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The best towns in mallorca.

As the largest island in the Balearics, there are plenty of Mallorca towns, historic cities and beautiful places to visit in Mallorca, all waiting to be explored. From the quaint, seaside towns along the eastern Mallorcan coast to the world-renowned holiday resorts of the south-west, and from the windswept Tramuntana mountain range running through the island’s centre to the picturesque villages at its base, there’s much more to Mallorca than Palma. 

This post shares the best towns and cities in Mallorca. They are sure to rapidly make their way to the top of your Spanish island bucket list, so let’s explore what makes them so special.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca, oftentimes just known as Palma, is the island’s capital and largest city. With the international airport so close to this Mallorcan city, most trips begin here – and with good reason! 

There’s plenty to do in Palma, ranging from sunny-day activities on glorious sandy beaches to historical tours of the royal residence, Palau de l’Almudaina, and the enormous Palma Cathedral. It’s in a spectacular setting, reflected in waters of a man-made lake, which symbolises the sea before land reclamation moved the building inland. 

To best experience this city, join a bus tour that takes in all it has to offer. This will also save you the climb to find the best views of the city. For those, head to Castell de Bellver, a unique circular castle perched high a hill to the west of the island.

Shopaholics and foodies, don’t worry – Palma’s got you covered too, with some of the best restaurants and boutiques the island has to offer. 

Stay: Innside by Melia Palma Center for a great value hotel with rooftop terrace, pool and just a 15-minute walk to Palma Cathedral.

Porto Cristo

A modern, peaceful and family-friendly town has built up around an old stone fishing village at Porto Cristo, on Mallorca’s east coast. The marina and fancy white villas dotted along the shore make this a popular place with yacht owners, but there’s no need to be a millionaire to visit! 

Boat tours and water sports are the order of the day here, and though the town’s sandy beach is small, it’s perfectly formed and very welcoming. In the town itself, admire the various churches and side streets, but make sure you return to the marina to watch the sunset from one of the many restaurants on the seafront. 

The nearby Cuevas del Drach are some of the best caves on Mallorca, and one of the best things to do here full stop. The name translates from Mallorqui to English as ‘the caves of the dragon’, but I’m pretty sure the caves aren’t home to one. Tourists come from all over to explore the chambers and interpret the formations. Each guided tour culminates in a visit to the underground lake where a classical music performance demonstrates the incredible acoustics before you emerge, blinking into the sunlight.

Stay: Hotel Rural Son Mas – a few minutes’ drive outside of Porto Cristo, but worth it for a tranquil stay at this stylish hotel, set in a 17th-century building.

Well worth the 45-minute drive north-east from Palma is Alcudia – a drop-dead gorgeous medieval town that welcomes history-loving tourists with open arms. The town has had a variety of different rulers since being founded by the Romans over 2000 years ago, and while remnants of this history are limited to the ruins of Pollentia just outside the town, you can still see the medieval city walls and buildings in Alcudia itself. 

If you’re visiting Mallorca in winter , make sure you stop by the Església de Sant Jaume d’Alcúdia for spectacular photo opportunities outside the church. Venture inside, and you’ll be treated to an incredible nativity display, complete with moving parts and sound effects!

Alcudia features many arts and crafts shops and plenty of restaurants with terraces for al fresco dining, but for more of a resort feel, head to nearby Port d’Alcudia and its sandy beaches on the coast.

Stay: Hotel Can Mostatxins in the heart of Alcudia’s old town. This stunning hotel features beautiful interiors, with exposed stone walls and a cave-like spa area with hot tub. 

>> Keen to avoid the summer crowds? Discover everything you need to know about visiting Mallorca in winter with this travel guide .

Pollenca is a historic town, slightly further inland than nearby Alcudia, but just as charming. There are remnants of its Roman and Medieval history still visible, with impressive churches, winding back streets and squares, as well as a Roman bridge, ‘Pont Roma’, which is still in use.

If you’ve got the energy, take a 45-minute mini hike to the hilltop of Puig de Pollenca, for some of the best views on the island. 

Despite its visual similarities with Alcudia, Pollenca attracts fewer tourists than other Mallorca towns, making it a good place to join the locals for a coffee or wander through the Sunday market without the crowds. 

However, if you don’t mind the summer crowds, head to the lively and touristy Port de Pollenca with its large beach and holiday vibes.

Stay: Son Brull Hotel & Spa is one of the most luxurious on the island, set in a former monastery to the south of Pollenca. Rooms are exceptionally designed with modern takes on traditional features and beautiful views out to the surrounding landscape.

Valldemossa

In my opinion, Valldemossa is one of the most stunning towns in Mallorca, and deserves its place on any list of beautiful places to visit on the island. Sadly, that also makes it one of the most popular, but out-of-season travellers will enjoy the fantastic reward of seeing it without the crowds. 

This charming town is made up of quaint stone alleyways and houses with doorways decorated by fresh green plants and flowers. But what puts the ‘vall’ in Valldemossa is the beautiful valley views you’ll be treated to at one of the many lookout points. 

Other than the views of the valley below, the most popular attraction is the Carthusian Monastery. This beautiful stone building was originally a royal residence until it was donated to Carthusian monks and became a monastery in 1399. At the end of their occupation in 1835, the building was privatised and became a source of great inspiration for the composer Frederic Chopin, and novelist George Sand during their stay in 1838. Today it houses a museum dedicated to their work as well as many other historical artefacts, art collections and manicured grounds. 

Stay: Don’t miss the chance to stay in one of Valldemossa’s famous townhouses at Macarena’s House . These self-catering houses have a fully-equipped kitchen, comfortable rooms and even a patio or terrace for al fresco dining.

Secluded from the rest of the island in the Llevant Natural Park, Arta is Mallorca’s hidden gem. An ancient settlement surrounded by an old stone wall, this village retains its original Mallorquin character and atmosphere. 

That doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to do here though – far from it! There is a popular craft market on Tuesdays, the Bronze Age settlement of Ses Paisses and Santuari de Sant Salvador – a picturesque hilltop fortress overlooking the town. 

While you’re in the area, it would be rude not to visit Llevant Natural Park, which boasts a large mountain range, hiking trails and plenty to keep birdwatchers occupied too. For those that prefer to be more enclosed, the underground caverns of Caves d’Arta are perfect for you.

Stay: Hotel Ca’n Moragues for a stay in beautiful countryside at a converted manor house. As well as the comfortable rooms, enjoy the hotel’s grounds, orange groves and outdoor swimming pool too.

Soller is a traditional Mallorquin town set amongst orange groves and lush mountain scenery. Mallorca’s famous winding alleyways and townhouses dotted with fresh plants are on display here too. A picturesque old railway links Soller to the capital, while a rickety tram heads to the coast, making it a wonderful base for exploring the island. 

The town’s highlight is the Plaça Constitució – a beautiful old town square with plenty of cafes serving fresh local produce and a good side order of Balearic atmosphere. From here, it’s hard not to admire the Sant Bartomeu church, which dates back to the 13th century. Its modern facade with tall spires and archways was added in 1904. If it looks familiar, that might be due to it being designed by one of Gaudi’s students, Joan Rubid.

Stay: There are plenty of fincas (rural accommodation dedicated to agriculture) in the area for a sustainable trip to Mallorca , but to truly appreciate Soller’s charms, opt for a central stay at Hotel El Guía just a minute’s walk to the main square.

>> For advice on the most eco-friendly places to stay and eat, visit this travel guide to a sustainable trip to Mallorca .

Between Soller and Valldemossa you’ll find Deià – a picturesque village with spectacular views over the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Its position in the Tramuntana mountain range – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – makes it a popular place to hike, walk or just admire the landscape.

In the village, tourists can visit English Novelist and Poet Robert Graves’ museum in his former home, wander through the alleyways, and enjoy local gastronomy in one of the many places to eat and drink.

Make sure you leave enough time to walk 30 minutes down to Cala Deià – a small pebble beach surrounded by craggy cliffs and crystal clear waters.

Stay: Hotel Es Moli , set on a hill just outside Deià in a 17th-century mansion. The hotel offers old-time charm with an outdoor pool and a private beach, but the highlight is the panoramic views of the sea, the village and Tramuntana mountains.

While not strictly towns or cities, these attractions are still worthy of a spot on this list of the best places in Mallorca to visit on your next trip.

Santuari de Lluc

Santuari de Lluc is a large monastery complex and an important pilgrimage site for Christians set in the Trumantana mountain range. Regardless of religious beliefs, visitors can admire the pretty stone architecture, with certain aspects of the interior renovated by famous Spanish architect Gaudi just over 100 years ago. If you’re lucky, you may even hear the boys’ choir sing at the daily concerts in the chapel.

Castell d’Alaró

Castell d’Alaro is a ruined castle on top of a mountain above Alaro, to the west of the island. It’s a popular, if challenging, 2-hour walk from the town. Your effort is made worthwhile by the spectacular views over the Tramuntana mountains and out to the Mediterranean Sea. 

Cap de Formentor

Cap de Formentor is a 20km long peninsula and the most northerly tip of the island. A windy but scenic drive takes you up the lighthouse where visitors can walk around the rocky landscape at its base.  The views all along the peninsula are beautiful, thanks to the craggy cliffs and grass-tipped hills all over.

Getting around Mallorca

Each of the towns listed in this post can be reached by public transport, thanks to the extensive bus network run by EMT in Palma, and various other private companies on the rest of the island. 

Buses are cheap but can be slow owing to the number of stops on each line. It’s also not always possible to travel between destinations on separate lines and you may need to return to Palma each time you want to head in a different direction. 

There are also a few train lines connecting Palma to towns on the island, but the destinations are limited to inland rather than coastal towns. Make sure you visit the TIB’s website for the most up-to-date information on bus routes and train timetables. 

For speed, comfort and ease of getting around, consider hiring a car from Palma airport for the duration of your trip. 

>> Compare prices for car rental at Holiday Autos , with free cancellation!

With so many beautiful places to visit in Mallorca, towns and cities alike, you certainly won’t be bored here! Hopefully, we’ve given you plenty of inspiration for your next visit to this beautiful Balearic Island, so all that’s left is for you to explore! 

Like this? Pin it to your Spain travel board for later!

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Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.

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Visiting Mallorca

The Most Beautiful Villages and Towns Of Majorca

Mallorca astonishes with its stunning scenery and amazing beaches. However, the biggest of the Balearic Islands has much more to offer…

Hidden between the Tramuntana mountains, on the edge of the island, far away from the biggest resorts, you can find the lovely villages and towns of Mallorca: from charming towns surrounded by stunning scenery, the typical fishing villages, to the typical mountain villages.

Old and small churches, quaint cobbled streets, squares with typical Mallorcan coffeeshops add more magic and character to these places. It is definitely worth visiting, at least one of them during your stay on the island.

In this post we have compiled the list of the 11 most charming towns and villages in Majorca.       

Table of Contents

Alcúdia is a town located in the north of the island, founded by the Romans and one of the oldest in Majorca.

You can’t miss going to the historical centre, the old zone inside the walls, and its sandy beach: Playa de Muro. With lots of shops, bars, restaurants, boutiques and even a water park , it is also a great Mallorca holiday destination and resort.

Andratx is located in the south west of the island, about 30km from Palma de Mallorca.

More than the town itself, we want to highlight its port – Port d’Andratx, surrounded by beautiful coves of crystalline waters. It is also located opposite the islet Sa Dragonera , one of the most important Natural Parks on the archipelago of the Balearic Island, which can also be visited.

But Port d’Andratx also has a lot of shops and boutiques, bars and excellent restaurants.

Artà, located in the eastern part of Mallorca, is a place where you can truly feel the essence of the island. The Santuario de Sant Salvador is a must-visit spot that will provide you with stunning views of the area. And if you’re a fan of fresh produce and local crafts, you’ll love the weekly market.

The charm of Artà extends to its picturesque surroundings. Just a stone’s throw away are the beautiful beaches of Cala Ratjada, Cala Mesquida , and Cala Agulla, to name a few. Additionally, the Llevant Natural Park offers enchanting trails for those who appreciate nature’s beauty.

Banyalbufar

Banyalbufar is a small village situated in the heart of the Tramuntana mountain range, adapted to offer many nature possibilities.

The difficulty of access and parking has left this village with its original character making it one of the prettiest villages of Mallorca.

Do not miss visiting the Torre des Verger at dusk. It is one of the oldest observation towers on the island and one of the best viewpoints on the island.

Capdepera is a historical village, located on the extreme east of Majorca, just 8 km from Artá. The name literally means town of stone. An identifying symbol of Capdepera is its walled castle, built in the 14th century.

Capdepera also stands out for its sandy beaches, including Cala Ratjada with its golden sand, one of the most beautiful beaches in Majorca.

The small coastal village in the Serra de Tramuntana, on the west coast, known as an artists’ village, has become a meeting place for creative personalities from all over the world, such as Robert Graves, which has given this village a very characteristic personality.

This village, between the sea and the mountain, narrow streets and stone houses, hides one of the most bohemian corners of the island.

Deià is the town of artists, which is why it stands out for its art galleries as well as for its artisan shops, but it still retains places of leisure: paradisiacal beach – Cala Deià, exclusive shops, first class cafes and Michelin-starred restaurants.

Fornalutx is another one of the prettiest Mallorca mountain villages, at the top of the Soller Valley.

It is a very special village that has received several awards. This small village is full of slopes, stone stairs, narrow streets, cobbled streets and hidden corners.

A stroll through the streets should be a must for anyone visiting the island of Majorca. You will be amazed!

The town of Pollensa has an aroma and a personality that captivates you.

Pollensa is located in the northwest of Mallorca and is a perfect place to rent a holiday home.

Its port deserves a special mention although it was originally a simple fishing port. Port of Pollensa is perhaps one of the most beautiful in the whole island. It has now also become one of the most luxurious and exclusive ports in Majorca. Its long beaches of white sand and crystal clear turquoise waters will make you feel as if you were in the Caribbean.

However, it is really worth visiting the historic centre of Pollensa with plenty of excellent restaurants.

If you are a cycling enthusiast you shouldn’t miss their routes through the Sierra de Tramuntana and Cap de Formentor, where you can enjoy one of the most incredible sunsets.

Santanyi is a traditional Mallorcan town in the south-eastern part of the island. It is historic, rural, authentically Mallorcan, with a very strong connection to the world of painting and a large number of art galleries.

The most beautiful bays and golden sandy beaches on the island of Majorca are also located here. Cala Figuera or Caló des Moro are absolute highlights. Sananyi is only 15 km away from Cala d’Or, another perfect place to swim in the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Located on the northwest coast of the island, Sóller is architecturally one of the most outstanding small towns of Majorca, with a lot of charm that rivals Valldemossa in beauty.

One of the most popular tourist attractions and an ideal way to visit the town of Sóller is by arriving on the tourist train, with wooden wagons, which leaves from Palma.

One of Sóller’s strong points, in addition to its picturesque streets and Cathedral Sant Bartomeu, is its port – Port De Sóller, which can be reached by a century-old tram with wooden carriages.

Valldemossa

This town, nestled between the mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana, is a must for all those who have decided to travel to Majorca.

Valldemossa is the typical fairy tale village and many consider it the most beautiful village not only in Majorca, but also in Spain.

Valldemossa maintains all the traditional charm and is looked after with the greatest of care. The town is well known for the stay of the composer Frederic Chopin and the writer George Sand.

Its unbeatable location, less than 20km away from Palma de Mallorca, leaves no excuse for those who still hesitate to visit it.

Instead of visiting something specific, we recommend that you get lost walking through the streets and corners, reaching places like the Carthusian Monastery or Rei Joan Carles garden.

As it is a small town, you can see all the highlights within half a day.

Be sure to try the traditional coca de patata (potato buns) in one of the coffeeshops in town.

Have you decided which of these towns or villages you will visit first?

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Visiting Mallorca is an inspirational blog for travellers who want to immerse themselves in Mallorcan culture and discover the island.

Here you will find tips and tricks to make the most of your stay on the queen island of the Balearic archipelago.

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ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

21 best villages + towns in Mallorca (most beautiful!)

Last updated on November 2, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Between beaches, mountains and cliffs, Mallorca also has a rich architectural offer. In this article, you can find the best towns in Mallorca, as well as the most beautiful Mallorca villages. This guide includes map, tips and photos.

Note: this is more an article about visiting those towns and villages. If you are wondering where to stay in Mallorca, check out this other article.

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Mallorca:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Mallorca: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: dolphin watching from Alcudia

My favorite excursion from Palma: Port de Soller and Valldemossa

My favorite places to stay:

• Palma de Mallorca:  see best rated hotels  – e.g.  Hotel Posada Terra Santa
• Port d’Alcudia:  see best rated hotels  – e.g.  Bonavida apartments
• Cala d’or:  see best rated hotels  – e.g.  Casa Ceiba Maria
• In a Finca in the heart of the island – I suggest  Finca Cas Sant

#1 – Fornalutx – most beautiful village in Mallorca

Fornalutx was once called ‘Spain’s Prettiest Village’. And, in my opinion, is the best village in Mallorca. It offers beautifully preserved with stone houses, staircases and narrow alleys at the foot of rocky mountains. You can enjoy the charm of the cafés with views of the Tramuntana mountains, including Puig Major, the highest peak in Mallorca.

Best things to do in Fornalutx

If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:

• The many stone houses that are well maintained
• The views of Puig Major (1447m)
• The church Nativitat de la Mare de Deu (built 1230 to 1639)
• The Can Carbona from the 16th century with its defensive square tower from the 17th.
• The many charming alleys
• Crowds – Very popular, not far from Port de Soller
• How long to plan – Plan 1 hours to explore or plan around lunch
• Ease of visiting – Some steep streets
• Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Fornatlux

How to get to Fornalutx

• Palma de Mallorca to Fornatlux = 40min drive
• Alcudia to Fornatlux = 1h10 drive
• You need a car to visit the village, or you can take a cab from Soller
• You first need to go to Soller and then enjoy a short mountain drive up to the village.

There are only a couple of small carparks. So parking is extremely difficult as the village is very popular.

#2 – Alcudia – best old town in Mallorca

When people talk about Alcudia in Mallorca, they often to Port d’Alcudia the large resort town where many travelers stay. However, Alcudia is actually the Roman settlement inland from the harbor. Founded around 70 BC by the Romans, the old town of Alcudia has a lot of character. The maze of narrow alleys is surrounded by walls and impressive gates on which you can walk. It is home to many architectural wonders from various eras including old Roman ruins.

Not to be missed on your Mallorca itinerary .

Best things to do in Alcudia

• The medieval walls – you can walk on them!
• The various gates (the best are Porta del Moll and Porta de Vila Roja)
• The  narrow streets full of charm
• The church with its typical Mallorcan style
• The Roman ruins of Pollentia – see official website

Learn more on my article.

• Crowds – One of the most popular town with lots of restaurants
• How long to plan – Plan half a day to enjoy all it has to offer and maybe a meal 
• Ease of visiting – Very flat to explore the old center, easy to walk around – just a few stairs to go on the walls
• Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Alcudia

How to get to Alcudia

• Palma de Mallorca to Alcudia = 45min drive
• Soller to Alcudia = 1h drive
• Very easy to access via the fast road between Palma de Mallorca and Alcudia
• And if you don’t want to drive, you can book a guided excursion – see options

Alcudia is one of the rare places in Mallorca where it is easy to park. All around the fortification walls, there are large carparks.

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

#3 – Palma de Mallorca – capital city

Main city on the island, and capital of the Balearic Islands, Palma is recognized for its iconic cathedral. But there is much more to see in the town than just the cathedral with palace, castle, arab baths, art-deco builtins, delicious restaurants…

Best things to do in Palma de Mallorca

• Admire the cathedral and palace from the waterfront
• Visit the cathedral
• Visit the Royal Palace of Amunadia
• Visit one of the museums (art, sacred art, military, maritime…)
• Discover the ancient Arab Baths
• Enjoy the unique circular castle: Castell de Bellver
• See more in my Palma de Mallorca article
• Crowds – Palma is very popular. I recommend visiting in the morning to enjoy a little more peace.
• How long to plan – A full day to see all the main buildings
• Ease of visiting – The town has many stairs and slopes
• Avoid Mondays (most sites closed) and Sundays (cathedral closed) 
• Start by booking your visit to the cathedral and organize around it.
• Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Palma de Mallorca – or learn more in my article about where to stay in Palma .

How to get to Palma de Mallorca

• Alcudia to Palma de Mallorca = 45min
• Soller to Palma de Mallorca = 40min
• Being the capital, many roads lead to Palma de Mallorca
• However, on the main roads around the town is where you will find the most difficult traffic

Along the waterfront, you can find several large carparks which are practical to visit the old town. Some are underground, others are outside.

All my favorite locations are included (with GPS coordinates, maps and tips) in my travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your Mallorca road trip :

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

#4 – Sineu – heart of Mallorca

In the heart of Mallorca (geographically in the center), Sineu is one of the most beautiful towns on the island. The streets of the old center are lined up with stone houses and interesting architecture. The church and its traditional Mallorcan architecture stands out at the top of the hill.

Best things to do in Sineu

• The Typical Mallorcan church (Santa Maria) with side arches and a separate bell tower (and 7 bells).
• The charming main square by the church
• The town hall located in a 17th century convent with a beautiful cloister
• The narrow street with stone houses and green shutters
• The convent de la Concepcio and Palace of the kings
• Crowds – Less crowded than the tramuntana villages
• How long to plan – Plan 2 hours to explore the old center
• Ease of visiting – If you can park at the top, it is quite easy to walk around. Otherwise some slopes to climb.
• Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Sineu

How to get to Sineu

• Palma de Mallorca to Sineu = 35min drive
• Alcudia to Sineu = 35min drive
• As it is located in the center of the island, it is quite easy to reach from various directions
• However, you need a car to come visit Sineu

Street parking and small carparks in town.

#5 – Valldemossa

The mountain village of Valldemossa became famous in 1839 when George Sand and Frederic Chopin stayed for a winter. The famous composer stated that it is ‘The Most Beautiful Place in the World’. At an altitude of 400m (1312ft), the village is full of charming streets with old stone houses. Locals decorate with lots of vegetation, highlighting the character. In this village, it feels like traveling back in time.

Best things to do in Valldemossa

• The main square & the garden King Juan Carlos behind
• The Royal Charterhouse (Carthusian monastery) – origin in 1399  and the King Sancho Palace — see website
• Chopin Museum – see website
• Explore the alleys in the village to find some beautiful gems
• Note – opening hours are not always applied as written
• Crowds – One of the most popular villages in Mallorca – crowded
• How long to plan – Plan 1h just to walk around the town, half a day to a day if you want to visit palace and museums on top
• Ease of visiting – Not too much slope or stairs, flatter than other villages
• Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Valldemossa

How to get to Valldemossa

• Palma de Mallorca to Valldemossa = 30min drive
• Alcudia to Valldemossa = 1h drive
• Close to Ma-10, the main road through the Tramuntana mountains

2 large carparks near the town center. However, as it is a very popular place, they fill up quickly.Visit before 10am.

#6 – Port de Soller – famous coastal town in Mallorca

Natural harbour isolated at the foot of the Tramuntana mountains, Port de Soller is very picturesque. Before the tunnel, it was really isolated, so it was somewhat preserved from the overdevelopment. The bay is bordered by sandy beaches. However, the entire seafront area is now only touristic with restaurants, bars and souvenir shops. And it is famous for its vintage wooden tram, linking it to the old town of Soller.

Best things to do in Port de Soller 

• The almost enclosed bay
• The surrounding mountain peaks
• The old trolley
• And don’t miss the views from the lighthouse Far des Cap Gros

Just soak up the ambience. Learn more

• Crowds – One of the most crowded places on the island
• How long to plan – Half a day
• Ease of visiting –  Flat town, very easy to explore
• Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Puerto de Soller

How to get to Port de Soller

• Palma de Mallorca to Port de Soller   = 40min drive
• Alcudia to Port de Soller = 1h
• Easy drive from the main motorway – through a tunnel 
• Toll has been removed
• If you don’t want to drive, you can visit by boat, train or day tours – see options

Many large carparks, underground or not, around town. However, despite the large number of parking places, it can still be a nightmare to find parking (even out of Summer). Visit before lunchtime to find a spot. 

Where to stay in Mallorca?

My favorites:

• Choice of restaurants + main town:  see best-rated options in Palma
• Beach + practical location to explore:  see best-rated options in Port d’Alcudia
• Party area –  see best-rated options in S’Arenal
• Quiet in the mountains –  see best-rated options in Valldemossa
• Quiet, charming seaside place –  see best-rated options in Canyamel
• Access to the best calas –  see best-rated options in Cala d’or
• Families –  see best-rated options in Cala Millor  or in  Colonia Sant Jordi

#7 – Cala Figuera – most charming fishing village

Cala Figuera is a small fishermen village that has kept its charm. It is located  on a narrow arm of water, along cliffside and lush vegetation. It can be enjoyed at water level, discovering the traditional houses with green accent and the boat houses. And it can be enjoyed from the top of the cliffs with mesmerizing views of turquoise waters and nature’s carving work.

Best things to do in Cala Figuera

• The viewpoint with the cliffs and narrow calas cut by the water
• The charming harbor with colorful houses over the water and small boats in a narrow cove
• The Faro de la Torre d’en Beu
• Crowds – A popular place to stay, but remains quiet as there are no beaches
• How long to plan – 1h to just appreciate the village, longer to soak it the relaxation
• Ease of visiting – Steep roads
• Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Cala Figuera

How to get to Cala Figuera

• Palma de Mallorca to Cala Figuera = 55min drive
• Alcudia to Cala Figuera  = 1h15 drive
• You need a car to visit this village

Some parking spaces at the top of the village.

#8 – Pollença

Pollenca (Pollença / Pollensa) has been settled since Prehistoric times. The town is full of history and splendid views. It is now attracting many artists. From the main large square you can explore narrow alleys and find interesting buildings. But the main attraction is the staircase to the Calvari, a sanctuary on top of a hill with beautiful views of the region. And you can also walk on an old Roman Bridge!

Best things to do in Pollença

• Climb the staircase to El Calvari – take your time & enjoy the views towards the city and towards the sea
• Enjoy one of the terraces at the main square
• Visit the church Santa Maria dels Angels
• Get lost in the narrow streets. Visit the museum de Pollença
• Walk around Torre Desbrull
• Walk outside the city center to reach the Roman Bridge (Pont Roma) 
• Crowds – Less crowded that Alcudia and Palma. However, it is mixed with the new towns, so there are a lot of locals.
• How long to plan – Plan half a day to visit the entire town
• Ease of visiting – The center is flat. But there are many stairs to reach the Calvari.
• Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Pollença

How to get to Pollença

• Palma de Mallorca to Pollença = 50min drive
• Alcudia to Pollença = 20min drive
• Easy drive from the main motorway through the island
• Best to have a car to react Pollença

Several large carparks on the more modern side of town

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Deia is a charming village in the Tramuntana that has attracted many artists. On one side you can enjoy sea views and on the other, mountain views. Typical stone houses built on a hill and along a ravine. It has been inhabited since prehistoric times. It was already called ‘ad Daia’ i.e. ‘the village’ during the 8th century. It was a favorite place of poet and author Robert Graves

Best things to do in Deia

• Take time to explore the little alleys up and down the hill.
• The tiny stone bridges 
• The old washing area, water reserve and spring
• The Mirador des Canons at the top 
• The Sant Joan Baptista church from 1497 – with the bell tower inside an old defense tower.
• Crowds – Very popular, extremely crowded
• How long to plan – Plan 1h to 2h to explore the village
• Ease of visiting – Slopes and stairs
• Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Deia

How to get to Deia

• Palma de Mallorca to Deia = 45min drive
• Alcudia to Deia = 1h10
• Deia is located along the main road through the Tramuntana mountains
• A few guided tours, include a stop at Deia – see some options

Parking is a nightmare. There are several small carparks along the main road, they only have a few spaces and get full fast. Plus, turning around and looking for a space is very complex as you are in the mountains. I recommend arriving veery early to find a spot.

#10 – Capdepera

The town is mostly famous for its castle. Located on top a hill, the Castell of Capdepera and its strategic location has a long history. First built during the 14th century, it protected the inhabitants from pirates’ attacks. In the 16th century, there were 125 houses inside the walls. And in the 18th century it was used as a military complex. It is a fascinating structure with great views.

Best things to do in Capdepera

• The fortification walls and gate
• The views over the town of Capdepera and towards the sea
• The Governor’s house and the displays inside
• The church and its terrace above it – don’t forget to ring the bell!
• The square and circular defense tower in the center of the structure that dates back to the 12th century.
• Find out more
• Crowds – popular but far less crowded than the other
• How long to plan – 2 hours to explore the town center and visit the castle, longer to also enjoy the lighthouse and the coast
• Ease of visiting – stairs and slopes
• Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Capdepera

How to get to Capdepera

• Palma de Mallorca to Capdepera = 1h05 drive
• Alcudia to Capdepera = 50min drive
• You need to rent a car to visit Capdepera
• Easy drive and access

The carparks are not very big. As it is less touristic, you can more easily find a space, but around lunch time in Summer it can become difficult.

Plan your trip to Mallorca:

• My itineraries :  3 days – weekend ,  4 days ,  5 days ,  1 week ,  10 days
• 36 tips to rent a car in Mallorca
• Guide to driving in Mallorca
• Where to stay in Mallorca
• Where to stay in Palma de Mallorca
• Best things to do in Mallorca

#11 – Portocolom

The traditional fishing village of Portocolom (also written Porto Colom) has retained most of its charm. The road all around the seafront offers views of traditional houses and boats, beaches and a photogenic lighthouse. Portocolom was named after Christopher Columbus who was (allegedly) born here. It has not been taken over by tourism overbuilding, and offers a more peaceful ald laid-backexperience.

Best things to do in Portocolom

• The colorful houses along the seafront
• The traditional boats in the harbor
• The quiet bay
• The striped lighthouse Far de Portocolom
• The S’Arenal Portocolom beach with views of the lighthouse
• Crowds – Peaceful
• How long to plan – 1h to explore, longer to relax at the beach ad enjoy the peace
• Ease of visiting – Flat area
• Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Portocolom

How to get to Portocolom

• Palma de Mallorca to Portocolom = 55min drive
• Alcudia to Portocolom = 1h10
• You need a car to reach Portocolom. The road is easy.

No issues – street parking and carparks.

#12 – Banyalbufar

Surrounded by the sea on one side and the Tramuntana mountains on the other, the hillside village of Banyalbufar is a nice stop on Ma-10. Founded in the 10th century, it is home to vineyards and Olive groves. Stones houses, hidden passageways… this is another village where you can explore and get lost admiring the charming alleys.

Best things to do in Banyalbufar

• The charming main square and church
• The Torre Baronia, hidden down a staircase near hotel Sa Baronia
• Terraced agriculture all around (best seen when driving in from the East
• Vineyards on the surrounding hills
• Crowds – Less crowded that the other Tramuntana villages
• How long to plan – Quick stop to see the main buildings, or longer if you want to visit a vineyard
• Ease of visiting – Steep streets
• Hotels –  If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Banyalbufar

How to get to Banyalbufar

• Palma de Mallorca to Banyalbufar = 35min drive
• Alcudia to Banyalbufar = 1h10 drive
• You need to rent a car to visit Banyalbufar

Several small parking areas. Can be difficult to stop.

#13 – Andratx

The most famous part of Andratx is actually its harbor, the twin town of Port d’Andratx (next section). But this quiet town where you will find mostly locals is worth a stop. It dates back to the 2nd century BC, built inland to protect from Pirate attacks. This traditional town is surrounded by mountains, sea and orange groves.

Best things to do in Andratx

• The small but charming garden around to town hall
• The Castell de Son Mas (which is now the town hall). Do not miss the West side with the inner courtyard.
• The church of Santa Maria de Andratx (may be closed)
• Crowds – no crowds
• How long to plan – 1h
• Ease of visiting – relatively easy
• Stays are at Port d’Andratx

How to get to Andratx

• Palma de Mallorca to Andratx = 30min drive
• Alcudia to Andratx = 1h drive
• You need to rent a car to visit Andratx

Street parking. Easy.

#14 – Port d’Andratx

Coastal town with Marina and nice seafront promenade, surrounded by mountains. It has an exclusive vibe.

Best things to do in Port d’Andratx

• Walk around the harbor
• Crowds –  Peaceful
• How long to plan – 1h 
• Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Puerto de Andratx

How to get to Port d’Andratx

• Palma de Mallorca to Port d’Andratx = 30min
• Alcudia to Port d’Andratx = 1h
• You need a car to visit

Several carparks around the harbour. It can be packed around meals, as the town is home to great restaurants.

Arta is a historical town, a lesser known traditional town. Located on top a 182m (597ft) high hill, the Arta Sanctuary is mostly interesting for the 360° views of the region. The well-restored walls surround an oval area with the sanctuary, a house and the cistern from the 17th century. The current church dates back to 1832 as the 13th century one was burnt down following the bubonic plague.

Best things to do in Arta

• Visit the Sanctuary at the top of thill
• Visit the Talayot ruins of Ses Paisses
• Enjoy the old vibe of the town
• Crowds – The Sanctuary is popular, but this region is less touristic
• How long to plan – 1h just for the Sanctuary, half a day to enjoy the town and archaeological site as well
• Ease of visiting – it depends where you park…
• Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Arta

How to get to Arta

• Palma de Mallorca to Arta = 1h
• Alcudia to Arta = 40min drive
• You need to rent a car

There is a small carpark at the top of the hill to visit the sanctuary and a couple of very large carparks around the town (which require climbing to visit the sanctuary).

Best towns and villages in Mallorca – Map

Below is a map with the location of my top 10 towns and villages:

Need to rent a car in Mallorca?  My tips:

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:  Discovercars.com  – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Choose your car and company (prefer a smaller car for the narrow roads)
• Consider their full coverage option (I recommend it because of the narrow roads)
• Book early  to have a large choice of vehicles!

See my  36 tips about renting a car in Mallorca

#16 to 21 – 6 Best beach towns in Mallorca

In this article, I have focused on the most beautiful villages and tows to visit in Mallorca. But by “Best towns” you may mean the most practical for enjoying the beach and the island. In that case, my top 5 are:

#16 – Port d’Alcudia

Alcudia Bay is a large area with a long sandy beach all along. It is cut into 3 main “towns”:

• Port d’Alcudia (West side) – more town than resort, with the beautiful end of the lagoon and the port
• Platja de Muro (middle) – many accommodations feet on the beach
• Can Picafort (East) – wide choice of accommodations and restaurants

The advantages are a wide range of accommodations, easy access to the beach, easy access to main roads to explore the island and close to the most famous places such as Formentor and Sa Calobra.

See best rated accommodations

#17 – Colonia Sant Jordi

Colonia is a coastal resort town with a great atmosphere. It offers a lot with promenades, beaches, great restaurants, easy access to beautiful coves… The area has been settled since the Bronze age. Salt and fishing made it a prosperous village. Despite a few modern buildings, a lot of the town has been able to keep its charm with stone houses. Some nightlife, but rather quiet.

See best rated accommodations in Colonia Sant Jordi

#18 – Cala d’Or

Cala d’Or, the “Golden Bay”, is a very popular area on the South-East Coast. It is the gateway to many of the most beautiful coves (calas) in Mallorca. The town is characterized by the many small coves (rather than a long beach and bay). Therefore, there are many scenic places to enjoy. It is a resort town with all you could need for a holiday – beaches, shopping, nature reserves, nightlife… The most famous calas in Cala d’Or is Cala Esmeralda.

See best rated accommodations in Cala d’Or

#19 – Cala Millor

Cala Millor is a holiday resort. No charm of ancient houses, but everything you or your family could want: Lots of seafront accommodations, plenty of fun activities, shopping, restaurants… It is one of the best place to stay with families as adults and kids of every age will find something to do.

See best rated accommodations in Cala Millor

#20 – Port de Pollenca

Port de Pollensa is a wonderful area for those looking for a scenic, beachy destination. It is the gate town to the Formentor peninsula. The town center has higher building but the rest of the bay has mostly low-level buildings and little nightlife. It offers a quiet beach experience with stunning views.

See best rated accommodations in Port de Pollença

#21 – El Arenal, if you want to party

El Arenal is the ideal place for those looking for a long sandy beach mixed with active nightlife. Its 6km long beach ends with a large choice of accommodations and a large amount of bars and clubs. Also written S’Arenal or simply Arenal.

See best rated accommodations in El Arenal

Want to see more of Mallorca?

• 40 most beautiful landscapes in Mallorca (with pictures) – read article
• 7 Best Mallorca caves – read article
• 10 best calas in Mallorca (coves) – read article
• 12 Mallorca hidden gems, off the beaten path –  read article
• 21 most beautiful views in Mallorca – read article
• Mallorca travel tips – read article
• Driving in Mallorca – read article
• 21 Most beautiful towns and villages in Mallorca –  read article
• The unique Sa Calobra – road, beach, tips – read article
• Cap de Formentor (road, beach, lighthouse…) – read article

Planning a trip to Mallorca?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

And keep track of your own trip!

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Best Places In Majorca

Welcome to our best places in Majorca guide, if you’re looking for the inside info on the island’s places, towns and cities you’ve found it!

There are many beautiful places in Majorca to visit, the island really is a paradise for those willing to find it. ..read more

It doesn’t matter what type of holiday you’re looking for you can be sure that there’s a place in Majorca for you to visit that’s perfect for you.

The Best Places In Majorca Guide

We’ve put together a list of our favourite places on the island for you to visit, some well known and some hidden gems.

We’ve reviewed each place and judged it on suitability for families, easiness to get to, beauty and other such things that you’ll find important when deciding whether to visit.

For places such as Palma De Mallorca we’ve also took a look at the activities available to you from that place, town or city.

Last but not least you can see what other visitors thought of the area by checking out their reviews.

So, dive on in to our best places in Majorca guide and discover the many sides to this amazing island that we live on.

Soller is a beautiful historic town in Majorca where the mountains really do meet the sea. It is one of the oldest inhabited towns in the world with records going back to 5200 BC. Definitely a place to visit for history buffs.

Deia is a picturesque little town with a rich heritage of history. It is an extremely tranquil and beautiful place to visit for those that are looking to see some of the real Majorca and its people.

Cala Major has some of the best beaches in Majorca perfect for families looking to unwind while keeping the kids happy. It’s also very close to Palma so handy for trotting off on an excursion or activity for the day.

Portals Nous

Portals Nous is well known for it’s large yachting community and relaxing attitude to life. It’s a beautiful town that is well worth a visit for couples, families or anyone interested in taking it easy in nice surroundings.

Muro is a small town in the North of Mallorca is a typical rural town that you will find in Mallorca. It serves as the administrative town for the famous beach resort Playa de Muro….

Magaluf was solely built as a holiday resort and is a popular holiday resort for the people who are seeking a cheap party from the time they arrive until the time that they leave. It…

Calas De Mallorca

Calas de Mallorca is a resort town South East coast and about 70 km from the Capital Palma. It is a resort that is very popular for visitors that come from Europe and the UK….

The history of this town date backs as far as 2000 BC and it was inhabited by the Pretalayotic settlers and the burial sites can still be seen today. The town was eventually conquered by…

Cala d’Or

Cala d’Or is one of the nicest resorts that is situated on the east side of Mallorca. The people that visit this part of Mallorca have generally come to enjoy yachting, diving and have some cocktails at the beachfront bars. The beaches in this area are on the small side so in peak season they are very crowded. The resort is developed in the traditional Mediterranean style white buildings.

Palma De Mallorca

Palma De Mallorca is an absolutely stunning town that is rich in history that dates back as far back as the 13th Century. It has been inhabited by the Moors, Romans and Talayotic people.

The Best Towns to Stay in Mallorca (Where to Base Yourself)

Planning a trip to Mallorca takes a little bit of strategy. And choosing a good place to stay in Mallorca can make your trip all that much more memorable. The island is much larger than most visitors realize so a bit of planning can cut down on drive time and make your trip more convenient.

I’ve had my fair share of visits to Mallorca. The first one was for over a week and the most recent, my family and I lived on the island for almost 6 weeks. I’ve done a lot of research on Mallorca, visited dozens of towns, and stayed at a fair share of hotels.

As you start to plan your Mallorca trip, you’ll quickly realize that there is a lot to see. My first tip is that if you’re there for under a week, it’s to know that you can’t do it all. But you can do the major highlights on both the western and eastern sides of the Balearic island in under 7 days.

Even on our first trip, we skipped Palma de Mallorca entirely (mostly because it was similar to our other home base of Barcelona). We focused entirely on coastal areas , hilltop villages , and beaches . I’m glad we did because what we experienced outside of Palma led us to return for over a month.

So I have some different ideas and planning strategies for where to stay in Mallorca. A few towns that ( in my opinion ) make for a great home base for exploring. I consider things like proximity, ease of exploring, and what is available in town if you don’t feel like adventuring out.

Read on to learn about where to stay in Mallorca, the best towns, and recommendations for hotels in those areas.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for Where to Stay in Mallorca:

• Deiá (Staying at Belmond La Residencia ) , for the best northwest location
• Santanyí (Staying at Can Ferrereta ) , for the best southeast location

For more on both towns, don’t miss my travel guides to Deiá and Santanyí . If you’re looking to explore more of the island, be sure to check out my full island travel guide and my roundup of the best hotels and best beaches on the island!

Where to Stay in Mallorca: Best Towns to Base Yourself

The best towns to stay in mallorca (for 4-7 days).

I always recommend the same two locations to friends and family for where to stay and see the best of the island.

These are great for a first-time, 4 to 7-day visit to the island, with time split evenly in both. With the two locations, you’ll be within arms reach of the best things to do on both sides of the island. It also gives you a very different experience in terms of landscape and scenery.

Here’s a map of the island for reference:

Best Northwest Mallorca Location: Deiá or Valldemossa

On the northwestern side of Mallorca are the famous hilltop mountain villages. Spanning from Valldemossa up to Sóller. There are several villages to choose from, my two recommendations are Deiá or Valldemossa for a first-time trip.

Both of these villages are within earshot of each other, but if I could choose, I’d go with Deiá . It’s closer to the sea, the village is very elevated in terms of dining, accommodations, and boutiques. Valldemossa is equally nice, but more old-world feeling and is just a bit further south.

The downside of Deiá is that accommodations run pricier, which is why Valldemossa is my second choice if there’s not something in the budget. Both villages have dining which makes it convenient if you want to just come back at night and stroll out for dinner.

You’ll be close to the highlights of this side of the island like the villages, the larger port town of Sóller, hiking in the Tramuntana mountains, and more.

Recommended Time: 2-4 Nights

Where to stay in deiá.

• Belmond La Residencia , for the best luxury hotel
• Es Moli , for the best design for dollar hotel
• Hotel d’Es Puig , for the best budget-friendly stay

Where to Stay in Valldemossa

• Hotel Valldemossa ,  for the best countryside hotel
• Mirabó de Valldemossa ,  for the best luxury hotel
• Ca’s Papà ,  for the best design for dollar hotel

Best Southeast Mallorca Location: Ses Salines or Santanyí

On the eastern side of the island is where the best beaches and calas are. If you’ve seen those famous photos of turquoise waters, it’s likely there. Picking a base here is important because getting to the beach early is a must in high season.

My first choice is Santanyí or within earshot of Santanyí in a smaller town like Ses Salines. We lived in Ses Salines for our long stint, and it was perfect for exploring the eastern side.

Santanyí does get very busy, so for those who want a quieter experience but are only 10 minutes away, Ses Salines has the village experience. Both of these or even anything in between are great for getting around.

Where to Stay in Santanyí

• Can Ferrereta ,  for the best adults-only hotel
• S’Hotelet de Santanyi ,  for the best overall hotel
• Cal Reiet Holistic Retreat ,  for the best countryside hotel

Where to Stay in Ses Salines

• Villa Station by Cassai , for the best villa stay
• Sa Carrotja ,  for the best adults-only hotel

Other Great Towns in Mallorca to Stay In

You may be visiting for longer or even wanting to explore a bit differently. Below, I’ve listed out a few of my other favorite villages for a Mallorca trip. Some of the other towns and villages are smaller, more off-the-beaten-path, and others are well known.

You could easily add any of these to your Mallorca itinerary, or even sub one out if you feel one area drawing you in.

In the north of the island is the valley town of Pollença, sitting at the base of the Tramuntana Mountains. It’s close to the Port de Pollença (Puerto Pollensa) and Port d’Alcudia. I personally did not like Port de Pollença or Port d’Alcudia (gave me Cancun vibes?), but the valley itself backing into Pollença town was magical.

If you base yourself there in the town or countryside outskirts, you’re close to a lot to enjoy on the northern tip. Areas like Cala Sant Vicenç and Platja de Formentor (superb) are under a 30-minute drive. Cala Bóquer and more of the Formentor Peninsula are there as well.

I’d say it’s somewhere between popular and not as popular – not near the crowds of Sóller for instance.

Recommended Time: 2-3 Nights

Where to stay in pollença.

• Son Brull Hotel & Spa , for the best overall resort hotel
• Mon Boutique Hotel , for the best boutique city hotel
• Can Aulí Luxury Retreat , for the best adults-only hotel

While Deià and Valldemossa are wonderful little villages if you’re looking for something bigger, head to Sóller. It’s the largest of the towns on the western side of Mallorca. You have two parts to the town — the port of Sóller and the village itself inland.

It’s a built-out city with many sights to see, you can even take the tram from the village down to the water. If you’re looking for the biggest town to stay in on this side of the island, then Sóller is it.

Recommended Time: 2 Nights

Where to stay in sóller.

• Hotel Ca’n Roses , for the best chic hotel
• Hotel Salvia , for the best in-town hotel
• Finca Hotel Can Coll , for the best adults-only hotel
• Ca’s Xorc , for the best romantic stay

Head a bit further north of Sóller and you’ll find the quiet village of Fornalutx. While many visitors pass through on hiking excursions, this is my pick for “off-the-beaten-path.”

We came here a few times and only 15 minutes north of Sóller, it felt a world away from the crowds. It’s well worth considering this as a base or even an add-on. You’ll get the quiet village feel along with the amazing views.

Where to stay in Fornalutx

• Sa Tanqueta de Fornalutx , for the best luxury apartment hotel
• Hotel Can Verdera , for the best boutique hotel

Located on the southwest coast of Mallorca, this fishing village is a local favorite. You have several wonderful beaches and small ports nearby and access to the western side.

It tends to run more quieter than say other port and beach towns in Mallorca. So it’s well worth considering this one as a base as well, and not all that far from the bustling port of Andratx.

Where to Stay in Sant Elm

• Zafiro Palace Andratx , for the best 5-star hotel nearby

Palma de Mallorca

While I tend to recommend Palma de Mallorca as a last stop for a night or two, it’s still worth considering adding to an itinerary. The city is vibrant, there is incredible food and wonderful shopping.

You have several monuments to explore like the Grand Cathedral and a handful of museums as well. Palma de Mallorca is somewhere I would consider adding to a trip if you have the time.

Recommended Time: 1-2 Nights

Where to stay in palma de mallorca.

• Hotel Antigua Palma ,  for the best boutique hotel
• Sant Francesc Singular ,  for the best luxury hotel

Artà is arguably the most up-and-coming part of Mallorca. With the hip Es Racó d’Artà really putting the town on the map as a destination, so much has opened since.

You’re close to many of the best, quieter calas and beaches on the northeastern side of Mallorca. The town itself feels rather local, with charming streets and bustling restaurants. I’d recommend Artà for those looking to travel a bit more slowly.

Where to Stay in Artà

• Es Racó d’Artà , for the best hotel
• Yartan Boutique Hotel , for the best boutique stay
• Finca Sestelrica , for the best countryside stay

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Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

Related Posts

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Fornalutx, Mallorca

The 17 Best Luxury Hotels in Mallorca (2024)

Costa Brava, Spain: Best Things to Do 2024

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12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Mallorca (Majorca)

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Mallorca is a gorgeous Mediterranean island with beautiful weather, stunning scenery, and delicious cuisine. The largest of the Balearic Islands , Mallorca is part of Spain but has a more rugged landscape and otherworldly quality. Rocky mountains and lush wooded hillsides fall steeply down to the sea.

The joy of Mallorca is the combination of culture and nature. Along the picturesque coastline, dramatic cliffs offer sensational viewpoints, and pristine coves sparkle with crystal-clear waters. When it comes to sightseeing, you can choose from many historic towns and charming villages that are brimming with medieval churches, ancient castles, and art museums.

In the same day, you can visit the glorious Gothic cathedral of Palma de Mallorca, then sunbathe on a pristine beach. You might stroll through the walled medieval village of Alcúdia, then be inspired by a 15th-century monastery, or relax at the glamorous seaside resort of Puerto Portals.

With so many options packed into this idyllic island, it's easy to find reasons to stay for a week's vacation or longer. Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Majorca.

See also: Where to Stay in Mallorca (Majorc)

1. The Cultured Capital City of Palma de Mallorca

2. alcúdia's old town, 3. puerto portals: a glamorous seaside resort, 4. the hilltop town and monastery of valldemossa, 5. port de sóller's beautiful seaside scenery, 6. llucmajor beaches, 7. the port town of pollença, 8. artà's picturesque historic town, 9. deià: a charming artists' village, 10. the quiet country town of petra, 11. cala figuera: a fishing port, 12. the calvià coastline, where to stay in mallorca for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in mallorca (majorca).

The seaside capital city of Palma de Mallorca dazzles you with its alluring Mediterranean setting and abundance of cultural attractions. Two impressive monuments, the cathedral and the castle, give this city the prestige of other capitals in Europe.

The monumental Catedral de Mallorca (La Seu) overlooks the Old Harbor and appears from a distance as a beacon of faith. You are awed by the 6,600-square-meter interior of the cathedral with its aisled nave rising to a height of 44 meters.

Splendid stained-glass windows including several rose windows (the largest dates from 1370) illuminate the sanctuary with an ethereal glow. Much of the interior was remodeled by famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí in the early 20th century.

In the cathedral's Capilla Real (Royal Chapel), Gaudí's gigantic baldachin is shaped like a crown of thorns. The Capilla de la Trinidad contains the sarcophagi of Kings Jaime II and III.

You may visit the cathedral Monday through Saturday. Admission requires a ticket and includes an audio guide. Guided tours are available on Saturdays. From the terrace on the south side of the cathedral, you can admire a magnificent view of the bay.

The cathedral holds a Mass celebration daily at 9am (9:55am on Sundays). Mass celebrations are also held at 7pm on Saturdays and at 10:30am, 12pm, and 7pm on Sundays.

A surprising 14th-century fortress, the Castillo de Bellver is found on a hilltop three kilometers from the historic center of Palma de Mallorca. The castle's unusual circular plan was influenced by Eastern architecture. The castle is open daily, year-round and has a history museum.

A top cultural attraction is the Fundación Miró Mallorca . This exceptional museum displays its collection in the art studios where Joan Miró worked. This museum displays a collection of paintings, drawings, and sculptures created by Miró.

If you prefer to lounge by the sea, the closest option is near the Miró Foundation at the Cala Major . This wide sandy beach is very popular during summertime. Other beaches include the Playa de Palma and the Playa del Arenal .

The picturesque town of Alcúdia has a distinct old-world ambience, with its winding medieval streets and palatial Renaissance mansions. This wonderfully preserved walled medieval town is also known for its delicious cuisine and traditional festivals.

The town lies a distance from the sea and was fortified to protect against pirates that were a danger during the Middle Ages. Of the ancient ramparts, only the Xara and Palma gates and the Renaissance-era Bastion of Sant Ferran remain.

Important churches include Santa Ana and Sant Jaume and the Baroque chapel of Sant Crist with a 15th-century image of Christ.

Alcúdia also has archaeological sites as the town was built on the site of an ancient Roman settlement. Remains of Roman houses, a forum, and an amphitheater lie to the south of Sant Jaume Church.

Several interesting tourist attractions are found outside the town. A great place for bird-watching, the Parc Natural de S'Albufera de Mallorca attracts more than two hundred species of birds throughout the year.

A popular nearby seaside destination is Puerto Alcúdia . This resort area has a sandy beach, a stylish seaside promenade, and a happening restaurant scene. The coastline around this area also has many pristine coves of crystal-clear water.

The Museo Sa Bassa Blanca displays a top-notch collection of modern and contemporary art. Open Wednesday through Sunday, this eclectic museum is seven kilometers from Alcudia in a seaside garden setting with a sculpture park.

This glamorous seaside resort on the Southwest Coast of Majorca is a favorite destination of the Spanish royal family and other trendsetting visitors. As you would expect of a fashionable seaside resort, upscale restaurants and designer boutiques line the waterfront of the yacht-filled marina. Flashy cars (Ferraris and Porsches are common) add to the scene.

Many of the cafés and restaurants have outdoor patios to soak up the sunshine and the scenery. Top choices include Restaurante Flanigan , which serves Mediterranean cuisine; Ritzi , a happening spot that offers live entertainment; Baiben , a restaurant with a Michelin-starred chef; and the Cappuccino Grand Café , which has fabulous terrace seating beneath shady umbrellas.

Nearby, Marineland Mallorca is a favorite attraction for families with kids. Children love visiting the aquarium, watching the parrot show, and seeing marine animals up close (including "dolphin encounters" and watching seal, penguin, and sea lion feedings).

Valldemossa is an enchanting hilltop village with cobbled pedestrian streets, narrow alleyways, and old stone buildings. At the center of the town , a pleasant tree-shaded square (the Plaza Ramon Llull ) provides an inviting spot for bustling outdoor cafés.

Valldemossa is blessed with a spectacular setting between the Tramuntana Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. The lush terraced hillside surrounding the village leads down to beaches and coves.

Below the hilltop town is a lovely harbor, the Port de Valldemossa, which still feels like a little fishing village. If you like seafood, you will enjoy sampling the specialties at local restaurants.

The Real Cartuja de Valldemossa , a magnificent Carthusian monastery, was built in the 14th century on the site of an ancient Moorish Alcázar. For more than four hundred years, this serene setting offered spiritual inspiration to the Carthusian Monks who prayed and lived here.

Pianist Frédéric Chopin and novelist George Sand spent the winter of 1838-1839 at the monastery. During the time they lived here, Chopin composed Raindrop Prelude and other works, and George Sand wrote her famous book, A Winter on Majorca .

The expansive grounds of the monastery also include the 14th-century Palacio Rey Sancho built for King Jaime II.

Today, the monastery complex is open to the public Monday through Saturday. With your ticket, you will have access to visit the monastery's church, a historic pharmacy, the former monks' quarters, the Palacio Rey Sancho, a 16th-century tower, and exquisite gardens. As part of your visit, you may attend a 15-minute piano recital featuring compositions of Frédéric Chopin.

This lovely old fishing village is tucked away behind mountains and an idyllic valley, an expanse of olive groves and citrus orchards that extends from the historic town of Sóller to the sea. The Port de Sóller has a picturesque marina filled with many small boats and yachts.

Traveling here from Palma de Mallorca, you can take the Ferrocarril de Sóller . The scenic train ride travels through the Sierra de Alfàbia mountains. The Palma-Sóller railway dates back to 1912.

The Ferrocarril de Sóller company also operates a tram route from Port de Sóller to Sóller , a charming historic town that's definitely worth visiting! This route travels through picturesque citrus orchards in the Valle de los Naranjos (Valley of the Oranges).

About six kilometers from Sóller, the Jardines de Alfabia estate is a haven of tranquility and natural beauty. The luxuriant gardens, set at the foot of the Tramuntana Mountains, combine Mediterranean vegetation with leafy English-style landscaping. The property is open every day from April through October from 9:30am until 6:30pm.

The coast of Llucmajor has everything you need for a sunny beach vacation. This spectacular 45-kilometer stretch of Mallorca's southwest coastline has many beautiful coves and sandy beaches.

The beaches of Llucmajor begin about 15 kilometers south of Palma de Mallorca. The area includes over a dozen villages as well as modern resort developments, where you can choose from a wide variety of accommodations.

The calm waters of El Arenal Beach are ideal for swimming, while part of the beach is a designated surfing area. Amenities include a yacht club, tourist office, and public toilets. Sun umbrellas, loungers, and water sports equipment are available to rent.

In a protected inlet, the Cala Pi beach has natural charm despite being surrounded by hotels and housing. Cala Pi is a sandy beach with gentle crystal-clear waters that are ideal for scuba diving. Sunbathers can rent umbrellas and loungers.

Another option is the small cove next to the Cala Blava residential area. This sandy beach is very quiet and offers sensational views of Palma Bay.

Near the coast of Llucmajor (at a charming country estate in Capdepera) is the Michelin-starred Restaurante Andreu Genestra. The restaurant specializes in traditional cuisine of the region, with contemporary haute-cuisine flair. The estate includes olive groves, vineyards, and a vegetable garden, which provides organic ingredients for the chef's kitchen.

Pollença is known for its bustling port and beautiful bay of mesmerizing deep blue seas. In the shadow of the Pollença and Calvari Mountains, the charming medieval town has two important churches.

Nuestra Señora de los Angeles (Our Lady of Angels) is the town's 18th-century parish church built on the site of a 13th-century church.

From the Nuestra Señora de los Angeles church, a cypress-lined staircase of 365 steps leads up the Iglesia de Puig del Calvari , a Baroque pilgrimage chapel.

The historic center of town is only steps away from the beaches.

A popular family-friendly resort is the Port de Pollença . This gorgeous white-sand beach features an expansive shoreline and moderate waves. The beach has cafés, restaurants, a yacht club, water sports rentals, public toilets, and showers. Sun parasols and lounge chairs are available for rent.

Cala en Gossalba is an isolated beach in a remote protected location, accessible by foot or boat. The shore is gravelly rather than sandy. Both Cala en Gossalba are Port de Pollença beaches are ideal for scuba diving.

About six kilometers away from Pollença is the old fishing village of Puerto de Pollença . From here, a scenic road runs 21 kilometers northeast to Cabo Formentor at the end of a long, narrow peninsula.

One of Mallorca's most luxurious hotels is found on the Cabo Formentor overlooking the sea. The palatial Formentor, a Royal Hideaway Hotel provides sumptuous accommodations next to a sandy beach with crystal-clear waters. This five-star resort features an outdoor swimming pool, Mediterranean gardens, tennis courts, and several restaurants.

The historic town of Artà is tucked into a valley that flourishes with almond, olive, and fig orchards. The mountains of Artà provide a lovely backdrop with the rolling hills extending into the distance. In fact, Artà derives its name from the Arabic word for "garden" ( jertan ).

From the town's parish church, the Iglesia de Transfiguración del Señor, a cypress-shaded avenue leads up to the hilltop where a fortress and the Santuari de Sant Salvador (chapel) stand overlooking the town and the verdant countryside.

Artà still has the remains of its ancient ramparts, which seem to dominate the town, and many palatial old manor houses, such as Na Batlessa , which today is home to the Municipal Library.

Outside of Artà is the archaeological site Ses Paísses , the Monasterio de Santa Maria de Bellpuig , the 17th-century Franciscan convent of Sant Antoni de Pádua, and the Ermita de Betlem (hermitage) surrounded by a rugged landscape of scrubland and rocky hills.

Another attraction in the area (12 kilometers from Artà) is the Cuevas de Artá , a system of caves that contain impressive stalactites and stalagmites. You may take a 40-minute guided tour, available in English. The site is open year-round daily, except for closures on December 25th and January 1st.

This charming artists' village stands on a ravine surrounded by rolling hills and fragrant citrus plantations in the Valley of the Oranges, just a 20-minute drive from Sóller. The town's quaint stone houses feature tiled roofs and vividly painted shutters, typical of rural Mediterranean architecture.

The famous poet Robert Graves appreciated the peaceful setting and lived in the town for many years, inspiring other creative types to follow. The house where Graves lived, Ca n'Alluny , is now a museum, the Casa Museo de Robert Graves.

The town is well known for its cuisine and boasts several top restaurants: Es Racó d'es Teix , a gastronomic restaurant with an outdoor patio overlooking the Tramuntana Mountains; the award-winning El Olivo restaurant in the dreamy five-star Belmond La Residencia hotel; and the Restaurante Sebastian , which serves seasonal cuisine in a romantic dining room or on a garden terrace shaded by olive and lemon trees.

Beyond the historic center of Deià are several worthwhile tourist attractions. The Cala Deià is a small rocky cove with a tiny pebble beach and crystal-clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming. This sheltered beach has minimal facilities: public restrooms, showers, and two restaurants.

A hidden gem along Mallorca's coastline is found outside of Deià, the serene Monestir de Miramar overlooking dramatic cliffs and the deep blue sea. Open to the public as a museum (admission fee required), the monastery dates back to the 13th century.

In a sublime setting near the monastery, the Son Marroig estate houses a museum devoted to the nature studies of Archduke Ludwig Salvator. The site is open to the public (admission fee) Monday through Saturday. The estate hosts a summertime open-air music festival. The Mediterranean gardens and terraces are often used as a wedding venue, prized for the panoramic sea views.

Petra is a quiet country town 43 kilometers from Palma de Mallorca and is listed as a Property of Cultural Interest. The most important sight is the convent where Friar Junípero went to school.

The town also has a museum, the Casa Museu de Fra Juníper Serra , which illustrates the life and work of Friar Junípero Serra, who was born in Petra.

Another tribute to the famous missionary is the Junipero Serra Festival held every year on the third Sunday of September. This lively event features parades with impressive floats and colorful floral offerings.

Other interesting monuments in Petra include the Iglesia de San Pedro , a Gothic church with a fortress-like facade; the Convento de Sant Bernardí, a peaceful retreat created for the Franciscans; and the Santuario de Nostra Senyora de Bonany (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Bonany), a Neo-Baroque church that presides over a hilltop.

Cala Figuera is a charming fishing village with a laid-back vibe. The town's white-washed houses are clustered around a hillside that reaches the waterfront. Here, many local fishermen take care of their daily task of mending nets.

At the earliest hours of the morning, the fresh catches of the day arrive at the docks, ready to be sold at the market and then prepared into delicious seafood dishes.

As expected of a seaside town, Cala Figuera offers a great selection of seafood restaurants that serve fresh local fish. Along the harbor, a scenic walking path follows the water's edge and then leads up into the cliffs. Rewarding views of the bay make the journey worthwhile.

For summertime recreation, a popular place to visit is four kilometers south of Cala Figuera at Cala Santanyí . This family-friendly beach is prized for its sandy shoreline, calm crystal-clear waters, and well-organized facilities. Things to do include swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

The Calvià coastline extends 50 kilometers, winding around a spectacular landscape of foothills, cliffs, and bays. This area boasts many excellent beaches and remote isles, beckoning sun-worshippers and nature lovers.

One of the prettiest beaches is Cala Vinyes , a small sandy shore with gentle waters ideal for swimming and bathing. Umbrella and lounge chair rentals are available, however, the site has no public toilet facilities.

The fine golden-sand shoreline of the Playa de Palma Nova extends for one kilometer and is well equipped with public toilets, showers, rentals for umbrellas and lounge chairs, snack bars, and cafés. Families appreciate this Blue Flag beach because it has lifeguards; children's playgrounds; and clean, calm waters ideal for swimming. The beach is also great for water sports and scuba diving.

Other beaches along the Calvià coastline include the Playas Paguera , an urban beach with public facilities, and Playa de Santa Ponsa , an expansive beach with a yacht club, sun umbrella and lounge chair rentals, and lifeguard surveillance.

Luxury Hotels :

• The four-star AH Art Hotel Palma in Palma de Mallorca is a stylish boutique hotel in a convenient central location near many tourist attractions. The hotel decor blends contemporary style with antique furnishing. Amenities include a concierge, paid parking, bicycle rentals, and complimentary breakfast.
• Another boutique hotel in Palma de Mallorca, the four-star Posada Terra Santa offers a wide range of amenities, including an outdoor pool, sauna, restaurant with room service, and complimentary breakfast; there is also an on-site full-service spa.
• Tourists looking for a sophisticated hotel in trendy Port de Pollença will appreciate the Hoposa Hotel Pollentia , a four-star establishment located right on the beach. Amenities include a rooftop swimming pool and sundeck with cabana beds, a fitness center, snack bar, restaurant, and evening entertainment. Complimentary breakfast is available.
• The four-star Ferrer Concord Hotel & Spa is a stylish beachfront hotel in C'an Picafort that offers an all-inclusive option. Amenities include a restaurant, spa, fitness center, sauna, and outdoor pool.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• The four-star Hotel Can Mostatxins is located in Alcúdia in two historic buildings. Guest rooms feature minimalistic contemporary-style decor and updated bathrooms. Amenities include a full-service spa with indoor pools, and a complimentary buffet breakfast.
• A family-friendly hotel in Playa de Muro, the four-star Viva Blue & Spa is just 100 meters from the beach and close to a nature reserve. The hotel offers a kids' club and a large outdoor swimming pool. Spacious guest rooms and suites feature kitchenettes.

Budget Hotels :

• A reasonably priced three-star option in Port de Pollença is the Hoposa Hotel Bahia . Nestled in a protected bay right next to the beach, the hotel has a good restaurant with pleasant outdoor seating. Many guest rooms have sea views. Accommodations include a complimentary breakfast buffet.
• The Pension Bellavista in Port de Pollença offers youth hostel-style accommodations near the beach. The pension has a restaurant that is the area's only vegetarian (and vegan) restaurant. Other amenities include a rooftop terrace and laundry service.
• In a quiet neighborhood outside the center of Palma de Mallorca, the Hotel Abelux is a modern hotel with air-conditioned guest rooms. Some rooms feature private balconies. This two-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, concierge, bicycle rentals, and a breakfast buffet.

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The prettiest towns and places in Mallorca

By Sophie Knight

Craggy mountains, gin-clear waters and lazy fishing villages – plus a thriving capital with a restaurant and bar scene to suit every foodie. Mallorca ’s prettiest places don't just edge its astounding coast but are scattered throughout the island ’s rugged interior, too. These are the prettiest places to visit in Mallorca.

Valldemossa

Sitting snug in a valley of the Tramuntana mountains, Valldemossa is a small village that’s perfect for a pit-stop on a northwest-coast road trip , and a brilliant base for avid hikers. Winding streets lead to the Carthusian Monastery which stands pretty in the centre of town. Streets are filled with an eclectic mix of cacti, biblical mosaics and ice cream shops.

Soaring coastal views and a jigsaw of old stone houses that cling to the rocks arguably make Deià the prettiest village on the island. There are plenty of places to stop for lunch here, including Ca’s Patro March, a ramshackle beach restaurant, which is only a short but exhilarating drive away along hairpin turns. It’s also home to one of our favourite places to stay on the island – La Residencia by Belmond .

Deià, Mallorca

Cala Figuera

During the day, boats bob along as the tide flows in and out of this pine tree-lined bay. But at around 5pm, this sleepy fishing village comes alive when local fishermen sail in their daily catch. Watch as the fish are frantically boxed-up and delivered to the local restaurants – octopus, turbot, sole, squid and even shark. With few places to stay, this little town has few tourists.

Cala Figuera, Mallorca

This lively hamlet set in a deep valley draws plenty of visitors. The restaurants facing the main square become busy in the summer months, yes, but you’ll find plenty hidden along the back streets. Hop aboard the orange tram and ride 3km out of town to Port de Sóller, soaking up the sea views out the window as you putter along.

Head to the historic centre of Pollença where you’ll find Plaça Major, the main square lined with pizzerias and pretty little cafés. North of the square, take on the 365-step climb which leads to Calvar chapel and absorb the views . 

Back in the square, head down the narrow cobbled streets dotted with shops selling pottery, and hand-crafted home interiors. Marvel at Mare de Deu dels Angels Parish Church and admire the intricate interiors and colourful stained glass window, which – when graced with the right sunlight – illuminates the space.

Charlotte Davey

Lee Marshall

Arati Menon

Connor Sturges

Pollença, Mallorca

Ca's Patró March

A sharp turning that’s easily missed, after a very bendy drive down from Deià, and you’ll find Ca's Patró March. A fresh seafood restaurant peeking over the sea, to the right there’s a rocky beach (admittedly not the comfiest on the island, but still full of sun soakers spending a restful afternoon). There are only a few parking spaces which fill up quickly in summer, so plan ahead. As tables are snapped up quickly, put your name down on the waiting list and snooze in the sun while you wait for your spot. Sip on Aperol Spritz and chilled white wine, while fish is served whole and straight from the grill.

Ca's Patró March, Mallorca 

Es Calo des Moro Beach

Park up and take on a 20-minute walk along quiet residential streets and a dirt path before you finally hit Es Calo des Moro Beach. The climb is steep and rocky, but worth it if you’re able, as it ends with a dip in the cool, clear Mediterranean waters. The sea is calm and perfect for snorkelling and swimming around the bay. However, sand is prime real estate and there’s little of it so you may have to make yourself comfy on the rocks.

Caló des Moro, Mallorca

Cala s'Almunia

You hit this pretty jetty on your way to the more popular Es Calo des Moro beach. Opposite is Es Maquer, a small pebble beach that’s only a few metres long.

Saturday in Santanyí is market day. Narrow streets are lined with stalls, locals and tourists flock from neighbouring towns. It's a sensory overload, from fresh fruit and vegetables, cheese and meats, flowers, hand-craft goods to vintage clothes.

Home to the airport and a major port, this capital city acts as the main entryway in Mallorca. Go shopping on the residential streets that double up as a designer shopping district, check out the historic sites of Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca, or cool off in a swimming pool at a trendy beach club – we recommend white washed Purobeach. As the sun dips beneath the horizon, spend the evening drinking cocktails at one of the many swanky rooftop bars.

Palma, Mallorca

Mirador Es Colomer

Located along the northern tip, this viewing point is an all-year-round winner and the ultimate sundowner spot. Panoramic views of the coastline are dramatised on a windy day as the waves crash below, while on a clear day in summer, benefit from 360-degree views.

Mirador Es Colomer, Mallorca

Cala Llombards

A flour-soft, sandy cove on the southeast coast with an onsite beach bar serving fresh fish, sangria and ice cream. There are sunbeds and umbrellas for those who prefer to spend the day soaking up the sun and plenty of rocky outcrops which have become diving hotspots for those brave enough. The sea is relatively calm making it a great place for snorkelling – admire the rustic fisherman huts as you bob along.

Cala Llombards, Mallorca

Tramuntana Mountain road trip

No Mallorcan adventure would be complete without a road trip through and around Tramuntana Mountain. Keep your eyes wide open as you weave around breathtaking bends, narrow tunnels and hundreds of cyclists who make you feel incredibly unfit. There are olive groves, unbeatable sea views and lots of towns to visit along the way.

Tramuntana Mountains, 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…

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

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

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

You’re at the right place!

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

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

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

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

Let’s find out!

1. Palma de Mallorca

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In the southeast of Mallorca , you can find:

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

The beaches where to swim in the north of Mallorca :

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

Beaches in Southwest Mallorca

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

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

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

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

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

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

The best boat trips in Mallorca:

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

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

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

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

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

Dolphin watching cruise in Mallorca

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

Boat party in Mallorca

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book this excursion in Mallorca by clicking here!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can find all the information on the official website .

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

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

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

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

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

What to do in Mallorca when it rains?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your sea caving adventure by clicking here!

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

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

For water sports in Mallorca , consider trying:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You’ve been warned!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The setting is truly peaceful and enjoyable.

Entry tickets for Alfabia Gardens are available by clicking here!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some handy tips for exploring Mallorca by bike:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The 15 Best Things to do in Majorca, Spain

Majorca (Mallorca) is best known for its beaches and its nightlife, but trust us when we say that the largest island in the Balearics has much more to offer than sun, sand, and sangria!

Of course, Majorca has those three delights in abundance, and we won’t judge anyone who wants to spend their vacation on a beautiful Majorcan beach, sipping cocktails, and ordering up plate after plate of tapas and paella. Even if that’s your plan, though, you might find it thwarted when you realize just how many must-visit Majorca attractions there are to see!

In Palma, the island’s capital city, you can explore Gothic streets, walk through medieval palaces, and be awed by the imposing architecture of the cathedral. There are Michelin-starred restaurants to dine at, famous bakeries serving up sweet treats, and more local wines than you could reasonably hope to try on one holiday. 

Majorca is made for exploring. There are epic road trips to be had along the coast, the Tramuntana Mountains are home to long-distance walking trails, and no itinerary is ever complete without a catamaran cruise and a day of snorkeling or diving in the Mediterranean Sea. 

With so many great things to see and do, you might not know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Majorca to help you plan the perfect trip. Stick to these fun and unique Majorca bucket list recommendations, and we have no doubt that you’re going to have an unforgettable time exploring this gorgeous Spanish island!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to do in Majorca, Spain

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun Things to do in Majorca

1. lounge on a majorcan beach.

First up is the beach! After all, Majorca’s beaches are some of the best in Spain ! There’s no doubt that Majorca is one of Europe’s most popular holiday islands, and the beaches are a major part of the draw. 

You’ll find that the most popular stretch of coastline runs from Palma and goes east across Palma Bay to S’Arenal. This is where you’ll find the island’s major hotels and resorts, as well as an extremely long promenade that’s perfect for a long walk or bike ride.

This is where you’ll find S’Arenal Beach. In the summer season, you can rent sun loungers and order cold beers and jugs of sangria from the many beachfront bars and restaurants. If you’re in full holiday mode, then this is the beach for you! 

But S’Arenal Beach isn’t the only beach in Majorca – although it is the most accessible. Travel over to the more remote northeastern side of the island, and you can find Canyamel Beach, a long strip of white sand that’s backed by luxury resorts, mountains, and golf courses. 

Travel to Pollensa Bay, and you can enjoy sheltered beaches and fresh seafood on the island’s northern tip, while the nearby Alcudia Beach is one of the longest stretches of sand in Majorca. Across the island, you’ll find many hidden beaches and coves, too. 

Plus, outside of the summer high season, it’s not difficult to find a secluded spot far away from the crowds. Rent a car or a bicycle, and just follow the coast until you find your dream Majorcan beach!

2. Explore Cobblestone Streets in Palma’s Old Town

Once you’ve had your fill of sun, sea, and sand, then why not spend a day immersed in history and Gothic architecture in Palma? The city’s Old Town – or El Casco Antiguo, as the locals call it – is one of the best Majorca sightseeing destinations. You can easily spend hours strolling through its charming alleyways and losing your way on the cobblestone streets. 

Bring a map (and, if possible, a sense of direction) because the likelihood is high that you will get lost! That’s not too much of a problem, because the Old Town is compact, and there’s something new (and old) around every corner. 

You can start at the cathedral, which is right next to the Royal Palace of Almudaina. Here you’ll find the elaborate walls and fortifications that were built to defend Palma from pirates and invasions. If you look to the south, you’ll have beautiful views over the Bay of Palma. 

Head inland, and you’ll soon find yourself walking in the shadows of historic townhouses and old convents and monasteries as you make your way slowly toward the Plaza Mayor. This is the center of Palma, where you can pop into excellent museums – including Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum – or stop off at tapas restaurants and bars for refreshments. 

3. Be Awed by Palma’s Cathedral

Palma’s awe-inspiring cathedral is one of the best sights in Majorca. Known to locals as La Seu, the tall spires of the cathedral can be seen from any vantage point in the city. In fact, the cathedral is so prominent that you can see it from miles away, further along the coast!

Palma Cathedral was built in an imposing Gothic style, and work began in the early 13th century. The cathedral was built to awe, and that’s because it was built on the ruins of what was a former Muslim Mosque. 

Palma was a Moorish island for many centuries, but during the Reconquista, Muslims either converted to Catholicism or were evicted from Majorca. Palma Cathedral, constructed on the orders of the Spanish King, would have been deliberately designed as an imposing place of worship for the island.

The sheer size of the cathedral is impressive, but just wait until you walk inside the hallowed entrance. The interior is on an even grander scale than the exterior. Plus, you’re sure to be amazed at the artwork, the dioramas, and the riches that are found inside. 

If you can, we recommend joining a guided tour of Palma Cathedral. That way, you can learn more about the intriguing history behind the cathedral and the many changes and redesigns that the building has gone through over the centuries. 

Get Your Entry Ticket

4. Find the Best Ensaimada in Majorca

Majorca is home to many unique dishes, but ensaimadas are one of the island’s most popular culinary traditions. If you’re a fan of baked goods, you’ll quickly find out that ensaimadas are rather addictive!

Ensaimadas are traditionally prepared for festivals and holidays, and the secret ingredient is typically lard. The lard is mixed with a dough and then hand-stretched into a circular spiral or snail shape before being baked in an oven.

These days, ensaimadas come in all different flavors, with different fillings and different toppings – both sweet and savory – for you to try. You’ll see enormous, full-sized ensaimadas being sold in what look like takeaway pizza boxes, but you can also buy smaller portions at the bakeries. 

Palma has some of the best-known ensaimada bakeries in Majorca. Horno San Cristo has been baking since 1910, and they are well known for their pumpkin ensaimadas. Even older than this is Ca’n Joan de s’Aigo , where you’ll find traditional ensaimadas that have been baked in the same style for 300 years. 

5. Dine in a Michelin-Starred Restaurant

If you love good food, you’ve come to the right island! Mallorca has an incredibly rich culinary history, and the dining scene on the island is characterized by fresh produce that’s been brought straight from the farms or the ocean to the kitchen.

Majorca’s chefs love to serve fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients in their restaurants, and many of the island’s best eateries have been recognized in Michelin guides and with Michelin stars! 

In Palma, book a table at DINS to experience the culinary delights cooked up by Head Chef Santi Taura at El Llorenc Parc de la Mar Hotel. Here you’ll find reimagined local dishes all served with farm-to-fork ethics.

Another Palma favorite is the Restaurant Marc Fosh , where Michelin-starred Chef Marc Fosh has designed a Mediterranean-inspired tasting menu that’s guaranteed to impress. 

Marc Fosh also runs a restaurant on the other side of the island, at Hotel Pleta de Mar, where meat and fish are cooked using traditional open-fire techniques. There are many more Michelin-worthy restaurants to choose from, too, including Voro in Palma, Andreu Genestra in Capdepera, and Es Raco d’es Teix in Deia.

6. Ride the Vintage Train to Soller

A vintage train ride to Soller is one of the must-do things in Majorca. The historic Palma to Soller train line dates back to 1911 and connects Majorca’s capital with one of the most charming towns in the Tramuntana Mountains. 

You can catch the outbound train from a dedicated station that’s right next to the modern rail station in Palma. The train was originally designed to transport fruits from Soller to Palma, but these days, tourists are the main cargo. 

You’ll love how the old wooden carriages have been lovingly preserved and restored to their former glory. Plus, once you reach Soller, you can swap to the equally vintage tram line that runs down to the beach at Port de Soller. 

The total journey time from Palma to Soller is around one hour. Along the way, you’ll be transfixed by the spectacular views out of the window. 

The train line is a remarkable feat of engineering. You’ll enjoy the mountain views as you’re whisked through valleys and tunnels as the train works its way through the foothills of the Tramuntana Mountains. 

7. Hike the Dry Stone Route

If you’re looking for an active, outdoor vacation, the Dry Stone Route is one of the top things to do in Majorca. This beautiful long-distance hiking trail takes you through the spectacular Tramuntana Mountains. You can tackle it in stages or attempt the entire route in one go.

Known locally as Ruta de Pedra en Sac (or less romantically, as GR-221), the Dry Stone Route offers just over 100 miles of waymarked hiking through mountains, valleys, and along the coastline. The route starts in Port d’Andratx, then climbs high into the Tramuntana Mountains before dropping back down to the coast at Port de Pollensa. 

Along the way, you’ll walk through remote villages, enjoy scenic views over Majorca, and have the opportunity to stay in isolated refuges and monasteries deep in the mountains. If you’re walking the entire route in one go, you should plan for at least eight days of continuous hiking, not including rest days. 

The Tramuntana Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Dry Stone Route takes its name from the unique, “dry stone” architecture that was pioneered here by the Moors many centuries ago. The Moors used dry stone to shape the landscape, building stone terraces, walkways, and aqueducts in order to make the arid land fertile enough for farming. 

8. Sip Fine Wine in Banyalbufar

The Moorish terraces of the Tramuntana Mountains are one of the top things to see in Majorca. Plus, you’ll love them even more when you learn how the beautiful terraces are one of the major reasons why Majorcans can produce such delectable vintages of wine!

Head to the village of Banyalbufar, and you can spend the day strolling through stone terraces, gorging on olives, and tasting local wines. Banyalbufar is one of Majorca’s most fascinating wine production centers because for hundreds of years, the area was known across Europe for its Malvasia grapes. 

The grapes grew exceptionally well in the terraces that the Moors had constructed for agriculture, with vineyards protected from the winds by the stone walls and nourished by the elaborate irrigation systems. In the 19th century, though, a disease killed off the grapes, and wine production all but stopped.

Visit one of the local wineries, though, and you’ll soon discover that the Malvasia grape was somehow rediscovered in the 1980s. Once thought extinct, the grape was nurtured and grown by local villagers in Banyalbufar. Soon enough, they were producing Malvasia wines in the terraces just as their ancestors had for many hundreds of years before them! 

9. Uncover Moorish History at Jardines de Alfabia

Majorca was held by Moorish kingdoms for many centuries, rather than Spanish. Across the island, you can still find unique Moorish, Arab, and Islamic influences waiting to be uncovered. 

One of the best places to visit in Majorca is Jardines de Alfabia , a countryside estate that’s thought to date back to the late 12th century. This was right before the Spanish reconquered Majorca, and much of the Islamic architecture and many Arabic inscriptions still remain today. 

The best part about the estate is the gardens. You’ll love the beautiful, landscaped gardens that are just perfect for an afternoon stroll. 

If you delve deeper into the past, you’ll soon discover that the garden itself can trace its roots back to the Moorish era. If that’s not enough, this just happens to be one of the finest examples of Moorish horticulture that remains in Spain! 

10. Cycle (or Road Trip) to Cap de Formentor

If you’re a big fan of scenic viewpoints (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), then we know you’re going to love exploring Cap de Formentor. This small peninsula is the most northerly point in Majorca, and it’s one of the best places on the island for a bike ride or a road trip.

Cap de Formentor can be reached from Port de Pollensa, which is around 15 kilometers away by road. The drive, or bike ride, is absolutely stunning as you pass rugged cliffs on the northernmost edge of the Tramuntana Mountains. 

As you leave Port de Pollensa, you’ll meet Es Colmer, where you’ll be stunned by the dramatic scenery that stretches ahead of you. This is one of the most famous viewpoints in Majorca, and you’re not even at the end of the peninsula yet! 

When you do reach the end of the peninsula, the views out over the Mediterranean Sea are guaranteed to blow you away, so make sure you’ve packed your camera!

11. Take a Catamaran Cruise along the Coast

As the largest island in the Balearics, Majorca has hundreds of miles of spectacular coastline to explore, and there’s no better way to do it than on a catamaran cruise! 

In the summer, when the sun is perpetually shining, catamaran cruises leave daily from several locations in Majorca. You can join tours from the marina in Palma and from the resort areas. 

Itineraries will vary, and there’s more than enough coastline for you to organize more than one day trip. Popular cruises include a tour of the Bay of Palma, where you’ll cruise to secluded beaches and find colorful snorkeling spots. 

Other great cruising locations are found on the north coast, where you can explore the rugged terrain of Cap de Formentor before visiting the smoother sands of the local beaches. You can join public trips or charter a boat for you and your friends. You can expect a half-day or full-day trip to include snorkeling gear, lunch, and maybe even a few cold drinks. 

Wherever your catamaran cruise takes you, you can rest assured that you’re going to be ticking off a Majorca bucket list item from your itinerary! 

Book a Catamaran Cruise

12. Visit the Roman Ruins of Alcudia

History fans will want to include a day trip to Alcudia on their Majorca itinerary. This is the place where you can find the ruins of the island’s ancient Roman capital! 

The Roman settlement of Pollentia was founded around 100 BC, and it quickly became one of the most important locations in the Balearic Islands. The ruins have been remarkably well excavated and preserved. Explore the grounds, and you can find a Roman theater, a forum, and many residential buildings in the archeological area. 

The ruins are located in the north of the island, next to the modern settlement of Alcudia and close to the Bay of Pollensa. 

13. Explore the Artistic Legacy of Deia

The sheer beauty of Majorca’s mountains has attracted artists and writers for centuries, but one village, in particular, has a unique creative legacy that has to be explored. 

Deep in the Tramuntana Mountains, you can find the small village of Deia. Ramshackle stone houses, vineyards, and olive groves rise into the hills while Deia Cove spills out into the Mediterranean Sea. It’s postcard-perfect, and it’s long been a favorite haunt of literary types and painters. 

The writer who put Deia on the map was Robert Graves, the English war poet and playwright who spent much of the latter part of his life here. Robert Graves’ former residence is now a museum. Plus, there are many more art galleries and exhibitions in the area. 

Deia has some lovely monasteries to visit, the coastline is simply spectacular, and there’s excellent hiking to be had in the surrounding mountains. All in all, we know you’re going to love visiting the charming streets of Deia on your next Majorcan vacation! 

14. Gorge on Pinchos and Tapas in Palma

As with any Spanish destination, one of the best things to do in Majorca is to eat. For a seriously delicious experience, we recommend an evening of pinchos and tapas in Palma, where you’ll find the island’s best bars and restaurants. 

Pinchos are a favorite in Catalonia, northern Spain, and here in the Balearics. You take a small piece of crusty bread then pile it high with meat, fish, tortillas, and more. The toppings are held onto the bread by a cocktail stick, which the locals call a pincho, or a spike. 

There’s even a dedicated Tapas Trail that will help you uncover the best places to eat and drink in the city. Palma’s tapas scene is a late-night affair, but you can start the evening with a few pinchos to keep you going.

15. Scuba Dive in the Mediterranean Sea

One of the coolest things to do in Majorca is to go scuba diving. The island is surrounded by the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea, and for much of the year, conditions are perfect for a diving holiday. 

There are dive sites for all abilities in Majorca. If you don’t have your qualifications, this is a fantastic place to learn the ropes, practice, qualify, and develop as a diver! 

For beginners, the protected marine reserve of Illa de Toro on the southwest side of Majorca is a wonderful place to dive. For more advanced divers, the many shipwrecks that litter the seabed in the Bay of Palma (some as far down as 35 meters!) offer some of the best wreck diving in Spain. 

There are many more marine preserves, hidden coves, and secluded islands that are popular with divers, too. You’ll find everything from shore dives to boat dives waiting for you in Majorca!

Book a Scuba Diving Adventure 

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Majorca. What’s your favorite thing to do in Majorca?

Planning a trip to Spain? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Majorca is home to many unique dishes, but ensaimadas are one of the island’s most popular culinary traditions. If you’re a fan of baked goods, you’ll quickly find out that ensaimadas are rather addictive! Ensaimadas are traditionally prepared for festivals and holidays, and the secret ingredient is typically lard.

If you’re looking for an active, outdoor vacation, the Dry Stone Route is one of the top things to do in Majorca. This beautiful long-distance hiking trail takes you through the spectacular Tramuntana Mountains. You can tackle it in stages or attempt the entire route in one go. Known locally as Ruta de Pedra en Sac (or less romantically, as GR-221), the Dry Stone Route offers just over 100 miles of waymarked hiking through mountains, valleys, and along the coastline.

If you’re a big fan of scenic viewpoints (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), then we know you’re going to love exploring Cap de Formentor. This small peninsula is the most northerly point in Majorca, and it’s one of the best places on the island for a bike ride or a road trip. Cap de Formentor can be reached from Port de Pollensa, which is around 15 kilometers away by road. The drive, or bike ride, is absolutely stunning as you pass rugged cliffs on the northernmost edge of the Tramuntana Mountains.

History fans will want to include a day trip to Alcudia on their Majorca itinerary. This is the place where you can find the ruins of the island’s ancient Roman capital! The Roman settlement of Pollentia was founded around 100 BC, and it quickly became one of the most important locations in the Balearic Islands. The ruins have been remarkably well excavated and preserved.

One of the coolest things to do in Majorca is to go scuba diving. The island is surrounded by the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea, and for much of the year, conditions are perfect for a diving holiday. There are dive sites for all abilities in Majorca. If you don’t have your qualifications, this is a fantastic place to learn the ropes, practice, qualify, and develop as a diver!

Once you’ve had your fill of sun, sea, and sand, then why not spend a day immersed in history and Gothic architecture in Palma? The city’s Old Town – or El Casco Antiguo, as the locals call it – is one of the best Majorca sightseeing destinations. You can easily spend hours strolling through its charming alleyways and losing your way on the cobblestone streets.

About the Author:

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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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!

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Medieval walled town

Alcudia (Alcúdia) is a beautiful medieval walled town of quiet charm and character in the north-east of Mallorca just a few kilometres inland from the coast.

Surrounded by mighty walls that contain historic mansions, scenic plazas, cafés with beautiful terraces & warm-stone houses, this vibrant town is a year-round destination, providing a rich taste of history and culture and plenty of things to do for tourists.

The town has a long history, dating back to the Roman times. Visitors can explore the well-preserved Roman city walls, which still stand to this day, as well as the ancient Roman theatre and the remains of a Roman market. Alcudia is also home to a number of Gothic churches and chapels, many of which date back to the 14th century.

One of the main attractions in Alcudia is its stunning beaches. With over 14 kilometres of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, visitors can enjoy a wide range of water sports, from swimming and sunbathing to windsurfing and kitesurfing. The town’s beaches are also ideal for families, with many offering lifeguards, playgrounds, and restaurants.

Jack Sparrow cave jet ski excursion from Alcudia

See the incredible natural Jack Sparrow cave (or Cueva de los Ladrones), with this jet ski excursion departing from Alcudia.

Traditional fiestas and fairs,

The town is Mallorca’s largest tourist hub in the north of the island located on a scenic peninsula separating two bays. With an authentic local atmosphere, maze of narrow lanes, historic medieval centre, Casas Señoriales (houses of past nobility) and traditional fiestas and fairs, it is easy to see why this stunning northern town is a draw for tourists all year round.

The town center of Alcudia is a vibrant and lively place, filled with a mix of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Visitors can explore the narrow streets and alleyways, lined with charming houses and flower-filled balconies, and discover a range of local crafts, including pottery, glassware, and textiles.

The remains of Mallorca’s prime Roman settlement Pollèntia can be found on the outskirts of the town and within the wall during summer months, there are open-air concerts and theatre performances.

In addition to its rich history and stunning beaches, Alcudia also offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. The town is home to one of the island’s best water parks – Hidropark , as well as several golf courses, including the Alcanada Golf Club. Visitors can also take a horseback ride along the beach or go cycling through the nearby countryside.

Hidropark Alcudia offers a wide range of fun and exciting activities for visitors of all ages, from thrilling water slides and rides to more relaxed options like lazy rivers and swimming pools.

Port d’Alcúdia

Within the pedestrian area of the town, you’ll find stylish boutiques selling Mallorcan specialities, top notch restaurants, handicraft shops & an assortment of bars & cafés.

Just 1 kilometre away is the famous holiday resort of Port d’Alcúdia. This is quite typical on the island, many of Mallorca’s oldest settlements were built a few kilometres inland to provide security and protection from pillaging pirates.

The main attraction in Port d’Alcúdia is the large beach, which is nearly 3 km long starting from the centre of the port and reaching Playa de Muro. It has many water sports and boating facilities and is a big draw for families.

Nightlife in Alcudia is excellent with an assortment of music bars and clubs including the very popular Banana Club. A nightlife hotspot in Alcudia is Pedro Mas Y Reus (otherwise known as Dollar Street); which is easily the busiest and most thriving place in Alcudia.

In conclusion, Alcudia is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. With its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday in the sun or a more adventurous escape, Alcudia is the perfect place to be.

Alcudia tours & experiences

Best hotel offers alcúdia.

TUI Pass - Majorca Family Pass

Squeeze the most out of your family holiday in Mallorca! From the buzzing capital of Palma to mystical caves, thrilling water parks and more – it’s impossible to choose from. The  TUI Majorca Family Pass gives you easy access to some of the best attractions across the island, at a heavily discounted price!

• Aqualand El Arenal Water Park
• Bellver Castle
• Cabrera Island
• Cap de Formentor
• Es Torrent de Pareis / Sa Calobra
• Hidropark Alcudia
• Inca Market
• Katmandu Park
• Mondrago National Park
• Palma Aquarium
• Palma Cathedral
• Royal Palace of La Almudaina
• The Caves of Drach
• Tren de Sóller
• Western Water Park
• Cala Llombards
• Cala Marçal
• Cala Varques
• Palma City Beach
• Portals Nous (Oratori) Beach
• Sa Calobra Beach
• Pollenca & Port de Pollenca
• Port Adriano
• Port d’Andratx
• Port de Cala d’Or
• Port Calanova
• Port de Soller
• Puerto Portals & Portals Nous
• Banyalbufar
• Cala Figuera
• Pollensa & Port de Pollensa
• Santa Maria del Cami
• Sóller & Port de Sóller
• Valldemossa
• Tours & experiences
• Boat charter
• Cycling routes
• Golf courses
• Hiking routes
• RCD Mallorca
• Bars & restaurants
• Andratx to Port de Sóller
• Manacor to Alcudia
• Sa Calobra Serpentine
• Nightlife in Magaluf
• Nightlife in Palma
• Nightlife in Playa De Palma
• Nightlife in Port D’Alcudia
• Pirates Adventure
• Pirates Reloaded
• Exhibit Show by Son Amar
• Joan Miro Foundation
• Mercat de Santa Catalina
• Old Town Palma
• Palma Arab Baths
• Paseo Maritimo
• Passeig Des Born
• Plaza Mayor
• San Juan Mercado Gastronomico (Closed)
• Santa Catalina
• Seafront Promenade
• Boat charter Majorca
• Cruises from Palma de Mallorca
• Learn to motorboat
• Learn to sail in Majorca
• Powerboat courses – Jetski courses
• Powerboat courses – PWC courses
• RYA motor courses
• RYA sailing courses
• RYA specialist courses
• RYA theory courses
• RYA Yachtmaster courses
• Yachting – Chasing the good life
• All-inclusive holidays
• Best Mallorca hotel deals
• Car hire in Majorca
• Cheap flights with cashback
• Flight deals from the UK
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Towns and villages in Mallorca

Discover the top Mallorca towns and villages

Explore some of the beautiful towns and villages in Mallorca. Find loads of top tips and local insights in our Mallorca Destinations Guide .

About the Towns & Villages in Mallorca

Explore some of the beautiful towns and villages in Mallorca.  Hire a car , set out on foot, take a bus , or  borrow a bike . Any which way will do!

Mallorca is a fairly big island, with many interesting places to visit. At the same time, almost anywhere you based is 1-1.5hrs drive from almost any other spot you'd like to take a look at! The main towns and villages on the island are listed further below. They all have their very own, distinctive character, from the lively resorts of Port d'Alcudia, Cala d'Or and Santa Ponsa to the stunning towns of Valldemossa and Deia or the sleepy villages of Inca and Orient. Here is our shortlist of the most popular towns and villages to visit in Mallorca.

Read our separate guides to  Palma de Mallorca  and the best  Markets in Mallorca .

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 .

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• 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.

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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.

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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

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T&C Travel Guide: Mallorca

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay

Belmond La Residencia

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

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

Read Reviews

Finca Serena Mallorca

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

Hotel Mirabó De Valldemossa

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

El Vicenç de la Mar

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

Where to Eat

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

Patisseria Ca'n Molinas

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

Ca's Patro March

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

Ca'n Joan de s'Aigo

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

Bens d'Avall

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

Marivent Gardens

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

Palma Cathedral

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

Son Marroig

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

La Casa de Robert Graves

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

Chopin's Home

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

Serra de Tramuntana

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

What to Pack

Aerin Noe Lightweight Cashmere Scarf

Loewe Horseshoe Canvas Saddle Bag

Nanushka Fringed Organic Cotton Wrap Skirt

Castañer Basile Striped Wedge Sandals

Altea Button-Up Short-Sleeved Linen Shirt

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

Tod's Suede Espadrille Sneakers

Vilebrequin Men Swim Trunks 1984 Invisible Fish Flocked

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Deià and Sóller

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

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

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

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

Santanyí and Ses Salines

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

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

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Flocking TO

A Local’s Guide to Majorca

The Mediterranean island is more popular than ever among the art and design crowd. Here, four insiders offer advice on where to stay, eat and shop.

The view from Es Racó d’Artà, a hotel and wellness retreat in northeastern Majorca. Credit... Ricardo Gonçalves

Supported by

By Gisela Williams

Illustrations by Richard Pedaline

• Published Aug. 25, 2023 Updated Sept. 22, 2023

T’s new monthly travel series, Flocking To, highlights places you might already have on your wish list, sharing tips from frequent visitors and locals alike. Sign up here to find us in your inbox once a month, as well as our weekly T List newsletter. And you can always reach us at [email protected] .

Majorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, has been a classic summer destination for Europeans and Brits for decades. But long before the big resorts sprung up along the coastline and villas came with helipads , the island’s hilltop villages attracted artists, musicians and writers in search of year-round sun and solitude. Among the best known of those early visitors were the Polish composer Frédéric Chopin and the French novelist George Sand, who spent the winter of 1838 in the town of Valldemossa, in the mountains above Majorca’s northwest coast. By 1929, when the British writer Robert Graves and the American poet Laura Riding arrived in the nearby village of Deià — at the recommendation of the American writer Gertrude Stein — and later built a home there, that picturesque hamlet of stone houses and olive groves was already a fledgling artists’ colony. In 1956, the Barcelona-born artist Joan Miró and his family moved to the outskirts of Palma. Plenty of artistic talent was homegrown, too, nurtured by generations of weavers, glassblowers and ceramists. One of Spain’s most prominent contemporary artists, Miquel Barceló , grew up on the island painting landscapes with his mother and her friends. Among the island’s many signature local crafts is the roba de llengües , or cloth of tongues, a style of ikat believed to have arrived from Asia centuries ago via the Silk Road. And it’s that deeply rooted artistic tradition combined with an extraordinary natural beauty that’s attracting the latest influx of creative types. In the last few years, a number of artists and designers have left larger cities in Europe and moved to Majorca. Some of these new arrivals are renovating old houses and farms in and around the country towns of Sóller and Deià or choosing to base themselves in Palma’s Old Town , where Gothic spires loom over the port, and there’s a fresh wave of contemporary art galleries and idiosyncratic shops dedicated to supporting local artisans. All over the island, new or newly revived hotels compete for the most impressive views.

For the first installment of our series of Flocking To travel guides, we asked four locals or frequent visitors to Majorca to share the places they love most. One word of advice for first-time visitors: Majorca sprawls across roughly 1,400 square miles (it’s about the size of Long Island), so if you’re planning on exploring, you might want to rent a car.

The Insiders

Stefania Borras , the designer and founder of the fashion line Datura and a native Majorcan, opened the Datura Studio Isla boutique in Deià, Majorca, in 2022.

Dalad Kambhu , originally from Bangkok, is the chef and co-owner of Kindee, a Michelin-starred Thai restaurant in Berlin. Since the year 2020, Kambhu has been spending several months a year on Majorca with her husband, the architectural designer Geoffrey Grunfeld.

Adriana Meunié , the textile artist, is a native Majorcan who moved back to the island in 2014 after working in Barcelona and Berlin.

Matthew Williamson , the fashion designer turned interior designer, moved from London to Majorca in 2016. His first home décor book, “Living Bright,” comes out in October.

“I was incredibly impressed with the newly reinvented Grand Hotel Son Net [about eight miles west of Palma] when I went to visit the other day. It’s a very special place: old-school but fresh and contemporary, and jasmine as far as the eye could see. It has all the bells and whistles but doesn’t feel too stuffy. I also recently found an especially cute little place in Palma called Palma Riad . It’s Moroccan inspired — there is in fact a lot of Islamic influence on Majorca because it was under Muslim rule for centuries — and feels very new for Palma. I would also go there for pre-dinner drinks.” (Rooms at Grand Hotel Son Net from about $650 a night; rooms at Palma Riad from about $600 a night) — Matthew Williamson

“For me, Antoni Esteva, the co-owner and architect of Es Racó d’Artà [in the island’s northeast], is a poet. I think he really understands space, light, materials and the beauty of simplicity so profoundly. All of his projects, from the gallery Sa Pleta Freda in Son Servera to the hotel Son Gener, are created with such a strong vision that connects the past with the future.” (Rooms from about $520 a night) — Adriana Meunié

“I am so excited about the new Hotel Corazón [in the northwest]. It was just opened by two friends of mine, the artists Kate Bellm and Edgar Lopez. One of my favorite chefs on the island, Grace Berrow, is cooking there.” (Rooms from about $380 a night) — Stefania Borras

Eat and Drink

“Maria Solivellas, the chef and owner of Ca na Toneta , in the rural village of Caimari, cooks traditional Majorcan food [seasonal options include coca, a flatbread topped with fresh roasted peppers or arroz brut, a savory rice casserole] but her own way, and [often] with vegetables she grows herself. Be sure to check out her shop where you can find locally made ceramics.” — A.M.

“The food at Sa Foradada is good — go for the paella — but the views of the sea and the cliffs are insane. It’s only accessible by boat or by a hike of almost an hour, and it’s essential to book in advance — tables are limited. When it comes to fish, Casa Manolo [in the southern village of Ses Salines] is one of my favorites on the island. I used to go there as a kid with my dad who always loved eating well. It’s a very traditional place not far from amazing beaches. For drinks in the evening, I love Bar La Sang in Palma. This homey natural wine bar is kind of the place to be at the moment because the island’s natural wine scene is getting really interesting. You can order small, delicious bites, and there are often different visiting chefs cooking here.” — S.B.

“ Cati Ribot is a female winemaker based in the island’s northeast, in Santa Margalida. She’s doing beautiful natural wines made from indigenous grapes [such as prensal blanc and escursac]. Her natural wine tastings are on Saturdays only and you must email for appointments. I also love Ses Coves , a rustic restaurant in the north of the island at the foot of Puig de Sant Miquel, which specializes in Spanish meat and fish cooked over fire. Especially delicious are the grilled sweetbreads. Everything was so good; I was sucking on the bones. Afterward, I recommend going to the nearby caves that have the most incredible stalagmite and stalactite formations.” — Dalad Kambhu

“Inside Villa Rullan, in Deià, are a very charming bistro and a boutique. The shop, named Joy , sells a great mix of locally and sustainably made crafts, from baskets and bags handwoven with palm leaves or grass to whimsical hand-painted ceramic mugs.” — M.W.

“ La Pecera is a great design store in Palma founded by Marlene Albaladejo, who’s an important sustainable design pioneer on the island. Look for chairs made partly with woven local bulrush grass and woven palm leaf pendant lamps.” — A.M.

“The fashion designer Rosa Esteva [of the Cortana brand and boutiques] is the definition of a Majorcan woman: so elegant, sophisticated and proud of her land and identity. Her new shop in Palma is stunning. It’s a maze of white rooms that feature her clothes: beautiful, practical and made from natural materials. She makes clothes for women who are active and the colors she uses perfectly reflect the hues of the island. Earth Core is a new gallery and boutique in the town of Sóller. It was opened by transplants from Berlin: Karin [Oender] and David [Mallon], the founders of Souvenir Official, a very cool T-shirt and hoodie brand. I appreciate it because it’s essentially a love letter to the island and pays tribute to local artisans, produce and plants. They serve up great fruit juices and use local plant dyes for their T-shirts, wraps and fabric bags.” — D.K.

“ Cala Figuera is a charming fishing village in the southeast of the island that looks like Ibiza with its whitewashed buildings that descend into the bay.” — M.W.

“ Valldemossa Sunday Market is the best spot to buy local delicacies like dried figs and peaches, honey, cheeses and charcuterie. Look for Joan and his tiny stall called Can Bernat. He is such a funny character and will make you try everything.” — S.B.

“The new La Bibi Gallery is adding some energy to the contemporary art scene in Palma, hosting progressive shows and also international artists through its residency program. Xtant is an excellent new textile and craft fair that takes place in May. It brings textile artisans here from around the world and offers lectures and events that are open to the public.” — A.M

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Want to see the next total solar eclipse in 2026? An expert recommends booking travel now.

• 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years.
• Travelers worldwide will likely head to Spain, Iceland, and Greenland for the event.
• A hotel expert encouraged travelers to start planning and booking their trips now.

It'll be two decades before the next total solar eclipse hits the US .

Another option: hop on a plane to Europe and turn the 2026 total solar eclipse into a viewing vacation.

Eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told Space.com that up to 3.7 million people likely traveled for the solar eclipse on Monday.

HotelPlanner's chief communication officer, Philip Ballard, told Business Insider that the eclipse was a major revenue generator for many cities. For places like Austin, Texas, and Rochester, New York, it could have created $1 billion in revenue, Vox reported.

"I would say the total solar eclipse has become a global phenomenon," Ballard said.

Ballard added that the next solar eclipse , which will pass through Iceland, Greenland, and Spain on August 12, 2026, could result in similar tourism and revenue influxes.

And if travelers are considering a trip to Europe for the solar eclipse, Ballard recommends planning your trip now.

Determine your eclipse viewing destination

According to Space.com , 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years. Its path will go through Greenland, parts of western Iceland, and northern Spain.

Choosing where to watch the eclipse will be a tough and important decision for travelers.

Iceland and Greenland have some positives. These regions will experience longer totality times, so viewers can watch the eclipse longer. Plus, the sun will be higher in the sky, so finding a spot to watch the eclipse will be less challenging, Space.com reported.

The downside is that these regions are more likely to be cloudy, according to the outlet.

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While parts of Spain are likely to offer clearer skies, the eclipse's timing will be shorter and closer to the horizon, which means travelers will need to plan and track down a viewing location with unobstructed views of the western horizon, Space.com reported.

Regardless of the destination, according to the outlet, one bonus is that the strongest meteor shower in the Northern Hemisphere will happen the following night, so travelers can pack two events into one trip.

Book flights and hotels far in advance

Ballard encouraged people to book their hotels in their destination of choice as far in advance as possible.

"You should start looking now and booking hotels now because those cities in the path are already going to be at peak season," Ballard said.

Ballard said it's similar to when a Super Bowl city is determined or a Taylor Swift tour date is announced — you immediately see spikes in bookings. He predicts hotel occupancy rates will hit near-record highs, and room prices may double around the solar eclipse date.

Ballard's general rule of thumb is to book international travel at least three months in advance, but since this is such an anticipated event, booking earlier is smart. His advice is to start discussing plans with friends and family. If you decide on a destination, book a refundable room to keep your options open if plans change.

Regarding purchasing a plane ticket, a study from Expedia states that international travel's sweet spot is at least six months in advance.

According to Expedia, travelers who book six months in advance save an average of 10% more than travelers booking within two months or less.

Skip the hassle of planning altogether and book a solar eclipse tour

Another option is to let a tour operator do the work for you. A handful of tour companies have seen the increased interest in the solar eclipse and launched tours designed around the event.

These tours will have predetermined locations to view the eclipse, hotel blocks reserved, and itineraries highlighting both the region and the eclipse.

However, these can sell out quickly. For example, Space and Telescope created an 11-day tour of Spain around viewing the 2026 solar eclipse. The tour has already sold out as of Wednesday, and the waitlist is full.

Other operators, such as Wilderness Travel and Eclipse Traveler, have similar itineraries for the total eclipse in 2026.

Watch: A small Australian town was treated to a rare hybrid solar eclipse

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