tourist guide mallorca

The ever-popular star of the Mediterranean, Mallorca has a sunny personality thanks to its ravishing beaches, azure views, remote mountains and soulful hill towns.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Mallorca. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Palau de l'Almudaina

Palma de Mallorca

Originally an Islamic fort, this mighty construction opposite the cathedral was converted into a residence for the Mallorcan monarchs at the end of the…

Monestir de Lluc

Serra de Tramuntana

Entered via a cloistered garden, the monastery is a huge complex, dating mostly from the 17th to 18th centuries. Off the imposing central courtyard rises…

Catedral de Mallorca

Palma’s vast cathedral ('La Seu' in Catalan) is the city's major architectural landmark. Aside from its sheer scale, treasures and undoubted beauty, its…

Parc Natural de S’Albufera

Northern Mallorca

The 688-hectare Parc Natural de S’Albufera, west of the Ma12 between Port d’Alcúdia and Ca’n Picafort, is prime birdwatching territory, with 303 recorded…

Santuari de la Mare de Déu des Puig

South of Pollença, off the Ma2200, one of Mallorca's most tortuous roads bucks and weaves up 1.5km of gasp-out-loud hairpin bends to this 14th-century…

Palau March

This house, palatial by any definition, was one of several residences of the phenomenally wealthy March family. Sculptures by 20th-century greats,…

Built with flair and innovation into the shell of the Renaissance-era seaward walls, this contemporary art gallery is one of the finest on the island. Its…

Museu Fundación Juan March

The 17th-century Can Gallard del Canya, a 17th-century mansion overlaid with minor Modernist touches, now houses a small but significant collection of…

Plan with a local

Experience the real Mallorca

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Mallorca

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Mar 12, 2024 • 8 min read

We asked two Lonely Planet writers to go head-to-head over which Spanish island is better: Mallorca or Ibiza.

May 20, 2022 • 3 min read

Feb 28, 2020 • 6 min read

Jan 21, 2020 • 2 min read

Jul 25, 2019 • 5 min read

Jul 11, 2019 • 2 min read

Jul 10, 2019 • 5 min read

Jun 10, 2019 • 2 min read

Aug 13, 2014 • 5 min read

Aug 12, 2014 • 6 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Mallorca

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Mallorca with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Mallorca and beyond

Mallorca   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Westend61 | Getty Images

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?

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• # 4 in Best Beaches in Spain
• # 9 in Best Places to Visit in Spain
• # 10 in Best Destination Wedding Spots in Europe

See All 6 Rankings

Best of Mallorca

Best hotels in mallorca.

• # 1 in Es Princep
• # 2 in Sant Francesc Hotel Singular
• # 3 in Portals Hills Boutique Hotel

Best Things to Do in Mallorca

• # 1 in Serra de Tramuntana
• # 2 in Playa de Muro
• # 3 in Cala Llombards

Popular Tours

Luxury Catamaran sailing with welcome Drinks Tapas Max10-12Person

(293 reviews)

from $ 107.74

Mallorca Catamaran Small Group Cruise with Tapas

(294 reviews)

Mallorca Midday or Sunset Sailing with Light Snacks and Open Bar

(126 reviews)

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.

Explore More of Mallorca

Things To Do

Best hotels.

You might also like

# 1 in  Best Places to Visit in March 2024

# 3 in  Best Cheap European Vacations for 2023-2024

Canary Islands

# 2 in  Best Beaches in Spain

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

• Family holidays

• 10 Wow-Factor Homes For Your 2024 Reunion Holiday
• Our Top Tour De France Luxury Villas 2023
• The Most Popular Travel-Inspired Interior Trends
• The Best Places to Take a Workation – UK and Abroad
• Dreaming of Sunset with Oliver’s Travels
• Oliver’s Vampire Weekender – Only the Undead Should Apply!
• www.oliverstravels.com
• Smart Travel
• Places To Stay
• Travel Guides

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 !  

2 Responses

[…] Read more: Mallorca travel guide […]

[…] Find more about Mallorca in Mallorca Travel Guide! […]

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Mallorca travel guide: Everything you need to know

• Sofía Pozuelo
• UPDATED: 25/11/2023

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).

RELATED POSTS

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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.

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} Where to Go Next @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

Best Room at Principe di Savoia

The Best Golf Course in Ireland Is at Adare Manor

Best Room At... Hotel La Compañia

How to Tour a Special Room at Buckingham Palace

The Hottest Date Spot for Celeb Couples in L.A.

Is This NYC's Best Restaurant Table?

Forget Aspen. Let's All Go Skiing in Courchevel.

The Best-Looking New Hotels on the Planet

The Best-Looking New Hotels in the Countryside

The Best-Looking New Hotels on the Beach

The Best-Looking New Lodges in the Wild

• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary menu
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

SpainMadeSimple.com

ESSENTIAL Mallorca Tourist Guide: Advice & Tips from Locals…

Table of Contents

Mallorca, otherwise known as Majorca, is the largest island in the Spanish Balearic Islands that are situated in the Mediterranean.

Similar to the other Balearic Islands of Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera, Mallorca is a favourite holiday destination particularly among famous personalities who are in the field of fashion, film and even politics.

Its capital, Palma, is also regarded as the capital of the Balearic Islands’ autonomous community. It is where the international airport Palma de Mallorca is located which is only 8 km east of the capital. Dubbed as Spain’s third largest airport, it carries the record of being able to accommodate up to 23.1 million passengers in 2014.

What does Mallorca mean?

The name Mallorca comes from the Latin words “insula maior” which means “larger island.” Perhaps the purpose for such is to distinguish it from Menorca , its smaller neighbor whose name comes from the Latin “insula minor.”

If you notice, there is no letter “j” in “insula maior” which makes us wonder how it earned the name of “Majorca” in the first place. Apparently, the letter “j” is non-existent in Latin and was only introduced in around the 13th century to replace the letter “i” as a consonant.

In other words, “maior” became “major” with the British and Irish using the word “Majorca” compared to everyone else who use “Mallorca.”

Where is Mallorca?

Being one of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca is nestled in the western Mediterranean along Spain’s eastern coast. Its proximity allows it to be easily reached within a 3-hour flight from the northern part of Europe. No doubt, flying to Mallorca is the easiest and definitely the fastest way to get to the island paradise. You can get from the airport to various resorts by private transfer,  or you can book a transfer here.

Another way to travel is by taking a ferry ride from the Spanish mainland (Valencia, Barcelona) which should take between 7 to 8 hours long.

Mallorca is made up of several regions and municipalities which probably explains why it is considered as the second most populated island in Spain following Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands. It has two mountainous regions (Serra de Tramuntana and Serres de Llevant), bays (Badia d’Alcudia and Badia de Pollenca), caves (Coves del Drach, Coves dels Hams), underground lakes and two small islands off its coast (Dragonera and Cabrera).

There are more than 50 municipalities found in Mallorca. Some of the notable ones include Alcudia , Santa Ponsa , Soller , Ses Salines and Deia which, for centuries, have all been luring visitors to come to the island.

Things To See And Do In Mallorca

If you’re a beach bum, Mallorca is a perfect destination as it boasts more than 500 km of coastline that features more than 200 beaches. Yes! You read that right. Majority of the island’s best beaches not only have holiday resorts but also have a number of other facilities that include restaurants, cafes and shops.

With its clean, crystal clear waters, Mallorca is a haven for swimming and other water sports enthusiasts such as surfing, sailing, scuba diving and fishing. Apart from these, the island also offers a wide-range of golf courses that are perfectly designed to match and highlight the surroundings.

Some of the notable areas well-worth including in one’s itinerary are the Sierra de Tramuntana Mountains which measure a peak of more than 1,400 meters above sea level; the Terrestrial Nature Reserve and the Cabrera Marine. Visit charming inland villages in the mountains such as Alaro with its 15th century castle.

If you enjoy hiking, you can enjoy the island’s numerous routes and hiking trails that are sprawled both inland and along the coast. Whether you decide to go on foot or ride a bike, it’s easy to discover and be awed with the island’s diversity with the help of signs and information panels that are found all over the area.

When is the best time to go to Mallorca?

While tourists would flock the island in mid-August, the best time to visit Mallorca is in May when spring is in full swing. During this time, the average temperature reaches a mild 15 to 16 degrees Celsius since the start of the month. It then reaches up to 18 to 19 degrees toward the end which makes it the perfect month to take advantage of a sun-filled holiday.

Festivals and Fiestas

Being typically Spanish, you can expect Mallorca to host a number of festivals and fiestas all year round. These include the agricultural fairs that occur during Spring and Autumn while summer is filled with DJ concerts and live musical performances. Other events worth checking out include religious celebrations and international sporting events.

Mallorca Tourist Offices

For a worry-free stay, you can always get valuable information from the island’s tourist offices such as maps and guides. They are also more than willing to answer your queries on topics such as places to stay, sights to visit and schedule of the local festivals.

Oficina de Turismo de Mallorca (Consell De Mallorca) Plaza de la Reina 2 7012 Palma, Mallorca Tel. +34 971 173 990 Fax +34 971 173 994 Email: [email protected] Website: www.infomallorca.net

Mallorca-now.com Carrer de sa Volta 07559 Son Servera, Illes Balears, Spain Tel. +34 634 375 083

Oficina de Turismo Alcudia Passeig de Pere Ventanyol, s/n 07400 Alcudia, Illes Balears, Spain Tel. +34 971 549 022

Oficina Municipal de Turismo Port de Soller Puerto de Soller, Muelle Comercial, s/n 07108 Soller, Illes Balears, Spain Tel. +34 659 498 747

Oficina Municipal de Turismo de Palmanova Passeig Mar, 13 07181 Palmanova, Illes Balears, Spain Tel. +34 971 682 365

FEHM – Federacion Empresarial Hotelera de Mallorca Carrer d’Arago, 215 07008 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain Tel. +34 971 706 007

SollerWeb Carrer del Salvador, 15 07101 Soller, Illes Balears, Spain Tel. +34 675 291 211

Here is an exciting video guide to help you get around when traveling to Mallorca.

About the Author

Mark Eastwood

Main author and owner of SpainMadeSimple.com which was started in 2004 when I first moved to Spain.

Spain Made Simple features expert advice on all aspects of moving to and living in Spain as well as useful tourist information and travel tips.

As well as my own articles we have many contributions from professionally qualified experts in varied occupations in Spain.

Thank you for visiting our website and if you would like to comment or contribute, we welcome this! Just type your message in the comments box at the bottom of the page.

Reader Interactions

Aleksandra Bak says

April 26, 2023 at 6:14 pm

Hi I’m looking for a job with accommodation near magaluf or palmanova.I have experience us a bartender, barrista,hotel accommodation for any information I will be appropriate Many thanks Aleksandra

November 17, 2021 at 10:47 am

Hi Myself and my wife are looking to relocate to Mallorca. I currently work in a diy store and was wondering if there are jobs for painters on the island , or jobs in diy stores for English speakers with limited Spanish. Is there a expat community that I could advertise my painting services on?

antonio says

January 17, 2020 at 12:48 pm

Working summer in Majorca. We are looking for all restaurant staff (kitchen too), from April till November. People who are team workers, offer friendly service, are responsible and able to multi task – all are welcome. We provide all the papers and accommodation. Please get in touch with an up to date CV and photo. Send it to [email protected]

Lisamarie says

June 7, 2017 at 11:52 am

Hi I will be moving to the alcudia area off Majorca and was wondering if there are any jobs for shops or caring my highest level of grade is health and social care level 3 thanks

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Official Pages

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Cookie Policy (EU)

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• the-balearic-islands
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Maureen C, USA

The hotels were fabulous and we were greeted and treated with care. The itinerary proved outstanding. The drivers were wonderful. He was always on time, ma...

Few Mediterranean holiday spots are as often and as unfairly maligned as MALLORCA. The island is commonly perceived as little more than sun, sex, booze and high-rise. It’s an image spawned by the helter-skelter development of the 1960s, yet it takes no account of Mallorca’s beguiling diversity. In fact, the spread of development, even after fifty years, is essentially confined to the Badia de Palma (Bay of Palma), a thirty-kilometre strip flanking the island capital, and a handful of mega-resorts notching the east coast.

Northern Mallorca

Elsewhere, things are very different. Palma itself, the Balearics’ one real city, is a bustling, historic place whose grand mansions and magnificent Gothic cathedral defy the expectations of many visitors. And so does the northwest coast, where visitors delight in the rearing peaks of the rugged Serra de Tramuntana, beautiful cove beaches, monasteries at Valldemossa and Lluc, and a string of delightful old towns and villages – such as Deià, Sóller and Pollença. There’s a startling variety and physical beauty to the land, which has drawn tourists to visit and well-heeled expatriates to settle here since the nineteenth century, including artists and writers of many descriptions, from Robert Graves to Roger McGough.

Book tickets and tours for Majorca

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Spain, created by local experts

9 days  / from 2422 USD

Andalucía Explored

Discover the best of Andalucía's breathtaking palaces, churches, museums, vineyards, and more, as you travel through spectacular scenery dotted with pueblos blancos and bordered by rugged mountains and coast en route to Granada, Seville, Ronda and Jerez de la Frontera.

4 days  / from 631 USD

A culinary experience in Seville

Explore the cuisine and surroundings of Seville in Andalucia. From Iberian ham over sherry wines to the production and secrets of olive oil, this tour is an ideal weekend getaway. Decide yourself if you prefer a rental car or a chauffeur-driven car to explore the beauty of Andalucia.

10 days  / from 3721 USD

Spanish Honeymoon

Discover Andalusia, starting with the cultural city of Seville, then on to Córdoba and Granada, home of the stunning Alhambra Palace. Next you'll visit Granada and the Albayzin Arab quarter, then enjoy a stunning hot-air balloon ride, before ending your trip with a luxury boat trip from Marbella!

Tailor-made trips for   Spain

In 1983, PALMA became the capital of the newly established Balearic Islands autonomous region, since when it has developed into a go-ahead and cosmopolitan commercial hub of almost 400,000 people. The new self-confidence is plain to see in the city centre, a vibrant place – and a world away from the heaving tourist enclaves of the surrounding bay.

Finding your way around Palma is fairly straightforward once you’re in the city centre. The obvious landmark is the Catedral, which dominates the waterfront and backs onto the oldest part of the city, a cluster of alleys and narrow lanes whose northern and eastern limits are marked by the zigzag of avenues built beside – or in place of – the city walls. On the west side of the Catedral, Avgda. d’Antoni Maura/Passeig d’es Born cuts up from the seafront to intersect with Avgda. Jaume III/Unio at Plaça Rei Joan Carles I. These busy thoroughfares form the core of the modern town.

Mallorca is at its scenic best in the gnarled ridge of the Serra de Tramuntana, the imposing mountain range that stretches the length of the island’s western shore, its soaring peaks and plunging sea cliffs intermittently intercepted by valleys of olive and citrus groves and dotted with some of the island’s most attractive towns and villages. An enjoyable way to admire this spectacular scenery at a leisurely pace is to drive or cycle along the coastal road Ma-10, which runs from Andratx to Pollença – though be aware that some of the twists and turns are quite precarious. If you’re reliant on public transport, the easiest way to explore the north is to travel up from Palma to Sóller and use this town as a base, making selected forays along the coastal road. Sóller is within easy striking distance of the mountain village of Deià and the monastery of Valldemossa to the southwest, or it’s a short haul northeast to the monastery of Lluc, the quaint town of Pollença and the resort of Port de Pollença.

As far as beaches are concerned, most of the region’s coastal villages have a tiny, shingly strip, and only around the bays of Pollença and Alcúdia are there more substantial offerings. The resorts edging these bays have the greatest number of hotel and hostal rooms, but elsewhere accommodation requires some forethought.

Hiking in northern Mallorca

The Serra de Tramuntana provides the best walking on Mallorca, with scores of hiking trails latticing the mountains. Generally speaking, paths are well marked, though apt to be clogged with thorn bushes. There are trails to suit all levels of fitness, from the easiest of strolls to the most gruelling of long-distance treks, but in all cases you should come properly equipped – certainly with an appropriate hiking map (available in Palma and at the Sóller turisme), and, for the more difficult routes, a compass. Spring and autumn are the best times to embark on the longer trails; in midsummer, the heat can be enervating and water is scarce. Bear in mind also that the mountains are prone to mists, though they usually lift at some point in the day.

It’s a dramatic, ten-kilometre journey southwest from Sóller along the Ma-10 to the beautiful village of DEIÀ, where the mighty Puig des Teix mountain ramps down to the coast. At times, this thoroughfare is too congested to be much fun, but the tiny heart of the village, tumbling over a high and narrow ridge on the seaward side of the road, still preserves a surprising tranquillity. Here, labyrinthine alleys of old peasant houses curl up to a pretty country in the precincts of which stands the grave of Robert Graves (1895–1985), the village’s most famous resident – marked simply “Robert Graves: Poeta, E.P.D.” (En Paz Descanse: “Rest In Peace”). From the graveyard, the views out over the coast are truly memorable.

Discover more places in Spain

• Travel Guide Morocco
• Travel Guide Namibia
• Travel Guide South Africa
• Travel Guide China
• Travel Guide India
• Travel Guide Indonesia
• Travel Guide Japan
• Travel Guide Laos
• Travel Guide Malaysia
• Travel Guide Myanmar (Burma)
• Travel Guide Nepal
• Travel Guide Philippines
• Travel Guide Singapore
• Travel Guide South Korea
• Travel Guide Sri Lanka
• Travel Guide Taiwan
• Travel Guide Thailand
• Travel Guide Australia
• Travel Guide Fiji
• Travel Guide New Zealand
• Travel Guide Belize
• Costa Rica Travel Guide
• Travel Guide Cuba
• Travel Guide Guatemala
• Travel Guide Honduras
• Travel Guide Jamaica
• Travel Guide Nicaragua
• Travel Guide Panama
• Travel Guide Puerto Rico
• Travel Guide Trinidad and Tobago
• Travel Guide Albania
• Travel Guide Austria
• Travel Guide Belgium
• Travel Guide Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Travel Guide Bulgaria
• Travel Guide Cyprus
• Travel Guide Czechia (Czech Republic)
• Travel Guide Denmark
• Travel Guide England
• Travel Guide Estonia
• Travel Guide Finland
• Travel Guide France
• Travel Guide Germany
• Travel Guide Greece
• Travel Guide Hungary
• Iceland Travel Guide

The Rough Guides to Spain and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 27.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover Spain?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

Visit Mallorca Island: A Gem of the Balearic Islands

OUR NEWSLETTER

Tourism by Category

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which part of mallorca is the best to stay, what is the region for palma de mallorca, what is the best part of mallorca to stay in for beach holidays and outdoor activities, which region is suitable for a more authentic mallorcan experience, are there any regions with a vibrant nightlife and dining scene, what region is cala d'or in majorca, why visit majorca island, what is the most beautiful part of mallorca for tourism, what is the best part of mallorca to stay in, how many days should i spend in mallorca, is mallorca very touristy, get in touch with us.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary menu
• Skip to footer

ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

Mallorca Travel Guide

Mallorca is one of the most varied islands in Europe! Below is my Mallorca Travel guide to help you plan your ideal itinerary including:

• the best places in Mallorca (especially villages, beaches, mountains, cliffs, viewpoints…),
• my best tips to make the most of your time,
• plenty of photos to make you dream of your next trip!

Make the most of your time in Mallorca!

In this article, no ads, no sponsored posts. Just some affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a commission at no extra cost to you ( Disclosure ).

Travel Guide written by Claire , the ultimate Travel Planning Geek

“With the Zigzag Travel Guides, Planning is half the fun of Traveling”

Pure Travel Planning Inspiration! (No Ads – No Sponsored Content)

Best things to do in Mallorca

Discover some of the most beautiful places in Mallorca – best beaches, towns, villages, cliffs, viewpoints, historical sites… The following articles will give you a great overview of what there is to see in the region.

40 best Mallorca landscapes in pictures

15 Best Talayots and Ruins in Mallorca

7 best caves in Mallorca

12 Mallorca hidden gems, off the beaten path

10 best Calas in Mallorca

Best beaches in Mallorca

21 most beautiful views in Mallorca

Which side of Mallorca is best?

Most beautiful towns and villages in Mallorca

35 best things to do in Mallorca

Find all my favorite places in Mallorca (with map, tips, GPS coordinates and more) in my Travel Guide eBook:

Plan your dream trip in Mallorca thanks to my guide

• 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 140+ pre-selected locations
• GPS + tips to make the most of your time
• Planning tips
• 270+ original photos to help you choose

Planning a road trip in Mallorca

There is so much to see in and do, that planning a road trip in Mallorca might feel overwhelming. The following articles will help you plan your trip (step by step and with suggested itineraries) and get read (with a driving guide and accommodation suggestions).

Mallorca road trip – 40 Travel tips

Where to stay in Mallorca? 15 best areas

How to rent a car in Mallorca – 36 tips

Driving in Mallorca

Mallorca Itineraries

2 or 3 days in Mallorca – weekend ideas

4 days in Mallorca itineraries

5 days in Mallorca itineraries

One week in Mallorca – itinerary suggestions

Mallorca in 10 days or 2 weeks

Need to rent a car in Mallorca?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Don’t choose a car too large, since some roads are very narrow
• Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Useful Links to book your trip

• Book your accommodations – Book from a large choice on Booking.com (where I book all my accommodations) or Compare prices on hotelscombined.com
• Book your organized tours , visits and tickets via GetYourGuide.com  (the one I use the most) and Viator.com  
• Get equipment and appropriate clothing… on Amazon  
• Insurance – I  wish you a very smooth trip, but my policy is: better be prepared. I personally use World Nomads.  Get a quote online here

West Mallorca – Things to do (Serra de Tramuntana)

Sa Calobra – road, beach, tips

Best things to do in Port de Soller

North Mallorca – Things to do

Cap de Formentor (road, beach, lighthouse…)

Things to do in Alcudia, Mallorca

15 things to do in Capdepera, Mallorca

East Mallorca – Things to do

Calo des Moro (beach, access, tips..)   

Mondrago Natural Park

South Mallorca – Things to do

Cala de Portals Vells – beaches and cave

Cala Pi (Mallorca) and Cala Beltran hike

Palma de Mallorca

40 Best things to do in Palma de Mallorca

Where to stay in Palma de Mallorca – best areas + hotels

And keep track of your own trip!

General Travel Tips

Travel Checklists

Travel Safety Tips

Best Travel Binoculars

Par Claire Robinson Region Lovers SARL 76600 Le Havre FRANCE VAT FR21845103191

Follow ZigZag on Facebook

Follow ZigZag on Pinterest

Website in French: ZigZagvoyages.fr

Website in German: ZigZagreisen.de

Website in Spanish: ZigZagviajes.com

And discover the French regions:

Normandielovers.fr LoireLovers.fr CorsicaLovers.fr Provencelovers.fr

Privacy / Terms of Use / Disclosure Policies / Refund policy

Become an affiliate for the ZigZag road trip guides

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. ZigZagOnEarth.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Amazon.uk and Amazon.ca

© J. Bennett

© seemallorca

© Thousand Wonders

© seemallorca.com

Palma de Mallorca city guide

Discover the city of Palma de Mallorca

Palma is Mallorca's vibrant capital, stylish and intimate, yet bursting with life. Half of the island's population dwells in this city, lively all year round with luxury hotels , trendy restaurants , cafes , shops and nightlife as well as a thriving art scene. It's often compared to Barcelona and, being within a 15-minute taxi ride from the airport, it makes for the perfect city break.

Located in the south of the island, Palma looks out over the shimmering Mediterranean sea (take a look at our webcam to see it in real time). Whilst there are many enchanting parts of the city, the main attractions and shops are situated around the massive Gothic cathedral down by the seafront. This area, known as Palma’s old town, is full of ancient passages, historic monuments and magnificent architecture. Here you will find no shortage of sights or refreshment stops within its many pedestrianised lanes, quirky cafes , galleries , and boutique shops . Thanks to these attractions all being packed within a square kilometre, the old town is easy to explore.

The city boasts an enormous harbour which begins in front of the cathedral and borders the west. The cyclist and pedestrian-friendly promenade stretches all the way to the ferry port and cruise terminal (which is located about 3.5km from the old town), making it perfect for a stroll.

History & Culture in Palma de Mallorca

As an island, Mallorca has been subject to numerous invasions and conquests throughout its history. Palma was known to the Arabs as Medina Mayurqa (902 to 1229), and to Mallorcans thereafter simply as Ciutat (City). But the city was in fact named after the Roman city of Palmaria (founded around 120 BC), which still exists a metre or two beneath the ground; inhabitants of houses near the cathedral are still discovering Roman remains every once in a while.

Palma's current image owes much to the last two hundred years. The two iconic roads of Passeig des Born and Las Ramblas were built in the 19th century on a dried-up river bed. The defensive city walls which once surrounded the city were pulled down to create the ring road of Las Avingudas and the waterfront highway and promenade Passeig Maritim were only reclaimed from the sea in the 1950s.

Sights & Attractions in Palma de Mallorca

Palma's multicultural history is reflected in the variety of architecture on display in the city. Visitors tend to spend most of their time in the old town, just wandering through the streets and absorbing the architecture whilst browsing the plentiful shops . For those who prefer a little more structure to their visit, the tourist office arranges guided tours of the city throughout the year in several languages, most prevalent during the summer. Check out our selection of Tours & Guides for a range of tours on offer, or use one of our City Walks as a guide.

Medieval buildings Palma's most iconic building is its Gothic cathedral , La Seu; built on the site of a mosque which in turn was once a Roman temple, it rises out of the city walls which used to mark the edge of the sea. Next to the cathedral is L'Almudaina , a 13th-century palace with splendid gardens. It’s worth a little walk behind these magnificent buildings, as here you will find the old Arab quarter, with its labyrinth of narrow streets (be careful not to get lost!). To the west of Palma, on top of a hill, sits Bellver Castle , a unique round castle from the 14th century with some of the best views in the city.

The Arab Quarter This Arab quarter contains many of Palma’s hidden treasures, including little museums, charming courtyards and unique architecture. There are numerous exhibitions dedicated to the history of Mallorca , religious artefacts , or antique toys . Behind the Arab quarter is the renowned Plaça Cort which embodies Palma Town Hall and the legendary old olive tree. This ancient tree is a masterpiece in itself, it’s believed to be about 800 years old and is one of the city's most admired landmarks.

Modernist architecture You can’t help but notice the modernist architecture in Palma, this is all thanks to Gaudi's influence when he was on the island to oversee restoration works to the cathedral. The best known is the Fundació La Caixa , designed by the Catalan architect Lluis Domenech i Montaner, it was the building that began the craze for Modernist (Art Nouveau) architecture in the city. There are plenty of other examples in the old town, just take a stroll around, look upwards and absorb the sights.

Contemporary art If it's arts and culture that you're interested in, then Palma will not disappoint. The excellent Es Baluard Museum of Contemporary Art is housed in the old fortress and is well worth a visit, the restaurant on the terrace is critically acclaimed too. The Spanish artist Joan Miró spent the best part of 30 years living on Mallorca and there is a foundation devoted to his works just to the west of Palma. There are also several other art galleries featuring Spanish artists and contemporary art.

A little tip: if you are planning on doing quite a bit of sightseeing, then it is worth buying a 'Palma Pass'. This is a smart card that you can pre-purchase at the tourist offices and provides access to museums and tourist attractions, permits free public transport and even gives you a discount on selected activities, restaurants and shops. You can buy cards for various durations and special family passes are also available.

Beaches in Palma de Mallorca

Palma has its very own urban beach, just follow the cycle path and promenade from the city's port eastbound, once you pass the front of the cathedral, it’s a further 15-minute walk on foot.

East of Palma Those seeking more tranquil beaches, there are a few to name in the surrounding areas of the city. The cute little beach in Portixol, which is about 3km east of the city centre, can be reached by car, bike or even foot and is lined with bars and restaurants. This area is a great lunch spot for those seeking a little bit of quiet away from the city centre. Much further to the east, near the airport, you’ll find Playa de Palma. This should not be confused with the city of Palma! Playa de Palma is a purpose-built beach resort about 10km away. It has a long beach and is a popular resort for package holidays and kite surfers. Of course, there are regular buses between the beach and Palma, so it's easy to explore one whilst staying in the other.

West of Palma On the other side of Palma, the neighbouring Cala Major and Illetas boast some of the most beautiful beaches on the south-west coast of Mallorca. Although there is limited parking in these areas, the beaches are accessible with the bus number 3 from Plaça d’Espanya stopping off at various points in the city before getting to Illetas, or a short 10-minute taxi ride.

Events in Palma de Mallorca

Palma is certainly a city packed full of fun events whatever the time of year. Let’s kick off with the fiestas and fairs because they are some of the most spectacular events you could attend. Palma knows how to celebrate and bring people together, and boy do you get to know the real city when it hosts one of its fiestas!

Traditional fiestas Apart from the usual traditional festivals celebrated in Spain, you really should try to get involved in the city's two main fiestas: Sant Sebastiá which is held in January and Sant Joan that takes place in June. Others to watch are the Three Kings Parade on the eve of the Epiphany (5th of January) and Sa Rua , Mallorca’s very own carnival in February.

Sant Sebastian is Palma's patron saint and the city comes out in force to celebrate. You can expect street parties with BBQs and music concerts, followed by parades, fireworks and a Correfoc (devil fire running) in the lead up to the more formal proceedings taking place on the actual saint's day of the 20th January, a public holiday in Palma.

Sant Joan is celebrated on the 24th June as part of the summer solstice but, again, it's the evening before that sees the biggest party. The infamous ‘ Nit de Foc ', or Night of Fire is held on the night of the 23rd June and sees bonfires lit throughout the city and the crazy ‘fire run' where locals dress as demons and devils and run through the streets bearing torches. Everyone eventually gathers in the Parc de la Mar for concerts, more bonfires, firecrackers and an impressive fireworks display.

Cultural events Art lovers should attend Nit de l'Art in September when the art galleries and restaurants display art to the public with canapes and wine. There are a couple of grand theatres in the city which host annual opera and ballet festivals, their programmes are speckled with musicals, concerts and other ‘spectacles'. Look out for details on the Bellver Castle Music Festival , a popular occasion in the summer months. There are also several jazz clubs in La Llonja, and other live music venues (bars) can be found throughout Palma.

Gastronomic events For the foodies, the Spanish love of food is reflected in gastronomic events throughout the year. Every Tuesday La Ruta Martiana takes place in Palma’s old town. Bars offer their patrons a small tapa or pintxo plus a caña of beer for a modest 2-3€. It's a great way to discover authentic Spanish bars and cuisine away from the touristy areas of the city. On a larger scale, be sure to check out the TaPalma event. These tapas routes at the end of October are great for encouraging people to explore the more hidden bars and restaurants of Palma, each establishment serving unique quality tapas and wines for a reduced fee. Participating bars and restaurants are marked on a handy map of the area which you can pick up in bars and cafes.

Sporting events Much like the rest of the island, Palma has its fair share of sporting events. The city has its own marathon in October, as well as a range of cycling events, and is a renowned hub for numerous sailing regattas in the Mediterranean, not to mention it has its own International Boat Show held on the first May bank holiday weekend. Football fanatics, we promise a Spanish football game atmosphere is worth sampling... there isn’t anything quite like it! Mallorca has its own football team that normally plays in Spain’s top division. Their stadium is on the outskirts of Palma and tickets are relatively easy to come by.

Things to do in Palma de Mallorca

Other than the historical sights and attractions, there are plenty of activities to do in the city.

Shopping Palma's shopping is a must. Top areas include Passeig des Born , Avinguda Jaume III and the pedestrianised streets surrounding Plaça Major. Here you'll find Spanish high-street favourites Zara, Massimo Dutti and Uterqüe alongside international designer labels Hugo Boss, Luis Vuitton and even Mulberry. But the boutique shopping, particularly the shoe shops, are what makes Palma stand out. Make sure you sample a couple of interior design shops dotted around the city too, they are inspiring to say the very least. And, as far as department stores go, El Corte Inglés will provide you with everything you could ever need.

Boat trips & yacht charters With its large marina , Palma is the starting point for a number of boat trips and yacht charters around the island. They are great for large groups or families who want to explore the beautiful beaches and bays of their own accord. The slightly cheaper option is a half day or full day trip around the Bay of Palma, extremely popular among visitors who want to take to the water in the summer months. Try to book in advance rather than just turning up on the day to avoid disappointment.

Sports If sport is your passion, there are several golf courses within a 10-minute drive of Palma and fantastic clay tennis courts in the district of Santa Catalina.

Tours If you are keen to explore Palma but walking isn’t your thing, you can hire bicycles, scooters and Segways to get around the city. Fancy getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre for the day? Then hiring bikes and taking a jaunt along the cycle path from Palma all the way to S’Arenal is an absolute must. This cycle route is doable for even the most novice cyclists, but prepare yourself for it to be busy in peak season. There are numerous cycle hire shops to be found in Palma city centre and along the Paseo Marítimo for a reasonable price. It’s a great way to see the coastline of Palma and there are plenty of opportunities to stop off at some of its seaside restaurants , cafes and even a beach club or two on the way. Portixol and Molinar are great areas for a spot of lunch, so be sure to schedule a meal into your day.

Rainy day activities If for the unlikely reason it's raining when you visit this beautiful island, have no fear there are things to do in and around Palma. If museums and art galleries aren’t your things, then there are also indoor shopping centres within the vicinity of the city centre. Alternatively, head to the east of Palma for the Aquarium . Highly recommended!

Dining in Palma de Mallorca

Palma has an infinite choice of restaurants, expect a range of international cuisines for all budgets.

Traditional eateries Within the old town, you'll find endless traditional Spanish and Mallorcan eateries, particularly in the area of La Llonja. However, there are places dotted all throughout the centre and it's worth exploring back streets and taking a look at the menus posted outside the restaurants.

Off the beaten track If you want to veer away from the beaten track, there are many top class restaurants located around Plaça d’Espanya. Eating with the locals means you'll find fantastic food at some remarkably reasonable prices. For tapas or a heartier Spanish inspired meal, head to streets like Carrer del 31 de Diciembre and Carrer de Blanquerna, each featuring some top restaurants.

The gastronomic district Alternatively, if you're hungry for some international yet innovative cuisine, then the trendy area of Santa Catalina will certainly hit the spot. Here you'll find anything from modern tapas and homemade Italian to South American and Asian fusion. Due to the number of restaurants popping up in this area, there's a high level of competition which makes both the quality and prices equally good.

The best seafood in town After more traditional seafood and a traditional Spanish paella? Make your way to the seafront by venturing towards Portixol and Molinar, only 3km from the cathedral. These traditional fishing ports offer up some of the best paellas on the island.

Nightlife in Palma de Mallorca

Palma plays host to the widest range of bars and nightclubs on the island. The beauty of this city is that you'll see visitors and locals partying alongside one another until the early hours of the morning.The areas of La Lonja, Santa Catalina and the Paseo Marítimo are the main places to rendezvous.

La Lonja (The old town) La Lonja is at the heart of the city's nightlife during the evenings. Whether it’s late night restaurants , pubs, cocktail bars or jazz clubs you're after, you'll find something to tickle your taste buds. Be sure to check out hotel bars and sky bars too as they offer some of the best cocktails in the city centre!

Santa Catalina Santa Catalina is swarming with people in the evening whatever the time of the year. A number of watering holes in the form of late night bars that locals, expats and tourists like to frequent reside here. It's also where you'll find the yacht crews hanging out, especially along Carrer de San Magí.

Paseo Marítimo The Paseo Marítimo (the front by the marina) is absolutely buzzing when the warm nights set in from June until September. This area makes for the perfect night out on the tiles thanks to its restaurants , late-night bars and a couple of large-scale nightclubs . For those who like to party until 05:00, the main club to call is Tito's . You won’t miss it!

An insider tip for those who will venture a little further: at the far western end of the seafront promenade, towards the cruise ships port, there is a small marina called Can Barbara, which encompasses some late night bars popular amongst the locals. Speaking of local experiences, try the area to the east of Plaça Major for a host of quirky, independent late-night late-night cafes and bars full of local youngsters. All very Barcelona!

Where to stay in Palma de Mallorca

Luxury boutique hotels A large proportion of people visiting the city centre tend to stay in hotels. Palma has seen an explosion of boutique hotels in recent years which attract visitors all year round. Old historical palaces have been restored with the utmost care, retaining original features and introducing all the modern technology we expect nowadays. Most of these hotels can be found in the tiny streets around the cathedral area.

Stay in the old town of Palma to be bang smack in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city centre, with shops , restaurants and nightlife on your doorstep. There's a great selection of hotels available in this area, suitable for a wide range of budgets. Keep your eyes peeled for those in the districts of La Llonja, Passeig des Born, Avinguda Jaume III, Sant Nicolau, La Calatrava, around which the city's fabulous boutique hotels concentrate.

Hotels with a view In the hotels along the Paseo Marítimo, what you lose in character, you gain with sea views. This area is perfect for those who might feel a bit claustrophobic staying in the city centre but still wants to be within easy walking distance of all the attractions on offer. This stretch offers hotels with larger, more corporate accommodation and modern comfortable hotels for those simply craving a room with a balcony and a sea view. These establishments will certainly quench your thirst for some sunshine and water. Alike to the city centre, here you are perfectly situated for exploring Palma without the need for travelling by transport.

Hotels with wide-ranging facilities There are also plenty of opportunities to stay on the outskirts of Palma. With numerous hotels dotted around with outstanding spa facilities, swimming pools, tennis courts, gyms and even golf courses. These are perfect to experience the best of both worlds, being within close proximity of the city but having access to all the facilities one could ever want for. Many of these hotels also offer a free shuttle service to the city centre.

Villas In these same suburbs, you will find a number of holiday rentals or villas which are more appropriate for those looking for a home away from home style of accommodation. These are great for large groups in need of numerous bedrooms and usually have the luxury of a private swimming pool.

Apartments Whilst the villas tend to be located on the outskirts of the city, there are more and more holiday apartment rentals popping up in the city centre for smaller groups. Due to the variety of sizes and them being slightly less expensive than hotels, these are becoming a favourite choice for a wide range of people from couples to small families and groups.

Discovering the different areas of Palma

The striking seafront The first thing you will notice when you arrive in Palma from the airport is the fabulous marina and seafront, perfectly accompanied with a palm tree-lined promenade. Dominating the skyline by the sea is the iconic cathedral (called La Seu) and the Parc de la Mar , a large park in front of it which hosts many concerts, fiestas and open-air cinema throughout the year.

The charming old town After arriving in Palma, the old town is probably the best place to start as a visitor. You can begin at the cathedral and along Passeig des Born as it’s not only picturesque but easy to navigate. At this point, you can’t help but be impressed with the city has to offer. This grand avenue features high-street and designer shops to cater for everybody’s needs. From here there are a few options, follow the road around to the right onto the tree-lined promenade of La Rambla, home to florists and newspaper sellers, or onto Avinguda Jaume III for further shops and stunning architecture.

Alternatively, once you have your bearings and are keen to explore the ancient passages, head slightly west of Passeig des Born. Here you will find the quaint, ancient district of Sa Llotja (or La Lonja), which is home to some of Palma’s finest boutiques, art galleries and Spanish restaurants. If you decide to venture east of Passeig des Born, you'll find gift shops, fashion boutiques, shoe shops and cafes. On this side also lies Plaça Major, which holds markets featuring arts and crafts and other touristy trinkets. This area encompasses Plaça Cort where the handsome Mallorcan Town Hall resides, and another popular shopping street called Sant Miquel. You will also likely stumble upon the Olivar Market , a traditional Spanish undercover market selling all sorts of fresh produce.

Trendy Santa Catalina Santa Catalina, which used to house fishermen and craftsmen in days gone by, has now resurrected itself as the hip and trendy area for all the cool kids. In the daytime , it's home to eclectic shops and boutiques, from interior design to dresses. Here you'll find yet another undercover food market called ‘Mercat de Santa Catalina’ which is worth a little peep inside if you are in the area. However, it's highly recommended you make a visit to Santa Catalina once the sun has gone down since it has become known in recent years for its thriving nightlife due to the number of trendy bars , clubs and contemporary restaurants popping up. Aim to start at Carrer de Argentina, which is easy to find from the seafront, and stroll around the roads between Carrer de San Magí and Carrer de la Fàbrica. This is the place to go for modern, yet relaxed, food and cocktails .

Best places to visit from Palma de Mallorca

Brilliant brunches in and around Palma

Cafe culture in Palma

Sitting in a warm breeze and sipping a perfectly made café con leche, there’s no better way to spend your morning than on the lively terraces in the early hours of Palma’s beautiful sunshine.

Eat the world in Palma de Mallorca 2018

Finest boutique hotels in Mallorca

From rural to royal, secluded to urban, whether in mountains, coast or city; there is a wide choice of excellent boutique hotels on the island waiting to be discovered. Whatever your preference, a warm welcome undoubtedly awaits.

Get your food-fix at Mercado Gastronomico

How to Spend 24hrs in Palma de Mallorca

Palma is rich in culture, entertainment and gastronomy. Being relatively compact makes it an attractive and viable option for visitors short on time. Explore the historic streets on foot and excite your senses in this vibrant capital.

Palma is Europe's capital city for boutique hotels

Mallorca's capital has increasingly become a hotspot for luxury boutique hotels, making it the perfect choice for a city-break holiday. Its beautiful historic centre currently boasts 18 boutique hotels, with another 5 set to open in 2017.

Party in Palma

Party in Palma this summer

The night in Palma is forever young with a huge amount of choice on where to spend your evening, so, where are the best spots to party in the vast city of Palma?

Passion in Palma

For some, the romance will spark as soon as Mallorca's spectacular cliffs come into view from the plane window. For others, it will be the first sip of wine or taste of mouthwatering cuisine that gets the pulse racing.

People watching hot spots in Palma

Perfect picnics spots in Palma

Prime Palma lunchtime spots

Top 10 Attractions in Palma de Mallorca 2017

Top cocktail bars in Palma

Top reasons to visit Palma in winter

Top rooftop bars in Palma de Mallorca

Palma offers a great variety of rooftop bars,  perfect for enjoying some spectacular scenery with a sundowner in hand.

Top traditional tapas in Palma

Mallorca’s cosmopolitan capital city takes centre stage when it comes to the island's gastronomical culture.

Trendy tapas in Palma de Mallorca

Start planning.

Start Exploring

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 Climate
• 6.1 By plane
• 6.2 By boat
• 7.2 By train
• 7.4 By bicycle
• 8.1 Beaches
• 9.1 Sailing and yachting
• 11.1 Local dishes
• 11.2 Finding a restaurant
• 13 Stay safe
• 14.1 Fincas
• 14.2 Hotels
• 14.3 Camping
• 14.4 Villa rentals

Mallorca or Majorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands , and a classic among European travel destinations. Mallorca is known as an easy-to-reach destination for fans of sunny beaches, amazing landscapes, wonderful mountains and affordable Mediterranean food, with a coastline of more than 550 km.

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 39.566667 2.649722 1 Palma de Mallorca — Mallorca's main and largest city
• 39.8525 3.119167 2 Alcudia — perfect for combining beach and cycling
• 39.711389 3.461944 3 Cala Ratjada — in the far north-east corner of the island, this beach resort is popular with German tour operators, who almost exclusively supply the many hotels with guests.
• 39.605278 3.386111 4 Cala Millor — south eastern coastal town, linked by a long promenade to the adjacent resort of Cala Bona.
• 39.566667 2.516667 5 Calvià — the busiest part of the island with long and neat beaches, hotels, nightclubs, restaurants and shops.
• 39.75 2.633056 6 Deià — small village in the Tramuntana mountains, beloved by artists, intriguing cemetery.
• 39.877205 3.016434 7 Pollença — charming little city in the north-east, and home to a good Sunday market.
• 39.766667 2.7 8 Sóller — pretty town set in fantastic mountainous scenery.
• 39.711678 2.622581 9 Valldemossa — the charming village in the Tramuntana mountains is a must-see; Chopin spent a winter here with George Sand.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 39.822917 2.884444 1 Santuari de Lluc — a monastery in the Tramuntana mountains

Understand [ edit ]

In high season the island receives about 8 million tourists from around the world. This is both a blessing and a curse for the inhabitants, and they are well prepared for it and provide a very well-organized tourist infrastructure.

Nevertheless, Mallorca can show another face when you leave the coastline and take a look at the inner country. Prices fall with each kilometer you move away from the coast, and reach the usual Spanish standards in the centre of the island or even some parts of the mountain area.

Geographically the 3640-km² island can be divided into three parts. The Serra de Tramuntana rocks extend from southwest to northeast, while the Serra de Llevant stretches along the eastern coast. Between them lies the central plain (Es pla).

Climate [ edit ]

The climate of Mallorca is Mediterranean, with mild and stormy winters and hot, bright, dry summers. Precipitation in the Serra de Tramuntana is markedly higher. Summers are hot in the plains, and winters mild, getting colder in the Tramuntana range, where brief episodes of snow during the winter are not unusual. The two wettest months in Mallorca are October and December.

Talk [ edit ]

Catalan and Spanish are the official languages in the Balearic Islands. Most people can speak both languages, although the natives converse amongst themselves in Mallorquín , a sub-dialect of the "Balear" variety of Catalan.

In tourist areas, you will frequently come across people speaking English, German , French and other common European languages.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

There are frequent flights from many European cities to Palma de Mallorca Airport ( PMI  IATA ). In particular, many of the discount airlines have daily flights.

There are also flights from Menorca and Ibiza , but these are about double the price of the ferries from these islands, and save only about an hour.

From the airport, public buses run frequently to central Palma. Many car rental agencies have their offices at the airport.

For the frugal, bus 35 costs 2 euro (cash only) from Can Pastilla ses Fontanelles 2500 metres away. (200 m of it is slightly unsafe)

By boat [ edit ]

You can catch a ferry to Palma de Mallorca from the other Balearic Islands or from several points on the Spanish coast, including Barcelona and Valencia and a super-fast ferry service from Denia ( Alicante ). You can also catch a ferry to Alcudia from Menorca .

Get around [ edit ]

By bus [ edit ].

Many spots are reachable by bus; while transportation between the major holiday resorts is no problem, especially medium- and long-distance services may be as sparse as one bus per week; many bus routes are not served at all on Sundays, in the lower season and during the night. Schedules [dead link] are available online.

By train [ edit ]

There is inland train transportation, but mainly limited to Puerto de Sóller, Manacor, Inca, Sa Pobla and Sineu. Rural halts tend to be far away from town centres, but there are usually bus shuttles available. If you would like a private direct transfer to your resort on the island you could also book a private transfer from one of the many online suppliers.

By car [ edit ]

Cars can be rented in many tourist towns, especially along the coast. Unless in high season, when you should book your rental in advance if you want to ensure getting one, hiring a car directly at the airport without reservation shouldn't be any problem at all. However, as "at desk" rental prices are often far higher than booking in advance it may be prudent to organise it from home before you arrive (and to avoid disappointment during peak periods).

By bicycle [ edit ]

Long cycles lanes exist on the east coast.

See [ edit ]

• Caves - several caves are open to the public, the 39.53337 3.3312 1 Dragon Caves ( Coves del Drach in mallorquin) being the most visited

Beaches [ edit ]

This is what most people come for. The main tourist areas are on the southern and eastern coast but places may be crowded in high season. Mallorca has beautiful white sand and crystal water beaches, so most are base for package tourists nowadays. In more remote areas you might find very rarely visited beaches. More secluded and quiet beaches can be found on the island but expect a difficult route (e.g. cliffs) and minimal parking. A must visit is Es Trenc , near the Colonia de Sant Jordi , but there are also many beaches not that popular worth a visit.

If you are looking for a quieter beach than the 5 km strand (Platja de Palma), take the line 3 of the town's public bus company "EMT" (blue and white buses) all the way to its Western terminus "Illetes", which is simply called Playa . It is a wonderful little cove set about by rocks, with a local restaurant right on the beach. There are other coves in either direction, but this is the most welcoming.

• 39.4627 2.51921 2 Cala Figuera Beach , Formentor peninsula . Located deep within a cove with high mountains on both sides of the water. Spectacular view.  
• Cala Murta Beach , Formentor peninsula . Small secluded beach with fine white sand. Transparent water.  
• Cala Sant Vicenc ( Cala San Vincente Beach ), Sant Vicenc city . Beautiful beach on the north west coast of Mallorca. Fine grained white sand and very clear water.  
• Magaluf Beach , in Magaluf city . A beautiful 900-m-long beach with fine sand and clear water. New and stylish promenade is close to the town center.  
• Es Trenc Beach . A large, not developed beach with fine white sand and crystal clear water. Protected area now.  
• Es Carbo Beach . A quiet, hardly developed beach. An alternative to overcrowded beaches. Finest sand, turquoise water.  
• Son Serra De Marina Beach . A very long little known virgin beach without facilities on the north east coast of Mallorca.  

Do [ edit ]

• Hiking — the Serra de Tramuntana offers some fine trails.
• Cycling — in spring the island's roads are popular with several professional teams in preparation for the next season.
• Palma — the island's capital offers the famous cathedral as well as a nice city centre to stroll around. Cultural visits, shore excursions and trips to the Jewish quarter and other sites and villages around the Island.
• Golf — there are eighteen 18-hole golf courses on the island that are open to the general public. These are Andratx, Alcanada, Bendinat, Canyamel, Capdepera, Poniente, Pula, Golf Park Puntiró Mallorca, Golf Maioris, Santa Ponsa 1, Son Antem East, Son Antem West, Son Termens, Son Vida, Son Muntaner, Son Quint, Son Gual & Vall d'Or. There are two 9-holes courses open to the general public; Son Servera & Pollença. The courses Santa Ponsa 2 & 3 are 'members only' and finally there is a 9-hole golf course in the grounds of La Reserve Rotana, a boutique hotel in the north-east of the island, just outside of Manacor.
• S'Albufera is a large salt marsh near the town of Alcudia . Large numbers of bird species can be seen, including many species of heron, waders, ducks and warblers.
• The cliffs of Formentor are good for sea birdwatching and are among the best places for a chance to see the rare Elenora's Falcon.
• One-day boat tours are available from Colonia de Sant Jordi to the Cabrera Island National Park which is about 18 km south of Mallorca. The Cueva Azul (Blue Cave) on Cabrera is spectacular.
• Free Classical Music Concerts — during the summer, free open-air classical music concerts are usually organised on Saturday evenings on the Bendinat Golf Course.
• Deep Water Solo / Psicobloc — the island's unique geography has helped it become the premier destination for rock climbers wishing to experience deep water soloing or psicobloc, rock climbing above deep water.

Sailing and yachting [ edit ]

One of the best ways to discover Mallorca and the stunning Balearic islands is by boat. When it comes to yachting in the Mediterranean, you have several options: chartering, sailing aboard your own vessel, or fractional yacht ownership.

• Yacht charter and sailing
• Shared yacht ownership is a sound alternative to chartering a yacht in Spain. Yacht fractional ownership allows you to own a yacht at a fraction of a cost and avoid many maintenance hassles and costs.

Buy [ edit ]

Eat [ edit ].

Local dishes [ edit ]

Majorcan cuisine, like that of similar zones in the Mediterranean, is based on bread, vegetables and meat (specially pork), and uses olive oil throughout. A simple popular dinner, especially during the summer, is the Pa amb Oli : Bread with olive oil, tomato, and any available condiments such as cheese and tunafish. Another one is Trampó , the same but with various vegetables instead of bread.

Other local dishes include Frit Mallorquí (meat and vegetables cut up in small pieces) and Sopes Mallorquines (a simple, healthy dish made of bread and vegetables, optionally with meat, eggs, wild mushrooms, etc.). The seafood version of Paella is very recommended while in Mallorca.

Sobrassada , a sausage made of pork, paprika, condiments, etc. is eaten plain or toasted, on a slice of bread, and it's also used in preparing other dishes. It is normally not spicy.

For breakfast, instead of croissant, try the typical Ensaïmada (a spiral-shaped bun made of dough with pork fat), and for dessert the Gató (a cake made with almond) with almond ice cream.

Finding a restaurant [ edit ]

Palma is most known place for dining, having probably more restaurants than the rest of the island.

For out-of-cities dining, head to Algaida: there are several great restaurants around the village.

Most restaurants are happy to host children, even infants, but make sure to ask at the more expensive restaurants if they have a specific policy to that effect.

Drink [ edit ]

Drinking is allowed if you are 18 or older, as in the rest of Spain. While alcohol is widely sold, pursuant to local laws only bars, restaurants, discothèques and the like are allowed to serve it after 10pm.

Spanish people go out quite late and, while in the main tourist resorts you can find people drinking and chatting from early hours, you will not see many locals before midnight.

The main nighttime areas are:

• Magaluf : well known to be the British capital in the island, this is the place for clubbing. Bananas Disco and BCM Empire Disco are a must.
• Paseo Maritimo : A profusion of bars can be found at Paseo Maritime in Palma, the main road by the sea. Abraxas (former Pacha) and Tito's are the main discos, catered mostly to a young party crowd. Gay oriented bars can be found around Plaza Gomila (must visit: Hotel Aries Pub and the Black Cat Disco).

Also, you must know that while drinking in the street is allowed, big groups drinkings are not tolerated and the police will fine you if you leave any rubbish in the street. In any case, is better to carry a plastic bag for any rubbish you could have.

Wines [ edit ]

You should consider trying the Sangria, a mix of wine, fruit juice and brandy. Another option are the excellent local wines. Many bodegas offer tours with free tastings.

• Ses Nines "Negre, Binissalem D.O.", a real bargain, this pleasant red wine will accompany your barbecues. €5.
• José L. Ferrer "Blanc de blancs, Binissalem D.O.", a light and tasty white wine to drink with a fish soup or grilled sardines. €7.
• Mont Ferrutx . "Pla i Llevant D.O.", a solid red wine bottled by Miquel Oliver, to accompany a grilled pork chop. €7.  
• Macia Batle crianza , "Binissalem D.O.", a fine, tasty and elegant red wine, bottled by Macia Batle [1] in Santa Maria del Cami. €10.
• Mortitx . "Vi negre, Vi de la Serra de Tramuntana", a deep red wine with red fruit taste. €10.  
• Moli de Vent "Blanc, Pla i Llevant D.O.", a fine white wine with a subtle citrus fruit parfum, bottled by Jaume Mesquida [2] . €10.
• GVIVM "Merlot-Callet, Pla i Llevant D.O.", a strong red wine with character, bottled by Pere Seda. €15.
• Negre de sa Colonia "Pla i Llevant D.O.", a fine red wine with a deep oak taste, bottled by Toni Gelabert. €20.
• Son Puig . "Vi de la Terra Mallorca", red and white wine bottled by Raimundo Alabern at Bodega Son Puig. €12.  

Stay safe [ edit ]

Though it attracts millions of tourists from all corners of Europe and the world, Mallorca is incredibly safe for such a popular tourist destination. Being street-smart will be enough to avoid getting into too much trouble.

The only thing to watch out for is the excessive binge-drinking culture brought on by tourists, especially those from the UK and Germany. Though much less prevalent than in past decades, alcohol-fueled behaviors remain a real problem, and local politicians and police officers are very much aware of this issues, namely in towns like Magaluf and Palma.

Sleep [ edit ]

Accommodation is mainly for the package-tour tourist who wants a room near the beach. Most of these hotels are cheaper if booked by a travel agent. But over the past few years, the number of alternative accommodations for more experienced, individual travellers has steadily been growing: designer hotels, fully equipped apartments, aparthotels and fincas to name a few.

Fincas [ edit ]

Rural tourism : Also known as "Agroturismo". Refers to farmhouses and country estates built before 1960, still being used for agriculture but, of course, fully refurbished and modernized. Just perfect for families with children.

"Rural Hotel", "Turisme d'Interior" and "Petit Hotel" on the other hand are generally former mansions and manor-houses located in smaller towns such as Sòller, Lloseta, Deià or Campanet. They offer a limited number of rooms for guests, mostly 4-star service with an excellent cuisine, Spa services, etc.

Hotels [ edit ]

Although the vast majority are 3- and 4-star hotels, the island does offer excellent 5-star hotels and resorts, small and trendy Designer Hotels next to Palma's shopping district as well as charming city hotels in the old city centre of Palma de Mallorca .

If you prefer to stay in your own apartment, but don't want to miss the hotel's daily entertainment programme, sports and shows in the evening, then consider staying in an aparthotel. Most of them are in the north ( Alcudia , Playa de Muro) or on the east coast of the island (Cala Millor, Cala d'Or) and offer a wide range of services.

Camping [ edit ]

There are no commercial camp grounds in Mallorca, but there are some recreation areas with toilets and sometimes with showers where camping is allowed.

Villa rentals [ edit ]

Renting a villa is an excellent, often inexpensive way of enjoying Mallorca's more secluded locations. These are generally found on the western and northern sides of the island. There are several choices, from "casitas" that are small and offer no additional services, to those which are classed as "luxury", and offer a wide range of additional features such as a maid service, breakfast and hire cars.

• Has custom banner
• Has mapframe
• Has map markers
• Marker with Wikivoyage article but no wikilink
• Articles with dead external links
• See listing with no coordinates
• Drink listing with no coordinates
• Balearic Islands
• All destination articles
• Outline regions
• Outline articles
• Region articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

Mallorca Travel Guide – Everything You Need To Know

Want to have a Mallorca travel guide at your fingertips and discover the best things to do?

Nestled in the azure waters of the Mediterranean, Mallorca stands as a beacon of beauty, culture, and adventure.

This Balearic Island, the largest in its archipelago, captivates the hearts of travelers with its diverse landscapes, from the rugged Serra de Tramuntana mountains to the serene sandy beaches that dot its coastline.

A rich tapestry of history and modernity, Mallorca offers a unique blend of ancient charm and contemporary luxury, making it a must-visit destination on any travel enthusiast’s list.

Mallorca, often spelled Majorca, is more than just a sun-and-sand destination; it’s an island that boasts an impressive cultural heritage, with Palma de Mallorca, its bustling capital, at the heart of its allure.

The island’s varied geography includes picturesque villages, olive groves, and hidden coves, each with its own story to tell.

From the stunning architecture of the Palma Cathedral to the winding trails of the Tramuntana, Mallorca invites exploration and discovery.

As a travel destination, Mallorca holds a special place in the Mediterranean tourism landscape.

Its ability to offer something for everyone makes it uniquely appealing.

For the adventure seekers, the Tramuntana mountains provide endless hiking and cycling opportunities.

Beach lovers are spoilt for choice with over 200 beaches, ranging from secluded bays to vibrant beach clubs.

Cultural enthusiasts will find solace in the island’s many museums, historic sites, and galleries, not to mention the rich culinary scene that reflects Mallorca’s diverse cultural influences.

Moreover, Mallorca’s significance extends beyond its physical beauty and recreational offerings.

It is a hub for sustainable tourism, with numerous initiatives aimed at preserving its natural and cultural assets for future generations.

The island’s commitment to sustainability enhances its appeal, drawing travelers who are conscious of their environmental impact.

In crafting this Mallorca Travel Guide, we delve into the heart of what makes Mallorca a premier travel destination.

From practical travel tips to insights into the island’s hidden gems, this guide is your comprehensive companion to discovering the enchanting island of Mallorca.

Getting to Mallorca

Mallorca’s allure as a premier Mediterranean destination is matched by its accessibility from various points across the globe.

Whether you’re contemplating the skies or the seas, reaching this island paradise is a journey worth taking.

Here’s your essential guide to air and sea travel options for your upcoming Mallorca adventure.

Air Travel Information

Main airports.

The gateway to Mallorca by air is the Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), situated just 8 kilometers east of the capital, Palma.

As the third largest airport in Spain, PMI serves millions of passengers each year, connecting Mallorca to major cities across Europe and offering seasonal flights to and from destinations worldwide.

Tips for Booking Flights

• Early Booking : To secure the best deals on flights to Mallorca, plan and book your tickets well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the peak summer months.
• Compare Airlines : Utilize flight comparison websites to find the most competitive rates and direct flight options. Low-cost carriers often have great deals, but make sure to check baggage allowances.
• Flexibility : If possible, be flexible with your travel dates. Mid-week flights can be cheaper than weekend flights, and flying during shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) can significantly reduce costs.
• Airline Alerts : Sign up for airline newsletters and fare alerts. Airlines often announce special offers and last-minute deals to their subscribers.

Sea Travel Options

For those who prefer the romance and scenic views of sea travel, Mallorca is well-connected by ferries from mainland Spain and other Balearic Islands .

From Mainland Spain

• Barcelona, Valencia, and Denia : These are the primary ports on the Spanish mainland offering ferry services to Mallorca. The journey from Barcelona to Palma can take anywhere from 7 to 8 hours, making it a popular overnight option. Valencia and Denia offer quicker routes but are farther south.
• Booking Tips : As with air travel, booking your ferry tickets in advance can help you snag the best prices. Consider cabin options for overnight journeys to ensure a comfortable trip.

From Other Islands

• Inter-Island Travel : Regular ferry services also connect Mallorca with its sister islands, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. These short hops are perfect for day trips or island-hopping adventures, with journeys typically lasting between 2 to 4 hours.
• Flexibility and Offers : Keep an eye out for special promotions and flexible ticket options, especially if you plan to explore multiple islands. Some ferry companies offer passes that allow for multiple trips at a reduced rate.

Reaching Mallorca, whether by air or sea, is an integral part of your travel experience.

By planning ahead and considering your preferences and budget, you can choose the best option that adds to the excitement and ease of your journey.

With the island’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture waiting to be explored, getting to Mallorca is just the beginning of your unforgettable adventure.

Best Time to Visit

Mallorca’s Mediterranean charm is year-round, but the island truly comes alive between the mild winters and the warm, vibrant summers.

Understanding the climate and seasonal variations can help you choose the ideal time for your visit, whether you’re seeking a beach getaway, an adventure in the mountains, or a cultural experience during one of the island’s many festivals.

Overview of the Climate and Seasonal Variations

Mallorca experiences a typical Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Summer months, from June to August, see average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), making it perfect for beach activities and water sports.

Winter, from December to February, brings cooler weather with temperatures averaging between 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), ideal for exploring the island’s interior and cultural sites without the summer crowds.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are transitional seasons, offering a pleasant climate with fewer tourists.

These seasons are characterized by milder temperatures, blooming landscapes in spring, and a warm sea still enjoyable in the fall.

Recommendations on the Best Time of Year to Visit for Different Activities

• Beaches: The best time for a beach holiday in Mallorca is during the summer months when the weather is warm, and the sea temperature is inviting. July and August are the peak tourist seasons, so consider June or September for a more tranquil experience with equally favorable weather.
• Hiking: For outdoor enthusiasts, the best times to visit are spring and autumn. The temperatures during these months are ideal for hiking and exploring the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range without the intense heat of the summer. The landscapes are particularly stunning in spring when the island is green and flowers are in bloom.
• Festivals: Mallorca hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, offering insights into the island’s rich culture and traditions. Notable events include the Sant Joan festival in June, celebrating the summer solstice with bonfires and fireworks, and the Sa Pobla potato festival in July, showcasing local cuisine. For cultural experiences, plan your visit around these events to enjoy Mallorca’s festive spirit.
• Off-Peak Travel: For those seeking solitude and the opportunity to experience Mallorca’s local life without the crowds, winter is an ideal time. You can enjoy the island’s natural beauty, with cooler weather perfect for long walks and sightseeing. Additionally, off-peak travel often comes with the benefit of lower accommodation prices.

Choosing the right time to visit Mallorca depends on your interests and what you wish to get out of your vacation.

Whether it’s basking in the summer sun, embarking on scenic hikes, or immersing yourself in local festivals, Mallorca offers a wealth of experiences throughout the year.

Where to Stay

Mallorca’s wide array of accommodation options caters to every taste and budget, from luxury resorts nestled along the coastline to charming budget hotels in the heart of its historic villages.

Whether you’re looking for a lavish retreat, a family-friendly base, or a cozy spot for solo exploration, Mallorca has something to offer.

Overview of Accommodation Options

• Luxury Resorts: Mallorca is home to some of the most exquisite resorts in the Mediterranean, offering unparalleled service, stunning sea views, and top-notch amenities. These resorts often feature spa services, gourmet restaurants, and private beaches, ensuring a stay filled with relaxation and indulgence.
• Budget Hotels: For travelers keeping an eye on their expenses, Mallorca’s budget hotels are a great choice. Located both in urban areas and smaller towns, these hotels provide comfortable accommodations without the hefty price tag. They are perfect for those who plan to spend most of their time exploring the island.
• Vacation Rentals: For those seeking a home-away-from-home experience, vacation rentals across Mallorca offer the privacy and flexibility of your own space. From beachfront villas to cozy apartments in the city, rentals are ideal for longer stays and for travelers who prefer to cook their own meals or want extra space.

Recommendations for Different Types of Travelers

• Families: Look for family-friendly resorts or vacation rentals that offer multiple bedrooms and kid-friendly amenities like pools, playgrounds, and activity clubs. Areas like Alcúdia and Cala d’Or are renowned for their family-oriented accommodations and beaches with shallow waters perfect for young swimmers.
• Couples: Couples may enjoy boutique hotels or intimate vacation rentals that offer a romantic setting. Consider staying in a secluded villa in the Tramuntana mountains or a charming hotel in Palma’s old town, where you can enjoy candlelit dinners and stunning sunsets.
• Solo Travelers: For those traveling solo, staying in a hostel or a budget hotel in Palma or Sóller offers the chance to meet fellow travelers and access communal spaces. Solo travelers might also prefer accommodations that offer guided tours or activities to explore the island with a group.
• Groups: Large groups or friends traveling together can find great value in vacation rentals, where everyone can stay under one roof. Look for villas or large apartments with enough bedrooms and communal areas to socialize. Some properties even offer amenities like private pools, barbecue areas, and spacious terraces.

Cultural Highlights

Mallorca’s culture is a vibrant blend of its historical layers, from the remnants of ancient civilizations to its modern-day vibrancy.

This island not only promises sun-soaked beaches but also a deep dive into a rich historical and cultural heritage that awaits discovery.

History of Mallorca

The history of Mallorca is a fascinating journey through time, starting from the Talayotic period, evident in the prehistoric settlements scattered across the island.

It has seen the influence of various cultures and civilizations, including the Romans, Moors, and eventually the Crown of Aragon.

Each era has left its mark on the island, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry that defines Mallorca today.

The island’s strategic position in the Mediterranean has made it a coveted jewel throughout history, influencing its architecture, language, and customs.

Cultural Landmarks and Heritage Sites

• Palma Cathedral (La Seu): A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the cathedral dominates the Palma skyline. Its construction started in the 13th century and it stands as a symbol of the island’s Christian reconquest.
• Bellver Castle: Overlooking Palma from a hilltop, this 14th-century circular castle offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Mallorca’s medieval past.
• Almudaina Palace: Adjacent to Palma Cathedral, this royal palace was originally a Moorish fort and serves as a testament to the Islamic influence on the island.
• Valldemossa Charterhouse: Nestled in the Tramuntana mountains, this historic monastery is famous for its association with Chopin and George Sand, who spent a winter here. The idyllic village of Valldemossa is itself a cultural treasure.

Museums and Art Galleries

• Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: Located in Palma, this museum houses an impressive collection of Spanish and international contemporary art, showcasing works from the 20th and 21st centuries.
• Fundació Miró Mallorca: Celebrating the work of Joan Miró, the museum offers a look into the artist’s studio and a vast collection of his works, providing insight into his creative process.
• Pollentia Archaeological Site: Near Alcúdia, this site allows visitors to explore the remains of a Roman city, including a theater, residential district, and forum, offering a window into ancient Roman life on the island.

Natural Wonders

Mallorca’s natural landscape is a treasure trove of beauty, offering everything from serene beaches and secluded coves to majestic mountains and enchanting caves.

Each of these natural wonders presents a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the island’s beauty firsthand.

Beaches and Coves

Mallorca boasts more than 200 beaches, ranging from long stretches of white sand to hidden coves accessible only by foot or boat.

The crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean make these beaches ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

Among the most famous is Es Trenc, known for its Caribbean-like feel with turquoise waters and fine sand.

For those seeking tranquility, Cala Varques offers a secluded beach experience, surrounded by natural cliffs and lush vegetation.

Mountains and Hiking Trails (Mention of Serra de Tramuntana)

The Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the backbone of Mallorca, stretching from the southwest to the northeast of the island.

This mountain range is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide array of trails that range from easy walks to challenging treks.

The mountains not only provide breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the sea but also house charming villages like Valldemossa and Deià, where the blend of nature and culture creates a magical atmosphere.

Caves and Natural Parks

Mallorca’s underground world is just as fascinating as its surface, with numerous caves that offer a glimpse into the island’s geological past.

The Caves of Drach, located on the east coast, are among the most visited, featuring one of the largest underground lakes in the world, Lake Martel.

Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the lake and listen to live classical music, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

In addition to its caves, Mallorca is dotted with natural parks that protect the island’s diverse ecosystems .

The Mondragó Natural Park, situated in the southeast, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear coves, and Mediterranean forests.

It’s an excellent spot for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the untouched beauty of Mallorca’s coastline.

Mallorca’s gastronomy is a reflection of its cultural diversity and rich agricultural heritage, offering a palette of flavors that range from the sea to the mountains.

The island’s cuisine is deeply rooted in Mediterranean traditions, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients like olive oil, seafood, vegetables, and fruits.

With every dish, there’s a story, a tradition, or a local secret waiting to be discovered.

Overview of Mallorcan Cuisine

Mallorcan cuisine is characterized by its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients.

The island’s location in the Mediterranean has fostered a culinary tradition that heavily features seafood, alongside pork and lamb dishes, fresh vegetables, and fruits.

Bread and olive oil form the base of many meals, accompanied by local cheeses and sobrasada, a typical Mallorcan cured sausage.

Desserts often incorporate almonds and oranges, two of the island’s staple crops.

Must-try Dishes and Local Delicacies

• Pa amb Oli: A simple yet iconic dish, consisting of rustic bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes, drizzled with local olive oil, and topped with ham, cheese, or sobrasada.
• Tumbet: A delightful summer dish featuring layers of fried potatoes, aubergines, and red bell peppers, topped with a tomato garlic sauce.
• Sobrasada: This soft, spreadable sausage made from pork and paprika is a Mallorcan staple and is often eaten with local bread.
• Ensaimada: A sweet, spiral-shaped pastry dusted with powdered sugar, often filled with cream or sweet pumpkin, making it a perfect souvenir or breakfast treat.
• Frito Mallorquín: A traditional fry-up of pork or lamb with potatoes, onions, and various local vegetables, seasoned with fennel and other herbs.

Recommendations for Restaurants and Food Markets

Mallorca’s dining scene ranges from rustic family-run cellers serving traditional dishes to Michelin-starred restaurants offering modern interpretations of local cuisine.

For an authentic experience, visit Celler Sa Premsa in Palma for classic Mallorcan dishes in a traditional setting.

Es Pati in Sant Llorenç des Cardassar offers a more contemporary take on local ingredients in a charming, intimate atmosphere.

Food markets are a great way to immerse yourself in the local culinary culture.

Mercat de l’Olivar and Mercat de Santa Catalina in Palma are bustling hubs where locals shop for fresh produce, meats, and seafood.

These markets also have tapas bars and stalls where you can sample local delicacies and freshly prepared dishes.

Activities and Experiences

Whether you’re drawn to the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, the rugged trails of the Serra de Tramuntana, or the serene ambiance of a spa, Mallorca provides an exceptional setting for engaging in a wide range of activities. Let’s explore what the island has to offer.

Water Sports and Activities

Mallorca’s extensive coastline and clear waters make it a haven for water sports enthusiasts.

• Sailing: With numerous marinas and sailing schools, the island is perfect for both experienced sailors and novices looking to learn. The calm waters of the bay of Palma offer ideal conditions for sailing, with boat rentals and guided tours available.
• Snorkeling: The clear waters around Mallorca are home to a diverse marine life, making it a fantastic place for snorkeling. Cala Mondragó and the marine reserve around the Malgrats Islands are particularly popular for their vibrant underwater ecosystems.
• Kayaking: Explore Mallorca’s coastline from a different perspective by kayaking its clear waters. Paddle around secluded coves, under natural arches, and into hidden caves. Rentals and guided tours are available, suitable for all skill levels.

Land Activities

Mallorca’s varied landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for a range of land-based activities.

• Cycling: The island is a renowned cycling destination, offering routes for all levels, from leisurely rides along the coast to challenging climbs in the Tramuntana mountains. Bike rentals and guided tours are widely available.
• Hiking: Mallorca’s hiking trails take you through some of the island’s most beautiful and untouched landscapes. The GR221, or “Dry Stone Route,” is a long-distance trail that traverses the Tramuntana, offering breathtaking views and a deep connection with nature.
• Golf: With over 20 golf courses, Mallorca is a golfer’s paradise, boasting well-maintained courses designed to complement the natural beauty of their surroundings. Many offer spectacular views of the mountains or the sea.

Wellness and Relaxation

For those seeking a more tranquil experience, Mallorca offers numerous opportunities for wellness and relaxation.

• Spa Treatments: Indulge in pampering spa treatments at one of Mallorca’s luxury resorts or wellness centers. From massages and facials to hydrotherapy and aromatherapy, the focus is on relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Yoga Retreats: The island’s serene beauty makes it an ideal setting for yoga retreats. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, yoga retreats in Mallorca offer a chance to deepen your practice in peaceful surroundings, often with breathtaking views.

Nightlife and Entertainment

As the sun sets, Mallorca transforms, offering a variety of nighttime entertainment options.

Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet drink under the stars, an evening of dancing, or immersing yourself in local culture through events and festivals, the island has plenty to offer.

Overview of Nightlife in Mallorca

• Bars: From chic rooftop bars in Palma offering panoramic views of the city and the sea to quaint beachfront establishments where you can enjoy a cocktail with your feet in the sand, Mallorca’s bar scene is as diverse as its landscapes. Many small towns and villages also boast charming local bars, perfect for enjoying a nightcap and mingling with the locals.
• Clubs: Those looking for a more energetic nightlife experience will find a selection of clubs in Mallorca, especially in Palma and the Magaluf area. These clubs attract international DJs and offer a vibrant scene for dancing until dawn.
• Beach Parties: For a truly unique experience, attend one of Mallorca’s beach parties. These events combine the natural beauty of the island’s beaches with music and dancing, creating an unforgettable atmosphere under the stars.

Cultural Events and Festivals Worth Attending

Mallorca’s cultural calendar is filled with events and festivals that showcase the island’s traditions, history, and artistic talent.

• Sant Joan (St. John’s Eve): Celebrated on June 23rd, this festival marks the beginning of summer with bonfires, fireworks, and beach parties. The night is magical, with a mix of ancient rituals and modern celebrations.
• Fira del Ram: A spring fair held in Palma, featuring amusement rides, food stalls, and games. It’s a fun event for families and anyone looking to experience local festivity vibes.
• Sa Rua: A carnival event that takes place before Lent, featuring colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and lively music throughout the streets of Palma and other towns across the island.
• Nit de l’Art: Palma’s art night, celebrated in September, when galleries and museums open their doors late into the night, offering a unique cultural experience with art installations, performances, and parties.

Mallorca offers a shopping experience as diverse as its landscapes, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern retail.

Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, unique local crafts, or the freshest produce, the island’s markets, boutiques, and shopping centers provide a wealth of options to explore.

Best Places for Shopping

• Local Markets: For a taste of local life, the markets of Mallorca are not to be missed. Mercat de l’Olivar and Mercat de Santa Catalina in Palma offer everything from fresh produce to seafood, meats, and cheeses, along with stalls selling flowers, spices, and local delicacies. For artisan crafts and souvenirs, the weekly market in Sineu, one of the oldest on the island, is a treasure trove of local products.
• Boutiques: Palma is home to numerous boutiques offering a mix of international brands and local designers. The areas around Passeig del Born and Avenida Jaime III are particularly known for their exclusive shops selling fashion, jewelry, and accessories. For unique Mallorcan designs, explore the boutiques in the old town and the Santa Catalina district.
• Shopping Centers: For a more conventional shopping experience, Mallorca’s shopping centers, such as Porto Pi Centro Comercial near Palma’s waterfront and FAN Mallorca Shopping on the outskirts of the city, offer a wide range of international and Spanish brands, along with cinemas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Local Products and Souvenirs to Bring Home

• Leather Goods: Mallorca is famous for its high-quality leather products, including shoes, bags, and jackets. The town of Inca, in particular, is known as the island’s leather capital, hosting several outlets and factories.
• Pearls: While not naturally occurring, Mallorca’s artificial pearls are renowned for their quality and beauty. Visit one of the pearl factories or shops to find exquisite jewelry pieces.
• Ceramics: The traditional ceramics and pottery from Mallorca, with their distinctive designs and colors, make for beautiful home decor or gifts. The town of Pòrtol is famous for its pottery workshops.
• Local Food Products: Olive oil, local wines, ensaimadas (sweet pastries), and sobrasada (Mallorcan sausage) are excellent souvenirs for foodies, reflecting the island’s culinary heritage.

Practical Information

Navigating your way around Mallorca and interacting with locals is an important part of your travel experience.

Here’s what you need to know to make your stay smooth and enjoyable.

Language and Communication

• Language: Spanish is the official language of Mallorca, with Catalan (specifically the Balearic dialect) also widely spoken. English is commonly used in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, but learning a few basic phrases in Spanish or Catalan can enhance your experience and is greatly appreciated by locals.
• Communication: Wi-Fi is readily available in hotels, cafes, and public areas, making it easy to stay connected. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for mobile data if you need connectivity on the go.

Currency and Payment Options

• Currency: The currency used in Mallorca, as in the rest of Spain, is the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available, and credit/debit cards are accepted in most places, including restaurants, shops, and hotels.
• Payment Options: While cash is still used, especially in smaller establishments and markets, card payments and contactless methods (including mobile payments) are increasingly common. It’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases.

Transportation within the Island

• Car Rental: Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Mallorca, offering the freedom to visit remote beaches and mountain villages. International and local rental agencies are available at the airport and in major towns.
• Public Transportation: Mallorca’s public transport system includes buses and trains, connecting Palma with major towns and tourist attractions. The TIB (Transport de les Illes Balears) website provides routes, schedules, and fare information.
• Biking: With its scenic landscapes and dedicated bike lanes in urban areas, biking is a popular and eco-friendly way to explore Mallorca. Bike rentals are available across the island.

Safety Tips and Healthcare Facilities

• Safety Tips: Mallorca is generally a safe destination for travelers. Common sense precautions should be taken, especially in crowded tourist areas, to guard against petty theft. Always be aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings.
• Healthcare Facilities: The healthcare system in Spain is excellent, with public and private hospitals and clinics throughout Mallorca. Pharmacies are widely available and can provide assistance with minor ailments. Travelers from the EU should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to public healthcare services. Non-EU travelers should ensure they have adequate travel insurance.

Day Trips and Excursions

Whether you’re interested in discovering the natural beauty of the Balearic archipelago, diving into the rich history of the region, or simply seeking a change of scenery, there are plenty of options for day trips and excursions from Mallorca.

Recommendations for Day Trips from Mallorca

• Nearby Islands: A visit to the neighboring island of Menorca, known for its pristine beaches and UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve, is highly recommended. For a quicker escape, the island of Cabrera, part of the Cabrera Archipelago Maritime-Terrestrial National Park, offers excellent snorkeling and hiking opportunities. Ferries and private charters are available for these trips.
• Hidden Beaches: For those willing to explore, Mallorca itself is dotted with hidden gems. Cala Varques on the east coast is a secluded beach accessible by a short hike, offering crystal-clear waters and a peaceful ambiance. Es Trenc, though more popular, still retains a remote feel with its long stretches of white sand and turquoise waters.
• Historic Towns: Valldemossa, nestled in the Tramuntana mountains, is a picturesque village famous for its Carthusian monastery where Chopin once lived. Another must-visit is the charming town of Sóller, accessible via a vintage train ride through the scenic countryside. Both towns offer a glimpse into Mallorca’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.

Organized Tours and Activities

• Boat Tours: Explore the coastline of Mallorca from the sea with organized boat tours. Options range from catamaran cruises with snorkeling stops to sunset sails and private yacht charters.
• Cultural Tours: Take part in guided cultural tours to learn more about the history and traditions of Mallorca. These can include visits to historic sites, wineries for wine tasting, and local farms to sample olive oil and other local products.
• Adventure Activities: For the more adventurous, there are numerous activities to choose from, including cliff jumping, caving adventures, and guided hikes. Many of these tours provide unique ways to experience the natural beauty of Mallorca and its surroundings.

Mallorca, with its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, stands out as a jewel in the Mediterranean.

This guide has traversed the island’s scenic beaches, majestic mountains, and lush natural parks, explored its gastronomic delights, and highlighted the myriad activities that cater to every type of traveler.

From the cultural treasures of Palma to the tranquil beauty of its hidden coves and the adventure awaiting in the Serra de Tramuntana, Mallorca offers an unparalleled travel experience.

But beyond its well-known attractions lies the true essence of Mallorca.

The island beckons you to explore beyond the tourist trails, to discover its small villages, local markets, and artisan studios.

Each corner of Mallorca tells a story, from ancient olive groves to hilltop sanctuaries, offering a glimpse into a way of life that has been shaped by centuries of history and tradition.

Mallorca is not just a destination; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in beauty, history, and culture. It’s a call to explore, to relax, and to adventure.

Whether you’re basking in the sun on a pristine beach, enjoying a leisurely hike through the mountains, or savoring the flavors of Mallorcan cuisine, you’re part of the island’s ever-unfolding story.

FAQ’s About Mallorca:

What is mallorca spain known for.

Mallorca (or Majorca) is renowned for its stunning Mediterranean landscapes, encompassing beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, rugged mountains, and charming villages.

It’s the largest of the Balearic Islands and offers a rich cultural heritage, including the historic capital city of Palma, with its impressive cathedral and vibrant art scene.

The island is also celebrated for its delicious cuisine, featuring local specialties such as ensaimada and sobrasada, and its dynamic nightlife, with a wide array of bars and clubs.

Is there a difference between Mallorca and Majorca?

The difference between “Mallorca” and “Majorca” is simply a matter of language.

“Mallorca” is the Spanish and Catalan spelling of the island’s name, reflecting its roots and local use.

“Majorca” is the English adaptation of the name.

Both refer to the same island in the Balearic Islands archipelago but are used differently based on linguistic preference or context.

Is Mallorca a party island?

While Mallorca is known for having vibrant nightlife areas, particularly in Magaluf and Palma, it is much more than just a party island .

The island offers a diverse range of attractions suitable for all ages and interests, including stunning natural landscapes, historic sites, cultural festivals, and family-friendly activities.

The notion of Mallorca as merely a party destination overlooks its richness and diversity as a travel spot.

Why is Mallorca so popular?

Mallorca’s popularity stems from its diverse attractions and the ability to cater to a wide variety of tourist preferences.

Its beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene make it a versatile destination.

Additionally, its Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters, makes it an appealing year-round destination.

The combination of natural beauty, historical depth, and modern amenities ensures its place on the travel map.

Is Mallorca expensive?

The cost of visiting Mallorca can vary widely depending on the type of experience you’re seeking.

Like many popular tourist destinations, it can be expensive, especially in peak tourist season and in more upscale areas.

However, with a range of accommodation options, dining choices, and free natural attractions, it is possible to enjoy Mallorca on a budget.

Planning and some local insight can help manage expenses without compromising the quality of the experience.

Where not to stay in Majorca?

Choosing where not to stay in Mallorca depends largely on personal preferences and what you’re looking to get out of your visit.

If you’re seeking a quiet, relaxing holiday, you might want to avoid the bustling party areas like Magaluf, which are known for their lively nightlife.

Similarly, those looking for a more authentic Mallorcan experience might opt for accommodations away from the main tourist strips, exploring the island’s smaller villages and rural areas instead.

Is Mallorca tourist friendly?

Mallorca is highly tourist-friendly, with a well-developed infrastructure catering to visitors from around the world.

The island offers a wide range of services, including multilingual tour guides, international cuisine, and accommodations to suit all budgets.

Local laws and initiatives are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of tourists, making Mallorca a welcoming destination for international visitors.

What is the best month to go to Majorca?

The best month to visit Mallorca depends on your personal preferences.

For beach holidays and warm weather, the summer months of June to August are ideal, though these are also the busiest times.

For those interested in outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, the milder months of April, May, September, and October offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

Additionally, these shoulder seasons often provide better deals on accommodation and flights.

What are the disadvantages of tourism in Majorca?

The disadvantages of tourism in Mallorca include environmental stress due to over-tourism in peak seasons, which can lead to issues like water shortages, pollution, and damage to natural habitats.

There’s also the risk of cultural dilution, where the authentic Mallorcan way of life becomes overshadowed by the demands and influences of mass tourism.

Economic dependence on tourism can also make the island vulnerable to global economic fluctuations, impacting the livelihoods of locals. Efforts are being made to promote sustainable tourism practices to mitigate these impacts.

(Island Expert)

Christian is a dynamic serial entrepreneur and a licensed real estate agent with a relentless passion for unlocking the potential of island real estate.Christian's expertise extends beyond entrepreneurship and property transactions.He possesses a profound expertise in crafting captivating content and persuasive copywriting tailored exclusively to the enchanting realm of island real estate.

We're a licensed real estate marketplace, enabling island owners to rent and sell their private islands to a global audience seeking to buy, book a holiday, or hire a unique event venue.

Contact Us:

• [email protected]
• Island Buyers Guide
• List an Island for Sale
• Book an Island Holiday
• Plan an Island Event
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

Destinations

• Central America
• South America
• South Pacific
• United States

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

To stay informed and be the first to know about our latest updates and exclusive offers, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.

© 2024. All rights reserved. Isle Keys Pty Ltd.

Thanks for your enquiry.

Check your email shortly for the ebook download link.

Download Island Buyers Guide Ebook

Please fill in your details below and we will send you this ebook via email

Email Address

Phone Number

Visit Palma de Mallorca: Top 23 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in palma de mallorca: the 23 best places to visit.

You’re planning to visit Palma de Mallorca during your next trip? You’re looking for the best things to do in Palma de Mallorca?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this guide of the 23 best places to visit in Palma de Mallorca , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Palma de Mallorca in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days or even a week as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

And as always, this travel guide contains all my best tips to make the most of your stay.

So, what to do in Palma de Mallorca? Where to stay?

Let’s start with the best places to visit!

1. Palma de Mallorca Cathedral – La Seu

2. royal palace of la almudaina, 3. parc de la mar, 4. the mercat de l’olivar, 5. best boat excursions in palma de mallorca, 6. the plaça mayor, 7. shopping in palma de mallorca, 8. the palau march – bartolomé march foundation, 9. the arab baths (banys arabs), 10. must-visit museums in palma de mallorca, 11. basilica de sant francesc, 12. other plazas to discover in palma, 13. bellver castle – castell de bellver, 14. fundació pilar i joan miró, 15. palma de mallorca aquarium, 16. more activities in palma de mallorca, 17. beaches near palma de mallorca, 18. soller train – tren de sóller, 19. the serra de tramontana, 20. day trips around palma, visiting palma de mallorca with kids, how many days to visit palma de mallorca, visit palma de mallorca in 1 day – walking itinerary, visiting palma de mallorca in 2 days, visiting palma de mallorca in 3 days, visiting palma de mallorca in 4, 5 days or a week, where to stay in palma de mallorca, where to eat in palma de mallorca, rent a boat in mallorca, tourist map of palma de mallorca, you’re traveling to mallorca these articles will help you , visiting palma de mallorca: 23 must-see attractions.

Let’s start this top 20 of the must-see places to visit in Palma de Mallorca with its iconic monument: the Palma Cathedral .

Also called “La Seu” in Spanish, it’s the main tourist attraction of Palma de Mallorca . And it’s easy to see why when you know that it is the largest religious building in Spain , just after the famous Seville Cathedral in Andalusia .

Its construction began in 1300 and was completed three centuries later, in 1601. Damaged by an earthquake in the 19th century and later restored, the result is an impressive facade blending the original Renaissance style with neo-Gothic elements .

Inside the cathedral , you can discover:

• A small museum housing a relic believed to contain thorns from Christ’s crown
• Magnificent stained glass windows , including the world’s largest Gothic rose window, the Oculus Maior, made up of 1,115 panes
• The baldachin designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí , notably known for designing and starting the construction of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
• The 18th-century grand organ
• The ceramic fresco by Mallorcan artist Miquel Barcelo, located in the Chapel of San Pedro.

The cathedral is open every day except Sunday .

If you plan to explore Palma Cathedral , the island’s most popular tourist attraction, you should purchase your skip-the-line ticket ahead of time to save time and avoid the queues.

And since it’s the same price as tickets sold on-site , it’s definitely worth it! You simply need to present your ticket directly on your phone at the reserved entrance.

Book your ticket with priority access to visit Palma Cathedral by clicking the green button below:

The other must-see visit in Palma de Mallorca is the Royal Palace of La Almudaina . Located right next to the cathedral, you won’t have any difficulty in finding it, especially because it is equally awe-inspiring.

Originally a muslim fortress , the building was converted in the 13th century to serve as the residence of the King of Mallorca . Nowadays, it is only very rarely used by the Spanish royal family for some official ceremonies.

During your visit, you’ll get to explore the Queen’s Room , the Great Hall , the courtyard, the Royal Apartments , and the small chapel of Santa Anna . Although the palace is impeccably maintained , I personally found the interior a bit bare (some rooms are quite empty).

It is open every day except Monday .

As everyone who visits the cathedral then goes to the palace (or vice versa), I also recommend buying your skip-the-line ticket in advance to avoid waiting in line. Just click on the button below:

Please be cautious with your belongings while walking around the Cathedral, Palace, or Parc de la Mar, as these areas are known to be frequented by pickpockets . During our visit, we witnessed two theft attempts within just 15 minutes (one of which we were able to prevent because we noticed the thief approaching).

Watch out for another common scam: a group of 3 or 4 people will surround you, take photos like regular tourists, and suddenly pull out a large city map that blocks your view and disturbs you, supposedly asking for directions. Meanwhile, their accomplices pick your pockets and search your purse/backpack.

Another must-see attraction in Palma de Mallorca is the Parc de la Mar .

It’s simply the best place to go for a walk in Palma de Mallorca to enjoy a splendid view of the cathedral and the royal palace . All the photos you see of these two monuments are taken from there.

The park runs along the edge of Palma’s old town and the seafront , and features a stunning artificial lake that adds to its charm.

To visit Palma de Mallorca and benefit from historical explanations about various monuments, you have the option of joining one of the several guided tours available. They all pass through the Parc de la Mar to enjoy the stunning view.

To book the Palma guided tour that interests you, simply click on the orange links:

• Walking tour of the old town + guided tour of the cathedral – Led by an official English-speaking guide – Duration: 90 minutes
• Private guided tour of Palma’s old town 
• Private night guided tour
• 1-hour guided Segway tour (English-speaking guide) or 2-hour guided Segway tour
• Bike tour of the old town with a guide , in a small group – Duration: 3 hours

The Mercat de l’Olivar is the main market to visit in Palma de Mallorca if you want to stock up on great local products . A sign of quality: I noticed that many locals come here to shop.

You’ll find plenty of fruit and vegetable stalls, fish , cured meats , and all kinds of cheeses.

It’s colorful, well-presented, and makes you want to taste everything! I particularly recommend the sobrasada , a spicy pork sausage typical of the Balearic Islands, which you must try during your trip to Palma de Mallorca.

Practical info: the market is open every day from 7 am to 3 pm but closed on Sundays . Go in the morning for more choices.

If there’s only one activity you absolutely must go for during your stay in Palma de Mallorca , it’s a boat excursion.

Whether you choose a catamaran, sailboat, or speedboat , with swimming stops or without, lunch included or not, there’s no shortage of options for having an amazing day at sea . To help you make a decision, I’ve selected the best boat excursions in Palma .

And I’ll start with my favorite: a cruise on a beautiful modern catamaran with buffet included .

Pick either the morning trip with a swimming stop at Cala Vella or the late afternoon trip (featuring a swimming stop too) that comes with a DJ on board and lets you take in the sunset over Palma Bay .

This sea trip is also GetYourGuide Originals certified , which means that the services are really top-notch : friendly crew, delicious and plentiful buffet, enough space for everyone.

Book this catamaran cruise in Palma by clicking on the green button right here:

Here are other boat trips from Palma that are also really cool (click on the orange links to book):

• Wooden sailboat cruise with included barbecue + snorkeling gear, kayaks, and paddleboards provided
• Boat trip around marine caves and cliffs + 2 stops to swim in secluded coves – Duration: 3 hours
• 2-hour boat tour in Palma Bay + swimming stop in crystal-clear turquoise water
• 1-hour boat trip in Palma Marina to admire the view of the Cathedral and Bellver Castle
• Adrenaline-packed speedboat excursion for a thrilling experience – Duration: 1 hour

If you’re looking for an unforgettable night in Palma de Mallorca, let me recommend boat parties complete with drinks, meals, and DJ ! Perfect for young adventure-seekers eager to let loose and connect with new friends:

• Morning or afternoon boat parties
• 2h30 boat party at sunset
• Boat party at night – Departure from Palma at 22h

The Plaça Mayor is an absolute must-visit spot in Palma de Mallorca.

Located in the heart of the old town, this large rectangular plaza steeped in history and tradition is full of outdoor cafes and restaurants . A quintessentially Spanish part of Palma that captures the essence of this vibrant country. It is reminiscent of Madrid ‘s Plaza Mayor , with its charming arcades topped by yellow houses with green shutters. While it may not be as grandiose as its Madrid counterpart, the Plaça Mayor is still a lovely sight to behold.

The Plaça Mayor also houses an underground shopping center.

You’ll definitely pass through this square at least once during your visit to Palma. And if by some weird chance you didn’t, do so.

You’re going to Palma?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Palma on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Palma.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Palma, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Palma!

Where to go in Palma de Mallorca for a bit of shopping?

It’s in the narrow streets surrounding the Plaça Mayor that you’ll find numerous small shops and classic major brands such as Sephora, Stradivarius, Foot Locker…

Make sure you don’t miss the chance to explore some of the charming streets in Palma de Mallorca, such as Carrer de Sant Miquel , Carrer del Sindicat , and Carrer del Colom .

You can also splurge in the Passeig del Born , a shaded pedestrian avenue lined with beautiful typical buildings housing some luxury shops on the ground floor. H&M and Zara are also located at the end of the avenue.

You’ll also find El Corte Inglés shopping centers near the Passeig del Born, on Avenida de Jaume III , towards Plaza Espana .

Continuing with this Palma de Mallorca guide , let’s visit the Palau March located next to the cathedral and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina.

This one-time residence of one of Mallorca’s wealthiest families now showcases an array of sculptures , featuring works by Rodin, art pieces by Salvador Dali , a collection of 14th and 15th-century maps , and an 18th-century nativity scene with over 1000 figurines .

The museum is closed on Sundays.

The Palma de Mallorca tourist office is a 2-minute walk from the Palau March, on Plaça de la Reina

Be sure to swing by and pick up a map of Palma along with a sheet listing the hours and days when various sites and museums are open during your visit to Palma.

Another must-see in Palma de Mallorca is the Arab Baths or “banys arabs” in Spanish.

Originating from the 11th century , the Arab Baths now stand as one of the scarce remnants of the Muslim occupation on the island of Mallorca.

I should let you know that the tour is rather brief , but considering the entrance fee is just €3 , it’s not much of an issue. You’ll primarily encounter a beautifully preserved room featuring a dome held up by arches and columns. The place is quite photogenic .

You’ll also get to learn about the functioning of the Arab baths through a brief video presentation and informative panels in English, which explain the process of heating and distributing water throughout the rooms.

For a more modern take on Arab baths , I recommend heading to Hammam Al Andalus . You can enjoy baths, hammam and even a massage for the duration of your choice.

To book this relaxing experience during your visit to Palma de Mallorca, click here:

Here’s a list of museums to check out in Palma de Mallorca :

• The Juan March Foundation Museum exhibits a superb collection of 20th-century Spanish art. No need to pay a dime for the entrance, and the museum is nestled within a gorgeous 17th-century building.
• The Museum of Mallorca to discover the island’s history through a collection of objects from prehistory to the 19th century
• The Diocese Museum of Mallorca focuses on religious art
• Es Baluard , Palma’s modern and contemporary art museum, features works by international and local artists such as Miro and Picasso
• Pelaires contemporary cultural center with contemporary art exhibitions, located in the art galleries district.

The St. Francis Basilica or Basilica de Sant Francesc is another popular tourist attraction in Palma .

Dating back to 1281 , the basilica stands as one of Palma’s most ancient treasures. It’s a beautiful church with lovely stained-glass windows and an impressive organ , but it also has 2 unique features :

• A stunning multi-level Gothic cloister with elegant columns
• The chapel housing the tomb of Ramon Llull , a very famous writer, philosopher, and poet born in Palma. He is considered the initiator of Catalan literature.

The basilica is closed on Sundays.

In addition, there are more churches worth exploring in Palma de Mallorca :

• Santa Eulalia Church , Palma’s oldest church. You can climb to the top of the bell tower, 50 meters high, for a great view of Palma and the cathedral.
• The church of Monti-Sion , or Església de Monti Sion, worth seeing for its facade.
• The Church of Sant Miquel
• The Church of Sant Jaume
• The Church of Santa Magdalena.

If you’re wondering what else to visit in Palma de Mallorca , you can stroll around the city’s various squares .

In addition to Plaça Mayor, which I already mentioned, you’ll likely come across:

• Plaça de Cort , dominated by the Ajuntament (City Hall in English). Definitely don’t miss: the iconic olive tree, more than 800 years old , standing as the square’s symbol.
• Plaza de Santa Eulalia , where you’ll find the charming Santa Eulalia Church
• Plaza de España , marking the junction between the old town and modern Palma. Boasting numerous restaurants, it’s also the central hub for public transportation, with buses, trains, and the metro arriving and departing from this lively square.

If you’ve decided to rent a car for a Mallorca road trip before your walking tour of Palma , I recommend parking in the underground car park at Plaça d’Espanya .

In the list of places to see in Palma de Mallorca , I suggest you head to Bellver Castle .

Located on the hills to the west of the city , it’s reachable by car (free parking), by bus (though the bus drops you off at the bottom of the hill, so you’ll have to walk up for about 15 minutes) or the Hop-On Hop-Off bus that stops at several points of interest in Palma, including the castle.

To book your ticket for the Palma Hop-On Hop-Off bus , you can click the button below:

Bellver Castle features very unusual architecture, unique in Spain, as it is round in shape . Built in the 14th century , what was originally supposed to be a royal residence was actually used as a prison .

Nowadays, the castle houses a fascinating museum that tells the entire history of Palma de Mallorca in detail.

You can also access the ramparts to enjoy the panoramic view of the city and the bay. Practical info : the castle is open every day, and admission is free on Sundays.

Continuing our cultural sightseeing in Palma de Mallorca, let’s visit the Pilar & Joan Miro foundation .

Just like the castle, the foundation is located a few kilometers west of the old town, in the seaside resort of Cala Major .

The museum is housed in the very buildings where famous painter and sculptor Joan Miro lived and worked . You’ll find numerous paintings and even some of his sculptures displayed in the garden .

You’ll also have the chance to visit his workshop , preserved almost as it was, with some of his unfinished works still there.

The foundation is closed on Mondays.

Tickets are available online by clicking here:

If you’re visiting Palma de Mallorca with your kids , take them to the aquarium, located east of the city , right next to the airport.

Kids can marvel at rays, sharks, and jellyfish , as well as various fish from the Mediterranean Sea and tropical waters . The visit also features entry to the mediterranean garden and the “Jungle” , an awesome area that recreates the ambience of the Amazon rainforest , complete with a waterfall.

They’ll also be able to watch a short 3D film about whales in the Aqua Dome Cinema.

To avoid waiting in line, you should buy your tickets for Palma Aquarium by clicking on this link here !

From Palma, you can also book a transfer to the aquarium (+ entrance tickets) by clicking here !

If you’re still wondering what activities to enjoy in Palma de Mallorca, I’ve prepared my selection for you right here (click the orange links for details and to book in advance to ensure availability):

• Off-road quad biking excursion – Definitely my favorite activity on this list! The route is really great, taking you along dirt trails; the guide is fantastic, and you’ll finish with a cliff jump 8 meters above the water (optional).
• Buggy excursion with an English-speaking instructor . You’ll get to enjoy amazing panoramas, and the guide is very friendly.
• 2.5-hour sports car excursion in the afternoon or 4.5-hour morning excursion – English-speaking guide.

If you’re up for some water or aquatic activities in Palma de Mallorca , here are some recommendations:

• A one-hour jet ski tour in the protected Los Deltas area 
• Jet ski ride in Palma Bay – Duration: 1/2 hour
• Snorkeling in a nature reserve – All equipment is provided (wetsuit, mask, snorkel, and fins)
• Introductory scuba diving in a nature reserve – English-speaking instructor and limited to small groups
• A kayak excursion to visit the local sea caves 
• Coasteering – A great activity for thrill-seekers, combining rappelling, cliff jumping, and climbing.
• Marine caving to explore underground lakes
• Canyoning (activity available only from October to the end of March because there’s no water otherwise)
• Parasailing in Palma bay
• A towed buoy session
• Sunset stand-up paddleboarding – You can also rent a paddleboard or take beginner lessons if you’re a first-timer.

Best things to do around Palma de Mallorca

If you’re spending some time in Palma de Mallorca and have already explored the city, you should visit the surrounding areas next. You’ll find numerous sites, villages, and beaches in close proximity .

To get around, renting a car is a must, as it’s the most convenient way to visit all the different places. If you want to do a road trip in Mallorca, you can compare car rental prices and book on Rentalcars.com (click here) .

You can also rent scooters for the day . Find all the information by clicking here !

Palma offers the convenience of organized excursions with transportation included . I’ll mention some options below:

Palma being a seaside town, you’ll find several beaches in its surroundings.

The closest ones to Palma aren’t necessarily the prettiest in my opinion, as they are often surrounded by buildings and not wild at all , but if you just want to cool off, they’ll do the trick.

In that case, Can Pere Antoni beach is located just past Parc de la Mar, in the Bay of Palma. To the west of Palma, you also have the beaches of: Cala Major, Illetes, Cala Illetes, and the beaches of Magaluf.

There are also 2 small, cute coves : Cala Cap Falco and Cala des Mago .

To the east of Palma , the closest beach you can find is S’Arenal beach , located past the airport. It’s lined with hotels, bars, and restaurants.

For a truly untamed experience, head to Colonia de Sant Jordi and Ses Salines, where you’ll discover gorgeous white sandy beaches nestled within pine forests, including Es Trenc, Platja Estanys, Dolç Beach, Platja Es Carbo, Platja de Ses Roquetes, and El Caragol .

If you don’t have a car, you can take advantage of a shuttle service from Palma to Es Trenc beach . Click on this link to book it !

The Soller train is a great idea for an excursion to do around Palma de Mallorca .

And it’s not just any train, as this one consists of authentic vintage wooden carriages .

The departure is from Plaza de Espana , where Palma’s train station is located.

Once you’re on board, the train will whisk you away to the charming village of Soller in approximately one hour . As you journey through the picturesque Mallorcan countryside, take in breathtaking views of the Serra de Tramontana mountains .

Once you arrive in Soller, you’ll find the church square surrounded by restaurants and quaint streets with shops . Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the seaside by hopping on the historic tram that travels down to the port of Soller . It’s a great way to take in the stunning coastal scenery .

The train schedule to go to Soller from Palma can be found on the official website .

To make your day even more unforgettable, consider combining the Soller train and streetcar ride with a boat excursion . The sea walk will take you to Sa Calobra and the torrent of Pareis , a rather atypical place that you should absolutely check out.

If you’re interested in this organized tour that offers pick-up service from hotels located in the south of Mallorca, simply click the button below to book your spot :

Let’s keep the ball rolling with the must-see spots near Palma de Mallorca, with a day devoted to a road trip through the Serra de Tramontana.

This breathtaking mountain region spans from Andratx to Pollença in the northwest of the island and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its many quaint, picturesque villages dotted with traditional stone houses .

By driving along the long, narrow, and winding route that covers 140 km in total, you can stop and see:

• Banyalbufar
• Soller (if you haven’t already taken the train to get there)
• Torrent de Pareis
• Lluc Monastery.

Since this road trip isn’t feasible by public transport , if you don’t have a car , the best option is to choose an organized tour . The tour includes roundtrip transportation, a traditional lunch, and visits to some of the villages .

You can check the itinerary by clicking on this button:

If you’re in the vicinity of Palma de Mallorca , there are plenty of exciting day trip options to choose from :

• The Drach Caves to discover the most famous caves on the island .

Not only can you explore the awe-inspiring chambers filled with a multitude of stalactites and stalagmites , but you can also indulge in a unique classical music concert held in an underground lake and cap it off with a boat tour to round out the experience.

This excursion lasts half a day , but you can also choose the full-day option, which includes a visit to the dels Hams caves , the second most famous caves on the island.

In both cases, the price includes round-trip transportation by minibus from your hotel, an English-speaking guide , and entrance tickets to the caves .

To book this organized excursion departing from Palma , click on the button below:

• In Mallorca’s vineyards

On this day trip, you’ll have the chance to explore three distinct vineyards accompanied by an expert guide and savor a wine tasting session at each stop.

And since it’s never a good idea to drink without eating, snacks and lunch are included .

Pick-up is provided from hotels around Palma and you’ll be in a small group (maximum of 8 people).

To book, click here:

• North of Mallorca

Amazing excursion, which takes you on a journey through the historic old town of Alcudia and its bustling market, Cap de Formentor , Formentor Beach (where you can take a refreshing swim), and a boat ride from Formentor to the picturesque port of Pollença .

For information and reservations, click on this green button:

If you’re looking to plan a fun-filled family vacation to Palma de Mallorca , check out my list of must-do activities to enjoy with your kids /

• A walking tour of the old town of Palma . Very lively and full of colorful shops, they’ll love it.
• Hop-on-hop-off bus tour 
• Taking the Soller train
• The Palma Aquarium , a classic for a family visit to Palma
• A day at Aqualand El Arenal , the largest water park in Mallorca
• The Forestal Park (tickets here!) , a tree-top adventure park with zip lines, monkey bridges, and climbing walls. Several courses of varying difficulties. For children aged 5 – 6 years and above (over 1.10m tall)

Despite being the biggest city of Mallorca, Palma is pretty small compared to European megalopolis such as London or Rome . The majority of Palma’s top attractions and activities are located in the Old Town , making it easily accessible by foot.

Therefore, it’s possible to explore Palma de Mallorca on foot within a single day .

If you’re planning to stay at the same hotel in Palma for the duration of your trip to Mallorca, you can spend the rest of your time exploring the surrounding areas and, of course, enjoy the island’s stunning beaches and coves .

Best things to do in Palma in 1 day? Here’s the program you should follow:

• If you’re driving, consider parking at the underground parking lot located at Plaça d’Espanya .
• Stop at the Olivar Market
• Head down Carrer de Sant Miquel and make sure to stop by the church of the same name. While you’re there, take a quick tour of the Joan March Foundation museum (admission is free).
• You will then reach Plaça Major
• Follow Carrer del Colom until you reach Plaça Cort , then head to Plaça de Santa Eulalia and its stunning church .
• Art enthusiasts may also want to consider visiting the Palau March
• Visit the Palma cathedral
• Visit the Almudaina Royal Palace
• Stop at Parc de la Mar for that must-have photo opportunity.
• Depending on your personal interests, you may also want to check out the Diocesan Museum, Mallorca Museum, or the Arab Baths
• Make a stop at Monti-Sion church for another great photo opportunity
• Visit St. Francis Basilica

For the remainder of the day, you have several options : Option 1 : Take some time to go shopping in Palma and then head over to the contemporary art museum, Es Baluard . Option 2 : Travel west of Palma and visit Bellver Castle or the Pilar & Joan Miró Foundation . Option 3: Cap off your day with a beautiful sunset by embarking on a catamaran sunset cruise! Book in advance by clicking here !

If you’re staying in Palma de Mallorca for more than one day , I recommend following the itinerary suggested above on your first day .

On Day 2 , you should take the small train to Soller and spend some time there.

In the afternoon, you can head to the beach or opt for one of the other activities I suggested in the “Visiting Palma in 1 day” section (shopping, boat trip, Bellver Castle, etc.).

If you have a car, I highly recommend exploring the charming traditional villages nestled in the Serra de Tramontana. This includes visiting Soller , so you won’t need to take the train there.

If you have three days in Palma de Mallorca , in addition to following the itineraries for the previous two days, you can visit the stunning Drach Caves and then spend the rest of the third day at the beach.

If you’re looking to spice up your visit to Palma with some fun-filled activities, you should consider the quad bike tour , the buggy tour , and the jet ski tour .

For a family vacation, you can take your kids to the aquarium , Aqualand , or the adventure park . They’re all located next to each other in the El Arenal area, next to Palma airport.

Whether you’re planning to spend four or five days in Palma de Mallorca, or even a full week , there’s no shortage of exciting activities and attractions to keep you busy. You can soak up the sun on one of the many beautiful beaches in the area, or explore the island in greater depth to discover all it has to offer .

You can go to Alcudia (1 hour drive from Palma) and to Cap de Formentor .

You will find even more ideas on the best things to see on the island in my article: Best things to do and see in Mallorca .

I also prepared some recommended itineraries here :

• 4 to 5 days in Mallorca – A guide to help you plan your short stay on this beautiful island.
• One week in Mallorca – The perfect itinerary to visit the island in 7 days!
• 10 days in Mallorca – My recommended itinerary to visit Mallorca in 9-10 days

If you have more time to spare and are looking for an adventure, why not consider visiting one of the neighboring Balearic Islands, such as Menorca ? I talk about it in my dedicated article: Best things to do in Menorca.

Here is my selection of the best places to stay in Palma de Mallorca , tailored to suit your budget.

You need to click on the orange name of the hotels for more information and to make your booking.

And if you can’t find what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to ask for advice in the comments, indicating your travel dates and preferences. I would be more than happy to assist you in finding the perfect hotel!

• The Boc Hostels – City Albergue Juvenil : Hostel located 400 meters from the historic center of Palma and C’an Pere Antoni beach. Dormitory bed from €40 per night. Strong points: the rooftop pool, the cleanliness of the place and the kitchen area. An excellent choice for budget accommodation in Palma de Mallorca .
• Nou Baleares : located a 10-minute walk from Plaça Major. Tastefully decorated double room from €110, breakfast included. Strong points: the location, the comfortable beds and the rooftop’s pool. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Palma !
• Isla Mallorca & Spa : located in the bay of Palma. Spacious double room with balcony from €150, breakfast included. Strong points: the spa and wellness center, the lovely pool area and the varied breakfast.
• Hotel Saratoga : located next to the Es Baluard museum. Modern and spacious double room from €180 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the rooftop pool with an amazing view of the cathedral, the perfect location for exploring Palma de Mallorca on foot, and the hearty breakfast buffet.
• Protur Naisa Palma Hotel : located a 5-minute walk from the old town. Stylish, contemporary room from €220, breakfast included. Strong points: the facilities (rooftop, pool, spa), the design of the hotel and the excellent breakfast.

And if you’re looking for the best 5-star hotels in Palma de Mallorca , you should have a look at the following hotels:

• Hotel Victoria Gran Meliá : located right in front of Palma’s harbor. Double room starting at €270, breakfast for €29. Strong points: the great location, the sea view, and the amazing staff.
• Nixe Palace: : located right next to Cala Major beach, this 5* hotel offers cozy double rooms with a balcony and sea view from €300 per night, breakfast for €24. Strong points: the setting with the stunning sea view, the excellent breakfast and the direct access to the beach. My recommendation for a high-end stay in Palma !
• Hotel Antigua Palma – Casa Noble : this superb luxury hotel is located in the heart of the old town, just 100 meters from the cathedral. Stay in sumptuous, elegantly decorated rooms, from €450 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: The amazing spa with hammam and indoor pool, the tranquility, the particularly attentive staff and the rooftop. The best hotel in Palma for a luxury stay !
• Tapas Palma Santa Catalina : as its name suggests, this restaurant is one of the best places to go in Palma if you want to taste excellent tapas. Away from most tourist traps in the old town, the tapas are fresh, hearty and delicious.
• Sa Cuina de Mercat : This unpretentious restaurant located in Plaça de l’Olivar (next to the market) offers excellent cuisine made with fresh products. The dishes are well crafted, refined, and very tasty. I’m confident that you’ll have a great time!
• Asador Bolixe Cocina Esencial : Located near Plaza Espanya, this Argentinian restaurant is a must-try for meat lovers. The quality of all the meats is exceptional, and they are cooked to perfection.

It’s worth noting that most tourist guides in Palma recommend eating at the San Juan Gastronomic Market, but they haven’t been updated as the market has been permanently closed since the Covid crisis.

If you want to discover traditional Spanish cuisine recipes such as a delicious paella , tortillas , or even Catalan cream , then taking a cooking class with a local chef is an absolute must. Learn how to cook like a pro and impress your friends and family back home !

You’ll assist in the preparation of the menu and finish with a tasting accompanied by a good wine.

Book your cooking class in Palma now by clicking the button below:

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? 😊

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 20 list of the best things to do in Palma de Mallorca and its surroundings. You can display the map legend by clicking the button with a small arrow at the top left corner.

And you? What sights do you have in mind for your Palma de Mallorca trip?

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

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

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

Related Stories

2 Days in Granada: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

One week in Tuscany: Epic 6-7-8 Day Itinerary (First Time Visit)

4 days in Milan: the perfect Itinerary (first time visit)

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Website (optional)

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Middle East
• North America
• Cheap car rentals: my best advice
• Back to Homepage

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
• Landmarks + Attractions
• LGBT Travel
• Markets + Bazaars
• National Parks + Reserves
• Nature + Wildlife
• Parks + Gardens
• Pets + Animals
• Photography
• Airlines + Airports
• Budgeting + Currency
• Business Travel
• Celebrity Travel
• Customs + Immigration
• Deals + Rewards
• Family Travel
• Hotels + Resorts
• Luggage + Packing Tips
• Offbeat News
• Photography Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Solo Travel
• Tech + Gear
• Travel Etiquette
• Travel Warnings
• Bars + Clubs
• Celebrity Chefs
• Restaurants + Cafés
• Wine + Vineyards
• Beach Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Hotel Openings
• Hotel Reviews
• Luxury Hotels
• Mountain + Ski Resorts
• Spa Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Asia Cruises
• European Cruises
• Festivals + Events
• Museums + Galleries
• Style + Design
• Travel’s Best
• Hotel with Agoda.com
• Hotel with Booking.com

Coron itinerary 5 days — What to do & how to…

Arashiyama travel blog — The fullest Arashiyama travel guide with top…

India trip tips — 9+ things to know before going to…

Explore Fenqihu old street — What to do in Fenqihu in…

Where to go in Kunming? — 15+ top Kunming attractions &…

All about tips in Nepal — How much to tip in…

Cambodia travel tips — 15+ what to know & things to…

When is the best time to visit Kyoto? — The best,…

Must eat in Georgetown — 10+ famous, must-eat & best street…

Must eat in Melaka — 10+ famous Malacca street food &…

Hong Kong Soya sauce Chicken Rice and Noodles — The first…

Hong Kong food culture — Hong Kong cuisine tells the historical…

Top hotels in Siem Reap — 8+ best places to stay…

Top hotels in shanghai — 15+ best hotels in Shanghai

Top hotels in Malacca — 10+ good & best hotels in…

Top places to stay in Bali — Top 10 best areas…

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Mallorca travel blog — the fullest mallorca travel guide for first-timers.

I’m a “kid” who really loves the sea. Last year, when I first arrived in Germany, the first thing I asked the Germans was “where do you go to the beach?”. And immediately 5/7 people I asked give me the answer is Mallorca, which included my teacher, every summer she also goes to Mallorca for at least 10 days for her vacation. As soon as she showed me photos that she has taken in Mallorca, I immediately fell in love with the clear water, the deserted blue bays of Mallorca and I decided that I must-go there. So, what to do in Mallorca and how to visit the beautiful island of Spain? Let’s check out our Mallorca travel blog (Mallorca blog) with the fullest Mallorca travel guide (Mallorca guide) for a budget trip for the first-timers from how to get there, top things to do in Mallorca, where to stay… to clear your answer!

• Ibiza travel blog — The fullest Ibiza travel guide & suggested itinerary 3 days in Ibiza for the first-timers
• Top 10 best Spanish coastal towns to visit

Boracay travel blog — The fullest Boracay travel guide for first-timers

Coron travel blog — the fullest coron travel guide for first-timers, el nido vs coron palawan — comparison between coron and el nido, philippines.

Mallorca travel blog: Where is Mallorca?

Mallorca or Majorca is an island in the Baleares (Balearic) Islands located in the Spanish Mediterranean. The island’s capital of Palma is also the capital of the autonomous community of the Baleares Islands. Like the islands of Minorca, Ibiza and Formentera in the Baleares Islands, Mallorca is an extremely popular tourist destination, especially for visitors from Germany, Ireland, Poland, the Netherlands, Scandinavian countries and Great Britain. The name of the island is derived from the Latin “insula maior”, meaning “larger island”.

We stayed here for 4 full days. The time we went was the end of July, the weather should be called extremely sunny, but because it located in the Mediterranean, Mallorca’s climate was hot all year round, with its peak in summer, but with cool sea breeze, so even though the temperature was high, it didn’t feel as sultry as in tropical countries.

Mallorca travel guide: How to get to Mallorca?

The easiest is to fly. There are many low-cost airlines flying to Majorca such as Ryan Air, Eurowings … However, low-cost airlines often will not land at large airports, but often land at satellite airports, located quite far away from center, or only flying within Europe.

Air tickets to Mallorca are also varied in price, sometimes up to 150 euros / round-trip. I hunted cheap tickets of Eurowings, flying from Nuremberg to Mallorca only cost 25 euros / round-trip, but the plane landed at night at over 12 o’clock, so traveling by public transport to get to the center was impossible, I could only take a taxi.

My group of 3 people have already decided to sleep at the airport before because it is actually not too big, but quite safe. However, by luck, on the plane I sat next to a Vietnamese lady who lived in Mallorca for a long time, so it was great .. we no longer had to sleep at the airport. Moreover, the next day, we were led out to explore the island by her native daughter, not traveling by ourself. Sometimes smart-mouthed is also beneficial, haha.

Mallorca travel blog: Getting around Mallorca

Majorca, like other European cities, people mainly travel by car and bus. But I recommend that you should rent a self-drive car, don’t rely on public transport. Most tourists come here to rent self-drive cars. Why should we not rely on Bus? Mallorca Island is quite large, but the terrain is not flat, but mixed with hills, that is why it has many breathtaking bay corners.

Buses here are very sparse and only travel to the big “Cans” (means big towns or large beaches), not reach the small beaches. Actually, I compared it on Google Map with the same place, if I take the bus, it takes nearly 4 hours, including waiting time for the bus, time of changing the bus and then still have to walking 20 minutes, but if I rent a car, it only takes 1 hour and 15 minutes to go straight, not to mention the roads in Mallorca are very beautiful, there are sections where you are driving in the desert with only your car, surrounded by sand, or driving between vineyards or driving through the mountain pass …

You can see details Mallorca routes and bus stops here .

To renting a car here only requires a passport and driver’s license in the EU. Of course you should check prices online and book in advance. I rented a car of Eurocar because the review was quite good, but in the end it turned out to be a bit expensive compared to the budget. We rented for 4 days 3 nights, Hyundai car of 4 seats for 256 Euros. My friend said that is expensive, if you come here and rent from a private person right on the island, it is only about 160-200 Euros for 4 days only.

If you stay in the city of Palma – the capital of Mallorca, taking the Bus is very convenient, or if you rent a hotel or hostel, and just stay there, there is no need to rent a car to save money or have another option is to rent a car with a private driver or take taxi (expensive). But I also must be said, it’s a regret. Because if you only stay in one place, it’s no different from going to Da Nang without going to nearby attractions Hoi An, Cu Lao Cham Island or Hue Ancient City.

In addition, you can take a tram to getting around Palma and around Mallorca. It’s also worth a try.

Mallorca guide: Where to stay in Majorca?

Because I happened to read a German review that the East and West of the island, each have a different beauty, one is very beautiful to watch the sunset, the other is paradise to watch the sunrise, so I booked 1 night at Port de Soller area ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) in the West and 2 nights at Can Picafort area in the East via Airbnb.

The room rate in Mallorca is often very expensive, the average price is about 30-50 Euros for 1 person / 1 night, it is an average hostel or Airbnb, and if you want cheaper, the location is very far away. We spend an average of 35 euros per night per person, 3 nights for about 100 euros.

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

Es Princep , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $233/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Las Gaviotas Suites Hotel , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $134/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Helios Mallorca Hotel & Apartments , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $58/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Posada Terra Santa , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $182/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Melia Calvia Beach , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $100/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

In addition, you can check room rates in Majorca on Booking.com or Agoda.com or Airbnb.com , full range and varied from budget to luxury. If you plan to book via Airbnb but do not have an account, you can sign up via this link to receive up to $35 for the first booking.

In addition, you can refer to one of the best Airbnb in Majorca: Apartment with terrace in Palma at $39/night or Room with great views at $28/night or Winter stay in Mallorca – cozy studio close to sea at $30/night.

–> The Airbnb link that discount up to $35 for the first booking here: https://www.airbnb.com/c/anht5185

Mallorca travel blog: What to do in Mallorca?

There are really too many places to go here but I have not been fully visited like palaces, museums … So I just write down the places I have visited and the places that I have learned and found good but I have not had the conditions to come.

The capital of Palma

Actually, Palma is also like many other major European cities. Everything is convenient and quite modern. The main highlights are Palma Cathedral, the old town, the walking street … We spent 3 hours walking, shopping, sightseeing around the famous Major Plaza area and walking street and the Cathedral.

In my opinion, the houses in the old town are nothing special, but deeply imprinted with the Mediterranean region with a distinctive golden-brown color and quite simple, not as sophisticated as in Germany, France or Austria.

The shopping street in Palma de Mallorca. Small but beautiful. The entire walking street was only like this.

Like other big tourist cities, Palma offers 2-hour Bus tours to all popular locations for 12 euros. In addition, Palma also offers a 1-hour cruise around Palma Bay for 8 euros. And we choose the second one (cruise tour).

You can find more information at the airport or at the Tourist Information Centers. In addition, if you have abundant time, you can visit the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, built in 1281.

On a 1 hour cruise tour in Palma city:

Port de Soller

We have only stayed here for 1 day, just in time to watch the sunset, but actually the whole water is glowing red, far away are luxury and mid-range yachts, really as beautiful as a painting. It is true that the sea here is not too beautiful, the water is not clear, there are no long white sand beaches, but extremely peaceful, calm.

Most tourists staying here with the needs to rent private yachts to cruising to the middle of the sea for parties, to small islands to bathe and play all day. Regarding the price, it is also “cheap”, about 250 euros or more for 4 people in 4 hours. This is my teacher told me, I have not experienced, if you intend to try contacting the hotel directly, they also offer that service.

See also: Things to keep in mind when traveling to Europe.

Can Picafort

It was our stopover place for the remaining 3 days. OMG, it is so wonderful. Long white sand beach, clear blue sea water, only without palm trees. What was my first feeling? Nha Trang, Phu Quoc must greet it first. Furthermore the service is good, the people are extremely friendly. Mommy, so fascinated. I was also lucky to rent an apartment near the sea, with a balcony overlooking the sea, so I had a stunning background for virtual living. HiHi.

Due to it is also a big town, we stayed in an apartment with full of kitchen and washing machine, so we decided to buy food to cook by ourself. Except for the first day of arrival, because swimming was too tired, we ate at the restaurant downstairs. Delicious, but it burned our wallets.

Here there is a daily bustling night market. We walked around at night, went to the night market, drank cocktails, listened to live music. Life just has to be like that to see it beautiful.

Cap de Formentor

As one of the most famous tourist attractions in Majorca, according to the Google caption: beach, cycling, cliffs. Cap de Formentor is also the way to a lighthouse. Unfortunately, we are full of fear, dare not drive to reach the stunning lighthouse.

Just drove from the foot of the mountain to the middle of the mountain, but the two of them sat below feared with “pale white faces”. Ba Vi National Park? Oh, still is young sister. Or Tam Dao? Quite normal. Some of my words can not be described, but only have difficulty seeing the truth. Upon arrived, I was overwhelmed by its beauty.

Imagine when you reach an altitude of nearly 400 meters above sea level, looking around is a deep blue ocean, such big yachts are now like dots on paper, Oh, I swear, how breathtaking feeling it is.

Cala Pi is not the most famous place in Majorca, it is quite deserted but not crowded. I came here because I was in love with an ancient tree with its 3 branches, strong standing alone in a corner, in front of the vast ocean. I really want to describe Cala Pi but can’t find any words to describe.

The beach in Cala Pi is small, but the two sides are the cliffs, I stand from above and see people are tiny below, but the water is clear, the feeling of swimming for a while is out to the ocean. If you want to go swimming, you have to walk far away =)).

In the end, I have not played anything, I have to say goodbye to Mallorca. If I was still living in Germany, I would definitely come back here, because I loved it. There are many worth places to visit but I have not visited such as Drach cave, Cala Millor, Cala Major,… Especially the tiny bays… Haha. Hope this sketchy review helps you somewhat in planning.

I did not suggest what to eat here because of different needs, and the prices here are not too expensive, like other European cities. For example, fast food is the same price or at the restaurant, it costs 6-10 euros/dish, depending on the dish, the fresh seafood is available and much cheaper than in Germany. The traditional dishes are similar to traveling to Barcelona or Madrid .

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Mallorca you can refer to

• Island tour (with bus, train, boat and tram) in Mallorca
• Lonely Planet Experience: Palma Street Art Walking Tour
• Top things to do in Mallorca
• Hidden Corners of Mallorca
• Rafa Nadal Museum Experience Ticket in Mallorca
• Self Driven Tour With Guide: Miramar and Soller Olive Oil in Mallorca
• Mallorca: Skip the Line Palma Cathedral Entry Ticket
• Mallorca: Island Tour with Boat & Train Ride from the South
• Palma de Mallorca: 5-Hour Catamaran Cruise
• Alcudia: North Coast Catamaran Cruise with Lunch
• Palma de Mallorca: Half-Day Catamaran Tour with Buffet Meal
• Palma Bay: Catamaran Cruise
• Palma de Mallorca: Los Deltas Jet Ski Tour
• Palma Bay: Parasailing Experience
• Mallorca: Palma Aquarium Ticket
• Mallorca: Off-Road Quad Biking, Snorkeling & Cliff Jumping
• Mallorca: Visit the Caves of Hams

Are you want to explore more islands of Spain. Let’s read:

Related articles

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

El Nido travel blog — The fullest El Nido travel guide for first-timers

Bali itinerary 8 days — How to spend 8 days in Bali (8 days 7 nights in Bali) pefectly?

Bali travel blog — The fullest Bali travel guide for first-timers

Sardinia travel blog — The fullest Sardinia travel guide for first-timers

Uluwatu beach club — Top 5 most beautiful & best beach club in Uluwatu, Bali

What to buy in Barcelona? — 15+ must buy souvenirs, gifts & best things to buy in Barcelona

Editor picks.

Coron itinerary 5 days — What to do & how to...

Arashiyama travel blog — The fullest Arashiyama travel guide with top...

India trip tips — 9+ things to know before going to...

Popular posts.

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

Must buy in Korea — Top 23 cheap, famous & best...

Popular category.

• Inspiration + Guide 1456
• Trip Inspiration 468
• Thailand 209
• Food + Drink 207
• Coasts + Islands 193
• South Korea 168
• Vietnam 166
• Travel Photos 144
• Work for Us
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Mallorqueta, un glop d'eternitat

• City Guides , Palma , Town & Cities

The Complete Palma de Mallorca Travel Guide

• May 11, 2023

With over 2,000 years of history and nearly half the population of the island, Palma is the cultural and economic hub of Mallorca . If you’re visiting Mallorca, you’ll inevitably pass through the city’s airport or port and likely pass some of its impressive sights like the looming La Seu Gothic Cathedral or Bellver Castle. If you want more than just a passing glance, it’s truly a city you could explore for days on end. Use this complete travel guide to plan your trip and experience everything Palma de Mallorca has to offer.

Best Location: Stay Brick

Best dessert: ca’n joan de s’aigo, palma bay boat tour and snorkeling, nadal – nov.-dec., how to get to palma de mallorca.

Palma’s Son Sant Joan airport, PMI, is not too far outside of Palma itself. It’s about a 15-20-minute drive depending on the traffic and your exact destination. There are also public transportation options available, made faster by the new carpool lane . There is even talk of building a tram to the airport.

For a more detailed guide on getting to Palma from the airport, read our article on just that.

If you choose to rent a car at the airport and drive into town, simply follow signs for Palma from the airport and take Ma-19 . As you approach the city, you have two options: continue straight to the port, usually the best choice for the Old Town, or exit right on the Ma-20 beltway to access other parts of the city.

While public transportation is improving, and a tram is supposedly in the works to be finished who knows when, this is still my recommendation. For most accomodation, a car will get you there faster and more directly, and it will give you access to the rest of the island.

The EMT A1 bus is the main public transportation option from the airport into Palma. It runs daily from 4:30 am to 12:20 am and takes about 30 minutes to reach Plaza España in the city center. It then continues to loop around the Old Town. A one-way trip from the airport is €5 . When you exit the airport, cross the large parking lots beneath the skybridge, and you’ll find the bus stop near the entrance to the parking garage.

The Best Hotels in Palma de Mallorca

Best boutique hotel: palacio can marques.

Palacio Can Marques took the top spot in my roundup of Palma boutique hotels . If you want an authentic experience in the Palma Old Town with easy access to the historical city center as well as the nightlife of Santa Catalina , there’s no better option. In fact, it’s located right on Plaça de la Drassana .

The staff is classically Mallorca, which is to say friendly, hospitable and kind. I also recommend checking out the Merchants bar and grill on site and drinking some Mallorcan wine .

Best Hotel for Beach Access: Nixe Palace

You’ve probably seen me recommend Nixe Palace a lot. I love this hotel. It’s one of the few in Palma that give you access to the beach, and it certainly has the best view of the sea . (Just be careful not to let the seagulls steal your breakfast.) I highly recommend the spa as well.

As for location, Nixe Palace is a little bit outside the Old Town, but you’re still close to all the nightlife of Santa Catalina .

Best Budget Hotel: JS Palma Plaza Hotel

The JS Palma Plaza Hotel is the best choice if you want something authentic without going over budget. Even during peak season , you can often find rooms under €200 . This is mostly due to its location on Plaza Madrid. A mostly residential area, it might not have the fame of Santa Catalina, but it’s a quiet place to experience what life is really like in Mallorca. In fact, I lived nearby when I first moved to Mallorca and enjoyed the area quite a bit.

That said, Palma Plaza Hotel is still within walking distance of Santa Catalina and El Forti park. You can also entertain yourself with the rooftop pool featuring amazing views of the city and sea beyond, not to mention the gym and spa.

Stay Brick is frankly a… weird hotel. Though it’s a full hotel, it draws on a youth hostel vibe, and I’d primarily recommend it for young travelers or backpackers . Aside from the artistic and chique interior design, it’s also one of the best hotels for accessing the historic Old Town. Right in Sindicat , you’re a few steps away from the coolest Bohemian cafes, and you also have Sant Miquel and Plaza Mayor right around the corner.

The Best Restaurants in Palma de Mallorca

Best fine dining: zaranda.

Zaranda is actually homed right inside the Es Princep hotel, one of my favorite boutique hotels in Palma , though it was originally located in Es Capdellà, a small village in the Tramuntana mountains, where it became a Michelin Two-Star establishment.

Fernando P. Arellano heads the restaurant and creates dynamic tasting menus based on his experiences in restaurants around the world, having slowly worked his way up to chef from a dishwasher in Dublin. Neverthless, he’s always sure to draw on his Mallorcan roots , giving the unique dishes an authentic base .

• zaranda instagram
• zaranda facebook

Best Mallorcan Food: Celler de sa Premsa

Obviously you can’t come to Mallorca without eating Mallorcan food . The best place to get that in Palma is Sa Premsa. Located right off Plaza España , it’s easy to get to and serves classic Mallorcan fare like tumbet, frit and paella paired with Mallorcan wine . Be sure to check out the daily menus as well.

• es premsa instagram
• es premsa facebook

Best Brunch Cafe: Maui Café & Brunch

This may seem like an odd choice given how far away it is from central tourist areas, located on the northern edge of Parc de la Riera, but that’s honestly why I like it. It’s a real cafe dedicated to providing good food for Palma residents.

More importantly, they make the best cup of coffee I’ve had on the island. I ride in regularly from Santa Maria just to have a flat white and get some work done.

• maui instagram

Founded in 1700, Ca’n Joan de s’Aigo is a Palma institution . It’s the best place to get Mallorcan desserts in the city, from ensaïmada to ice cream. The biggest and most popular location is on Sindicat , caddy-corner to Corte Ingles, and you’ll find it full of Mallorcans in the summer. However, there are two other smaller locations, one on Carrer del Baró just of Jaume III and another tucked inside the Old Town on Carrer de Can Sanç.

• can joan de saigo instagram
• can joan de saigo facebook

What to Do in Palma de Mallorca

See the sights, la seu cathedral.

Officially La Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca , La Seu is a breathtaking Gothic cathedral dating from the 13th Century and the Crown of Aragón. Because people come from around the world to admire the architecture that includes the highest central nave of all Gothic cathedrals, you have to reserve tickets online ahead of time. Basic tickets are €9 for adults, but you can also join guided tours and visit the onsite museum.

Bellver Castle

Matching the Gothic style of La Seu and dating to the 14th Century, Bellver Castle sits on a hill overlooking the city. Once the residence for the Kings of Mallorca as well as a military prison, a €4 entry—which is waived on Sundays—gives you an educational glimpse into Mallorcan history. Even if you don’t visit the museum inside, it’s worth going to the surrounding park to appreciate the design of one of Europe’s few round castles as well as the moving view of Palma Bay.

Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

Opened in 2004, the Es Baluard Museu has a collection of over 700 pieces, many of which are associated with local Mallorcan and Balearic artists. The museum itself is built into the remnants of the old wall of the city. Most of this wall was removed to build the avenidas that wrap around the Old Town, but a small part remains on the southwest side. Entrace to the museum is €6 .

La Basílica de San Miguel

Although it’s a smaller church, San Miguel predates the La Seu cathedral, consecrated as a Christian church on New Year’s Eve 1229. Prior to this the site was home to a Moorish mosque. The architecture matches Palma’s overall Gothic style and features a number of renowned sculptures including one of Ramon Llull, a Franciscan monk, poet and philosopher considered one of the first Catalan writers.

Royal Palace of La Almudaina

A fortress located right next to La Seu cathedral, La Almudaina is the official summer residence of the Spanish royal family when they visit Mallorca, which is relatively frequently since Pricess Sofía hosts an annual regatta in Palma. In fact, if you time it right, you can join the crowds of admirers—and protesters—who watch as the family enter and exit the building. Even if the royal family doesn’t interest, the architecture of the building itself is worth checking out and dates back to the Romans.

Parc de la Mar

Parc de la Mar is a large park below the La Seu cathedral and royal palace that includes a large artificial salt lake and fountain that was once the personal bay the Almohad Sultan prior to the conquest of the island by the Crown of Aragon. It extends up to the seaside highway and is a popular meeting place and location for events like outdoor movies, markets and festivals. There are also several cafes where you can enjoy views of the fountain and cathedral.

Plaça Major

Plaça Major, or Plaza Mayor in Spanish, is a large square located in the Old Town above La Rambla and at the end of the Sant Miquel shopping street. Filled with cafes and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to have lunch while exploring the city. There is a parking garage and shopping center beneath the square, and it often hosts markets and performances.

Plaça d’Espanya

Also called Plaza de España in Spanish, Plaça d’Espanya is a large and important square in Palma due to its proximity to the train station. Aside from getting a look at the prominent statues, the square has a number of shops and restaurants as well as easy access to Sant Miquel, La Rambla and Mercat de l’Olivar. Plus, if you’re staying in Palma for an extended time, you’ll inevitably end up using it as a common meeting point.

Walk the High Streets

Carrer sant miquel.

Sant Miquel is the most popular shopping street in Palma with local shops, major establishments like the Disney Store, and street vendors and performers. Running from Plaza España to Plaza Mayor, it’s a central artery of the city and an enjoyable way to get from transportation to sights such as La Seu.

Although considerably shorter than its Barcelona counterpart, La Rambla in Palma, also known as Via Roma, is a wide avenue with a central pedestrian promenade filled with flower shops and other vendors. Along the avenue’s edge you’ll find some of Palma’s finest bars and restaurants leading to the stairs up to Plaça Major.

Passeig des Born

Another wide avenue with a central promenade, Passeig des Born, bookended by fountains, is one of the best places in the city to have a drink on a cafe terrace in the typical Spanish style. Of course, there’s plenty of upscale shopping as well. The avenue is particularly beauitful at Christmastime and a prime place to view Palma’s many parades and public performances.

Avinguda de Jaume III

Commonly called Jaime III , the Spanish translation, this high street includes marbled side walks passing some of Palma’s most upscale shops including the Corte Inglés department store. From its intersection with Passeig des Born it runs a few blocks to Passeig de Mallorca where you can find fine dining.

Passeig Marítim

Also called Paseo Marítimo in Spanish, this section of Avinguda Gabriel Roca follows the coast from the cathedral to Porto Pi. It’s already a magnificent place to stroll the seaside and visit some of Palma’s most famous nightlife establishments like Shamrock, but current construction aims to create more pedestrian access and a proper boardwalk.

Unlike the other streets on this list, Blanquerna is not located in the Old Town. Rather, it extends from Avenidas in the south to Plaza Paris in the north. As a completely pedestrian street, it’s home to cafes and restaurants with large terraces as well as shops selling local Mallorcan goods. It’s an excellent high street for a more authentic Palma experience.

Visit the Markets

Mercat de l’olivar.

If you want fresh fruit and vegetables and speciality products, not to mention recently caught seafood, there’s no better place than Mercat de l’Olivar. Open Monday through Saturday from 7 am to 3 pm, it’s conveniently located right off Plaza España and includes a supermarket and restaurants upstairs in case there’s anything you can’t find at the stalls.

Mercat Pere Garau

Though not as accessible from the Old Town, the market in Pere Garau is a prime destination for native Palmasanos looking for locally sourced products. The market is closed on Sundays but otherwise open from 6 am to 2:30 or 3 pm depending on the day and is normally surrounded by local vendors overflowing into the Chinese neighborhood.

Mercat de Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina is the hottest neighborhood in Palma, so it’s no surprise that it has an excellent market for sourcing local products. It also has longer hours than most other markets, open from 7 am till 4 pm Monday through Saturday. Just a block west of Par de Sa Feixina, it’s a must-visit from the Old Town as well.

Mercat de Llevant

A local market similar to the one in Santa Catalina, this one is located on the east side of town. Though less likely to be accessible to visitors, it offers the same access to local food and fresh produce. It’s open 7 am to 3 pm Monday through Saturday.

Go to the Beach

To be blunt, Palma is not the best place in Mallorca if you’re looking to enjoy some sand and surf. However, there are a few places accessible by walking or public transportation.

Platja de Can Pere Antoni

You’ll more often heard this referred to as the “Palma City Beach” as it’s located right on the bay in front of the Old Town. Bookended by restaurants and adorned with volleyball courts, it’s an easy place to go relax or meet friends from town, even if the water isn’t the prettiest on the island.

If you continue east from the city beach, you’ll reach a small inlet and marina known as Portixol, which is filled with cafes and restaurants and its own small sand beach. It’s an excellent place for enjoying the beach in the winter because you can have a cafe or bocadillo away from the noise of the city.

Cala Major is just on the other side of Porto Pi from the bay, and this isolation from the ships makes the water much clearer and more torquoise. You can drive there from downtown on the beltway pretty quickly, or EMT city buses 1, 4, 46 and 47 will all get you there. You can even take TIB bus 108 from Plaza España.

Ciudad Jardín

If you continue walking along the coast east from the city beach and Portitxol, you’ll simply continue to find more arenales , or sandy strips of beach. The next one is Ciudad Jardín, a popular place for casual strolls even in the off-season. There is a wide area for walking as well as numerous restaurants and outdoor gyms.

S’Arenal

Continuing east you’ll come to S’Arenal, a large, wide sandy strip often synonymously called Platja de Palma, though this technically refers to the longer length of beaches including Ciudad Jardín. Due its proximity to the airport, it’s full of hotels, restaurants and some of the biggest nightlife establishments. Enjoy the beach during the day and then hit the strip at night.

Ses Illetes

Ses Illets, which translates to “the little islands” in English, is a small resort town just to the east of Palma. It’s a popular beach for Palmasanos because it’s the closest one you can get to with public transportation that lets you escape the city and experience a bit more of a natural cala. To get there, take the EMT city bus 4, appropriately named the Illetes route.

Enjoy the Nightlife in Santa Catalina

The best nightlife in Palma is located in Santa Catalina , the neighborhood just west of the Old Town running along the coast . Because of its proximity to the port, it’s the go to for yachties and boat workers when they come to town, so tons of bars and clubs and sprouted up in the area.

While the list of great establishments covering everything from gritty dive bars to upscale cocktail joints is nearly neverending, there are a few cornerstone locales to start with:

• Three Lions

Go to the Aquarium

If you’re visiting Mallorca and don’t have time to get in some serious scuba diving or snorkeling, I recommend hitting up the Palma Aquarium , especially if you have kids. There’s something magical about the blue glow of the tanks and the glints of light off the fish’s scales as the swim. You can view over 700 species from the Mediterranean and other parts of the world.

The main attraction of the aquarium, however, is the shark tank . Known as “Big Blue,” the tank is 8.5 meters or 28 feet deep, making it the deepest shark tank in all of Europe . It holds six large and formidable sand tiger sharks , five sandbar sharks and over 1,000 fish.

In addition to walking the exhibits and watching the animals, the aquarium participates in numerous research and conservation efforts and provides workshops and training as well as unique activities for adults and children:

• Dive With the Sharks
• Underwater : Adults and children over age eight can swim in the stingray tank.
• Shark Sleepover: Children from age six to 16 can spend the night in front of the Big Blue shark tank, an eerie but exhilerating experience.

There are also guided tours , a 3D cinema and a shark vision boat. Plus, the aquarium is a popular place for children’s birthday parties due to the outdoor cafe and extensive play area.

I recommend reserving your tickets online becuase it comes with a discount resulting in €25.70 for adults or €16.20 for kids aged three to 12. Children under three enter for free. There are also discounts for Balearics residents.

The Palma Aquarium is located near the airport just a few blocks off s’Arenal . You can easily get there with public transportation . You can take the EMT city buses 23, 25, 31 and 35. It’s about 30 minutes from Plaza España. You can also arrange a shuttle when you reserve your tickets.

Take a Tour

24-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour.

There’s a lot to see in Palma, so a hop-on hop-off bus tour gives you the flexibility to spend more time where you like and still see the whole city in a day. Plus, you get an audio guide with plenty of language options. Choose the “essential experience,” and you even get ice cream, a drink and entry to Bellver Castle.

City Walking Tour With the Cathedral

I recommend this tour if you’re especially interested in the La Seu cathedral, which is certainly one of the most beautiful and mesmerizing Gothic cathedrals in all of Europe. The tour comes with a guide who gives you the local history while exploring the city as well as entrance and a guided visit to La Seu.

Old Town Guided Bike Tour

Palma is the perfect size for exploring by bike, so this tour is a great way to do that with an experienced guide who can show you the best sights. You get the bicycle and helmet and travel in a small group that makes everything easy and comfortable.

Market Visit and Traditional Cooking Workshop

Forn de la Llotgeta is a famous bakery and culinary school in Palma. With their traditional cooking workshop, you’ll learn the ins and outs of Mallorcan cuisine and produce. In fact, you’ll visit Mercat de l’Olivar to source local ingredients and then create a full four-course Mallorcan lunch that comes with two glasses of wine .

This boat tour of Palma Bay is the ideal way to experience the beauty of the Mediterranean without having to leave Palma. Along with cruising the bay, the tour provides you with a snorkel and expert biologist , or you can pick the sunset option that comes with a drink.

Fires i Festes

Reis magos – jan. 5.

All of Spain celebrates the Three Kings, who bring presents to the children the night of January 5th. However, Palma brings int he holiday with particular style, involving an enormous parade the night of the 5th that involves the Kings themselves coming into the city by boat.

Sant Sebastià – Jan. 20

While most of Mallorca celebrates Saint Anthony , Palma has its own patron saint: Sebastian. To honor him, the city parties for a week cultimating on the night of January 19th. Live music and bonfires are set up in several of Palma’s many squares, and the people bring their own meat to barbecue. They then sleep in because the 20th is a holiday.

Carnaval – End of Feb.

In Mallorca, the people primarily celebrate Carnaval with parades featuring floats and groups of matching costumes. This is called Sa Rua, and it usually runs down La Rambla and through the Old Town to Passeig Mallorca on a Sunday evening in late February.

Fira del Ram – Feb.-April

Fira del Ram is Palma’s fair, set up in the large fair grounds in Son Fusteret. While you can easily see the ferris wheel light up above the city’s skylines, there are plenty of other attractions as well as food stalls and entertainment.

Fira del Llonguet – April

Like oranges in Sóller and cuttlefish in Alcudia , fairs devoted to a municipality’s signature product have become the rage on Mallorca. In the case of Palma, this means the Llonguet, a bread roll often turned into a sandwich. The food is so popular with Palmasanos that other Mallorcans sometimes jokingly refer to them as such. Event takes place throughout April and involve specialty sandwiches and sales at local bakeries.

Semana Santa – April

Palma is arguably the best place in Mallorca to view the famous Spanish Easter processions. Maundy Thursday and Good Friday fill the city with the typical parades where you can witness traditional Spanish Catholic dress and Easter customs.

Sant Jordi – April 23

Sant Jordi is an important holiday on Mallorca because it is known as El Dia del Llibre , or the day of the book. On this day, Mallorcans celebrate the legend of Saint George, in which a town plagued by a hungry dragon is forced to use a lottery to sacrifice townspeople to the beast. When the local princess’s name is drawn, the saint puts on his shining armor and rides off to save her. He slays the dragon with is lance, and its blood transforms into a rose bush. Therefore, it’s traditional on this holiday for a man to give the woman in his life a rose, after which she will give him a book in return. Throughout Palma on the day of the 23rd, you’ll find book stands also selling single roses A particularly fun place to enjoy this is Plaça Major.

International Boat Show – End of April

As a major destination for yachts from around the world, Palma hosts a boat show at the end of every April featuring over 200 exhibitors. These professionals show off new designs and techniques in the industry through a dazzling collections of yachts.

Palma Vela – Early May

Palma Vela is another boat show hosted by Palma’s Real Club Náutico. It’s specifically devoted to classic and vintage boats of the sail variety, hence vela .

Palma Beer Festival – Early May

Independent microbreweries from around the Balearic Islands and even other regions of Spain come to Palma in early May to sell their craft beer. Located in front of the La Seu Cathedral, the festival also includes food and music.

La Nit de Vi – End of May

As one of the premier wine regions in the world, Mallorca’s activities devoted to the drink have become increasingly popular. One of the most extensive is wine night, or La Nit de Vi, at the end of May or beginning of June. There are often more than 200 local wines to taste.

Sant Joan – June 24

Sant Joan represents the ringing in of summer coinciding with the summer solstice, opposite Christmas in the winter. In Palma, it’s one of the best places to experience correfocs , the night of 23rd known as La Nit de Foc , or the night of fire. This means drums, demons and fireworks in the Parc de la Mar below the cathedral as well as other celebrations around the city.

Copa del Rey Regatta – Early Aug.

The King’s Cup Regatta is hosted by Palma’s Real Club Náutico and is one of the most important and prestigous boat races in the Mediterranean if not the entire world. It’s attended by the Spanish royal family who often participate in the competition.

Mare de Déu de la Salut – Sept. 8

While not as elaborate as Semana Santa, Palma celebrates the Virgin Mary’s mass on September 8th with processions and celebrations on the night of the 7th.

La Nit de l’Art – Late Sept.

The night of art takes place across the entire city as museums and art galleries stay open until midnight. Many host special exhibits for the event as well.

Palma Marathon – Early Oct.

As the weather finally begins to cool off, you can run—or watch—the 42 km or 26 miles drawn through Palma’s Old Town.

Palma International Film Festival – End of Oct.

Palma’s film festival is one of the fastest growing in Europe and often attended by famous filmmakers and cinematographers from around the world. Activities and films take place around town.

Festivities in Palma ramp up for Christmas starting at the end of November with the turning on of the decorative lights. The entire city becomes illuminated as well as large buildings like the Corte Inglés on Avenidas. Businesses stay open later as people hit the shops to get gifts.

Last Minute Hotel Deals in Palma de Mallorca

Search flights to majorca, search hotels in majorca, search car hire in majorca, related posts, the complete santanyí travel guide, the complete artà travel guide, the complete sa ràpita travel guide, the complete binissalem travel guide, the complete banyalbufar travel guide, the complete santa maria del camí travel guide.

• Write for us
• Cookie Policy

AFFILIATES DISCLAIMER The Site may contain links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links.

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated websites.

Mallorqueta is a publication of Gelbes Elend Press. ©2023. All rights reserved.

Website Design by TechGstore

• Writing, Research & Publishing Guides

Promotions apply when you purchase

These promotions will be applied to this item:

Some promotions may be combined; others are not eligible to be combined with other offers. For details, please see the Terms & Conditions associated with these promotions.

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required .

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Follow the author

The Budget Traveler's Guide to Palma De Mallorca: Unveiling the History, Rich Culture & Nightlife of the Enchanting City of Palma De Mallorca (Travel Guides Book 5) Kindle Edition

• Book 5 of 5 Travel Guides
• Print length 82 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publication date April 14, 2024
• File size 4448 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
• Word Wise Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting Enabled
• See all details

Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D1R9RC24
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ April 14, 2024
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 4448 KB
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
• Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
• Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 82 pages

About the author

Wade j. hudson.

My passport is worn, its pages brimming with the whispers of foreign tongues and the stains of exotic spices. My cupboards overflow with cookbooks, each a portal to a culinary adventure, their pages dog-eared and splashed with memories of laughter-filled kitchens. I am, in essence, a nomad with a whisk in one hand and a map in the other.

Some call me a travel writer, others a cookbook author. I prefer "culinary cartographer," for my books chart journeys not just of miles, but of flavors and experiences. My adventures take you beyond landmarks and museums, into the heart of bustling food markets and smoky backstreet kitchens. I'll share the secret recipe for grandma's paella simmering in a Spanish village, or guide you through the bustling chaos of a Marrakech spice souk, where the air hums with the fragrant language of cardamom and saffron.

Forget Michelin stars and white tablecloths. My dining table is the world, and my most prized ingredients are the stories woven into every dish. I've shared steaming bowls of pho with monks in Vietnam, learn the art of hand-pulled noodles in a hidden Beijing alleyway, and chased the perfect sunset picnic with fresh-baked bread and local cheese in the rolling hills of Tuscany.

So, join me, dear reader, on this edible odyssey. Let's wander cobbled streets, haggle with friendly vendors, and lose ourselves in the intoxicating aroma of sizzling spices. With each bite, we'll not only savor a dish, but embark on a cultural adventure, collecting memories as vibrant and flavourful as the food itself. Buckle up, your taste buds are in for a wild ride!

Customer reviews

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

No customer reviews

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year

By Arati Menon

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

With additional reporting by Sarah Allard

When travel journalist Jenn Rice decided to spend July and August in Italy and Croatia last year, she wasn’t expecting to be spending most of her time indoors. “It was very very hot, so I booked museum tickets during peak days or just lounged around in my room with a spritz and a book until the sun set.” In Dubrovnik she tried escaping to the sea for a cool dip, but everyone else had the same idea—resulting in sweaty, overcrowded beaches. “In Rome , gelato melted faster than the speed of light,” she says.

Come summer, major attractions like the Spanish Steps in Rome are thronged by international tourists and vacationing Europeans.

Rome and Dubrovnik weren’t the only European destinations overcome with heat. To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes. Temperatures swung from hot and dry to cold and wet, and heatwaves broke out across several of the most heavily touristed destinations, with temperatures reaching upwards of 100°F. In Northern Greece, wildfires broke out —the worst experienced there in 20 years —destroying homes, forests, and vineyards.

Yet in the midst of it all, the continent also saw record-breaking tourist numbers —the highest since pre-pandemic levels—even as hotel prices swelled and airfares hit peaks. From scenic escapes like Bellagio in Como and Taormina in Sicily (where the White Lotus effect was on full display) to bucket-list cities like Paris and Madrid , much of touristed Europe was completely overwhelmed.

“We had people calling us from Athens and Rome asking us to get them out [to somewhere cooler in Europe], because it was too hot and too crowded,” recalls Jan Sortland , founder of Scandinavia specialists Norwegian Adventures.

International tourists weren’t the only ones thronging these spots. According to the European Travel Commission , most Europeans took their vacations before the peak month of August, with Italy and France being their top destinations. This resulted in packed crowds at all the major attractions. For John Canning, an LA-based executive who traveled to Paris in July, the crowds were eye-opening. “We didn’t anticipate that everything we would want to see was sold out. We only got Musée d’Orsay tickets through our concierge at a substantial premium and could not get into the Louvre full stop,” he says.

Rice says the summer taught her to plan her travel differently this year—and beyond: “I’m going to try and do coastal Italy early in May, and if I decide to travel in Europe this summer it will be either Asturias in Northern Spain or the Julian Alps in Slovenia to keep cool."

She’s not alone—according to the travel specialists we spoke with, there’s an increased interest in lesser-known destinations offering a more laid back (and cooler) holiday. “Our guests are asking after places where they can be outdoors, yet have access to wine & foodie experiences and culture. Slovenia is a great example of where you can have all that without being overwhelmed with the heat; the Dolomites in Italy is another,” says Rachael Mendizabal, Europe travel specialist at Scott Dunn . Richard Hyde, COO at Small Luxury Hotels of the World , is seeing similar trends across their European portfolio: “Guests seem to be gravitating towards alternative destinations—Milos instead of Mykonos and Slovenia instead of Spain.”

Norway is a popular destination this summer, offering cooler weather and a myriad ways to be active outside, exploring the islands and fjords.

A big part of that shift will play into Sortland’s area of expertise: Northern Europe. With the Med getting too hot to handle, experts predict that tourism will shift northwards. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in Copenhagen and Stockholm for the cultural experience, and then onward to Norway for the nature. Currently, the fjords are still a favorite but Norway is a large country and there’s so much more to see—the Helgeland coast for example with its beautiful coastline and mountainous islands,” he says. The draw is a more moderate temperature and unique outdoor experiences. “ Iceland is a big favorite right now with the Northern lights being the most active this year from September through March,” says Mendizabal.

Jessica Puckett

Hannah Towey

Karthika Gupta

In turn, for many, the more standard city breaks will fall later in the year. “Athens and Rome will always be desirable destinations, but we’ve seen an uptick in many people preferring to go there in May and October to swerve crowds,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato , noting the weather in fall has been stable lately and enticing to travelers not tied to school holidays.

With this increased flexibility, shoulder season will become tricker to define, according to Mendizabal. Thanks to hotels extending their season as demand shifts to almost year-round and the high-season pricing window getting longer, the days of “scooping a deal in September are likely over.” At Jumeirah Palace in Capri , the season now runs from March to the end of December. “Thanks to the good weather, guests are staying longer than in the past,” says Ermanno Zanini, regional vice president at Jumeirah Group, Southern Europe and United Kingdom.

Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany 's Maremma countryside has traditionally stayed open in March and November. “We're pushing the low season as much as possible because we truly believe it is a wonderful time to discover Tuscany. There is so much for guests to enjoy from hiking to mountain biking, truffle hunting, and wine tastings,” says owner Neri Baccheschi Berti.

Crucially, traveling in the shoulder and off seasons isn't just about avoiding the crowds; it’s knowing that seasonal destinations are multi-dimensional, with year-round appeal. “One of my favorite things to do in cooler weather is to hike to the peak of Mount Solaro, with its beautiful views of the town of Capri and the bay of Marina Piccola with the Faraglioni, as well as Anacapri. You also see plenty of wintering birds on the island,” says Zanini.

Zanini adds that they are in talks with the island's municipality to consider what it would take to stay open in February and March, traditionally strictly closed off. “It's not as straightforward as you think. There’s a lot of infrastructure that needs to be geared towards the low season: restaurants need to stay open, as do shops, and guides need to be available; it can’t just be the hotel,” he adds.

However, with staying open longer, there’s a real opportunity to engage local communities year-round, not to mention stabilize the hiring pool—and improve work culture. “We’ve already seen the positive impact of a longer season for our partners on the ground and locals in the hospitality and tourism sector,” says Addison, who adds that shifts in travel seasons are far from a fleeting trend. “This pattern for more year-round travel will continue to pick up pace in 2025—and beyond," she says.

Travel specialists are quick to point out that even with some of this rebalancing, summer this year and next will continue to see high demand for travel to—and within—Europe. According to Hayley Berg, chief economist at Hopper, while airfare remains higher than at this time in 2019, 40% of all searches for international trips this summer are to Europe, in line with last year and slightly higher than in 2019.

“Sure, we think that traveler numbers on the Côte d'Azur will smooth out through the year, but summer will certainly remain the festive season—only it will be longer,” says Lucie Weill, owner of wellness retreat Lily of the Valley near St. Tropez , which sees its faire share of packed streets and crowded beaches come summer. Weill adds that the hotel has seen success in extending its season.

For travel specialist Cari Gray of Gray & Co . late requests and a lack of flexibility could mean getting turned away because of a lack of availability. “Whether it’s a visit to the Vatican or dogsledding in Alaska , access is going to be very difficult. And there are only that many high-end lodges in Lapland ,” she says. Addison offers the example of Lake Como , where the best properties can often get booked up a year or two in advance during the busiest summer months. “Knowing that the top hotels and guides are getting booked up and that weather disruptions are increasingly unpredictable, clients who want to commit to the most popular summer hotspots in Europe, like the Greek islands and Sardinia are securing their bookings a year out.”

The Balearic island of Menorca is a charming escape with its rocky coves, white-sand beaches, and green rolling hills.

Ultimately, it’s not about giving up on all the places you love: just about pivoting, even if within the same country. “Why not Menorca instead of Mallorca, with its explosion of fantastic hotels and its great beach front, or Epirus in Northern Greece on the Albanian border with its Stone villages, old-growth forests, and truffle hunts instead of the islands," says Gray.

"In Italy we’re always pushing to discover new areas, even in regions that we’ve been exploring for decades like Tuscany and Umbria because new hotels are opening up regularly,” says Courtney Mundy , a travel specialist at experiential travel experts Butterfield & Robinson.

And, a word of caution for the rising favorites: “Smaller destinations in Iceland & Norway will really need to consider how to manage the higher number of visitors than ever before,” says Addison. “Parts of Iceland are overtouristed,” agrees Sortland, “so, it’s not unreasonable to think that smaller communities in Norway could eventually be at risk, too.” Whether it's through new tourist tax regimens or limits on cruise ship day-trippers to reduce crowding, a shifting tide will need more alert local governments—and as we’re swapping beaches for the mountains or Rome for Stockholm, more responsible travel habits that leave fewer traces behind.

Recommended

Disneyland Hotel Paris

Telegraphenamt

Europe Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Advertisement

Supported by

Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse.

If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia.

• Share full article

By Danielle Dowling

Are you still a little giddy from the magical moments of totality during Monday’s solar eclipse? Or did clouds swoop in to block your view? Maybe you just couldn’t make it to the path of totality this time. No matter what, the question now is “ Where and when will it happen again?”

“People who have never seen it before, the first words out of their mouth after the totality ends is ‘I’ve got to see another one, this is incredible, this is unbelievable.’ That is when you become addicted to these things and end up traveling no matter where the next one is,” said Joseph Rao, an eclipse chaser and guest lecturer at the Hayden Planetarium.

So, if like Mr. Rao, you’ve developed a raging case of umbraphilia — the love of eclipses — you’ll have three chances over the next four years to see the moon blot out the sun. The first, on Aug. 12, 2026, will start above Greenland, then strafe the west coast of Iceland and move along the Atlantic Ocean and over Spain. Almost a year later, on Aug. 2, 2027, another will skirt the Mediterranean coast of North Africa then cross Egypt and part of the Arabian Peninsula. The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand.

Future Eclipses

Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .

Last week, as Victoria Sahami , the owner of Sirius Travel , was preparing to guide a group of tourists in Mazatlán, Mexico, for Monday’s big event, she was also planning for these other upcoming eclipses. Ms. Sahami joined the ranks of the eclipse-obsessed when she witnessed one in Venezuela in the 1990s. “Like many people, I was hooked. There was no going back,” she said.

Total solar eclipses happen fairly regularly — about every one to two years — in locations scattered around the world. “That’s the great thing about them: You wind up in places that you don’t normally go,” Ms. Sahami said.

A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see.

“Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year,” said Paul Maley , who runs Ring of Fire Expeditions . “The data shows Spain to have the higher good-weather prospects of all three. However, the sun is low in the sky and the eclipse ends as the sun hits the horizon at sunset.”

Because of Iceland’s mercurial meteorology, Ring of Fire Expeditions is going all in on Spain, with a 10-day excursion on the mainland. Sirius Travel is offering not only a five-day trip to Majorca but also an eight-day tour around Iceland. It will be based in Reykjavik, and the itinerary will remain flexible on the day of the eclipse so the tour can easily pivot toward the location with the least cloud cover. Ms. Sahami recommends the trip for those who already have a few eclipses under their belt and would be happy just to take in the sights of Iceland if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The 2027 eclipse, on the other hand, promises to be truly stellar: Luxor, Egypt — the site of numerous ancient temples as well as the Valleys of the Kings and Queens — sits right in the middle of the path of totality and will be bathed in darkness for a full 6 minutes 23 seconds. Weather-wise, it is what Ms. Sahami called “a slam dunk.” “You know you’re going to see it. You know that you’re not going to get any clouds,” she said.

But for all its potential, those considering Egypt should be aware that the State Department has a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warning for the country because of the risk of terrorism.

The 2028 eclipse will darken the skies over Sydney, Australia, for 3 minutes 49 seconds. It will be the first time the city has experienced a total solar eclipse since 1857. Ms. Sahami has her eyes on a trip based out of there, while Mr. Maley has chartered a cruise ship off the northwest coast of Australia. It will be winter there, he said, but that isn’t likely to mean bad eclipse-viewing weather.

If you want to see any (or all) of these eclipses, you should get started on planning and booking now, particularly if you want to sign up for a trip organized by a tour company. One of Sirius Travel’s excursions to Luxor is already full.

Scrutinize refund policies and look into insuring your trip. Several companies will fully refund your deposit if you cancel a year in advance. A lot can happen, Ms. Sahami said, “but if you think you’re going to go, why not?”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .