when most of the main harvests take place on Mallorca, with many of its rural villages and towns throwing festivals to celebrate. Local products include almonds, mushrooms, and pine nuts, each with their associated local fiestas.

As the temperatures start to drop, fall also sees the return of cyclists on the island. From novices to professional cycling teams, up to 250,000 people come every year to take advantage of some of the best cycling in Europe. From the flat central plains to the Serra de Tramuntana’s many winding mountain roads, there are conditions for all biking levels.

Winter in Mallorca

Palma, Mallorca; Mario Klassen/unsplash

Although it used to bring little more than a trickle of visitors, winter is becoming an increasingly popular season. It’s the capital, Palma , that sees most of the winter arrivals, thanks to its many attractions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the fascinating history and explore the cobbled lanes, quaint leafy plazas, and grand medieval structures, such as the iconic La Seu cathedral and hilltop Bellver Castle. The number of excellent boutique hotels in the capital has proliferated to accommodate the trend. Most of these take the form of centuries-old palacios, now converted into elegant, luxury hotels that offer world-class lodging with a glimpse into the once-hidden world of the island’s nobility.

Earlier in the winter season, hiking is a favorite activity, with countless footpaths cutting through the picturesque northern mountain range. The Dry Stone Route is the best maintained, comprising four trails through pine forests, scenic mounts, and along elevated coastal paths.

In addition to some spectacular Christmas celebrations, winter also sees one of the island’s most dramatic festivals — that of Sant Sebastià, Palma’s patron saint. This mid-January, week-long fiesta culminates in a night of spectacular street carnivals featuring terrifying demons wielding and breathing fire.

Spring in Mallorca

Sóller, Mallorca ; Dennis van den Worm/unsplash

Spring sees the island stirring from its winter slumber, with sunny days and warm weather returning. One of the first signs of spring is the famous almond blossom, when thousands of almond trees burst into bloom filling parts of the landscape with a beautiful show of white flowers.

With mild temperatures and clear roads, spring is also great time to jump in a car and explore the many charming villages and towns – Deià, Valldemossa, Sóller, Pollença, Fornalutx. Santanyí — on the island. This time of year is also ideal for a boat trip to one of Mallorca’s two islets — Sa Dragonera off the northwest coast and Cabrera to the south (both are inhabited nature reserves). Of course, the beaches are much quieter in comparison to summer, but the water has not had much time to warm up, so bathing is reserved for the brave. That being said, and spring is a great time to try one of the many water sports on offer, from kitesurfing to paddleboarding.

The Best Beaches in Mallorca

Cala mondragó.

Cala Mondragó; Falco Ermert/Flickr

Part of the Mondragó Natural Park, this picture-perfect beach is one of a series of small coves on this stretch of coastline in the southeast part of the island. Perfect for families, the sand here is soft and white, and the water clear, calm, and clean.  There’s a small beachside restaurant as well as a large picnic area with tables in the shade, plus a good-sized car park a short stroll away.

Undoubtedly one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, Es Trenc is often referred to as Mallorca’s Caribbean. The long stretch of white sand and turquoise waters are backed by sand dunes and wind-swept trees. With no intruding high-rise hotels and tourist shops, this beach has a wild feel to it, particularly in low season. In the high season, it gets very busy, so we recommend arriving early. The nearest resort town is Colonia de Sant Jordi.

Cap de Formentor

Cap de Formentor; Sergei Gussev/Flickr

This narrow, curved strip of sand backed by pine trees may be fairly small, but it has the most incredible views. Given its location on the Formentor peninsula, accessing this beach either involves a boat trip or a drive on a very windy road. If driving, make sure to stop at the Mirador Es Colomer to admire the breathtaking vistas. Behind this beautiful beach lies the Formentor Hotel, very much a place of old-school glamour (Charlie Chaplin vacationed at the hotel, and Grace Kelly spent her honeymoon here).

Portals Vells

Portals Vells is stunning small cove, reached either by boat or a drive through surrounding pine forest. There’s a restaurant on the beach and a few sunbeds, but that’s it. Popular with locals, and impossible to access using public transport, this beach gets particularly busy on Sundays. The sand is soft, the water clear, and you can admire the nearby cliffs, caves, and collection of yachts usually anchored in the bay. There’s a car park at the back of the beach and another farther up the hill. A short climb over the rocks will lead you to another similar beach, but it’s smaller and lacks a restaurant.

Cala Torta; Falco Ermert/Flickr

Those seeking a remote beach will find what they’re looking for here. A half-hour drive down a windy, bumpy, and pot-hole-filled track gets you to Cala Torta, near the small town of Artá. But stunning water, great snorkeling, and soft white sand make the drive worthwhile. Make sure you pack a picnic and plenty of drinking water as there is nothing but nature here.

Playa de Muro

Located in the northeast part of the island, Playa de Muro is part of the vast stretch of sand in the Bay of Alcúdia. It is hugely popular with families, thanks to the array of nearby hotels, shallow waters, and easily accessible play parks, restaurants, and supermarkets. The central section of the beach is the quietest as it’s the farthest away from the resorts of Can Picafort and Port d’Alcúdia. This quieter part of the beach is backed by sand dunes and the S’Albufera Natural Park.

Cala Mesquida

Beach at Viva Cala Mesquida Resort Aparthotel/Oyster

One of the most spectacular beaches in the northeast part of the island, Cala Mesquida is a big swathe of sand, flanked by impressive sand dunes and dramatic rugged coastline. The water is clean and clear, but it can get very windy here, so the sea is not always great for kids. That being said, it is one of the few places on the island where you go surfing. Facilities include loungers and parasols for hire, plus a restaurant and snack bar.

Illetas’ smaller sister, Comtessa, is located just around the corner and is also easy to reach by bus from Palma, but with the added bonus of a car park. The beach itself is small, but the cove is pretty and the water is clear and great for kids. There is no beach club, but a small cafe on the rocks overlooks the beach and cooks up great burgers. As with most of the small beaches on this list, it’s best to arrive early during the high season, or later in the day when it’s much quieter.

Beach at Roc Illetas/Oyster

Within easy reach of Palma, Illetas has all the beauty of a small cove (picture soft sand and calm turquoise waters), but with an abundance of facilities, too. Balneario Illetas beach club is situated at the back, with its upscale yet relaxed restaurant, sunbeds, and umbrellas for hire, plus a smaller beach bar serving drinks, snacks, and ice cream. Another restaurant offers shaded seating up on the rocks overlooking the sea, and around the corner is the more luxurious (and expensive) Purobeach. For those who don’t want to pay for sunbeds, there is plenty of golden sand to lie on.

Cala Agulla

Backed by sand dunes and pine forests and protected on two sides by a picturesque rock-lined coast, Cala Agulla is located on the easternmost tip of the island. There’s a real wild feel to the powder white sand and clear waters here, but it’s still within easy reach of the popular resort town of Cala Ratjada. There are also a few facilities, including loungers for hire and some water sports, plus nearby rocky zones make for some great snorkeling.

The Best Things to Do in Mallorca

What to do in mallorca for families.

Beach at Hotel Pinos Playa, Mallorca/Oyster

When it comes to family-friendly destinations, Mallorca is hard to beat. The most obvious place to keep the little ones entertained is at the beach, and the island has plenty of sandy stretches for small bathers. The long coves that dot the southwest coast are particularly calm and sheltered, with shallow entry points and fine golden sand. Most of the popular beaches will have pedal boats for hire — perfect family fun.

Water-centric fun also comes in the form of several excellent water parks located around the island, just outside the resorts of Magaluf, El Arenal, and Alcúdia. There’s also an inflatable sea-based water park that makes an appearance during the summer in Port de Pollença. Katmandu Park, Mallorca’s biggest theme park, is brimming with activities for all ages. For something a little more educational, try La Granja, situated just outside the town of Esporles. This country-estate-turned-museum offers fascinating insight into the island’s history plus farm animals.

What to Do in Mallorca for Couples

Mallorca is certainly a popular destination for weddings, honeymoons, and romantic breaks of all kinds. For starters, there are plenty of adults-only hotels that cater to couples, from remote fincas in the scenic countryside to luxurious spa hotels with stunning sea views. If hitting the water is your idea of romance, there are numerous charter companies around the island where you can hire a boat for a half-day, full day, or longer — and many don’t require a license. This is one way to find that secluded spot and spend some quality time with your sweetheart. Alternatively, doe-eyed lovers can hop in a hot-air balloon to enjoy stunning mountain and sea panoramas while gliding across the island at sunset — a perfect setting for popping the question.

What to Do in Mallorca for Solo Travelers

Pool at Hotel Petit Cala Fornells/Oyster

While so much of the vacation experience can be geared toward non-singles, Mallorca provides plenty of activities for those traveling alone. Yoga has always been popular on the island, and today, there are numerous retreats where you can find your inner peace. Most of these take place in grand villas nestled among verdant valleys and mountains. If you’re seeking even more solitude, it’s easy to find some alone time on the cycling or hiking trails of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.

What to Do in Mallorca for Thrill-Seekers

With so much mountainous terrain, Mallorca has established itself as one of the top rock-climbing destinations in Europe. For those wanting to pursue water-centric activities, the cliffs along the eastern coast are perfect for deep-water soloing. Another popular activity among adrenaline junkies is cliff jumping, which is usually combined with coasteering and abseiling, and should only be practiced with a professional guide.

What to Do in Mallorca for Partiers

Beach at the Ipanema Park/Oyster

While the island has been pushing to clean up its party-heavy image, there’s still no shortage of nightlife, especially once summer kicks off. Magaluf’s infamous Punta Ballena strip is the central party zone on Mallorca’s southwest coast. Young (mostly British) revelers spill out from its many neon-lit bars and high-energy clubs. There are, however, many more sophisticated places to party, including several beach clubs that have adopted the more chic Ibiza-style vibe. Examples include Purobeach (Palma and Illetas), Nikki Beach, and Anima Beach Club — all within easy reach of the capital. Palma itself has its fair share of party potential — the best place for a bar crawl is along the marina-front Paseo Marítimo. The capital’s hip Santa Catalina neighborhood also attracts a good amount of nighttime revelry.

Essential Things to Know Before Your First Mallorca Vacation

The first language in mallorca is not spanish.

Beach at TRH Jardin del Mar/Oyster

While Spanish (or Castilian) is spoken by all locals in Mallorca, most grow up speaking Mallorquín (a Catalan dialect) as their first language. Most official correspondence and signage will also be in the native tongue. English and German are widely spoken as well, especially in tourist areas, though a ‘gracias’ or ‘gràcis’ is always appreciated.

The Water in Mallorca Is Not Drinkable

Like most islands in the Mediterranean, dinking tap water in the Balearics is not recommended. While it’s perfectly safe to use for things like cooking and brushing teeth, its high mineral and chorine content means it tastes unpleasant and could cause an upset stomach if too much is consumed.

A Rental Car is the Best Way to Get Around Mallorca

Street at Globales Pionero/Oyster

While Mallorca does have a modern and fairly efficient transportation network that covers most of the island, timetables are frequently disrupted and buses can suffer from overcrowding during peak times. There are metro and train lines, but their reach is limited to the interior part of the island. For those hoping to explore the island, a hire car is recommended and can be relatively cheap in the low season from the airport.

Tipping in Mallorca Is Not Required

While servers in bars and restaurants certainly appreciate a little something extra, it is far from expected, and there are certainly no hard and fast rules about tipping in Mallorca. Rounding up or leaving change is common among locals, but a fixed service charge is rarely added to checks.

Local Festivals in Mallorca Are Worth Checking Out

Street at Palma Suites/Oyster

During certain times of the year, it can feel like there’s a festival every weekend, and you should absolutely take advantage and attend. From huge mock battles between Christians and Moors to fire-fueled festivities that go on all night, be sure to check the calendar in advance for festivities happening near your hotel.

There’s More to Mallorca Beyond Its Beaches

Mallorca might be best known as a beach destination, but there is a lot more to the island. The UNESCO-protected Serra de Tramuntana is a 56-mile pine-clad mountain range that runs along the northern coast, offering a great choice of non-beach activities, from gentle to extreme options.

Almost Everyone in Mallorca Has to Pay an Eco-Tax

Spa at Hospes Maricel Mallorca & Spa/Oyster

The eco-tax (or sustainable tourism tax) is a levy that almost anyone staying on the island must pay. It was introduced in 2016 to boost funds directed toward conserving the environment and especially to offset the impact of tourism. How much you pay depends on the quality of your accommodations — up to four euros per night for luxury hotels, which can rack up over a couple of weeks.

The Best Hotels in Mallorca

Our pick for the best luxury hotel in mallorca: son brull hotel & spa.

Pool at Son Brull Hotel & Spa/Oyster

Set at the foothills of the Tramuntana mountain range and overlooking Mallorca’s picturesque countryside, the location alone of this top-end spa hotel is rather special. But the converted 18th-century monastery has plenty more up its sleeve, including a rustic-meets-Scandinavian-chic style, deluxe spa facilities, and outstanding dining options. The top-quality in-room tech, whirlpool tubs, and Egyptian linens also come standard, ensuring this property lives up to its reputation as one of the best luxury hotels on the island.

Pricing for Son Brull Hotel & Spa

Our Pick for the Best Boutique Hotel in Mallorca: Sant Francesc Hotel Singular

Rooftop Pool at Sant Francesc Hotel Singular/Oyster

This swish boutique property has topped many lists of best hotels on the island — and it’s easy to see why. Located deep in Palma’s old town, and overlooking the eponymous church, it combines historical character with impeccable service and immaculate interiors. Glamorous rooms feature luxury-level amenities, including gourmet minibars and Bluetooth music systems. The on-site restaurant is considered one of the city’s finest, and a rooftop pool completes the impressive package.

Pricing for Sant Francesc Hotel Singular

Our Pick for the Best Family Hotel in Mallorca: Zafiro Palace Alcudia  

Pool at Zafiro Palace Alcudia/Oyster

Very few, if any, places on the island combine family-friendly and high-end facilities as well as Zafiro Palace Alcudia . This hotel caters almost exclusively to families with kids, but it features a sleek and contemporary vibe that is usually reserved for swanky, child-free properties. Three mini-clubs are tailored to various age groups, plus expect various pools, from pirate ship splash pools to serene adults-only options. Even entry-level Junior Suites are generous with space and amenities, while upgrades add direct pool access or whirlpool tubs.

Pricing for Zafiro Palace Alcudia

Our Pick for a Beach Hotel in Mallorca: Hotel Nixe Palace

Pool and Beach at Hotel Nixe Palace/Oyster

This landmark hotel exudes old-school glitz and glamour, and has a beachfront setting to boot. The Hotel Nixe Palace overlooks the broad sandy beach of Cala Major, only a five-minute drive from the capital. Cascading down toward the beach, numerous balustrade-lined terraces offer expansive views over the sea. Elegant guest rooms, heated indoor and outdoor pools, and top-notch dining round things out nicely.

Pricing for Hotel Nixe Palace

You’ll Also Like: 

• 8 of the Best Islands in Spain
• A Guide to the Balearic Islands: Which One Is Right for You?
• Where to Go in Spain: A Cheat Sheet to the Top Destinations

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MALLORCA – YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE (2024)

Are you going to Mallorca in Spain and want to know where to stay, eat, swim, and what to do ?

There is a reason why Mallorca is on so many people’s bucket lists . It is an island paradise with everything any traveler could want, from sandy beaches to incredible mountains and villages . Additionally, it really has something to offer for all budgets !

In this Guide I have outlined everything you need to know to plan the perfect Mallorca trip , regardless of how much time you are planning to spend on this magical island!

I have included all the info on how best to get there, the most beautiful beaches and villages, restaurants, and hotels for all budgets!

Based on that you can create your own tailored itinerary for your dream trip to Mallorca!

Let’s start!

Firstly, Mallorca offers stunning natural beauty . The Serra de Tramuntana mountains in the northwest of the island are rugged and spectacular.

Inland, Mallorca offers gorgeous villages , breathtaking landscapes, and world-class vineyards. Otherwise, enjoy pristine white beaches and the sapphire-blue Mediterranean on nearly every coast of the island. I have chosen for you the best beaches and the best towns to visit , read on!

Furthermore, the southeast coast offers supremely Instagrammable coves or calas . The secluded, sandy beaches and turquoise waters you find here are heavenly.

Therefore, Mallorca truly is an island for any traveler, with any budget and any length of stay !

Read on to figure out how best to divide your time and get around.

MALLORCA – BASIC FACTS

Getting there.

Mallorca , in Spain, is the largest of the Balearic Islands , your little paradise in the middle of the Mediterranean . Therefore, it is easy to reach by plane from most parts of Europe. Pretty much every country in Europe has now direct connections to Palma de Mallorca, where the airport is, some even a few times per day!

However, you can even arrive by boat thanks to regular crossings from Barcelona or Ibiza.

GETTING AROUND

If you’re going to be doing any traveling around the island, you will need a car . Fortunately, the mountainous landscapes make for spectacular, exciting drives! Therefore, even a journey of a few hours will feel like a pleasure.

However, the need for a car means they’re always in demand on the island. So, our top advice would be to book the car months in advance . Unfortunately, even as much as three months might be a little short notice if you’re visiting during peak season. Furthermore, be advised that automatic cars disappear even sooner before the European holidays. Therefore, booking your car in plenty of time will save you stress and hassle before your holiday.

One final word of advice would be to park outside of towns where possible. This is because most settlements in Mallorca have narrow streets and limited parking space. Therefore, a short walk into town from the outskirts will save you the trouble of trying to ditch the car in the center.

BEST TIME TO VISIT:

Shoulder season months of late May, June, and September would be ideal for a visit. As anywhere in Europe avoid the end of July and at any cost August , it will be overpopulated, overpriced, and overbooked.

Read my post on Mallorca – Best & Worst time to visit where I offer season and a month-by-month guide to exploring the island. Here you will find out detailed tips on when to go to avoid crowds, get the best deals and experience all that Mallorca has to offer at the best time!

Read here my Month-By-Month Guide to visiting Mallorca for even more detailed information.

HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED?

Given Mallorca’s size and the wonderful variety of towns, landscapes, and activities, you’ll want to spend a decent amount of time there. 4 or 5 days would be possible , but unfortunately, you’d probably have to rush a bit. Therefore, my advice would be to spend at least 7-10 days on the island. I usually take 5 days off work and add two weekends on the side, and that works very well!

HOW TO ORGANISE YOUR TIME

You will not be able to see the whole island just in a few days . After all, there are more than 200 beaches to see and so many beautiful towns and hidden gems!

However, if you really can’t make the time to spend a week in Mallorca, we’d advise you to prioritize one area . Therefore, you won’t have to waste precious holiday time traveling . It would be a good idea to choose either the east or west side of the island . By doing this, either you’ll see Palma and the mountains, or you’ll have time to explore the charming fishing villages on the east coast.

TOP THINGS TO DO

You could spend a month in Mallorca and you still wouldnt see it all. Why? Because Mallorca is just full of beautiful spots around ever corner, some of them still less-known than the others. Again to help you plan your visit, I have preselected the must-visit spots !

TOWNS & VILLAGES

Mallorca has some of the most beautiful towns and villages you will find in Spain if not in Europe. For me Deia is the ultimate favourite. I would love to have a house here, but similarly Valldemossa is also a dream! Read on to find out the top 4 towns & villages for your trip!

Deia  is on the rugged  northwestern coast of Mallorca , amidst the UNESCO World Heritage site of the  Tramuntana mountains . Therefore, you can expect  breathtaking sea views  and landscapes almost everywhere you look. 

However, Deia is much more than its sleepy appearance might have you believe. It has been an  artistic hub for decades , attracting visitors as diverse as war poet Robert Graves, Kate Moss, Harry Styles – the list goes on. The tiny village boasts world-class hotels and restaurants , as well as a small but stunning Cala Deia and an Instagram-famous restaurant Ca’n Pastro March.

Read my Ultimate Guide to Deia for much more info!

2. VALLDEMOSSA

Valldemossa is another stunning village in the Tramuntana mountains, just 20 minutes away from Deia. You would visit those two villages during one trip given how close they are to each other.

Here you really can see why people fall in love with Mallorca. Make sure to visit Valldemossa early in the morning before the crowds come and if you can make a short trip to Port de Valldemossa , which truly is special and much less crowded!

Soller is a pretty, relaxing town. It feels much bigger and busier than Deia and Valldemossa . It has some great hotels, food and drink, culture, hiking and cycling, and much more. You will probably have heard about Soller because of its famous tram . All together Soller is a great spot and a very convenient base for discovering the North-West of Mallorca.

Mallorca’s capital  Palma  has been a  must-visit destination  for several years now. It is not hard to see why. The city is  unbelievably charming , from ancient, winding streets in the Old Town, to the magnificent waterfront. Additionally, it has one of the most  exciting food scenes in Europe . From morning pastries to midday tapas, to a Michelin-starred meal in the evening, Palma has a huge range of unforgettable dining experiences. 

Read my Guide to Palma de Mallorca for more info!

Mallorca has more than 200 beaches so it can be quite overwhelming which one to choose. Find below my top 5 for you! If you want a wider selection then please find here my list of Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches as well as Top 7 Less-Known Beaches in Mallorca !

1. CALA LLOMBARDS

This is probably the most widely photographed beach in Mallorca on social media. It could well be that it is the reason why you want to come and visit.

If you want to spend time on Cala Llombards (and S’Almunia and Moro) then it makes sense to organize your accommodation in the South-East of the island, otherwise, you will be driving over an hour or so in case you are based in Palma or the Nort-West of the island.

It is important to arrive early if you want to park your car within short walking distance of the beach.

2. CALA S’ALMUNIA

Although it is tiny, Cala S’Almunia is definitely one of the most beautiful and iconic spots in Mallorca. Getting there requires some hiking, or climbing rather steep stairs but you can combine seeing Cala SÁlmunia and Cala del Moro in one go and you will be spoilt for views. 

I recommend arriving early, as spots for lying down in the bay are rather limited.

3. CALA DEIA

Deia, and generally the North-West of Mallorca, is my favorite part of the island. That said, the beaches in that part of the island are rather rocky and therefore not as family-friendly as the ones in the South-East . This should not discourage you from visiting (or even staying) in this magical part of the island.

Once a fishing port – Cala Deia – is now a rather famous spot due to the location of Ca’s Patro March restaurant .

In order to avoid not finding a parking spot, you really have to arrive ideally before 10 am .

4. PORT VALLDEMOSSA

This is an option for those who would rather avoid crowds and enjoy something slower and more authentic . I fell in love with this little Cala and will surely return here.

The drive here is not for the faint-hearted, but you will be rewarded for your efforts . There is also a little restaurant in here, so it really is perfect!

5. CALA TORTA

After being disappointed by a few beaches in the North East of Mallorca we fell in love with Cala Tort. You will need to park your car and then go down the unpaved dirt road, but I promise you it will be worth it. 

Even though it is rather secluded and there are no usual amenities present at other beaches it is still a great option, even for families . That said come prepared with your drinks and food.

Find here my list of the Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches as well as the Top 7 Less-Known Beaches in Mallorca !

RESTAURANTS & BARS

Apart from having some of the most stunning beaches in Europe, Mallorca now also has a  thriving gastronomic scene . Not only does it offer an incredible quality of cuisine , but often unparalleled views to accompany the food.  From vegetarians to gourmet cuisine lovers , Mallorca has something to offer for all.

You can check my list of Top 10 Most Beautiful Restaurants in Mallorca here.

1. El Olivo, La Residencia, Belmond Hotel, Deia

Having dinner at El Olivo was without a doubt the highlight of my trip . I have and will recommend to everyone to dine here at least once in their lifetime .

This beautiful restaurant is located in a converted 16th-century olive press , overlooking the beautiful village of Deià . Imagine world-class Mediterranean cooking combined with an unbeatable mountain and sea setting. It is rather expensive , so keep it for a special occasion!

2. Ca’s Patro March, Deia

The food at Ca’s Patro March is definitely not what brings those long queues of guests ready to wait for hours to be seated. Above all, it is undoubtedly the views of Cala Deia with its emerald colors. So if you are fine with decent but average food the views will make up for it. Try to ask for a table directly by the water, it makes a big difference.

3. Patiki Beach, Soller

Patiki Beach seems to be the go-to place for locals for a more relaxed eating out . Come barefoot and enjoy this Mediterranean Beach Bar & Kitchen with a seasonal farm-to-table menu. Their food is meant not to be complicated but rather a colorful and flavorsome celebration of the raw ingredients which they consciously source on the island. Most important, don’t forget to go for a swim between the courses and give in to the island’s way of living.

4. Abaco Bar, Palma de Mallorca

Bar Abaco is a  grand, surreal cocktail bar in the heart of the Old Town of Palma . Moreover, this hidden gem is undoubtedly the  prettiest bar in the whole of Mallorca . It is behind grand wooden doors in the large courtyard of an  old, aristocratic house . Here, you’ll find incredible, traditional decor with  candles, paintings, mismatched antique furniture , and baskets overflowing with fruit and vegetables. The bar offers a superb range of delicious cocktails. Therefore, it is  perfect for pre-dinner drinks  or an atmospheric nightcap.

5. NENI, Soller

You will find this Ibiza-like restaurant on the roof terrace at Bikini Island & Mountain Hotel in Port de Sóller . Neni offers Israeli-Oriental fusion cuisine and invites its guests to enjoy it “Balagan style”. This translates into “pleasant chaos” at long tables for casual dining with family and friends. Not only do you get to eat tasty and original food but also to see the breathtaking view of the Port de Sóller and the Tramuntana Mountains. Please note to make reservations online .

WHERE TO STAY? 

Depending on which part of the island you want to stay at and on your budget you could choose among the following options:

MID-RANGE & BUDGET

Es Turo is probably the best value for quality one can find on the island . The owner has created a great concept, combining a hotel, restaurant, concept store, and even a beach club. Additionally, it has a winning location in the South-East close to some of the best beaches on the island.

It is also a great option for families as it offers bigger rooms with living & sleeping areas and food options throughout the day. There are approximately 20 rooms in different categories and different buildings, and some are particularly pretty with views overlooking the valley.

In case you would like to read my   full review of Finca Es Turo  then please find it  here.

HOSTAL PONS

Hostal Pons is a great budget option in case you want to base yourself in Palma de Mallorca . It offers an experience between a simple hotel and a hostel. It is  surprisingly charming for the price you pay for it  and has some  traditional Mallorcas furniture , which you would normally find in much more expensive hotels. Its rooms are clean, bright and can come with a private en-suite bathroom. Furthermore, it has a  central location . Therefore, it is perfect for visitors who want to stay in the heart of the city on a budget . Truly recommend!

This old Mallorca country house is located in the magical Sierra de Tramuntana Mountains , very close to both Valldemossa and Deia. Maybe it is the lush gardens and its wildflowers or the sound of silence interrupted only by the chirping of birds that makes the whole place as if out of a fairytale . 

Without a doubt, it is a place for nature lovers and those who appreciate peace. Son Viscos focuses on maintaining traditions, supporting the well-being of the body and the soul as well as healthy and local food. Please note this is an adults-only hotel .

BELMOND LA RESIDENCIA

This is undeniably the best place to stay in the whole of Mallorca if one wants luxury. La Residencia is a very special place. Therefore it should be reserved for very special occasions because it really doesn’t get much better.

It is genius at combining rustic beauty and traditional charm with luxury while offering an unbeatable mountain setting. Also, its restaurant El Olivo is one of my favorite restaurants in the world.

In case you would like to find out more about La Residencia, find here my   full review of La Residencia  with all the details.

ES RACO D’ARTA

This 13th century finca is a realization of a dream of the owners to bring back the long-lost Mallorca they knew from childhood. The island where nature, architecture, culture, and food were deeply rooted and connected in everyday life.

Above all, Es Raco d’Artà is a place for those seeing a refuge from busy lives . In essence, it provides a peaceful oasis for reconnecting with nature, conscious living, and holistic well-being.

FINAL TIPS FOR YOUR TRIP TO MALLORCA

Mallorca is my favorite European island, full of hidden treasures! So I hope that this guide will help you make the best out of your trip!

Please consider the following points to make the most of your stay:

• My absolute  two favorite times  to visit Mallorca are either the  first half of June or mid-September . That said  avoid the end of July and  at any cost  August , it will be overpopulated, overpriced, and overbooked.
• Make sure to rent a car , you will need it to explore all the pretty spots and it will give you flexibility!
• As always, book your accommodation and restaurants in advance , otherwise, all the good places will be booked out and you will end up staying somewhere average and overpaying for it!
• Try to spend a week to really get to know the island. For a short trip, 4 nights would be a real minimum!

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Travel info., attractions, a comprehensive guide to the regions of mallorca.

From the bustling city life of Palma de Mallorca to the tranquil beauty of the island’s coastline and inland regions, Mallorca offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor. As you discover Mallorca, you’ll understand why it remains a perennial favorite among holidaymakers, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant lifestyle.

Palma City: Capital of Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca, the cosmopolitan capital of the Balearic Islands, is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and gastronomy. Known for its bustling old town with narrow streets, Palma de Mallorca offers a unique blend of past and present, enticing visitors from around the world. The beautiful sandy beaches and the historic town center are in walking distance of each other. When you head north, towards the outskirts of the city, you’ll discover the magnificent Tramuntana Mountain Range.

South Coast: A Paradise for Beach Lovers

The south coast of Mallorca, dotted with golden sand beaches and chic boutique hotels, is a haven for beach lovers. Santa Ponsa, a charming town and family friendly resort located here, is known for its family-friendly resorts and vibrant nightlife. From sunbathing on the sandy beach to deep sea fishing, there’s never a dull moment on the south coast.

Southwest Coast: Mix of Glamour and Tranquility

The southwest coast of Mallorca is a mesmerizing mix of glamour and tranquility. Discover luxury marinas filled with private yachts, explore small towns offering nice restaurants and cocktail bars, or enjoy a round of golf with a view. This region’s crown jewel is undoubtedly the town of Santa Ponsa. It’s a great place for beach holidays, thanks to its beautiful beaches and family-friendly atmosphere.

Explore the Northern Coast of Mallorca Island

The northern coast of Mallorca island is a breathtaking region filled with picturesque villages, rugged mountains, and long sandy beaches. Nestled between the Tramuntana Mountain and the Mediterranean Sea, the charming villages along the coast are perfect for immersing yourself in the island’s culture and history.

Northwest Coast: The Traditional Charm

The northwest coast of Mallorca, with the world heritage site of Serra de Tramuntana and traditional villages like Deià and Valldemossa, is a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage. You’ll find ancient olive trees, blossoming almond trees, and idyllic coves. The historic towns and traditional village life in this region offer a unique, down-to-earth experience.

Inland: The Soul of Mallorca

Visit Mallorca and Venture inland, you will discover the authentic charm of Mallorca. Immerse yourself in the local residents’ peaceful lifestyle, savor fresh local produce, and visit the bustling markets. The inland is home to picturesque orange groves and dense pine forests, offering a welcome respite from the bustling beach resorts. Don’t miss a visit to the traditional villages to fully experience the heart of Mallorca.

Family-Friendly Activities

Mallorca is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. From water parks to wildlife and nature reserves, there is no shortage of fun and educational experiences for children of all ages.

Delight your taste buds on a gastronomic tour of Mallorca. Relish the vibrant flavors of traditional dishes, sample the island’s finest wines, and learn the art of local cuisine in a cooking class. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or a curious traveler, Mallorca’s culinary scene promises to leave you craving more.

Discover Mallorca’s famous golden-sand beaches and hidden coves. Visit Playa de Muro for a family-friendly experience, enjoy the dramatic beauty of Torrent de Pareis, or seek tranquility at Cala Tuent. Dive into the crystal clear waters or enjoy a serene sunset — every beach has a unique charm.

Outdoor Adventures

Adventure seekers will love the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perfect for hiking and cycling. For those who prefer water-based activities, sailing, scuba diving, and paddleboarding opportunities abound.

Historic Sights

Explore the rich tapestry of Mallorca’s history. Visit the Roman ruins at Alcudia, walk the medieval walls of Palma, or wander the beautiful manor houses in Valldemossa. Each site provides a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past.

Art & Culture Mallorca

Immerse yourself in Mallorca’s thriving arts and culture scene. Visit world-class museums, witness the creativity of local artisans, or attend lively performances that reflect the island’s rich cultural heritage. Discover the creative pulse of Mallorca and be inspired by its vibrant artistic spirit.

Balearic Islands: A Slice of Paradise

Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands and boasts a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors. From fabulous beaches to hidden gems, there is something for everyone. In recent years, the island has become one of the worlds the top destinations in Spain for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Small Coastal Village Charm

The small village of Deià, located on the northern coast of Mallorca, is one such destination not to be missed. Famous for its connection to writer George Sand, the town of Deià has become a hub for local artists and features several art galleries. Wander through the narrow streets and soak up the charm of this beautiful village.

Navigating Mallorca is easy, thanks to its well-connected public transport system. Buses and trains service the airport and most major towns and attractions on the island. Alternatively, visitors can rent a car to explore at their own pace.

Accommodation

Mallorca’s diverse accommodation options cater to all budgets and travel styles, ensuring a memorable vacation for everyone. From the opulent luxury resorts to the cozy bed and breakfasts and budget-friendly hostels, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island. So pack your bags, book your stay, and discover the wonders that Mallorca has to offer.

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Travel & lifestyle blog

30 January 2024

Mallorca Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors: All You Need to Know

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Mallorca is the biggest of the Balearic Islands in Spain. It has been a popular tourist spot in Europe and around the world for a long time. It has beautiful beaches, picture-perfect landscapes, lively nightlife, and a lot of cultural history. In this post, I’ll discuss my honest, up-to-date Mallorca travel guide, as I recently visited. Before visiting this Mediterranean island for the first time, here’s everything you need to know.

If you are planning your first trip to Mallorca, Spain,? Look no further! This comprehensive Mallorca travel guide is ideal for first-timers who want to maximise their stay.

But before I start, let me clarify the confusion of the question, “ Are Majorca and Mallorca the same place?”

They both mean the same place, so the answer is yes. Mallorca and Majorca are both names for the same island. Don’t let the various spellings confuse you! “Mallorca” actually comes from the Catalan language spoken on the Balearic Islands, while “Majorca” comes from Spanish.

The island of Mallorca is located in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s part of Spain, not a separate country. If you think of Mallorca, you should also think of Ibiza, which is right next door.

Also, it’s not far from most of Spain’s big cities, like Barcelona and Valencia. Later in the post, I’ll discuss how to get to Mallorca from the cities I mentioned above.

Table of Contents

Is Mallorca worth visiting?

Absolutely! Mallorca is not, despite popular belief, merely a party-loving tourist trap in Spain, like its neighbouring island, Ibiza. Firstly, the island is so big that it’s almost impossible to see everything on your first visit, especially if you are only there for a short time. With its beautiful beaches, charming villages, lively nightlife, and delicious food, this Balearic gem has something for everyone, no matter what time of year you go.

I was in Mallorca not long ago, from the end of December 2023 to the beginning of January 2024. I have all the latest information, tips, and suggestions, so whether you’re interested in history and want to visit historic sites or nature and want to have fun in the great outdoors, keep reading; I’ve got you covered!

This Mallorca travel guide for first-timers will help you have an amazing trip as you discover the island’s many landscapes and rich cultural history.

Travel Guide to Mallorca: Best Time to Visit and Duration of Stay

A lot of people from all over the world love to visit Mallorca because of its beautiful beaches, villages, and landscapes, as well as its lively Spanish culture. But timing is everything when you’re making plans for your visit.

The summer months of June through September are the busiest for travellers to Mallorca due to the pleasant year-round weather, with highs of 25–30°C (77–86°F). But going in the spring, autumn, or even winter can be just as fun because the island isn’t as crowded and prices are usually lower.

As I already said, I recently went there with my family on a trip that wasn’t during the busy season. In the following section, I’ll talk about the pros of visiting outside of peak season. If you’re planning to visit during peak season, things will be very different.

When is the best time to visit Mallorca? Benefits of Visiting Off-Season

Lower prices: I agree that Mallorca is one of the more pricey places to go on holiday in Spain. But that doesn’t mean that budget travellers like you and me can’t visit this beautiful island.

You can get good deals on almost everything when you visit the island outside of peak season. We booked a two-bedroom flat with a balcony that was close to Palma City and cost less than a thousand pounds for four people.

During the peak season in June, for example, a good hotel room can cost anywhere from £900 to £1500 for a maximum of a week, making accommodations the most expensive part of a trip to Mallorca. Also, these prices are for bookings made about three to four months ahead of time or so.

Guide to Mallorca: Other Pro of visiting off-season

Fewer crowds: Like any other popular European holiday spot, these places will have fewer people visiting during the off-season, which will make the trip much more enjoyable.

Also, if you go to Mallorca outside of peak season, you won’t have to worry about booking your rental car four weeks ahead of time. By the way, you have to rent a car in Mallorca. Read on; later in the post, I talk more about how to get around the island.

How many days in Mallorca are enough?

Mallorca is not a small island as you might think, which is something most people don’t know. It’s the biggest island by size in Spain, according to the World Atlas. That being said, I would say that you need at least one to two weeks to fully explore the island, no matter when you go.

For travellers outside of Europe, I think this is especially important. But for people like me who live in Europe, four days would also be enough to see at least a few of the most important sights.

Even though we were there for eight days, we still couldn’t see everything. But we did see most of the main highlights, and we can easily go back to see other important sites or places we may have missed.

PRO TIP: Cities and towns are a long way apart. It could take you two to three hours to get from one city to another, like Palma to Deia. It can be tiring to drive long distances every day. Unlike other European cities, you can’t visit multiple towns in a day. Consider that when deciding how long to stay on the island.

If you don’t want to stress yourself out by trying to see all the important things in one day, I suggest that you carefully plan your schedule. It will be harder to enjoy your trip if you do that.

Ultimately, when you go depends on why you’re travelling and what you like. That being said, I hope this brings things into perspective and helps you decide when the best time is to visit this Mediterranean paradise.

Travel Guide to Mallorca: How to get to Mallorca

The fastest and easiest way to get to Mallorca is by air, with many international flights daily to Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI). You can then take a taxi, rent a car, or use public transport to get to anywhere on the island you want to go. You can also take a ferry from the mainland of Spain or from nearby islands like Ibiza to get to Mallorca.

There are direct flights to Palma de Mallorca from North American countries like the US and Canada for people who are not from Europe. Since they are far away, though, you can expect them to be pricey.

Unfortunately, for travellers from my homeland (Africa), there are no direct flights to Mallorca. There are, however, direct flights to cities on Spain’s mainland, such as Barcelona. This is the closest airport to Mallorca and is where you would then fly to get there.

Getting to Mallorca Travel Guide: Tips for booking tickets

If you decide to fly to Mallorca, the most essential thing I can tell you is to book your flight early. There are direct flights to the island from northwest Europe, but they can be pricey if you wait until the last minute to book. It surprised me how pricey flights from London on low-cost airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet are. By the way, I was searching two to three months away.

We ended up booking ours with jet2holidays because, to our surprise, they were cheaper, and Mallorca is one of their main hubs for flights. So, if you want to book, I’d also suggest looking through them. Sometimes they have huge sales.

You could also look for cheap flights to Barcelona or Valencia and then either take another flight or a transfer to get to Mallorca. Once you get to Mallorca, make sure you plan how to get around using the local transport upon arrival.

We hired a car through Wiber , a private car rental service. You don’t pick up the car at the airport with Wiber, though, but their pickup spot isn’t too far away.

At the airport, Wiber does offer free shuttles that will take you to your rental car. Unfortunately, we couldn’t find the shuttle pick-up spot, so we took a taxi for £15 for a 10-minute drive, which sucked.

They did, however, offer us a free ride back to the airport after we returned the car. I would still recommend Wiber because their cars are newer, faster, and cheaper than most airport car rentals.

First-timers Mallorca Travel Guide: Accommodation Options

You can find a place to stay in Mallorca that fits your budget and your tastes. All over the island, there are a lot of different types of hotels, from high-end resorts with views of the sea to small, cosy hotels hidden away in cute villages.

Mid-Range Budget Accommodations in Mallorca

Apartamento delante del mar

We stayed at this reasonably priced place, which is great if you’re travelling with family or friends. It’s in Can Pastilla, not far from the Aquarium of Palma and only 200 metres from both Playa de Palma and Can Pastilla beaches. It was very nice, had a balcony with a view of the sea, and wasn’t too expensive—for a week in Mallorca.

One thing we didn’t like was how noisy it was at night because it was right next to the main road across the beach. After a day or two, we were fine, and it didn’t cost us more than £1K. There were lots of stores and restaurants nearby, and getting around was quick and easy.

Apuntadores 8

Some people have recommended this as the best place to stay if they want to be close to everything. It’s in the old part of Palma de Mallorca, which is the island’s main city. Plus, it has a large roof terrace from which you can see the whole city. The main sights in Palma are easy to get to on foot.

Quick Tip: If you book this place to stay five or six months ahead of time, you can get it for less than £500 for a week, which is a great deal considering where it is.

Budget-Friendly Accommodation in Mallorca: Hostal Bonany

Hostal Bonany

This is the best choice for people who are travelling alone or who are on a tight budget but still want to be in the centre of Palma city. Also, keep in mind that Palma might be a better place to stay if you’re not going to rent a car. The city has more things to see and do. Soon, there will be more on this. Keep reading!

In the end, the type of accommodation you choose will depend on your budget and how you like to travel. Please keep in mind that Mallorca doesn’t have a lot of very cheap places to stay. That’s why it’s very important to book your lodging well ahead of time if you want to find a great, cheap place to stay.

Don’t let high hotel rates ruin your wonderful Balearic Island holiday. Book your stay TODAY! ⤵️

How To Get Around on Mallorca Island : Rent a Car

If you want to see more of the island than just the common tourist spots, you should rent a car. It’s highly recommended, and I agree that having a car gave us flexibility and convenience while discovering hidden gems along scenic drives.

It gave us a relaxed holiday vibe because we didn’t have to worry about missing a bus or train to see or do something. Everything was done at our own pace.

After renting a car and driving around for a day or two, you’ll quickly understand why renting a car is popular in Mallorca—it’s the best way for both locals and tourists to get around. There are also a lot of underground parking lots, mostly in Palma City. There are public parking lots almost everywhere else on the island, even in villages.

You can park for just €2 to €3 for two hours, which is also quite cheap. As someone who lives in London, I thought that was nothing compared to the ridiculous £5 they charge to drop someone off at the airport in London.

GET AROUND MALLORCA: Mallorca Travel Guide

Last but not least, European Union nationals renting a car in Mallorca do not need an international driver’s licence if they are there for less than three months. Alex’s (my husband’s) father, who is an EU citizen, booked our rental car.

But I do think it’s important to point out one thing. Although Alex has a British driver’s licence, he wasn’t allowed to drive a car. It was unclear to me whether this was because rentals usually only let the person who made the reservation drive or if something has changed for British citizens and residents since the UK left the EU.

That being said, I would suggest that any British citizen in possession of a valid driver’s licence verify in advance whether an international licence is required . For those outside Europe, check with your local driver’s licence authority as well.

Get your rental car for your trip to Mallorca NOW! ⤵️

Getting Around Mallorca Without a Car

If you would rather not drive, there is public transport available, such as buses and trains, that connects major towns—wondering if there is a train service in Mallorca, though, and if it’s like in other Spanish cities.

Then I think you might be a little let down because Mallorca’s train service only refers to a small train that goes from Palma to the smaller villages.

But Mallorca does have a small metro system. Palma de Mallorca has a metro system, but it’s not very big. The metro line does not yet reach Palma Airport. The only other lines on the island, to Inca and Manacor, leave from Placa Espana in Palma.

Find more infor on Soller Train Schedule, Costs, and Route, on Click Mallorca blog

You can take the Tren soller to Soller and Port de soller for a day trip. If you’re on a tight budget, though, I wouldn’t suggest this because the train rides from Palma to Soller could be pricey. Also, keep in mind that if you go in the winter, the train may not run from Palma to Soller. However, we saw it work from Soller to Port de Soller.

Finally, from what I saw, the bus is another way to get around Mallorca without a car. I believe that the bus system is the main form of public transportation. But I think you should check their schedule to see when you can visit.

The Best Mallorca Travel Guide: Top must-see/do in Mallorca

Honestly, how you see Mallorca’s most interesting sights and towns will depend on how long you stay and whether you rent a car. As I already said, the island isn’t small, and believe it or not, it’s a long way between cities and villages. Here are my suggestions for the best places to see in Mallorca to help you plan your trip well and make the most of it.

Palma, which is the capital of Mallorca, is where most tourists start their first day. This was not the case for us, though, because we stayed pretty close to Palma—in fact, it only took us 10 to 15 minutes by car to get to the centre of Palma. So where we began didn’t matter.

PRO TIP: As long as you have a rental car, the best place to stay is in Palma city or close by. The city has a lively Spanish atmosphere and more restaurants, attractions, and activities than anywhere else on the island. It’s also the closest to the airport. So explore it on your last day or two before leaving the island and save your holiday energy for beautiful places you don’t want to miss.

PORT DE SOLLER

Explore Port de Soller harbour to start your trip. We started our adventures here. Port de Soller is on the northwest coast of the island of Mallorca. It has stunning views of the turquoise water, framed by steep mountains.

There are sailboats, cafes, gelato shops, shops, and beach clubs along the waterfront, which we enjoyed exploring. By the way, this is where the trans-Soller line ends. So, you can ride the historic tram that runs between Port de Soller and Soller town. The ride goes through beautiful scenery.

We didn’t stay long, though, because that day we had more places to see. We also didn’t need to take the train because we had our car and were already going to Soller.

Must-Visit Destinations in Mallorca

The charming town of Soller is only a short tram ride from Port de Soller. Explore its narrow cobblestone streets with boutique shops and cafes to admire its well-preserved architecture. If you want to eat there, just make sure you call ahead of time. I don’t know if this is because we went in the winter, but most of the restaurants were either fully booked or closed.

Quick Tip: Take the time to find out which towns or villages are close to each other when you are planning your Mallorca Travel Guide Activities. This is important so you can plan day trips around it. A route that goes to Soller but skips Port de Soller and then to Deia on the same day is not what you want.

A great mix of history, culture, and lively nightlife can be found in Palma City. Here are some of the best things to see and do in the city:

• Visit Palam Cathedral – The Gothic-style building is a famous landmark that dominates the skyline of the city. Do not miss the chance to see its beautiful interior, as we did! We went on after 3 p.m. when it was closed during the week. Read about opening hours here .

• Visit Bellver Castle : This round castle has a history museum inside and a view of Palma that you can’t get anywhere else. The castle requires an entrance fee, but the hop-on bus ticket also grants free access. This is another budget-friendly tip. You should go early, though, before the castle closes. We felt sad about not visiting inside. On the other hand, the views from outside the castle were great.
• Take a stroll through Old Town – The narrow streets are lined with cute buildings, small shops, cafes, and restaurants. I would highly recommend taking the Palma First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour. You will learn so much about the city and see some hidden gems that you wouldn’t normally see.

• Relax at Playa de Palma – Playa de Palma is a famous beach on Mallorca that runs along Palma Bay and is a great place to spend time relaxing or taking a stroll.

Mallorca Villages—you can’t miss it!

VALLDEMOSSA

Valldemossa is one of the most beautiful villages in Mallorca, and it’s only a short drive from Palma de Mallorca. I thought I was going to have an “Instagram vs. reality” moment, but I was pleasantly surprised by how cute and beautiful this village is in real life.

Explore its narrow, cobblestone streets lined with pretty flower pots and cute shops that sell crafts and goods made in the area. Everyone visiting Mallorca must see this village. I don’t know how busy it is in the summer, but when we were there, it was so quiet and not crowded at all.

Seriously, it felt like walking into a fairy-tale movie. You can also enjoy tasty local food in one of the cosy cafes or restaurants while taking in the beautiful scenery.

I remember thinking Deia was the most beautiful Mallorcan village when I was researching village visits. After seeing both, though, Valldemossa is my favourite. I also liked Deia’s unique landscapes. The village of Deia is a magical place with stunning views, just a 10-minute drive from Valldemossa. It is tucked away in the beautiful Tramuntana Mountains.

Walk leisurely through its charming streets, lined with stone houses decorated with flowers. As a downside, most of the restaurants in this village will be closed during the winter. Unlike Valldemossa, where restaurants were open and we had coffee and treats at a cafe, sadly for Deia, this turned us off.

Don’t miss Cala Deia, though, a beautiful pebble beach surrounded by rocky cliffs. It’s a great place to relax, even in the winter. We loved watching the sunset from the beach.

An Experience You can’t miss in Mallorca

DRACH CAVES

These caves are the most amazing ones I’ve seen so far! It is located in Porto Cristo, which is a bit of a drive from Plama, but the trip was well worth it. You will embark on an underground adventure through the famous Drach Caves.

These mysterious limestone caves are like nothing else on Earth. You can have an amazing time in these mysterious limestone caves that are unlike anything else.

The part where we sat in what looked like an arena to watch the classical music performance along the riverbank was my favourite. The show began on a boat, with the lights turned off.

It was lovely and soothing to watch. No filming or taking pictures during the performance is allowed, but you can before and after. Our cave exit included an optional free boat ride. I highly recommend it!

THE BEST BEACHES IN MALLORCA

Beautiful beaches and clear blue water are what Mallorca is known for. There are more than 200 lovely beaches on the island, so it can be hard to choose the best one. We went to the island at a time when it wasn’t convenient to be at the beach, but we still had a lot of beaches we wanted to see. We did see some of them, but not all of them.

These, along with the others on our list, were the most beautiful options we saw. I hope your trip takes you to all of them. Don’t worry if you don’t see them all—you can always return. I hope to visit Mallorca soon.

In a quiet spot on the western coast of Mallorca, you’ll find Sa Calobra, a cute group of two beaches separated by a river gauge. Pick which of the two sets of beaches you want to see. We only saw the Torrent de Pareis because we got there a little late.

Driving to Sa Calobra is hard because the main road goes through the Serra de Tramuntana mountains , which is already a big adventure. Yet, the trip was worthwhile because you will see one of the world’s most beautiful and winding roads.

CALA LLOMBARDS

Cala Llombards is a popular beach on the southeast coast of Mallorca, close to the village of Santanyí. It can get crowded in the summer, but we went during the off-season and had the whole place to ourselves. It gives people a beautiful piece of paradise to enjoy.

This tiny beach is tucked between two rocky cliffs that protect it from strong winds and make it feel cosy. It’s great for families with kids because the water is shallow and clear.

Must-visit Beaches in Mallorca

CALO DES MORO

Caló des Moro is 15–20 minutes from Cala Llombards. It’s a beautiful natural hidden gem that will take your breath away. It’s a small beach, but the water is clear and great for swimming. I enjoyed visiting Mallorca during the off-season because of how serene it was to be surrounded by cliffs that were covered in beautiful greenery.

PRO TIP: I’d suggest you visit the Drach caves and Caló des Moro and Cala Llombards on the same day. They are all on the southeast coast of the island. You’ll also save time this way.

Cala Deià is a beautiful beach that is right below the cute village of Deià. High cliffs surround this paradise, which offers more tranquillity than any other place on Earth.

The fastest and easiest way to get here is by car on a narrow road. There are two places to park at the bottom, right before you reach the beach. Use the visitor parking lot, not the resident one. If you take a taxi, make sure you arrange a pick-up time, preferably with the same taxi, or don’t expect it to come down.

This beach doesn’t have any sand at all, like most of the beaches in Mallorca. But the water is clean and the views are beautiful, making it a great spot to watch the sun go down.

There also looked to be restaurants nearby, but most of them were closed again. In the off-season, this looked like a big issue. But I think you could enjoy tasty seafood from the area while taking in the view in the summer.

Other beautiful beaches recommended by many travellers includes the following: Note that Calas are small, sheltered bays or inlets with clear waters and rocky shores. This is why most of the beaches in Mallorca are called cala. Cala Pi Cala Marmols Cala S’almunia Es Pontas Es Trenc

Mallorca Travel Guide: Where to Eat in Mallorca

Marina di Manù: This Italian restaurant in Can Pastilla is a hidden gem. It was only 5 minutes from where we were staying. We came here twice because the food was great and the staff was nice. The prices are low—you can expect to pay about £97 for four people, including drinks, and the portions are huge. I recommend it, especially in the off-season when most restaurants are closed.

Bodega Mayor: A beautiful middle-range restaurant right in the middle of Plaza Mayor, Palma’s main, most colourful square. They have the biggest platters of seafood. There was Christmas decor up at night, which made it feel nice to sit outside on the terrace.

TIP: Note that Google Maps currently shows this location as temporarily closed , but it’s not. The restaurant was open when we were there not long ago.

Ostras – a popular spot inside the Olivar market, is known for serving the best oysters and other seafood in Palma. I tried oysters here for the first time.

Olivar Market Palma: This market is a food lover’s dream. It’s in Palma City’s historic district. This busy market has sold fresh produce, seafood, meats, spices, and more to locals since 1951. You have to see it in Palma!

La Cuadra Del Mano – This was at the top of my list because I had done a lot of research on it and was excited to eat here. In terms of food, it offers a unique and enjoyable experience. Traditional Spanish flavours are mixed with new cooking methods at this restaurant to make dishes that are both familiar and interesting. Unfortunately, it was closed the whole time we were there, which made me sad.

Quick Disclaimer Most of the restaurants I’ve suggested are only in Palma and Can Pastilla, as you may have noticed. We chose these spots because it was close to where we stayed and had a lot of food options. This is because off-season Mallorca visitors are fewer. Many restaurants outside Palma closed early or closed completely. Our trip’s only drawback was this. I recommend researching this to avoid disappointment.

Wrap-up: Mallorca Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

I hope this Mallorca travel guide helps you start planning your trip. The place is beautiful and has something for everyone. Mallorca has it all—beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, rich history and culture, and delicious local cuisine—whether you visit in the off-season or not.

As a first-time visitor, follow this guide to maximise your trip and make memories. Most importantly, Mallorca is affordable with proper planning; we are not special.

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T&C Travel Guide: Mallorca

Where to stay, eat, and sightsee on the idyllic Spanish island.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

"I found everything I wanted as a writer: sun, sea, mountains, spring water, shady trees, no politics..." the poet wrote of his adopted home. Even today, Mallorca, the crown jewel of Spain's Balearic Islands, still overflows with charm: ancient villages steeped in eons of history (Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, and Moors have all laid claim to the island), honey-colored stone houses on cobbled alleyways, the ever-lingering fragrance of lemon and orange trees and olive groves, and all of it sprinkled against the backdrop of the majestic Serra de Tramuntana mountain range and a Lapis Lazuli-blue Mediterranean.

Herewith, a T&C guide to where to stay, eat, and sightsee for a dreamy Mallorcan summer holiday.

Where to Stay

Belmond La Residencia

It's really hard to beat La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel , a glamorous hideaway with a prime address in chic, artsy Deià, an abundance of olive and citrus groves, and a perfect perch tucked cozily between mountains and sea. In a nod to the town's creative classes, La Residencia also has an extensive collection of art—more than 750 works—on display throughout the 72-room property. As for on-site recreation, there is plenty: an award-winning spa, tennis courts, painting and sculpture classes, and Vespa tours. And then there's the fine dining. In June, Rafael Zafra, best known as the former head chef at famed Spanish restaurant El Bulli, unveiled a new menu for the Pool restaurant that puts a premium on local ingredients like prawns from Sóller. But don't sleep on his desserts: the presentation of his pineapple, which comes with a tier of crema Catalana , is a show in and of itself.

Located about 30 minutes south of Mallorca's capital Palma, Cap Rocat is perhaps one of the most unique properties on the island—it's housed in a former fortress, built in the 19th century for military defense (though it was never used). Today, the luxurious 88-acre resort, flawlessly restored for the 21st century by the architect Antonio Obrador, is built into the craggy coastline of the Bay of Palma and also happens to be in the middle of a bird sanctuary.

Read Reviews

Finca Serena Mallorca

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Finca Serena Mallorca , a 100-acre property in the heart of the island that is pure bucolic bliss: 24 acres of vineyards, more than 900 olive trees, lavender fields, fruit orchards, vegetable gardens, a wonderful spa, yoga classes, and chef workshops. The best part? For such a sprawling hotel, there are just 25 rooms.

Hotel Mirabó De Valldemossa

The intimate Hotel Mirabó has been in the same family since 1898 (it became a boutique hotel in 2004) and with just 9 rooms, it won't take very long to feel completely at home here (elegantly cozy decor and a plethora of hidden nooks to discover also help). The property itself dates back to 1503 when it was an olive farm and is nestled on a hill just outside of the beautiful countryside village of Valldemossa, which means fabulous views of the postcard-perfect town.

El Vicenç de la Mar

The newest hotel in Mallorca opened in June. Located in the Northeastern corner of the island, in the town of Cala Sant Vicenç, the 35-room property overlooks a striking beach popular with locals and families. Palma may be overrun with tourists, but this area remains undiscovered, at least for now. Get there before visitors realize that the one hour drive from the airport, and from the more well-known Deià, can lead to such remarkable sights as the Es Colomer viewpoint and the tranquil waters of Cap de Formentor. The hotel features a spa and two restaurants, a casual lunch spot and a fine dining rooftop. Naturally, croquetas are served at both.

Where to Eat

An ideal spot to stop for a tapas lunch before (or dinner after) exploring the village of Deià, Xelini is built in a 130-year-old building. But while the interiors are indeed charming, with their stone walls and wooden beams, prime seating is in the picturesque garden with views of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains all around. Grab one of the tables under the trellis of climbing vines for a shaded oasis from the blazing Spanish sun.

Patisseria Ca'n Molinas

Founded in 1920 in the heart of Valldemossa, this bakery is famous for the coca de patata (potato roll), a sweet local specialty made with boiled potatoes, lard, eggs, flour, milk, and sugar. Do as the Mallorcans do and pair with a refreshing almond horchata.

Ca's Patro March

The secret has long been out about Ca's Patro March , the celebrity-adored no-frills restaurant perched on a little cliff in the rocky cove of Cala Deià, another erstwhile hidden gem. Still, despite their outsize popularity (Ca's Patro March, in particular, reached a new level of fame thanks to BBC's 2016 television adaptation of John le Carré's The Night Manager , which starred Tom Hiddleston and was filmed around Mallorca, including at the restaurant), a visit is worth it. The seafood, all simply grilled and caught by local fishermen, is fantastic, plus Cala Deià's sparkling blue waters are irresistible for a refreshing post-lunch dip.

Ca'n Joan de s'Aigo

The 300-year-old bakery now has three locations in Palma and specializes in ensaïmadas, a Mallorcan pastry that traces its roots back to the 17th century and comes in a variety of flavor iterations (fillings include apricot, custard, cream, apple, or chocolate). Pair with the hot chocolate, for which Ca'n Joan de s'Aigo is also famous.

Bens d'Avall

Panoramic views of the sea (and at sunset, especially) are reason enough to warrant a dinner reservation at Bens d'Avall in Sóller but so is the food: the restaurant has a Michelin star. Fresh Mallorcan seafood, produce, and beef get star billing on the menu, which includes standouts like bouillabaisse, lamb roasted over a wood fire, and red prawn carpaccio.

Marivent Gardens

Although Marivent Palace, the summer residence of the Spanish royal family, is closed to the public, its gardens are open when King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia , and their daughters aren't in town. The well-tended sanctuary has 40 different plant species and is dotted with 12 sculptures by Joan Miró, the famous Catalan artist who was born in Barcelona but later called Mallorca home. (Visit his Palma museum, the Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró , which was established after he donated 6,000 works before his death.)

Palma Cathedral

Every year (not counting the last two due to Covid-19) the Spanish royal family attends Easter mass at the Cathedral of Palma. Commissioned by King James I of Aragon in 1229 and designed in the Gothic style—with a few Northern European touches—the church took nearly 400 years to complete. The final edifice, which was finished in 1601, overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and is located next to the Royal Palace of La Almudaina , which used to be a Moorish alcázar before King James II of Mallorca rebuilt it in 1309. Today, it's the official Mallorcan residence of the Spanish royal family (while Marivent is considered their summer home).

Son Marroig

Long before "conservation" became a life calling for just about every blue-blooded scion, Austria's Archduke Ludwig Salvator was an early pioneer in the field. The son of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and Princess Maria Antonia was born in Florence's Pitti Palace and raised in the aristocratic circles of Vienna but he fell in love with low-key, verdant Mallorca. Once he had settled permanently on the island, he bought up untouched, coastal areas of land between Valldemossa and Deià to prevent them from being developed and devoted his life to studying Mallorcan wildlife. His estate, Son Marroig , is now a historical museum and a popular venue for concerts and—with views like this—weddings. One of his other properties, the 250-acre S'Estaca, belongs to Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones.

La Casa de Robert Graves

In Deià, British poet and author Robert Graves found peace, inspiration, and an escape from the psychological ravages of World War I. He moved to the village in 1929 and three years later built his house, which he named Canallún (meaning "faraway home" in Catalan). Between mornings swimming in Cala Deià and afternoons spent at local cafes, Graves wrote prolifically and completed several works while living here. Since 2006, his house has been open to the public.

Chopin's Home

The Carthusian Monastery of Valldemossa (also known as the Valldemossa Charterhouse) is the town's most historically significant landmark. It was originally the palace of Sancho, King of Mallorca from 1311 to 1324. At the end of the 14th century, with the kingdom of Mallorca abolished, the palace turned into a monastery for Carthusian monks. It remained in their possession until the Spanish confiscation of 1835, after which the individual cells were put up for rent. Its most famous tenant was the composer Frédéric Chopin, who lived in a 3-room apartment with his lover, the French novelist George Sand, in the winter of 1838-1839. His home—and garden—is now a museum . Also worth visiting within this vast complex: King Sancho's palace, the Charterhouse apothecary, and the church, whose stunning interior frescoes were created by Francisco Bayeu y Subías, brother-in-law of Francisco Goya.

Serra de Tramuntana

Running along Mallorca's northwestern coast—and dotted with villages like Deià amd Valldemossa—the Serra de Tramuntana is a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with hiking (and biking) trails, fragrant flora (rosemary, pine, and those ubiquitous olive trees), historical landmarks, and views so beautiful they may inspire a Stendhalian moment .

What to Pack

Aerin Noe Lightweight Cashmere Scarf

Loewe Horseshoe Canvas Saddle Bag

Nanushka Fringed Organic Cotton Wrap Skirt

Castañer Basile Striped Wedge Sandals

Altea Button-Up Short-Sleeved Linen Shirt

Worth & Worth by Orlando Palacios Men's Casablanca Montecristi Panama Straw Hat

Tod's Suede Espadrille Sneakers

Vilebrequin Men Swim Trunks 1984 Invisible Fish Flocked

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

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Visit Mallorca: Top 23 Things to Do and Must See Attractions

The 23 best things to do in mallorca (bucket list).

You’re planning to visit Mallorca during your next trip? You want to know more about the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 23 best things to do in Mallorca , with all the must-see attractions of the island.

Discover Palma de Mallorca , the cap de Formentor, the beautiful villages of Serra de Tramuntana and many more amazing places to visit during your trip.

Of course, I will also tell you everything about the best beaches of the island!

So, where to go in Mallorca? What are the best points of interest?

Let’s find out!

1. Palma de Mallorca

2. the most beautiful beaches in mallorca., 3. boating excursion in mallorca, 4. cap de formentor, 5. the serra de tramuntana, 6. hot air ballooning in mallorca, 7. the typical villages to visit in mallorca, 8. sóller train – tren de sóller, 9. the drach caves – coves del drach, 10. the coves dels hams – “fishhook caves”, 11. best things to do in mallorca, 12. parc natural de la península de llevant – hiking in mallorca, 13. cape ses salines and the lighthouse, 14. the sineu market, 15. sa dragonera island, 16. alcudia, 17. parque natural de mondragón – mondrago natural park, 18. cabrera island, 19. jardines de alfàbia – alfabia gardens, 20. parc natural de s’albufera des grau – s’albufera natural park, 21. mallorca’s water parks, 22. exploring mallorca by bike, 23. discovering mallorcan cuisine, best things to do in mallorca: the tourist map, rent a boat in mallorca, you’re traveling to mallorca these articles will help you , visit mallorca: the 23 best places to visit and must-see attractions.

Let’s kick off this Mallorca travel guide with the island’s capital: Palma de Mallorca .

In fact, it’s likely that your journey to Mallorca will begin from there, as the international airport is located in Palma, and the majority of ferries arriving from mainland Spain dock there as well.

The city makes for an excellent home base from which to explore the southern region of Mallorca .

Here are some of the top sights to see in Palma de Mallorca:

• The Cathedral: an architectural masterpiece, La Seu d’Urgell is the second largest religious structure in Spain , just behind the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See in Seville .
• The Almudaina Palace (tickets with priority access on sale here!) : located right next to the cathedral and built in the 14th century. It’s the official residence of the King of Spain in Mallorca.
• The Parc de la Mar to take the most beautiful pictures of the cathedral and the palace
• The Mercat de l’Olivar: the perfect market to stock up on local produce and fruits and vegetables (a favorite spot among the locals).
• The Plaça Mayor : a spacious square adorned with terrace cafes and restaurants.
• Carrer de Sant Miquel and Passeig d’es Born for a shopping session
• Palau March : the former residence of one of the wealthiest families on the island, where you can admire numerous sculptures and paintings by Salvador Dali.
• Castell de Bellver : a castle with a unique circular architecture, which houses a fascinating museum on the history of the city.

And if you’re wondering what to do in Mallorca with kids , you can take them to Palma Aquarium . Among the highlights are a well-crafted jungle area and a 4D film on humpback whales. Get your tickets here !

For a detailed article on the capital of Mallorca, click on the following link: Best things to do and see in Palma de Mallorca

Particularly impressive both on the exterior and interior, Palma Cathedral is the primary landmark to visit in Mallorca and thus, there is always a long queue waiting to enter.

To avoid any long wait times, you should consider purchasing your skip-the-line ticket for the cathedral in advance by clicking on the button below :

The same goes for the Almudaina Palace: you can avoid wasting time in the queue by booking your tickets in advance here:

Spending time at the beach is an essential activity during a stay in Mallorca . It’s a must-do!

The island is full of stunning little coves and fine sandy beaches with turquoise waters that will make it impossible for you to resist taking a dip. To give you an idea, the map established by the Mallorca tourism office lists no less than 82 beaches !

I’ve put together my top picks of the most gorgeous beaches in Mallorca so you can choose the best spots for yourself.

In the southeast of Mallorca , you can find:

• Cala del Moro : beautiful cove with turquoise water in a very wild environment. Accessible by foot in 10 minutes.
• Cala Llombards : fine sand beach, shallow water, very family friendly
• Cala Santanyi : very nice, surrounded by rocky walls.
• The coves of the Mondrago Natural Park (which I’ll tell you more about later)
• The beaches of Cala d’Or : several sandy beaches located in protected bays – Popular with families.
• The beaches of Cap de Ses Salines in Colonia de Sant Jordi (which I’ll talk about a bit more in the article below)
• Es Trenc beach: a very long beach lined by dunes and pine forest
• Cala Pi : beautiful little cove with translucent water

The beaches where to swim in the north of Mallorca :

• Cala Gat : another lovely cove with turquoise water.
• Cala Agulla : very nice sandy beach bordered by pine forest
• Cala Mesquida : a stunning sandy beach that stretches as far as the eye can see.
• The beaches of Port d’Alcudia : actually a huge sandy beach stretching over several kilometers, lined with hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
• Coll Baix beach : worth seeing from the viewpoint, but not recommended for swimming as the water gets deep very quickly.
• S’Illot beach : very pretty and peaceful beach. Ideal for snorkeling.
• Formentor beach: a long beach with shallow water, shaded areas, and great for swimming.
• Sa Calobra/Torrent de Pareis : a very unusual setting for this beach located in a canyon, accessible on foot through two tunnels carved into the cliffs.
• Cala Tuent which you can reach by boat from Sa Calobra

Beaches in Southwest Mallorca

To be honest, these were not my favorite beaches on the island. While there are certainly places that can be nice for a swim, compared to the other beaches and coves, they don’t quite measure up.

Some examples include: Cala Major, Cala Illetes, Cala Cap Falco, Cala des Mago, and Cala Fornells .

Finally, there’s Magaluf beach , a resort town with a very youthful and lively atmosphere known for its vibrant nightlife (and the excesses that come with it…).

To discover the most beautiful spots in Mallorca and some of its most gorgeous beaches, there’s nothing like a boat excursion !

You’ll have plenty of options, from catamaran/sailboat/speedboat cruises to sea trips to observe dolphins or even boat parties. As it can be overwhelming to navigate through the dozens of different boat excursions available, I have put together my list of top picks and divided them into these 3 categories.

Booking in advance is highly recommended to ensure availability. To do so, simply click on the orange link or the green button .

The best boat trips in Mallorca:

• Half-day VIP catamaran trip with buffet from Palma.

The cruise includes 2 stops for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear water , and a delicious and varied on-board buffet lunch prepared on site.

This luxury catamaran excursion in Mallorca is so great that it is GetYourGuide Originals certified . This means that it’s satisfaction guaranteed or your money back !

Don’t wait any longer and book now by clicking on the button below:

• Catamaran cruise along the north coast of Mallorca with barbecue included – Departure from Alcúdia
• Catamaran tour with BBQ from Colonia de Sant Jordi – South-East of Mallorca
• Sailing trip with tapas and wine included – Departing from Alcúdia
• Boat trip to Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis – Departure from the port of Sóller.
• Zodiac trip (max 12 people) to Cape Formentor and Cape Pinar from Alcúdia, with a swim stop at the famous beaches of Coll Baix and Es Calo
• Romantic sunset cruise for two on a beautiful sailboat, with dinner included – The best boat trip to do in Mallorca as a couple !

Dolphin watching cruise in Mallorca

• 3-hour cruise on a small boat with a maximum of 12 people where you can see many dolphins around the Cap de Formentor – Departure from Alcudia
• Sunrise dolphin watching cruise – Departure from Alcúdia
• 3-hour glass-bottom boat cruise to spot dolphins along the coast, in the southwest of Palma de Mallorca

Boat party in Mallorca

If you’re looking to have a blast and meet new people during your trip to Mallorca , there are several boat parties to choose from that include drinks, food, and of course, a DJ to keep the party going .

• Boat party in the morning or afternoon in the bay of Palma – Duration 4 hours – swim stop: modern music, good vibes, great cocktails, friendly crew, highly recommended!
• 2h30 boat party at sunset
• Boat party at night – Departure from Palma at 22h

The Cap de Formentor , located at the northeastern tip of the island , is one of the must-see places in Mallorca.

You’ll have the opportunity to admire numerous viewpoints of the sea as well as impressive cliffs by following the winding road that runs along the entire peninsula.

Don’t miss out on these sights at Cap de Formentor:

• The Es Colomer viewpoint (or “Sa Creuta viewpoint”) is the most famous lookout point in Formentor. It allows you to contemplate both sides of the cape and take superb photos.
• La Talaia d’Albercutx , an old watchtower with an amazing panoramic view of the entire cape.
• Formentor beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Mallorca. With lots of shade and crystal clear water, it’s the perfect spot for a swim.
• The Cala Figuera cove: only accessible on foot, it is ideal for snorkeling.
• The Formentor Lighthouse , located at the very end of the peninsula.

In case you decide to go to Mallorca in the summer, please note that between June 15th and September 15th , car access to the lighthouse is not allowed .

In theory, the road is blocked from Formentor Beach during this period. I say “in theory” because nothing stops you from passing, but you’ll have the pleasant surprise of receiving an €80 fine a few weeks later…

To avoid this, you need to leave your car in the beach’s paid parking lot and take the shuttle buses that run between the two. It’s also possible to just walk or bike through .

If you don’t want to rent a car for your Mallorca vacation, there are two other ways to explore Cap de Formentor :

• Bus and boat tour (click here!) with pick-up near your hotel (around Alcudia). The panoramic bus will take you to Es Colomer viewpoint and Formentor Beach , where you’ll get 1 hour to swim and relax. After that, you’ll embark on a boat for a cruise to Pollensa Bay and then the bus will take you back to your hotel.
• Speedboat cruise around the Formentor peninsula with a swim stop.

If you’re planning a road trip in Mallorca, you should absolutely take the road that goes through the Serra de Tramuntana , a mountainous region located in the northwest of the island , classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Between Pollença and Andratx (or vice versa), the approximately 140 km circuit goes through the hinterland and allows you to check out a bunch of famous villages and places to visit in Mallorca :

• The Santuari de Lluc , a monastery and an important pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
• Sa Calobra / Torrent de Pareis / Cala Tuent , which I’ve already mentioned in the list of beaches.
• Fornalutx and its beautiful traditional stone houses.
• Sóller with its charming streets filled with shops and restaurants around the church square. You can also take the old tram that goes down to the port of Sóller.
• Deià , a traditional Mallorcan village with many typical stone houses.
• Valldemossa to visit the Valldemossa Charterhouse where Frédéric Chopin and George Sand once stayed. Maybe you’ll find inspiration there for your next art masterpiece!
• La Granja d’Esporles : a large typical bourgeois residence whose rooms evoke life in Mallorca in the 18th and 19th centuries. Explore the manor’s beautifully preserved rooms and get a glimpse of the past with its impressive display of period furniture and everyday objects. Superb garden. Wine tasting and local products offered at the end of the visit.
• Banyalbufar : a village built in terraces.
• The Ricardo Roca viewpoint and its panorama of cliffs, sea, and mountains.

If you want to go hiking in Mallorca, you can also check out the visitors center located next to the monastery . You’ll find all the maps and descriptions of the trails in the region .

For those of you who do not have a car, the best way to explore Serra de Tramuntana is by joining an organized tour.

The bus will pick you up near your hotel (in the south of the island) and take you through some beautiful places including Valldemossa and Sóller . And to top it all off, you’ll get to savor an excellent traditional lunch .

Book this excursion in Mallorca by clicking here!

Let’s continue this Mallorca travel guide with a must-try activity: hot air balloon ride over Mallorca !

The flight lasts only 1 hour and is scheduled at sunrise or sunset for an even more breathtaking experience of the island’s landscapes.

The flight lasts for 1 hour and takes place either at sunrise or sunset so that the landscapes are even more spectacular.

As a bonus, a glass of champagne is offered along with photos and videos of your flight .

To book your hot air balloon ride in Mallorca , click the green button below:

If you’re looking for couple activities in Mallorca , book a private hot air balloon ride just for you two. Click here !

Don’t miss out on other extremely charming villages in Mallorca besides the stone houses of Serra de Tramuntana:

• Sineu , famous for its market every Wednesday morning (more on that below)
• Petra for its two old churches and the small square in the center of the village where cyclists stop for a drink
• Llucmajor and its nice Plaza de España surrounded by bars and restaurants
• Capdepera , a fortified town where you’ll find one of the largest castles on the island: Castell de Capdepera .
• Arta which features a beautiful historic center with its church and castle to visit.
• Manacor where you can visit a pearl jewelry factory and, above all, the famous Rafael Nadal Museum , dedicated to the world-famous tennis player. You can admire the trophies and rackets of the local hero, born in Manacor. Get your tickets here !
• Pollença and its beautiful historic center with the Plaza Mayor . For a beautiful view of the town and the church, you should try climbing the “Calvary Steps” that lead to the small chapel.

If you’re looking for a popular tourist attraction in Mallorca, then you can’t miss the Sóller train .

It departs from Palma station , located next to Plaza de España, and arrives at the center of Sóller in one hour . On board vintage wooden carriages, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of Serra de Tramuntana and the Mallorcan countryside throughout the journey.

You can find the schedules and fares of the Sóller train on their official website here.

What’s also really nice is to combine a train ride with a Sóller tramway trip to Port de Sóller, and a boat trip to Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis.

You can book this excursion, with pick-up from most hotels in the south of the island, by clicking on the green button below:

Among the main places of interest in Mallorca , there are many caves, but Coves del Drach are the most famous.

They are located on the east coast of Mallorca, in Porto Cristo .

These caves are known for having Lake Martel, one of the largest underground lakes in the world , and the visit includes a boat tour . You’ll also get to attend a classical music concert performed by musicians on the lake!

There is no guided tour , but tours are conducted in groups at fixed hours (10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., etc.). The tour lasts about an hour.

You can find all the information on the official website .

Good news for those who don’t have a car, you can visit the Coves del Drach through an excursion with pick-up in the south of Mallorca. To book, click here:

Another famous place to visit in Mallorca: the Hams Caves , which are also located in Porto Cristo .

Just like the Drach Caves, you’ll also enjoy a musical performance on the underground lake and discover impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

The cave is particularly known for housing unique rock formations shaped like hooks, which are called “hams” in Spanish , hence the name!

Tickets to visit the Coves dels Hams in Mallorca can be booked by clicking here:

What to do in Mallorca when it rains?

If you’re unlucky enough to experience some rain during your stay, in addition to the Coves del Drach and Coves del Hams, you can also visit other caves :

• The Campanet Caves (tickets available here) – in the North of the island
• The Genova Caves (tickets for sale here) , near Palma
• The Arta Caves in Canyamel

I’ve prepared my selection of the best activities to do in Mallorca for you, which I’ve divided into 2 categories: land-based sports activities and water sports .

But first, let me start with 2 unusual activities that perfectly blend the two. During your Mallorca trip you should absolutely try:

1) Coasteering : an awesome activity combining abseiling, rock climbing, and cliff jumping . There are only 10 spots per group, so make sure to book well in advance by clicking here !

2) Sea caving : you’ll get to swim and explore marine caves and underground lakes in the Cova des Coloms. This is a unique activity in Mallorca that you won’t get to do again anytime soon, so go for it!

Book your sea caving adventure by clicking here!

For other activities in Mallorca , I suggest (click on the orange links for more info and to book):

• Quad biking excursion around Palma ! If you’re used to organizing your trips through Voyage Tips, you know I love quad biking. And this excursion doesn’t disappoint, as it’s mostly off-road.
• Buggy excursion in eastern Mallorca or in the south of the island.
• 2.5-hour racing car excursion or the 4.5-hour version
• Horseback riding in the forest near Alcudia
• Forestal Park , a treetop adventure park located just outside Palma. If you’ve chosen to visit Mallorca with your family, make sure you check this out, as the courses are really fun and tailored to different ages.
• Climbing session

For water sports in Mallorca , consider trying:

• Scuba diving initiation with an English-speaking instructor
• Snorkeling in a marine reserve
• Jet skiing on the south coast or near Cala d’Or
• Parasailing in Palma Bay or in Alcudia
• Guided kayak excursion
• Sunset stand-up paddleboarding or paddleboard rental
• Towed inflatables in Palma
• Coanegra Canyon – Easy level, perfect if you’ve never tried canyoning before – English-speaking guide
• Canyon de la Muntanya , great for beginners
• Canyon de Na Mora in the Serra de Tramontana
• Canyon de Mortitx for the more adventurous.

Visiting Mallorca without planning at least a short hike is just not possible.

So, I suggest you go for a walk in the Parc natural de la Península de Llevant , located in the northeastern part of the island. There are 13 different hiking routes ranging from 30 minutes to 1h30 that you can combine if you want to walk longer. All the trails are well-marked.

The landscapes are stunning and offer beautiful views of the sea and mountains .

Along with the Serra de Tramuntana region, the Llevant Peninsula offers the most beautiful hikes in Mallorca .

You can get a trail map at the visitor center , located at the parking lot in S’Alqueria Vella de Baix . If it’s closed when you arrive, you’ll find a summary board of the walks, also at the parking lot.

To enjoy the park’s coastline from the ocean , you can also choose to take a cruise . You’ll pass by impressive cliffs , through sea caves , and will also get the chance to swim in small and pretty coves .

The boat trip departs from Alcudia harbor. Find all the information by clicking here !

To continue with this list of the best things to do in Mallorca , let’s head to the Cap de Ses Salines and its lighthouse .

A trail that follows the seaside and starts to the right of the lighthouse gate leads to 2 beaches.

In a 20-minute walk, you’ll first reach El Caragol beach , a long wild sandy beach that’s perfect for some peace and quiet . An additional 20 minutes and you’ll arrive at Cala en Tugores , another peaceful beach, seldom crowded.

Still in Ses Salines, this time starting from Colonia de Sant Jordi , you’ll also be able to walk to several lovely white sand beaches surrounded by pine trees:

• Can Curt beach
• Es Carbo beach
• And finally, Ses Roquetes Beach , the largest one.

Ses Salines is also home to one of Mallorca’s most famous beach, Es Trenc Beach , that I’ve mentioned above.

There isn’t a real parking lot at Ses Salines lighthouse, so you’ll need to park along the road (about 50 spots available). I recommend not leaving any valuables in your car as when we visited, the ground was littered with glass from broken car windows.

This was the only spot I encountered this issue while visiting Mallorca.

Let’s continue with some tourism in Mallorca by discovering the most popular market on the island, the one in Sineu . It takes place every Wednesday morning.

All around the village’s main square , the Sineu market mainly consists of stalls selling clothes, jewelry, and bags . Then head to the church square to find the fruit and vegetable market .

In the middle of all this, you can also indulge in local specialties such as sobrassada, fuet (Catalan cured meat), or some delicious local cheese .

Sa Dragonera Island is located at the far southwest of Mallorca.

To get there, you’ll need to take a boat from the port of Sant Elm or Andratx . In high season (May to early October), there are crossings approximately every 30 minutes, and it takes 20 minutes to reach the island .

But beware, access is regulated and limited to a certain number of people per day.

Sa Dragonera has 4 hiking trails with durations ranging from 30 minutes to 3 hours round trip and all offering stunning views of the surroundings.

However, it’s not necessarily the best place to visit in Mallorca if you’re afraid of lizards!

Yep, no joke, but the island is home to thousands of these little critters and they’re not scared at all. They’ll have no problem climbing onto your hand or getting into your belongings.

You’ve been warned!

If you’re planning to visit the north of Mallorca , you should make a stop in Alcudia .

The part of the old town that lies between the ramparts is really super cute and great for strolling.

You’ll also find lots of lovely little shops and restaurants there. The most convenient way to visit is to park your car in one of the free parking lots located around the fortifications.

It’s also from the port of Alcudia that you can go on a cruise to Cap de Formentor or go dolphin watching .

These boat trips are already on my list of best boat trips in Mallorca, but I’ll put the link here again if you want to book:

• Catamaran cruise, barbecue included
• Sailing trip + tapas and wine included
• Zodiac trip to Cap de Formentor
• 3-hour sunrise cruise for dolphin watching

If you don’t have a car and you want to visit Alcudia from the south of Mallorca, you should book this organized tour which includes a visit to the old town , a boat trip to Formentor beach and a bus ride back via the cape .

If you’re still wondering what to see in Mallorca , head to Mondrago Natural Park , on the southeastern coast.

You’ll need to leave your car in the day parking lot (€6) to reach several coves that can only be accessed on foot (easy access):

• The expansive white sand beach of S’Aramador , the most beautiful and picturesque of them all – 10-minute walk
• Cala Mondrago , 5 minutes from S’Aramador. Somewhat smaller and less untamed, with a pizzeria and a hotel conveniently located nearby.
• Calo des Borgit : by taking the flat and shaded coastal path, it takes 15 minutes from Mondrago to get there.

For me, Mondrago is one of the most beautiful spots in Mallorca. It’s so nice to walk through the pine forest to reach the coves and the water is so clear that it’s impossible to resist swimming. Why would you?

If you want another great activity in Mallorca , you can try discovering the natural park with a fantastic jet ski excursion .

Click here to book your jet ski excursion at Mondrago Natural Park!

Cabrera Island is a must-see for tourists visiting Mallorca .

Located in the south of Mallorca and classified as a terrestrial and marine national park , the island is home to many endemic plants of the Balearic Islands as well as various bird species.

Since access is limited to just 200 people per day , it’s essential to book a tour in advance to go there.

Most boats take off from Colonia de Sant Jordi , but don’t worry if you’re staying in Palma – there’s a tour from there too! ( Click here for more info ).

While on Cabrera Island, feel free to check out any of the 9 hiking trails that’ll lead you to the gorgeous beaches or the stunning Cabrera Castle , where you’ll find an amazing panoramic view.

On the way back, the boat also stops by the Blue Cave, Sa Cova Blava , where the deep blue water reflects on the walls.

Alfabia Gardens are among the most visited tourist sites in Mallorca.

They’re located on the road between Palma de Mallorca and Soller , in the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana.

On-site, you can take a lovely stroll through the well-maintained lush gardens , relax on the terrace of the small café by the pond surrounded by tall palm trees, and visit the interior of the stately home.

The setting is truly peaceful and enjoyable.

Entry tickets for Alfabia Gardens are available by clicking here!

At the entrance of the site, you can also scan a QR code to download the gardens’ guide.

When visiting Mallorca, especially the northern part of the island, don’t hesitate to stop by S’Albufera Natural Park .

The largest wetland area in the Balearic Islands is home to numerous migratory birds such as the purple heron, the vascon, and the black-winged stilt, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching enthusiasts .

You can only explore the park on foot or by bike, and it features 4 marked trails .

Make sure to swing by the visitor center where you can pick up your free entry ticket and get information on the bird species to look out for depending on the season. You can also borrow binoculars from them.

Wondering what to do with your family in Mallorca or looking for a change of scenery from the beach while staying cool?

Why not enjoy a day at one of the island’s awesome water parks !

The largest and most well-known park is Aqualand El Arenal , located on the road past Mallorca’s airport. Featuring slides , lazy river rides , a wave pool, and a kids’ area, there’s fun for everyone to dive into.

To skip the line at the ticket booth, you should book your entry tickets by clicking on the button below:

On the other side of Palma, in Magaluf , you’ll also find the popular Western Water Park (grab your tickets here!) .

In the north of Mallorca , the only water park is Hidropark Alcudia (tickets available here!).

Touring Mallorca by car is cool, but a lot of folks opt for biking around the island instead.

To be honest, it can be a fantastic way to uncover some of Mallorca’s most stunning places , provided you have the leg power for it. When you come across cyclists taking on the Serra de Tramuntana, it’s hard not to be amazed! 😅

Here are some handy tips for exploring Mallorca by bike:

• Many roads have dedicated cycling signs or bike lanes
• You’ll find bike rental shops all over the island
• A number of hotels provide bike storage facilities
• I recommend purchasing the map provided by Mallorca Bike, which includes routes and elevation profiles. You can find it at tourist offices and bike rental agencies.

Here are some examples of delicious local dishes you must try in Mallorca :

• Sobrassada : a typical Balearic Islands sausage. The spiciness of this pork sausage varies based on the amount of paprika used in the seasoning.
• Ensaïmadas : this spiral-shaped pastry sprinkled with powdered sugar is a traditional Mallorcan dessert. You can also find them stuffed with cream or chocolate, or even in a savory version featuring sobrassada.
• Empanadas and cocarroi : pastries stuffed with a variety of fillings
• Cocas de patata , a specialty from the village of Valldemossa, resembling small buns made with potatoes, eggs, and sugar. Indulge in these delights with a cup of hot chocolate for a truly authentic and scrumptious experience!
• Lechona or porcella , a spit-roasted suckling pig
• Arros brut : a dish with rice, vegetables, and meat
• Arros de peix : the fish-based version
• Pa amb oli : bread rubbed with olive oil, tomato, and garlic
• Conill amb ceba : a mouthwatering dish of rabbit and onions
• Tumbet : fried vegetables (eggplant, zucchini) covered in tomato sauce
• Tapas : since we’re in Spain, tapas are definitely a must-try!

Wrapping up with a selection of activities related to Mallorcan cuisine that should pique your interest:

• Cooking class with a local chef
• Tasting of Spanish tapas and wines
• A tour of 3 Mallorcan wineries with wine tasting , lunch included

To help you get a better idea of the island, I’ve created a tourist map of Mallorca featuring the places to visit mentioned in this top 23 list of the best things to do in Mallorca. You can display the map legend by clicking the button with a small arrow at the top left corner.

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your stay in Mallorca, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Mallorca? 😊

And you, what places of interest are tempting you for your trip in Mallorca?

Discover all my articles about Mallorca and the Balearic islands : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mallorca are listed there.

• The 23 best things to do in Mallorca
• Palma de Mallorca: the 20 best places to visit
• Itinerary: 4 or 5 days in Mallorca – Itinerary to prepare a short stay in Mallorca
• Itinerary: One week in Mallorca – The perfect itinerary to visit the island in 7 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Mallorca – Our recommended itinerary for visiting Mallorca in 9-10 days
• Mallorca road trip: The best itineraries for 4, 5, 7 and 10 days
• The 17 Best things to do  in Menorca
• Itinerary: One week in Menorca  – The ideal itinerary to visit the island in 7 days

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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7 Mallorca Destinations Locals Love for Beautiful Beaches, Fresh Seafood, and Charming Towns

With direct flights now available from New York to Mallorca, here are some of the top spots on the island to eat and explore, according to a local.

When my husband, toddler, and I moved to Mallorca — the largest of the Spanish Balearic Islands — in May 2020, the island was a once-in-a-century kind of quiet. Only locals frequented the charming towns, dreamy crystal blue waters, and iconic fincas (Spanish farmhouses).

Arriving in Madrid from New York in March 2022, our glamorous expat dreams of late-night tapas hopping and traveling to new cities every weekend were abruptly halted by the pandemic. My husband and I were fortunately able to work remotely (he in marketing and me with my jewelry line, Zahava ), and so we decided to relocate to the breathtakingly beautiful island of Mallorca to ride out the proverbial storm.

With no tourists in sight, the keys to the castle were ours — no lines, no traffic, no reservations needed — and we were able to deeply explore this magical destination. Now, the world has thankfully opened up again, and the island is buzzing with life. With travel to Mallorca easier than ever with a newly launched direct flight from New York via United, here's how to explore the island like a local, with some of the most magnificent restaurants, beaches, and hotels we've discovered along the way.

The capital city of Palma is easy to overlook, especially for those coming to Mallorca for the famed beaches. However, this charming and surprisingly robust city offers an array of cute cafes and cultural experiences. Because of the way the roads are built, you often have to drive through Palma to get from one town to another, so basing yourself here is a good idea if you plan to explore the entire (larger than you think it is) island. We live in Palma, and our favorite way to start the morning is with a trip to Mercat de l'Olivar , the largest fresh market on the island. Expect beautiful produce, handmade pasta, and a sprawling fish market here. We love stopping by Fornet de la Soca , famous for its Mallorcan baked goods with a twist, and the Swedish bakery, Palma Bread , for its homemade sourdough (they fly their flour in from Sweden — seriously).

The weather in Palma is always warm and beautiful, even more so than other parts of the island, and there are gorgeous hikes and bike rides just outside the city. Rapha can set you up with a bike (and green juice).

For lunch, we often head to Cafe Riutort . Owned by a sweet Mallorcan couple, Riutort serves up a different vegetarian menu each day, based on what's freshest at the market (don't leave without trying the pistachio sea salt cookies). Another favorite is Bar des Mercat in the Santa Catalina market — a modest grill and counter where the chef will prepare anything you see at the market (go for the fresh squid and some artichokes).

Minimoon Destinations Perfect for a Quick Romantic Getaway

The town of Palma is worth exploring, with great shops like Cortana (romantic, ready-to-wear pieces designed by Mallorcan Rosa Esteva, and crafted in Barcelona) and Rialto Living , which is like a tiny, old-school department store. Head to the Palma Sport & Tennis Club or Mistral to catch up on some emails with a delicious cappuccino, or go for a manicure at Calm Slow Beauty .

Come evening, enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop terrace of De Tokio a Lima , then head to dinner at our favorite hidden gem, La Juanita Cuina Fresca. This small cafe has a reasonably priced pre-fixe menu that changes based on seasonal ingredients. Sit at the counter and watch the chef at work.

As for where to stay, crash at Sant Francesc if you're looking for something special, or choose from tons of tiny hotels and Airbnbs throughout town.

With a sizable British expat community, and therefore a largely English-speaking population, Pollença was an obvious choice for our first home in Mallorca. We spent our first year on the island living up against the mountains, with chickens laying fresh eggs in our backyard each morning, jasmine growing wildly outside our window, and roosters waking us up in the morning.

This dreamy town has a wonderful farmers market each Sunday morning, which we would frequent after our hike up the Puig de Maria . For a special meal or overnight stay, Son Brull (known for its yoga and brunch) is a dream — the spectacular vineyard and finca-style architecture make it the quintessential Mallorcan backdrop.

Don't miss the nearby Platja de Formentor, as the drive alone is spectacular. Surrounded by trees, the beach is serene, with still, shallow water that's ideal for kids (the easy parking doesn't hurt either). Take a look at Morgan and Morgan for beautiful homes to call your own, if only for a week, in the area.

Our favorite restaurant on the island is nestled in a small, darling town called Caimari. Ca Na Toneta is owned by three sisters (front of house, sommelier, and chef), and the seasonal pre-fixe menu is a masterpiece. The dishes are simple and bright, with fresh, local ingredients from the best purveyors, and there's always a story behind each vegetable or piece of cheese. The charming decor, earnest spirit, and thoughtfully prepared plates make for a memorable evening. Just don't be in a hurry; it's a relaxed, multihour affair.

Deià and Sóller

Deià is the crown jewel of Mallorca, known for its cliffside ocean views, gallery-filled mountain town, and history of attracting artists, poets, and celebrities. For a healthy breakfast, start your day at S'Hortet with a coconut yogurt bowl. The famous La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel , is worth the splurge for a night or just a lemonade under a palm tree overlooking sprawling gardens and ocean views.

However, our favorite spot is Ca's Patro March , a fish shack down a long, windy road (rent a small car, trust me) and hanging over turquoise waters. Today, you can reserve your lunch spot in advance online (reservations open up two weeks out), but up until 2021, you had to physically drive to this wild location and put your name down (they never answered the phone). We happily made the pilgrimage each spring to secure a few spots for the summer.

Nearby, in Sóller, rent a boat to travel to Sa Foradada (only accessible by boat or long hike) for delicious paella and one of the most epic views. It's a swim from your boat to your table type of place (OK, there's a dock, but you get the vibe). Afterward, check out the beautiful town, including Re Organic , a favorite with local, eco-minded products, and Bloss You for some fresh flowers.

The eastern coast of Mallorca is rural and rugged, with some of the most untouched countryside and spectacular views (the drive toward Cala Torta is otherworldly). Spend the day at Cala Mesquida , enjoying its dreamy waters, and make a point to check out the uber-chic Es Racó d'Artà hotel and spa. Predi Son Jaumell Hotel Rural , a finca-style property in the beautiful Mallorcan countryside, is another favorite in the area.

Santanyí and Ses Salines

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Head southeast toward Santanyí for quaint villages and some of the best beaches on the island. Cala Llombards is our favorite beach, and we go almost every weekend in the summer. A magical cove with a lovely sandy stretch, it's a short walk up to the rocks where you can jump off into the electric blue waters. Map to the chiringuito (beach bar) to park.

For dramatic stretches of sandy beach, Es Trenc is a winner. You'll drive past salt mines and can even pick up some of the famous Flor de Sal d'Es Trenc table salts on your way back to town. When you get hungry, have lunch at Casa Manolo , a family-owned spot that serves an incredible "squid in its own ink" dish. Later, head to Restaurant Laudat for an elegant dinner. An oasis I have come to love in this area is Cal Reiet , a hotel with wellness-focused cuisine, tropical gardens, and yoga offerings. It's a special place to escape the heat and noise.

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Mallorca travel guide: Everything you need to know

• Sofía Pozuelo
• UPDATED: 25/11/2023

👩🏻‍⚕️ Let me remind you that it's very important to book good international insurance if you are going to a destination where you do not have medical coverage. We always use Heymondo travel insurance . You can get a 5% discount by booking it here .

Thanks to this Mallorca travel guide, you will be able to plan your trip to this incredible Mediterranean island. In this post, I have compiled a series of Mallorca travel tips that I hope will be of great help for you when preparing your trip.

You will find information on how long to spend on the island, the best time to visit Mallorca, how to get around, where to stay, things to do, etc. Also, at the end of the article I have included a map of Mallorca where I have marked all the places I'll mention.

Mallorca (Balearic Islands) is a destination that attracts millions of tourists every year. Its charming towns, coves with crystal clear waters and its charming atmosphere are irresistible to any traveler. Since so many people visit the islands, I recommend planning your trip to Mallorca in advance.

Table of contents

Best time to visit mallorca.

If you want to enjoy the coves and beaches, the best time to travel to Mallorca is between May and September, when temperatures are a bit warmer. In May, June and September, the weather is good and there are not so many people on the island. However, the sea water in May and June is much cooler.

On the other hand, during the months of July and August, especially in August, there are many visitors in Mallorca, therefore, you will not be able to get to know the island with peace of mind. Even so, if you get up early and plan everything well, you will be able to enjoy all its attractions. Another drawback of visiting Mallorca during high season is that prices are a bit higher.

My last trip to Mallorca was at the end of May. Visiting the island at this time of year was an amazing decision since, despite having a couple of slightly cloudy days, we were able to enjoy the coves and avoid large crowds.

🏥 Remember it is very important to purchase travel insurance for Spain if you don’t have medical coverage in this country. I always use and recommend the company Heymondo, where I can offer you a 5% discount on your travel insurance .

How to get to Mallorca

Mallorca is part of the Balearic Islands. Therefore, you can travel to Mallorca by plane or ferry. The most common way to visit Mallorca is by taking a flight but it may be worthwhile going by ferry.

Affordable flights to Mallorca

Flights from the Spanish peninsula to Mallorca are usually very cheap. I recommend searching for flights to travel to Mallorca on Skyscanner . When you visit the website, you will be able to see the most affordable flights to Palma de Mallorca. When buying flights, I always recommend doing it through the airline’s website.

Palma de Mallorca Airport is located approximately 10 kilometers from the center of Palma. If you are not going to rent a car at the airport, you can go to the center of Palma by taxi (it costs around €20) or by bus. If you decide to take a bus, you will have to take line A1. In the summer, the buses depart every 15 minutes. In winter, the wait time may be longer. The ticket costs €5 and takes just over 10 minutes.

Travel to Mallorca by ferry

Another option is visiting Mallorca by ferry from Valencia, Barcelona or Dénia. If you are already in the Balearic Islands, you can also take a ferry to Mallorca from Ibiza, Menorca or Formentera.

If you want to find the best ferry deals, I recommend checking out Ferryhopper . There are several companies that offer these routes: Balearia, Trasmediterránea and GNV.

One advantage of traveling to Mallorca by ferry is that you can take your own vehicle from the mainland Spain. Sometimes car rental prices are sky high, so you can save some money.

How many days to spend in Mallorca

I recommend spending a minimum of 4 or 5 days in Mallorca. Obviously, the more days on the island, the better, but I understand that not everyone has the time to spend a while in Mallorca.

Mallorca hides endless places to visit: towns, beaches, lighthouses, viewpoints, etc. Therefore, it takes quite a bit of time to visit it well. If possible, my advice is to spend 7-10 days visiting Mallorca. However, if you do spend even more days in Mallorca, you will not get bored. If you don’t have that much time, an itinerary of 4 or 5 days is fine, as I have already indicated.

On the other hand, if you have less time, you can still enjoy the island in a 2 or 3 day getaway. You will have to focus on a small part of the island but you will surely enjoy your time in Mallorca nonetheless.

🚗 Do you need to rent a car for your trip to Mallorca? I recommend checking out Discover Cars , a highly-rated car rental search platform. I have used it several times and it has always been great!

What to do in Mallorca

One of the main steps when planning a trip to Mallorca is deciding which places you are going to include in your itinerary around the island. As I have already mentioned, Mallorca has many places to visit: charming villages, mountains, coves, lighthouses, viewpoints and, of course, the city of Palma.

In the following sections, I am going to name some of the places that you cannot miss during your visit to Mallorca.

Palma de Mallorca

If you are going to travel to Mallorca, one of the places you cannot miss is Palma, the main city and capital of the island. Palma is a city that is well worth visiting as it has many attractions. One of them is the incredible Cathedral of Palma. It is a true work of art! You will also love getting lost in the streets of the historic center and having a drink in the Santa Catalina neighborhood.

An amazing way to get to know the city is by booking this free tour of Palma de Mallorca . If you want a more in-depth article about what to do in Palma in 1 day , take a look at my blog post about Palma.

Beautiful towns in Mallorca

Something that I love about Mallorca is the number of charming towns that you can visit. Every town has a very beautiful architecture and vibe. Many of these towns are located in Sierra de Tramontana. Getting lost in the mountains while discovering these little towns is one of the best things to do in Mallorca. You will enjoy it a lot!

In Sierra de Tramontana, I recommend visiting the following towns: Valldemossa, Deià, Sóller, Bañalbufar, Fornalutx and Pollença. Other towns worth visiting in Mallorca are Alcúdia, Artà, Capdepera and Portocolom.

Best beaches and coves in Mallorca

Millions visit Mallorca every year seeking beaches and coves. Its crystal-clear and turquoise water really stand out. These beaches and coves are spread out throughout the entire Mallorca coastline.

Some of the best beaches and coves in Mallorca are Playa des Trenc, Cala Pi, Caló des Moro, Cala s’Almunia, Cala Llombards, Playa S’Amarador, Cala Mondragó, Cala Torta, Cala Estreta, Playa de Muro, Playa des Coll Baix, Cala Figuera (Formentor), Formentor Beach, Cala de Sa Calobra, Cala Tuent, Cala Deià, Cala d’Estellencs, Playa del Rei, etc. As you can see, there many beaches and coves!

Other places worth including in this Mallorca travel guide

Mallorca doesn’t just have towns and coves. The island is home to many other places worth visiting during your trip. Do not miss the following places: Torre del Verger, Mirador de Sa Foradada (viewpoint), Faro de Formentor (lighthouse), Mirador Es Colomer, Talaia d’Albercutx, Mirador de Na Clara and Mirador des Pontàs.

Another very popular place to visit are the Drach Caves. Although they are beautiful, I did not particularly like the visit because there were too many people and I could not enjoy it. The Caves of Artà were better recommended by a staff member at Drach Caves, since they are less crowded.

How to get around in Mallorca

The best way to visit Mallorca is by car. Unless you have brought your own by ferry, you will have to rent a car in Mallorca. It is the best option because it gives you complete freedom to move around the island and allows you to visit practically every all place. In addition, you will save waiting time.

I recommend the company Discover Cars , which allows you to compare several companies and see which one is cheaper. Plus, you can add a very complete insurance for a good price.

Although Mallorca has public transportation, I do not recommend visiting the island using it because, you will not be able to reach many of the best places to visit in Mallorca. In addition, you will have to put up with waiting times and it will be more difficult for you to plan your itineraries.

If, for whatever reason, renting a car is not an option for you, you will have to get to know the island through public transportation. In this case, I recommend staying in Palma. It’s the main city, which means it has better bus connections with the rest of Mallorca. I recommend consulting the Transports de les Illes Balears ‘ website for more information.

This is a map of all the transportation connections available in Mallorca. Use this if you are planning a Mallorca travel itinerary using public transportation.

Best tours in Mallorca

If you are not going to rent a car during your trip to Mallorca, I recommend booking some tours. It will be more expensive than getting around the island by bus, but it is also more comfortable and convenient for you, since you will not have to worry about transportation. You can also visit places in Mallorca that cannot visit using public transportation.

You can also book boat trips, which is convenient even if you are going to have a car, since there are places, such as Sa Calobra, that can be easily accessed by boat.

These are some of the best tours in Mallorca:

• Caves of Drach Day Trip .
• 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour in Palma .
• Porto Cristo: Caves of Hams Entry Ticket .
• Palma Bay Boat Tour and Snorkeling .
• Cala del Moro, Cala S’Almunia and Cala Llombards Excursion .
• Boat to Sa Calobra from Sóller .

Where to stay in Mallorca

There is a large selection of hotels to choose from in Mallorca. You can find options for different tastes and budgets. Choosing the bests areas to stay in Mallorca is the hard part. For this reason, one of the best tips that you will find in this Mallorca travel guide will be about this specific topic.

An area that I highly recommend if you visit Mallorca in search of the best coves and beaches is the municipality of Santanyi. You will be close to places like Caló des Moro and Cala Llombards. Take a look at the following hotels: Boutique Hostal Mistral , Hotel Nou Can Guillem and Boutique Hotel Petit Sant Miquel .

Staying in Palma and its surroundings is also a great idea in my opinion, since it takes fairly little time to get to the rest of the island from Palma. It is very well connected. Something important when reserving an accommodation in Palma, if you are going to visit Mallorca by car, is that it has parking for its guests since parking in the city can be somewhat complicated.

If you decide to stay in Palma, take a look at these hotels with parking: BQ Augusta Hotel , Nou Baleares and Ars Magna Bleisure Hotel .

Last but not least, I recommend Alcúdia, located in the northern part of Mallorca. This whole area is beautiful and also has good beaches, therefore, it is worth considering this option. It’s one of the best places to stay in Mallorca for families. Take a look at Cas Ferrer Nou Hotelet in the area.

If you are planning a romantic gateway, don’t forget to check the best hoteles in Majorca for couples . All of them are only adults!

Mallorca travel guide itineraries

Once you know how many days you are going to spend in Mallorca, I recommend planning an itinerary in which you are very clear about what you are going to visit each day. In this way, you won’t waste any time improvising while you’re in Mallorca.

• 3-day Mallorca itinerary ( coming soon ).
• 4-day Mallorca itinerary .
• 5-day Mallorca itinerary ( coming soon ).
• 7-day Mallorca itinerary ( coming soon ).

💳 To get cash in the local currency of your destination or pay by card, I recommend getting the N26 card . With the free version you can withdraw cash from ATMs with a very low commission and pay in another currency with the best exchange rate and no commissions.

Traditional food you should taste in Mallorca

A trip to Mallorca is not complete without tasting some of the local delicacies, such as ensaimada and sobrasada. There is a very famous place in Palma de Mallorca where you can try, and even order, ensaimadas. It is called Ca’n Joan de s’Aigo. There are three locations in the city.

During your visit to Valldemossa, one of the most beautiful towns in Mallorca, I recommend tasting coca de patata, a very traditional sweet from the area. While you walk through town, you will see different bakeries and cafes where they sale coca de patata.

If you get the chance, do not forget to taste Majorcan empanadas, coca de trampó, arròs brut, tumbet and Majorcan-style snails.

Best restaurants – Mallorca travel guide

Below, you can find list of some of the best restaurants in Mallorca:

• Ca’s Patro March (Cala Deià).
• Restaurante El Olivo (Deià).
• Es Racó d’es Teix (Deià).
• Cassai Gran Café & Restaurant (Ses Salines).
• Noir Mallorca (Cala D’or).
• Restaurant 19 Livingdreams (Santa Maria del Camí).
• Sumailla Restaurant (Port d’Andratx).
• Es Fanals (Port de Sóller).

Map of Mallorca

In the following map of Mallorca you can see all the places that I have mentioned in this Mallorca travel guide: beaches, towns, restaurants, visits and recommended hotels.

Check my Spain travel guide if you are planning to visit other areas of this country.

I hope that this Mallorca travel guide has been very useful for you in planning your trip to this beautiful island of the Balearic Islands. If you want to tell me about your experience or have any questions, do not hesitate to leave a comment or email me. Until next time travelers!

• PLAN A TRIP STEP BY STEP

↠ Book free tours and guided visits on Civitatis or GetYourGuide . I always use these platforms to check what organized activities there are at my destination.

↠ To pay with card in foreign currency or withdraw money from ATMs, I always use this card (there are free and paid plans). It works the best!

↠ Traveling with travel insurance to a destination where you don’t have healthcare coverage is a must. Get your insurance 5% cheaper with this link .

↠ If you want to have cellphone data at your destination from the moment you land and don’t want to waste time, there is nothing like this eSIM . Use the code “comeamaviaja” for a 5% discount.

↠ Check out Booking’s offers , a platform I always use, as I always find very good options thanks to its search engine with filters.

↠ For destinations where I need to rent a car, I always check Discover Cars and Auto Europe search engines. I recommend them!

↠ If you still need to buy flights for your trip, there is no better search engine than Skyscanner (although I always recommend booking the flight on the company’s website).

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Welcome to majorca - mallorca, your practical travel guide and holidays to majorca – mallorca.

Welcome to the enchanting island of Majorca , also known as  Mallorca , one of world’s most popular and major beach holiday island of Spain, located on the east of Spain mainland, in the Mediterranean Sea. This beautiful destination is part of the Balearic Islands archipelago and is renowned for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and breathtaking natural landscapes. ajorca is also one of the busiest holiday islands and entertainment centres in Europe with more than 300 days of sunshine and 350 miles of beautiful coastline.

The island can be considered as the island of tranquillity as well as isle of light and beauty. From its rich history and culture to its stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, delicious cuisine, and vibrant festivals, the island offers a diverse range of experiences. 

Things to Do in Majorca: Essential Attractions + Insider Advice

Places to see in majorca: essential sights + insider advice, majorca shopping guide: what to buy best places for shopping, nightlife in majorca: main areas + hot spots, clubs, venues, majorca dining guide – eating out in majorca (what to eat).

Find out great days out, things to do and sightseeing on the island, including the best places to stay, eat, drink as well as the top attractions and sights, and all of the useful information you need to know before you go.

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Aqualand majorca water park in el arenal: best tickets & tours, western water park magaluf: best tickets & tours + advice, scuba diving in majorca: best tours, diving locations + advice, marineland in costa d’en blanes: best tickets & tours + advice, magaluf booze cruise party: best tickets & boat tours advice, katmandu adventure park magaluf: best tickets & tours + advice, pirates adventure show magaluf: best tickets + prices + tips, palma aquarium mallorca: best tickets & tours + advice, sunset booze cruise in magaluf: best tickets & boat tours advice, jungle parc majorca in santa ponsa: best tickets & tours + advice, dinosaurland mallorca: best tickets & tours + advice, majorca boat party: daytime and night – best tickets advice, where to stay, holiday resorts.

Are you dreaming of a sun-soaked Mediterranean getaway?  Majorca offers an incredible array of holiday resorts and destinations to suit every traveler’s preferences. Whether you seek vibrant nightlife, tranquil beaches, outdoor adventures, or luxurious experiences, this beautiful Mediterranean island has it all. Start planning your dream vacation to Majorca and create memories that will last a lifetime.

From the lively streets of Palma de Mallorca to the idyllic coves of Cala d’Or, Majorca’s top resorts and destinations await your exploration. Embrace the warmth of the sun, immerse yourself in the rich culture, and indulge in the delights of this captivating island paradise.

Puerto Alcudia Majorca: Holidays, Top Things to Do See

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Are you visiting Majorca for the first time? You can find out all the necessary information and top recommendations to plan your first trip to Majorca easy, well planned, fun and safe. You can read our guides here the top attractions, sights, boat trips, travel tips, and more things to do.

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Majorca (Mallorca) Tourist and Travel Information Guide

A complete guide to mallorca 2024 with everything you need to know on accommodation, resorts, transport, shopping, trips and so much more, mallorca 2024.

Mallorca continues to be one of the most popular and sought after holiday choices for 2024. As a result of continually delivering on expectations and visitor experiences, the Island is preparing for another highly anticipated excellent year of Tourism. The main strengths being quality plus the immense range of holiday types, setting the Island apart from most other holiday destinations in Europe.

Once again Mallorca welcomes visitors from all countries to this beautiful Island!

Why is Mallorca so special ?

There really is no doubt that Mallorca is an amazing Island. It shines like a jewel with its beautiful crystal clear waters and fine golden sands. When you come to Mallorca for the first time, you realise why this special Island is so unique. It is a wonderful place to visit and a marvellous place to live!

The beaches, stunningly beautiful natural landscapes together with the mediterranean climate are a strong attraction for the majority of visitors. However this Island is also famous for numerous historical treasures, picturesque villages and a multitude of sporting activities. The strong Mallorquin Culture, Language and famous Gastronomy offer visitors an insight to the real Mallorca.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing break or a holiday packed full of adventure, you will discover that Mallorca really has something to suit everyone.

Accommodation - Where to Stay

Mallorca offers a superb choice of accommodation of all types throughout the Island. The vast majority can be found in the Capital City of Palma and across the Island Resorts. Although quieter Towns, Villages and rural Mallorca have less choice, you will still find excellent options of places to stay.

Hotels, governed by strict quality standards, make an obvious choice for many Tourists or Visitors.

Equally Private Holiday Rental Properties provide a more flexible economic option for those who prefer to holiday at their own pace.

Balearic Tourist Tax payable on behalf of the Government, is charged at all Licenced accommodation, Hotels, Aparthotels and Private Rental Homes.

When searching for News, it is important to read from a trusted source. Find the latest Majorca News online in English, the real facts with breaking news stories as they happen.

Visit the Historic Sites in Palma , to see the magnificent Architecture, you will love it!

You can confidently read our buying property tips if you are thinking of looking for your place in the Sun!

Mallorca has a multitude of transport options both for your arrival and as a means to explore the Island.

Car Hire is a popular choice however local Buses, both Palma City and Island Wide, are also good options. Private Resort Mini-Buses can be reserved online and Taxis are available in all locations.

For some retail therapy, find where the best shops are. Visit the Malls, the famous El Corte Ingles department stores or treat yourself to some Designer goods.

It is easy to plan an exciting Trip or Excursion. There are so many things to do in Mallorca, see the favourite days out.

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Mallorca enjoys a hugely diverse landscape from the rocky Tramuntana Mountainous region in the North-West to the flat plains in the centre of the Island. The beautiful beaches, varying resorts and range of sports and tourist activities provide a multitude of options for visitors. This is the reason why so many people return to the Island year after year!

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Is Mallorca A Tourist Trap Or A Gorgeous Island To Visit? Your Guide To Visiting

Planning a Spanish getaway and wondering “Is Mallorca Worth Visiting?”

Mallorca is one of the Balearic Islands just off the coast of Spain. While most travelers think of Ibiza and partying when they think of this chain of islands in the Mediterranean, there is sooooo much more to them than that!

When we saw a cheap flight to Mallorca pop up, we were a little bit apprehensive for that reason. Caleb and I, Taylor, are in our 30s now and we’re not looking to party the night away – we’re looking for great food, cocktails, romance, and exploration you know? But, we love Spain, so on the plane we went!

The “too long didn’t read” is: after spending 4 jam-packed days on the island, we were very pleasantly surprised with how much we loved it and can say that Mallorca is 100% worth visiting ! Whether you are a couple who wants to lay by the beach or go hiking around magical villages in the mountains, there are so many things to see and places to visit in Mallorca!

Here are all the reasons why we think you need to add Mallorca to your list of “places to visit” as a couple!

15 Reasons Why Mallorca is Worth Visting

1. beautiful beaches .

They say the Caribbean has the most beautiful beaches in the world but we would die on the hill of “Mallorca has the best beaches” if that hill existed in real life.

The beaches are absolutely dreamy with their white, soft sand that doesn’t get hot and the water. OMG the water. You will never see anything so blue in all your life. When you are sitting on the soft sand and looking out over the blue Sea, it’ll make even people who find beaches kinda boring (like us) beach believers.

Fun fact: the water is so blue due to a lower nutrient content so algae cannot thrive as well as 

Pair that with decently warm Sea water and you’ve got the perfect pair for kick-booty beaches.

Visit Mallorca in the shoulder seasons (Spring and Fall) to enjoy the beaches with fewer tourists around! More enjoyable, more romantic, and an overall better experience. We found October to be an amazing time to visit the island!

2. It’s Super Romantic

Honestly, we’re not sure if we have been anywhere MORE romantic than Mallorca, which was entirely unexpected and we did not think we would want to spend as much time in Mallorca as we did! Aside from basking together on the beach, you have all these beautiful little mountain towns to stroll through that feel a little bit like a dream.

Around every turn, you have gorgeous flowers, cozy little wine bars with incredible Spanish wine, and little tapas bars where you can hole up and share amazing Mallorcan food together.

And don’t even get us started on overlooking the gorgeous sunsets with a glass of wine on a warm night, one of the most romantic things to do for couples ! ROMANCE SAY WHAT.

3. Warm Weather

If you’re a normal, living, and breathing human who hates being cold, Mallorca is for you. Being a Mediterranean Island, you get lots of sun with mild winters. Even when it is quite hot, there is always that refreshing sea breeze to chill it all out

 Or, you can head to the mountains to get away from the heat of the Palma if you want a little more adventure on the side of cooler temperatures.

2 IMPORTANT POINTS: While you can find ways to get away, Mallorca does get EXTREMELY hot and humid in the summer – around 80.6°F-91.4°F. And, in the winter, it gets down to 57.2°F-62.6°F which is not warm enough to go swimming. 

You need to keep this in mind when planning your trip if you are a couple who doesn’t like it overly hot or wants to swim!

4. Gorgeous Landscapes and Mountains 

Sure, the turquoise-blue Mediterranean Sea is beautiful enough to make anyone weak but that is not all Mallorca has on the menu. Mallorca is also home to the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range which is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.

In the mountain range, you will wind through lush and gorgeous green forests and sand-colored stone that towers high over the incredibly blue water as a backdrop. 

When we drove down the MA-10, one of the most dangerous roads on the island with EPIC views, we wanted to stop every 5 minutes to check out a viewpoint. 

In the mountain range, you also have incredible hikes and dozens of charming towns to explore along the way.

5. Easily accessible by car or bus

We wanted to be able to give you exact, real-world information on if you needed a car in Mallorca or not so we spent multiple days with a rental car driving around Mallorca and multiple days without, getting around by bus. We are happy to say that BOTH options are very convenient to get around the island.

While the mountain roads can be quite windy, they connect all the little villages very easily, making driving around by car super convenient.

The bus system is also VERY well done, with all the little villages accessible on the main bus lines. The bus system is also straightforward to follow so, even though you are in a different country, it’s quite hard to get lost if you do choose to navigate by bus.

if you choose to use the bus, the bus systems in Palma do NOT take credit cards, so get a bus card at the Intermodal station, right across the street and underground from the Antique train station near Plaça d’Espanya. The TIB bus system (for the Tramuntana mountains) takes credit cards. Make sure to tap your card when you get in AND OUT.

6. Dreamy Small Towns

The small villages in Mallorca were by far our favorite, and unexpected, part of the island. The Serra Tramuntana Range and the coastal area of the island are home to quite a few of the most quaint and magical little towns with cobblestone streets and brownstone buildings to get lost in. No matter, if you visit in the Summer or wintery January, around each corner is another beautiful view or winery or gelato store to pop into on your exploration.

The towns feel so old and historical and offer some unique experiences like riding a 20th-century antique train from Palma to Soller or doing a Paella class in a local one-room home in Banyalbufar.

The must-see villages are:

• Valldemossa 
• Soller (don’t miss the orange festival in April !)
• Banyalbufar

7. City life in Palma 

We’ve talked a lot about the relaxing beaches and dreamy towns, but Mallorca also offers the bustling capital city, Palma de Mallorca.

When you’re done chilling by the beach or exploring the mountains you can come hang out in the city center and sit outside on a patio in the warm evening over a glass of wine and soak in the noise, sights, and smells around you! Don’t worry, it’s safe to drink the water in Palma so get those ice cubes!

Palma also has INCREDIBLE shopping. You’ll find lots of designer stores as well as locally-owned stores with interesting fashion and local products to bring home. Parts of it sort of feel like New York on a beach!

8. Incredible food and drinks

The city brings amazing bars and restaurants! Every place you look there is a trendy restaurant serving all kinds of food as well as small, romantic cocktails bars for a nightcap, as long as you’re the legal drinking age!

Mallorca is home to MANY Michel Star restaurants as well as one of the most beautiful restaurants we have ever seen – El Olivio in Deía.

Some of the must-try local Mallorcan foods are:

• Sobrassada – a spreadable, chorizo-like sausage that we are OBSESSED WITH. We talk about it all the time for real.
• Tumbet – it’s like the Mallorcan version of ratatouille
• Ensaïmada – A simple, spiral-shaped pastry made with pork lard. It doesn’t taste porky though, just SO light, fluffy, and delish! Our favorites were at Panaderia S’Estacio in Palma and you can see the bakers making them through a part of the glass floor!

9. Beautiful Accommodations 

Even though we feel like a “room is just a room” it’s always nice to stay in a romantic, beautiful hotel or Airbnb. You will find gorgeous hotels adorned with flowers and made of old stone or quaint old Mallorcan-style apartments as we stayed in!

>> Click here to check out prices and options for locations around the island <<

10. Vibrant Culture

When asking “Is Mallorca Worth Visiting?” you need to know that Mallorca is buzzing with culture! It has an overall “artsy” vibe and you’ll stumble into museums and many art galleries as you stroll through the old streets, such as the Frédéric Chopin and George Sand Museum in Valldemossa or the Pilar and Joan Miro Foundation.

There are also many markets such as l’Olivar by the train station or the Santa Catalina market in the trendy neighborhood of the same name!

11. Breathtaking Sunsets

The sun setting over the Mediterranean with the backdrop of the mountain range and stunning rock cliffs (and rock formations in some spots!) is absolutely breathtaking and very romantic! We saw some of the most incredible sunsets that we have ever seen.

Everyone says to go watch the sunset at Sa Foradada in Deía, but we do NOT recommend this. While it was very beautiful, it was also SO CROWDED with tourists that it was not enjoyable.

We recommend you check out Santanyi, a village on the south-eastern side, for incredible sunsets and super cool rock formations! Port d’Andratx also had a beautiful sunset and lots of restaurants to grab a glass of wine while you watch.

12. Rich History 

Mallorca is not just a beachy town – it has a super interesting history! Mallorca was through Roman rule, and Arab rule, and then conquered by King Jaume I of Aragorn in the 13th century. As you stroll through the streets, you can see the influence of all these cultures in the roads, walls, buildings, and architecture such as the Cathedral.

13. Unique Activities

It’s easy to think that the only thing to do in Mallorca is to sit by the beach. That is one of the reasons we were apprehensive about visiting in the first place – we get bored of sunbathing quickly!

While you could spend your entire vacation sitting by the beach, Mallorca also offers you some unique things to do such as catamaran tours , hiking, scuba diving, snorkeling , cycling, exploring vineyards , or, our favorite, a paella-making class!

14. A good year-round destination

One of the great things about Mallorca is that you can visit it pretty much any time of the year and have a great time with good weather. There is truly NO bad time to visit Mallorca which makes it easier to plan a vacation around when it works for you, holiday time, etc.

15. You can get by with English 

We didn’t have to pull out Google Translate once on our trip. Sure, the older Mallorcans may not speak English, but everyone that we ran into in the tourism industry (restaurants, hotels, etc) spoke English. This made getting around a lot easier for us.

Try to at least learn SOME Spanish words so you look like you make an effort!

A Negative of Visiting Mallorca

By now it’s pretty obvious that we think the answer to “Is Mallorca worth visiting” is absolutely YES.

But, we want to keep it real with you so you know what to expect: Mallorca is very touristy. When we were walking down some of the back roads it was like “Oh okay, this is not so bad.” But then you turn down a main street and it’s just PEOPLE EVERYWHERE.

We have been almost everywhere in Spain and you usually don’t have to try too hard to experience the authenticity of Spain. This is not the case with Mallorca and, if we’re being honest, it’s probably why you see “tourists go home” signs on some balconies of Mallorcan apartments. 

This will be less the case if you opt to stay in one of the sleepier mountain towns as opposed to Palma though!

avoid staying at Magaluf or Palma Nova. These areas are known to be the hotspot for 20-year-old party people and you do not want to be surrounded by drunk, young tourists!

FAQ on Visiting Mallorca

When is the best time to visit mallorca.

The best time to visit Mallorca is the shoulder season of Spring or Fall. You will still get warm weather, beautiful beaches, and fewer tourists!

Is Mallorca Expensive?

Mallorca is expensive compared to other cities in Spain, such as Madrid. We found the prices were a little closer to what you pay in America, so plan your budget accordingly. This is common for island destinations! 

Are there places to avoid in Mallorca?

When staying in Mallorca you want to avoid Palma Nova or Magaluf as these are the areas the younger tourists stay to get drunk and party the night away.

Where is Mallorca?

Mallorca is just off the coast of mainland Spain in the Mediterranean Sea.

Let’s Wrap This Up: Is Mallorca Worth Visiting?

Well, Mallorca sure surprised us! We were lucky enough to visit in a shoulder season, October, which visited Mallorca incredibly enjoyably and one that we will remember forever. This may change if you have to visit during the busy Summer months as we know not everyone can choose when to travel as we are.

However, even if you have to do so, we really believe that with its mix of relaxing beach time, mountains, and incredible food, Mallorca is absolutely 100% worth visiting and you should add it to your bucket list!

So, are you going to try to visit this island anytime soon?

Other Helpful Posts

• Do you need a car in Mallorca?
• Best Places to Stay in Mallorca Without a Car
• How Many Days in Mallorca

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Visit Palma, Spain

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With its labyrinthine alleyways linking honey stone buildings and sun-splashed squares, Palma is a place to lose yourself in. Mallorca’s capital city sits away from the island’s busier regions, on the southwest coast. And, from Almudaina Palace — an Islamic fort converted into a royal residence — to Plaça de Cort, a square with a 600-year-old olive tree, it’s a place steeped in history.

The city’s best-known landmark is the striking Palma Cathedral, which dates back to the 14th century and includes decorative ironwork and stained glass, plus ceramic tiles designed by Antoni Gaudí. A Gothic construction of golden sandstone, its kaleidoscopic rose window is one of the largest in Europe. Palma’s artistic side spills beyond the walls of the cathedral, with several galleries nestled among the bars, restaurants, and cafés. You can discover the city’s historic, artistic, and culinary sides through our private walking tours, wine tastings, and artisan workshops with local craftspeople.

Things to see & do in Palma

Palma’s historic highlights.

A private walking tour is one of the best ways to discover the real Palma. You’ll take in sights like the Almudaina Palace and Plaça de Cort, while your guide tells you more about their history and cultural significance. The tour also includes more unassuming spots, such as the Convent de Santa Clara. Here, you can buy handmade baked goods from the resident nuns, the Clarisas, via a special torno (turnstile) that means you never see their faces. And, of course, you’ll visit the Cathedral, or La Seu as it’s called in Catalan, to take in its Gothic architecture, stained-glass windows, and unbroken Mediterranean views from the roof terraces.

Artisan crafts

From glassblowing to pottery — not to mention masterpieces by renowned painters like Miró and Picasso on show in city museums — Palma has a rich artistic tradition. You’ll find many galleries dotting its narrow streets, and a wide variety of craftspeople within its walls. For a hands-on introduction, we can arrange for you to attend a workshop, led by a local artisan, where you’ll make your own pair of leather sandals to take home. You’ll choose the design before being taken through the process from start to finish.

Exploring Palma’s culinary side

Palma’s gastronomic scene has grown exponentially in recent years, resulting in a wealth of restaurants to choose from. If you’d like to get to know the local cuisine, you can join a cooking class run by a culinary expert. Here, you’ll learn the art of cooking paella, along with a selection of other Spanish recipes, before enjoying your dishes paired with local beer or wine. Mallorca is also home to a number of boutique vineyards. You can find out more about the island’s wines and sample a selection of them at a local bodega (wine shop), under the tutelage of a connoisseur.

Best time to visit Palma

With its pleasant Mediterranean climate, Palma is a year-round destination for the most part. We recommend visiting between April and June, or in September and October, when the weather is comfortable and the island more peaceful. It’s best to avoid July and August, as the summer months see larger crowds and hotter temperatures. Some hotels close from Christmas until the end of January.

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Palma by contacting one of our Spain specialists

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Suggested itineraries featuring Palma

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Palma, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Island hopping in the Balearics: Menorca, Mallorca & Ibiza

10 days from $11,135pp

Highlights of Madrid, Barcelona & Mallorca

10 days from $9,540pp

Map of Palma

Places & hotels on the map, places near palma.

• Mallorca less than 5 miles away
• The Balearic Islands 20 miles away
• Menorca 80 miles away
• Ibiza 80 miles away
• Barcelona 128 miles away
• Cava wine region 134 miles away
• Montserrat 147 miles away
• Catalonia 152 miles away
• Girona 167 miles away

Accommodation choices for Palma

We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Palma. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

Can Simoneta

Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden

Hotel Esplendido

Watch: Moment boat migrants land on tourist-packed beach in Spain’s Mallorca 

A VIDEO has captured the moment boat migrants land on a beach in Spain’s Mallorca, packed full of tourists. 

Mallorca is known for its stunning beaches, great nightlife and rich culture. 

Thousands of tourists flock there every year to enjoy the Spanish holy trinity: sun, sea and sand. 

But tourists trying to catch a tan at the Cala Gran (Cala d’Or) in Mallorca would have a shock on Tuesday, August 13. 

READ MORE: Illegal tourist flat crackdown in Spain: Building in Mallorca made up of 12 unlicensed Airbnb-style homes is fined almost €1million

Hundreds watched in awe as a small boat landed on the shore at around 06:00pm and a group of migrants disembarked and walked across the beach. 

The group was made up of eighteen young men holding just small backpacks. 

They left the boat where it had landed. 

It was the fifth small boat to arrive on Tuesday, with others arriving in Formentera and Cabrera. 

At least 70 people were on the boats.

READ MORE: British tourist is placed in chokehold and robbed of his bum bag in Spain’s Mallorca

• The Olive Press

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Yzabelle Bostyn

After spending much of her childhood in Andalucia and adulthood between Barcelona and Latin America, Yzabelle has settled in the Costa del Sol to put her NCTJ & Journalism Masters to good use. She is particularly interested in travel, vegan food and has been leading the Olive Press Nolotil campaign. Have a story? email [email protected]

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