mallorca tourism by country

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.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Palau de l'Almudaina

Palma de Mallorca

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

Monestir de Lluc

Serra de Tramuntana

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

Catedral de Mallorca

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

Parc Natural de S’Albufera

Northern Mallorca

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

Santuari de la Mare de Déu des Puig

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

Palau March

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

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

Museu Fundación Juan March

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

Plan with a local

Experience the real Mallorca

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Mallorca

Filter by interest:

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

Mar 12, 2024 • 8 min read

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

May 20, 2022 • 3 min read

Feb 28, 2020 • 6 min read

Jan 21, 2020 • 2 min read

Jul 25, 2019 • 5 min read

Jul 11, 2019 • 2 min read

Jul 10, 2019 • 5 min read

Jun 10, 2019 • 2 min read

Aug 13, 2014 • 5 min read

Aug 12, 2014 • 6 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Mallorca

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

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

Mallorca and beyond

Travel Safe

Majorca (Island)

The essence of the Mediterranean

Cala Ratjada

Valldemossa

Places not to be missed

Cultural landscape of the Sierra de Tramuntana

The Sierra de Tramuntana mountains run parallel to the northwest…

Son Marroig estate

The imposing landscape, aesthetic beauty and sensitivity towards…

Inside there are very beautiful natural formations.

Drach Caves

This cave was formed in the Miocene period.

La Almudaina Royal Palace

The name means a citadel outside the city walls.

Bellver Castle

The castle is located on the crest of a hill and is in the Gothic…

Es Baluard. Palma Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.

One of the museum's primary aims is to introduce visitors to…

Cabrera Maritime-Terrestrial National Park

One hour by boat from the island of Mallorca, the Cabrera…

Majorca Cathedral

The cathedral is built over the city walls of Palma de Mallorca's…

Carthusian monastery of Valldemosa

It was a palace, built in 1309.…

Other ideas for your trip

Art Nouveau in Palma de Mallorca

Great names of Catalan Art Nouveau such as Gaudí and Domènech i Montaner shaped the architecture of Palma de Mallorca with their aesthetic in the early 20th…

3 reasons for visiting the Balearic Islands – and all 3 of them are World Heritage Sites

Kilometres of beaches, shining coves, an infinity of natural landscapes and thousands of hidden secrets just waiting to be discovered.…

Weekend in Palma and surrounding areas

Pack your bags because we're going to one of the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean: Majorca.…

Five must-visit museums in Palma de Mallorca

The capital of the Balearic Islands is a fascinating place to enjoy a holiday, not only because it's close to some fabulous beaches and coves lapped by…

Kilometres of beaches, shining coves, an infinity of natural…

Pack your bags because we're going to one of the Balearic Islands…

The capital of the Balearic Islands is a fascinating place to…

Great names of Catalan Art Nouveau such as Gaudí and Domènech i…

Choose between thousands of activities to live your best life on holiday.

T&C Travel Guide: Mallorca

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay

Belmond La Residencia

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

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

Read Reviews

Finca Serena Mallorca

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

Hotel Mirabó De Valldemossa

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

El Vicenç de la Mar

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

Where to Eat

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

Patisseria Ca'n Molinas

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

Ca's Patro March

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

Ca'n Joan de s'Aigo

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

Bens d'Avall

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

Marivent Gardens

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

Palma Cathedral

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

Son Marroig

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

La Casa de Robert Graves

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

Chopin's Home

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

Serra de Tramuntana

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

What to Pack

Aerin Noe Lightweight Cashmere Scarf

Loewe Horseshoe Canvas Saddle Bag

Nanushka Fringed Organic Cotton Wrap Skirt

Castañer Basile Striped Wedge Sandals

Altea Button-Up Short-Sleeved Linen Shirt

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

Tod's Suede Espadrille Sneakers

Vilebrequin Men Swim Trunks 1984 Invisible Fish Flocked

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

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

A Snob's Guide to the French Riviera

Best Room At... Hotel Chelsea

Best Room at Principe di Savoia

The Best Golf Course in Ireland Is at Adare Manor

Best Room At... Hotel La Compañia

How to Tour a Special Room at Buckingham Palace

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

Is This NYC's Best Restaurant Table?

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

The Best-Looking New Hotels on the Planet

The Best-Looking New Hotels in the Countryside

Visit Mallorca Island: A Gem of the Balearic Islands

OUR NEWSLETTER

Tourism by Category

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

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

Palma City: Capital of Mallorca

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

South Coast: A Paradise for Beach Lovers

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

Southwest Coast: Mix of Glamour and Tranquility

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

Explore the Northern Coast of Mallorca Island

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

Northwest Coast: The Traditional Charm

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

Inland: The Soul of Mallorca

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

Family-Friendly Activities

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

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

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

Outdoor Adventures

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

Historic Sights

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

Art & Culture Mallorca

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

Balearic Islands: A Slice of Paradise

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

Small Coastal Village Charm

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

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

Accommodation

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What to Do in Mallorca: Our Highlights + Sightseeing Map

Latest update: June 14, 2023

Mallorca is only partying and mass tourism? Think again! Apart from the party beaches, Mallorca has so much more to offer: traditional fishing towns, picturesque coastal roads and hidden natural wonders. In this article, our Mallorca expert Ina will tell you what to do and see in Mallorca.

Mallorca? A great place to spend a party vacation! That’s what many people think. And that’s partly true, of course. But only in part. The German loved vacation island has so much more to offer.

Mallorca! It’s sun, mountains, sea, culture and cuisine, and a capital city that no longer has to hide behind other European metropolises.

So that you can get a good overview of the island, We’ll introduce to you here the 22 best sights and highlights of Mallorca.

Buy tickets for attractions in advance

Mallorca is one of the most popular destinations in Spain. So hours-long lines at the major attractions are pretty much a given.

That’s why it is definitely worth booking tickets in advance for the most famous Mallorca sights. They allow you to simply skip the line and go head straight for the entrance.

What to do in Mallorca - Sightseeing map

So that you can get a first overview of Mallorca and can see where the sights are located on the island, we’ve plotted out all the sights on a map. You can also save the map to your computer or phone:

Click here to download the Mallorca sights map as a PDF

The Old Town of Palma

In recent years, the capital of Mallorca has developed into an equally high quality and trendy year-round destination. Barcelona’s little sister, as it’s so often called, is all grown up.

In Palma, you’ll meet creative and culture loving people from all generations and nations. There are new design hotels, modern restaurant concepts and diverse shopping opportunities.

The Old Town itself is full of sights: winding alleyways, an imposing cathedral, the Royal Palace and the palm-lined harbor promenade are ideal for a city stroll full of culture.

To a guided tour through Palma and ticket to the cathedral

In addition, Palma has excellent flight connections and can be easily reached from all German airports.

on Google Maps

This is one of our favorite places in Mallorca: Portocolom . You just have to like this small port town on the east coast. Nearly no other place in Mallorca has preserved the original charm of the traditional fishing village as well as Portocolom.

To this day, many residents of Portocolom go out to sea early in the morning to throw out their nets. It’s tranquil and wonderfully calm here. Not a hint of mass tourism.

You can either relax on a small beach, book a boat ride with a typical Mallorcan Llaut , or you can treat yourself to something delicious in the many small restaurants and bars directly on the harbor.

Our tip : come to Portocolom really early in the morning, rent a stand up paddle board and paddle along the cove towards the North.

Only a handful of hotels, a few restaurants and a miniature harbor: it’s almost a miracle that there’s still a town as tranquil as Sant Elm on Mallorca’s coast.

The small, almost sleepy hollow in the far west of the island has remained a quiet village across the years that’s particularly popular among the locals .

The village is not the only true haven of peace though, the beach is also dream-like and isn’t as overcrowded as many others in the area.

Our tip for the active : from Sant Elm, you can take a wonderful hike to the old Trappist monastery La Trapa. For the well signposted hike, you’ll need around 3.5 hours and should bring some stamina along.

Our tip for the less active : Sant Elm is a perfect point of departure for a trip to La Dragonera, an island off the coast. The boat ride alone is a tiny highlight.

Fishing village Cala Figuera

The fishing village of Cala Figuera on the south of the east coast near Santanyi is considered one of the most beautiful coastal towns of the island. And we can only agree with that.

Cala Figuera, with its deeply cut bay, is not only super photogenic , this spot also exudes its own special charm. Stroll along the cute harbor, past the pretty white houses and the small boats and watch the goings-on.

Our tip : It’s best to come here during the afternoon! Then you can watch how the fishing boats come back into the harbor and in the evening you can try the freshly caught fish in one of the restaurants with a view of the small bay.

Sóller, the center of orange production and the capital of Tramuntana, is located in the northwest of Mallorca and has more than 10,000 residents. So quite large for Mallorcan standards.

The cute city with its old, tiled mansions, narrow alleyways and lively square in front of the parish church Sant Bartomeu is definitely worth a trip.

Orange groves reach into the old town, where a nostalgic streetcar made of wood connects the city of Sóller with the Port de Sóller, and exude a wonderful fragrance with their flowers.

Our tip : drink a fresh pressed orange juice from the fruits of the surrounding fields in one of the many bars and restaurants. Or try fresh orange ice cream from the Fabrica de Gelats.

Valldemossa

Valldemossa is one of the most beautiful mountain villages of the island. It became famous for its prominent guests, such as the French writer George Sand and composer Frédéric Chopin, as well as for the former Carthusian monastery. You can see the monastery’s green roof from a distance.

Valldemossa, with its almost 2,000 inhabitants, is not just one of the most beautiful towns on the northwest coast, but also by far the most visited. Up to a half-million tourists crowd through the narrow alleys here every year. You heard it right: crowd — in the truest sense of the word.

Our tip : take a little detour and drive down the switchbacks shortly before Valldemossa to Port de Valldemossa. Here, you can admire the gorgeous mountain silhouettes while swimming in the crystal clear water of the small beach.

To the guided day tour to Palma and Valldemossa

Away from the tourist strongholds, the island comes to rest. The idyllic mountain village Deià, which everyone always raves about, is just such a place.

Surrounded by olive, lemon and almond trees , there’s no trace of huge hotels at the foot of the Es Teix Mountain. Quite the contrary: small, exclusive boutique hotels attract Mallorca vacationers to the small town of 800 inhabitants year after year.

The galleries of the artist village are a must for all art enthusiasts. In spite of all the hype, Deià has luckily maintained its charm to this day. It’s best to come and see it for yourself.

Our tip : be sure to drive from Valldemossa to Deià. The winding route is one of the most beautiful and most interesting.

Cuevas de Artà

Mallorca conceals a geological treasure underground: fantastic cave formations that were discovered by chance and only a few of which have been made accessible to visitors.

The Cuevas de Artà, for example. These caves, situated some 40 meters high above the coast , are among the major attractions of the island, though they aren’t as heavily visited as the caves at Porto Cristo.

The Cuevas de Artà include stalactites with strange shapes and extraordinary proportions , such as the Reina de las Columnas which is truly a Queen of the Columns with a height of over 20 meters.

To the website

Dragon Caves in Porto Cristo

Near the port town of Porto Cristo , in the east of Mallorca, are the largest and probably best known caves of the island: the Cuevas del Drach. At 1,200 meters long and 25 meters deep , they’re Mallorca’s largest accessible stalactite caves.

Lake Martel is 117 meters long, 30 meters wide and up to 14 meters deep. During visits to the caves, it serves as a backdrop for classical music concerts where musicians play their instruments on illuminated boats.

Our tip : you should go either really early or really late. It’s not so crowded then and you’ll still get a parking space. Even better: you park in the center of Porto Cristo, explore this nice little place, which usually gets little attention, and then walk around fifteen minutes to the caves.

Alternatively, you can also visit the caves in combination with a half-day tour through the north of Mallorca. During the tour, you’ll also visit a pearl factory.

To the half-day tour to the Dragon Caves and pearl factory

Cap de Formentor

Jagged rocks, wide views and blue sea. The best known and most visited lookout point of Mallorca is without a doubt Mirador Es Colomer at Cap de Formentor. This lookout point is on a narrow promontory that extends far into the sea in the northeast of the island.

The island council blocked access for general car traffic to the northernmost tip of Mallorca from the middle of June to the middle of September from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. If you’d like to go to Cap de Formentor during the day, you can visit it with shuttle busses from Port de Pollença (round trip costs around 3 euros).

Even though this lookout point is no longer an insider tip, you should definitely drive the coastal route with its many switchbacks up to the lighthouse. In good weather, the view even extends to Menorca, the neighboring island 40 kilometers away, and is really breathtaking.

Our tip : pack your swimsuit, the long white sandy beach Playa de Formentor is practically on the way.

You can also book a boat tour from Alcudia to Cap de Formentor. On the tour, you’ll sail on a boat with underwater windows along the rugged coast and stop for a swim at the beach of Cala Figuera.

To the boat tour to Cap de Formentor with a swimming stop

Shuttle busses (around €3)

Zu Google Maps

Cúber Reservoir

Sometimes it seems like you’re in Patagonia, and then hints of Alpine landscapes or Scandinavian fjords will also come to mind.

Whoever takes this path feels as if they were on a trip around the world through the most beautiful natural landscapes: in the middle of the Tramuntana Mountains below the Puig Major, the highest mountain on the island, lies the Cúber Reservoir .

This spot is a perfect retreat for anyone who’d like to experience Mallorca’s nature and enjoy absolute stillness. A small path leads around the lake.

Animal lovers will also get their money’s worth here: sheep and donkeys like to accompany walkers part of the way.

Serra de Tramuntana

The northwest of the island, from Calvia to Pollenca, is all about the wild Tramuntana Mountains. The Serra de Tramuntana, as it’s officially called, is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2011 and protects Mallorca from the cold north winds.

The mountain range is also an oasis for hikers : rugged rocky landscapes and breathtaking views as well as small hidden coves are the rewards for all sporty vacationers.

If you prefer it more relaxed, just take the panoramic road MA-10 from Andratx to Pollenca. It runs right through the northwest, past small mountain villages such as Banyalbufar, Fornalutx and Deià, as well as along Cúber Reservoir and the orange town of Sóller.

From Palma, you can book a guided hiking tour with a picnic through the Serra de Tramuntana.

Tour through the Serra de Tramuntana with a picnic

Botanicactus

There are spikes as far as the eye can see here! In the very south of the island, on the edge of the tiny town of Ses Salines, you can find the largest botanical garden of Europe .

You might ask yourself: why also go to a botanical garden when there’s already one cactus after the next on Mallorca? That’s true, but at the Botanicactus, the diverse cacti and succulents green and bloom across more than 150,000 square meters.

In total, you can marvel at over 1,600 plant species here from across the world. And it’s guaranteed that you won’t be able to see these otherwise on the island.

Particularly nice for everyone who arrives in the low season: the garden is open all year round. Another plus for anyone on the search for beautiful photos : Botanicactus is the perfect place for great Instagram photos.

Lluc Monastery

For Mallorcans, the Lluc Monastery (actually Monestir de Lluc), which is secluded in the Serra de Tramuntana, is the most important place of pilgrimage on the island.

Three old, still well used pilgrim paths lead here in a star formation: from Sóller, from Inca and from Pollenca. Even today, the monastery is still referred to as the spiritual center of Mallorca or the heart of the island.

The high point of a visit is the basilica with the Black Madonna . But you also shouldn’t miss the small monastery museum, the calvary and the botanical garden, home to around 200 native plant species. If you’re lucky and are at the monastery at the right time, you can experience the famous boys’ choir Blauets de Lluc, which today also includes girls, live in concert.

Our tip : spend a night in the monastery rooms of Lluc. Comfortable, absolutely reasonable in price and most definitely a special Mallorca experience.

Son Marroig/Sa Foradada

The best: from Son Marroig, the former residence of the Archduke Ludwig Salvator and today a popular wedding location, you have a magnificent view over the mountains and the sea . The perfect sunset spot.

The restaurant Sa Foradada  is close by, named for the cliff with the hole opposite. Here, you can look over the chef’s shoulder. A very special dish is on the menu: traditional Mallorcan Paella . Rumor has it that it’s the best on the whole island.

There’s only one little catch: the restaurant is only reachable by foot or boat . The path begins at the Son Marroig estate. You have to first climb over a small iron gate and then walk along the path around 50 minutes to the sea. The journey is worth it!

The Sa Foradada is also popular among stars : Tom Hanks, Michael Douglas, Halle Berry and the Mallorcan tennis ace Rafael Nadal are said to have all dined here.

Monastery Santuari de Sant Salvador near Felanitx

The former monastery Santuari de Sant Salvador majestically sits atop the approximately 500 meter high mountain of the same name and is our absolute favorite lookout point in Mallorca.

After heading right shortly after the city limits of the small town of Felanitx and continuing down the road for around 7 kilometers, you’ll reach the plateau of the monastery mountain with a view of the gigantic monument Crist Rei .

From here, you can let your gaze wander across almost all of Mallorca: the east coast with its small harbor villages as well as the many small coves, as far as Alcudia in the north of the sunny island, the Tramuntana Mountains and in clear conditions, even the group of islands around Cabrera.

Our tip : pack some bread, tomatoes, salami, cheese, beer and wine and enjoy the sunset from the monastery. If you’d like, you can also stay overnight. The Petit Hotel Hostatgeria Sant Salvador is located in the monastery, with 20 double rooms and two apartments.

To the Petit Hotel Hostatgeria Sant Salvador

Es Trenc beach

This approximately 2.6 kilometer long natural beach has long been no secret, but for us it’s still one of the most beautiful beaches of the island .

Thanks to its Caribbean flair , Es Trenc is the best known beach in Mallorca, which of course has its disadvantages: it’s usually jam-packed here, especially in the high season.

It’s quite different in the low season: from October to April, the long and then often deserted sandy beach beckons you to take long walks.

Our tip : park on the less busy side of the beach, at the harbor of Sa Rapita. You can usually still get a good space here even in the high season and you won’t feel so much like you’re packed in like sardines.

If you don’t want to drive to the beach, you can also book a half-day tour on a catamaran. Then you can see the beautiful south coast of Mallorca from the water and take a snorkelling break at Es Trenc beach.

To the half-day tour on a catamaran

Playa de Formentor beach

Total Caribbean flair : the fragrance of pine in your nose, the fine white sand between your toes and the crystal clear sea is only a few steps away. It’s said that the Playa de Fermentor is one of the most beautiful beaches of the whole Mediterranean . And that may be a good thing.

It’s about a kilometer long, but at around 10 meters wide it’s quite narrow, so there aren’t too many places to lounge. The spots below the pine trees are especially popular during the summer. The same applies here as to many other beaches: getting there early is worth it!

With a parking fee of roundabout 10 euros, it’s certainly not a beach for every day. You can combine a visit here perfectly with an excursion to Cap de Formentor. It’s located halfway from Pollenca.

Alternatively, you can save the parking fee by taking a glass-bottom boat to the beach. You’ll also have a beautiful view of the other small bays you pass.

To the tour with the glass-bottom boat

Playa de Muro beach

The approximately 5 kilometer long beach Playa de Muro is located on a forested dune area in the north of Mallorca and stretches from the popular vacation resort Port d’Alcudia to Can Picafort.

Since the beach here runs far and flat into the sea, it’s particularly popular among families with small kids . Warning to everyone without kids: it can get very noisy at times. Just before Can Picafort it gets a little quieter though.

Our tip : even though we are not a huge beach club fan and prefer small beach shacks, the beach club Ponderosa Beach is really great. Enjoy delicious food with your toes in the sand. A little drawback: you have to dig deeper into your pockets. But a cheaper alternative isn’t far: there are tasty snacks right next door at Oma & Opa .

By the way: If you feel like a bit of action and variety, coasteering on the coast of Alcudia is just right for you. Here, swimming and climbing are combined and you experience many different adventures: abseiling from cliffs, climbing along rocks or swimming through caves.

To the Coasteering excursion

Cala Varques cove

Until even a few years ago, Cala Varques (pronounced Cala Barques) was a total insider tip. Only a few tourists knew about this great Cow Cove , which owes its name to the four-legged visitors that show up on the beach every now and then.

Today it’s unfortunately no longer a secret, but it’s still great. The cove is a paradise for sailors, climbers and nature enthusiasts . Best you come early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when most tourists disappear into their hotels and the beach is slowly taken over by the local hippies .

Small drawback : since 2018, you unfortunately can no longer drive right to the beach, and instead have to park at a parking lot and then walk around 30 minutes to the cove.

Our tip : from Cala Romantica there’s a great hike to Cala Varques. It takes around twice as long as the journey from the parking lot, but is all the more beautiful for that.

You can also book a guided Glass-Bottom catamaran tour along the East Coast to Cala Varques.

To the catamaran trip to Cala Varques

Sa Calobra cove

You can only get to the cove of Sa Calobra by boat from Port de Sóller or via a 14 kilometer long and narrow road with a lot of switchbacks. Especially during the summer there’s quite a lot of traffic, and you have to continually make room for busses and cyclists.

To the boat trip to the bay of Sa Calobra

We would rather come here in the low season. Not only because the roads are much emptier then, but also because the cove itself is much more enjoyable. In the summer, it’s almost impossible to get a good spot there.

Even if that all doesn’t sound too positive, the place is amazingly beautiful and swimming between the steep cliffs is really an experience. The somewhat difficult journey is definitely worth it.

Red Lightning: historical train from Palma to Sóller

It’s one of the hallmarks of Mallorca: the train from Palma to Sóller, also called the Red Lightning or the Orange Express . Since 1912, it runs daily from the train station at Placa de Espana in Palma to Sóller in the northwest of the island.

Anyone expecting a train behind this fast-paced name that rushes along the 28 kilometer route through the Serra Tramuntana at high speed would be mistaken. The nostalgic train takes its time and only arrives in Sóller after almost an hour ride through almond, orange and olive groves, dark tunnels and deep ravines.

The fun isn’t so cheap at 25 euros for a round trip. But it’s definitely worth it. Very important: don’t forget your camera , the train even runs a little slower in some places.

Our tip : from Sóller, continue by street tram to Port de Sóller. If you’re already in the area, you should definitely see the little port town.

You can also kill two birds with one stone and visit all the great mountain villages in the area in one day. You can do this with a guided day tour with the Red Lightning from Palma. Besides Sóller and Port de Sóller, you’ll also visit Valldemossa and Deía.

To the guided day tour with the Red Lightning to Sóller

Roundtrip: €25

General tips on sightseeing in Mallorca

Before you start with your Mallorca sightseeing tour, we have a few general tips for visiting the highlights in Mallorca.

#1 Book a rental car

Discovering Mallorca is definitely best done with a rental car . In particular, you’ll reach the small fishing villages and the secluded beaches most comfortably by car.

At the airport of Palma, but also inside the city, there are multiple rental car providers. To book a rental car you’ll simply need a valid driver’s license, an ID and a credit card.

Our tips for booking a rental car: Don’t wait too long to book a rental car. They’re particularly popular in Mallorca and so the shorter in advance you book, the more expensive the price. It’s best to get a small car – we can guarantee that it’s no fun maneuvering the narrow alleys and streets of the island with a huge limousine.

#2 Travel in the off-peak season

It’s universally known that Mallorca is very crowded in the summer. From June to the end of August, the beaches, hotels, restaurants, vista points and sights are packed.

If you’d like to do yourself, and also the island, a favor, then it’s better to visit Mallorca in the off-peak season . It’s often really nice in April/May , as well as in September/October , but the winter months also have their charm.

#3 Book a guided tour

If you don’t have any desire to drive, you can still discover the island with a guided tour. There are numerous day tours from Palma that take you by bus, car or train to the nicest spots on the island. These are the most interesting:

Winery tour through the island interior of Mallorca Island tour by bus, train, tram and boat Tramuntana tour with historic railway

Those were our 22 most beautiful sights in Mallorca

Do you know them already or can you recommend some more? Then we look forward to your comments!

• Family holidays

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

Mallorca Travel Guide

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

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

Best time to visit Mallorca?

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

Alcudia’s Old Town

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

Mallorca travel: How to get there and around

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

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

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

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

Hidden Gems

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

Did you know…?

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

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

Things to do in Mallorca

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

What to do in Mallorca with kids

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

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

Recommended experiences

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

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

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

Best restaurants in Mallorca

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

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

Dishes to try

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

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

2 Responses

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

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

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published.

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

SpainMadeSimple.com

ESSENTIAL Mallorca Tourist Guide: Advice & Tips from Locals…

Table of Contents

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

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

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

What does Mallorca mean?

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

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

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

Where is Mallorca?

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

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

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

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

Things To See And Do In Mallorca

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

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

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

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

When is the best time to go to Mallorca?

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

Festivals and Fiestas

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

Mallorca Tourist Offices

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Author

Mark Eastwood

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

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

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

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

Reader Interactions

Aleksandra Bak says

April 26, 2023 at 6:14 pm

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

November 17, 2021 at 10:47 am

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

antonio says

January 17, 2020 at 12:48 pm

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

Lisamarie says

June 7, 2017 at 11:52 am

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Official Pages

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

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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Island Paradise : Spain's Balearic Islands beckon you with fine-sand beaches, lush landscapes, and fascinating historic sites. The Island of Ibiza is famous for its upscale seaside resorts, superb beaches , and electronic dance music. You can find every type of beach here, from party beaches with entertainment to quiet, secluded spots that are nearly untouched.

Year-Round Sunbathing : Thanks to the subtropical climate, the Canary Islands offer ideal beach conditions year-round. The culture here is unique to the Canaries, and English is spoken in most places; Tenerife and Gran Canaria are the most popular islands.

Mediterranean Beaches: Some of Spain's most popular beaches are found along the eastern coast, with several in and around the historic Catalonian city of Tarragona . The southern coast of Spain, the Costa del Sol is famous for its resort towns including Málaga , which is also home to many historic attractions, and the posh seaside town of Marbella , which has many high-end resorts and golf clubs.

More on Spain

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

What to do in Mallorca: Spain's evergreen holiday island

By Paul Richardson

More than most places, Mallorca means different things to different people. For many the Spanish island is synonymous with the endless trinity of sun, sea and sangría, since it virtually invented European beach tourism in the early 20th century. In 1929 Gertrude Stein famously wrote to her war-traumatised friend, the novelist Robert Graves, recommending Mallorca as the perfect place for him to down-shift and de-stress. (‘It’s a paradise,’ she suggested, adding the biting qualifier, ‘if you can stand it.’) For while its popularity soared, the Mallorquín culture was becoming ever more marginal. Traditional farming , skills and cooking almost withered on the vine. (The vines themselves also withered, as ancient grape varieties including Manto Negro and Callet were sidelined to make way for Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.)

When I first came here in the 1980s, it was as a footloose student with a Lonely Planet guide and a fistful of travellers’ cheques. If in those days the island suffered from a serious case of low self-esteem, by the turn of the century it was starting to feel better about itself. The old city of Palma , once almost a no-go zone, had begun its rapid transformation into on of the Mediterranean's most desirable destinations. In 2011, the Tramuntana mountains were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site , suggesting a new impulse towards conservation and restoration at the expense of untrammelled development. Now, fuelled by nostalgia for the quiet, easygoing past and the current yearning for slow and sustainable travel , the latest phase of the fightback is firmly underway.

Revolutions aren’t always full of sound and fury and shouted slogans. Sometimes they’re about a diverse group of people all quietly heading in the same direction. The movement on Mallorca is taking place simultaneously on several fronts. On the one hand are the incomers: the designers inspired by a long-established craft ethos, the artists and creatives relocating here as a back-to-the- land lifestyle choice, and the high-end hoteliers getting real with zero-waste and organic. On the other are the home-grown artisans finding a fresh interest in their work – as well as the cooks, farmers and winemakers rediscovering a rural gastronomy sidelined for decades by mass tourism and supercharged consumerism. To name but three: chef Maria Solivellas, tireless standard-bearer for local ingredients at her restaurant Ca Na Toneta; Pep Rodríguez, maverick maker of natural wines with rare indigenous grape varieties; and Juana Maria Verger, who is adding value to the glossy-leaved carob crop (for years its chocolate-brown pods were fed to livestock or simply left to rot on the ground) with her range of gluten-free flours, syrups and infusions.

This year I pitched up on the island at the tail end of a long, strange summer that those who live here will never forget. Mostly for the near-total collapse of the travel sector, overwhelmingly Mallorca’s largest source of income, but also for the near-empty beaches, the less-polluted sea and sky, and the locals’ delighted rediscovery of their home as something resembling its pre-touristic incarnation. Most of the hotels had either closed for the winter, exhausted by the pandemic’s rules and regulations, or sadly hadn’t bothered to open at all.

Casa Balandra could hardly be described as a hotel. It’s a rambling, beautiful house in the little-visited inland village of Pórtol (known for its pottery workshops) where Claudia and Isabella del Olmo spent their childhood. The sisters and their associate Cécile Denis, who met Claudia on a design course at Goldsmiths university in London , opened the property in August 2020 – emphatically not as a conventional place to stay, rather as a homely haven where creative spirits could come together for informal retreats. When I arrived, it was still in the afterglow of an Indulgence Weekend of banquets, brunches and picnics in olive groves. Chef Naiara Sabandar had cooked up a storm with fruit and vegetables in their seasonal prime: fennel, almonds, persimmons, olives. Claudia, also a gifted cook, shops Palma’s Pere Garau market for island-grown produce and stocks up on coconut flour at next-wave grocers NU Market. The bright-white interiors, filled largely with vintage furniture from nearby markets, were lit up with laughter and big church candles. My hosts at Balandra were two fine examples of Mallorca’s energetic new crowd. Their circle also includes Barcelona -born travel photographer Pia Riverola, Spanish beauty-brand founder Nuria Val and Lena Catterick and Carlo Letica of ethical clothing line Yoli & Otis, who swapped Australia ’s Byron Bay for a house outside Sóller.

Heading into the foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana, I stopped for a café con leche with two other imports: Swedish designers Christoffer and Josephine du Rietz. The main square of pretty Alaró was bathed in a pinkish, autumnal light. A gang of children played by the church wall, watched out of the corner of eyes by parents at café tables. It was a search for improved quality of life that impelled the Du Rietzes to sell up in Stockholm and move to a place they already loved for its expansive natural beauty, interesting mixture of seclusion and connectedness, and the slow-paced rhythms of daily life.

The couple’s main business is buying and doing up old Mallorcan townhouses, with great attention to detail and reverence for history. They work with neighbourhood carpenters and blacksmiths to recreate doors, furniture, even curtain rails, prioritising materials such as sustainably grown woods and conservation-approved colour palettes. ‘Every house has its soul, and we try not to destroy anything about it,’ said Christoffer. ‘What drives us is our respect for the island’s architecture and culture.’

Traditional crafts such as basketry, weaving and woodwork are also reappearing from the shadows. Keen to delve into the world of artesanía , I followed a lane out of Binissalem towards a huge possessió (country estate) with a great stone house at its heart. Finca Bellveure is the home of Con Alma (it means ‘with soul’), a design workshop formed by Alvaro Garriga, from Barcelona, and his partner Maria Antònia Marqués, a sixth-generation member of the farming family who own the property. The pair were working in London when they hatched a plan in a Hampstead café: they would return to Mallorca and reinvent themselves as makers of simple functional objects, using olive and almond wood from the land.

I found Garriga in his dusty-blue work coat crouching over a workbench in a high-beamed room – by a nice coincidence, the estate’s former carpentry shop. Con Alma makes fabulous rustic furniture to order (a recent commission came from Durietz Design), but their biggest seller so far is the olive-wood chopping board incorporating a ceramic tile, handmade and painted by an elderly potter they discovered in Santa Maria. ‘She’s the last of her kind, the technique is almost forgotten. It’s a familiar story. But we’re passionate about supporting Mallorca’s traditional artesanos ,’ said Alvaro.

Using such crafts but taking them as far as they can go in the direction of high art is Jaume Roig. A brilliant ceramicist, he lives a quiet life with his partner, carpet designer Adriana Meunié, in a ranch on the eerie flatlands of Ses Salines. Their house, a hut built of stone and breeze blocks, with concrete floors and basic furnishings, is impressive in its artful plainness. Just beyond the front gate a flock of red sheep, a heritage breed descended from Berber stock, was dozing under a fig tree. Jaume and his brother Joan, also a talented potter, learned the trade at their mother’s workshop in Palma, but the siblings soon went their different creative ways: Joan into the rustic-modern tableware used by restaurants such as Ca Na Toneta; Jaume into contemporary ceramics with rough textures and billowing organic forms. Tall and softly spoken, his diffidence concealing a fierce vein of non-conformism, Jaume has an interesting take on the island’s recent history. When he was growing up, Mallorca felt like it was languishing. At school he was even teased for speaking the local dialect of Catalan. Recently, though, he has noticed a volte-face. ‘There’s a movement against the way things have been managed – tourism, Magaluf and all that. Our old culture has recovered a little. People from outside are bringing in fresh ideas. In the last two or three years, I feel there’s a new love for the place, and that is making all the difference.’

In the rural heart of the island everything is rich and earthy. But the coast is also part of this story. Since the 1960s the prodigious village of Deià has been Mallorca’s axis of music, art and general alternativeness. Meanwhile nearby Sóller remained a buttoned-up and bourgeois little town, busy with the sale of its famous oranges. As rents in Deià have gone through the roof and the vibe has waned, a younger crowd has shifted to Sóller. Two pioneers on the scene are local Barbara Martí and her Dutch husband Martín Lucas, who opened Ecocirer, the island’s first vegan/ vegetarian bolthole, in 2015. Then, in 2019, came Re Organic, a Mallorcan-owned food shop and restaurant whose minimalist interior and superb produce (not to mention the gorgeous secret terrace out back) have made it a hub for Sóller’s clean-eating, slow-living community.

Down at the town’s harbour it is a quiet autumn lunchtime, the sheltered bay’s clear-blue waters warmed by three months of relentless summer sun. At the end of Playa d’en Repic is a chiringuito with a difference. In a departure from ubiquitous paella and calamari, Patiki Beach’s English chef, Grace Berrow, cooks deliciously fresh food with ingredients supplied by neighbouring growers. A fisherman brings in his oranges and lemons. She nips down to Palma to buy sourdough at Thomas’ Bakeshop and visits Sóller’s agricultural cooperative to see what’s in season. ‘I feel like we’re in Eden here in this valley. I want people to bring in boxes of whatever they have – I’m 100 per cent interested in buying from the smallest producers possible.’

Berrow brought me out plates of labneh with caramelised shallots, squid with herb aioli, whole grilled fish with slow-braised courgettes, and told me her story, which involves a freewheeling artistic upbringing in Palma and Deià (her father and uncle were Duran Duran’s managers), a stage at Skye Gyngell’s Spring in London and a spell as private cook for actor Emilia Clarke.

Though she returned to the island with ‘no plan’, she quickly developed one. ‘I wanted a beach club , somewhere people could come and eat and drink grapefruit Margaritas and sit for hours.’ When she found this little spot it was a down-at-heel Argentinian grill. ‘We threw out the deep-fat fryer, painted everything white and waited.’

As she spoke I got the impression of a scene that is gradually evolving as a raft of musicians, artists, designers and foodies find their way to Mallorca. There’s an influx from Barcelona and from overpriced Ibiza . Photographer Mario Sorrenti has a house down the road. Knitwear designer Zoë Jordan swings by for family lunches. ‘All the restaurant staff are our friends. Vicki, my right-hand lady in the kitchen, is a ceramicist – she’s setting up a studio.’

My gaze turned from the sea to the Tramuntana mountains behind the town, looming up dark green in the late-afternoon light. Winter would soon be coming, but from what I could see the off-season is also pretty enticing. Berrow will be cooking daily plant-based lunches for delivery and learning more about fine Mallorcan wine. There will be feasts on the beach, impromptu art shows in friends’ houses... ‘I’m just bristling with what we’re going to create,’ she said with a grin. ‘When we look back, we’ll remember what a really exciting time this was.’

The ultimate guide to Mallorca

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN MALLORCA

Buenos Aires -born chef Edu Martínez Gil’s adventures in Mallorquín gastronomy include foraging for wild chard and carrot, smoking locally reared meat with carob wood, and fermenting kombucha using grapefruit and loquat. The restaurant’s garage-like space in Llubí also houses a craft-beer brewery.

Price: About £110 for two Website: brutrestaurante.com

CA NA TONETA

Maria Solivellas and her sister Teresa were championing seasonal ingredients and sustainable fishing practices when Mallorca’s new bohemians were still in short trousers. Their delightful restaurant in Caimari makes stylish use of raw materials sourced entirely from the island; natural wines are a speciality.

Price: About £100 for two Website: canatoneta.com

DINS SANTI TAURA

Palma’s most extravagantly talented chef shows that not even alta cocina is above tradition and respect for the terroir. Hard-to-find authentic dishes such as sopes mallorquines , island-style snails and fish greixonera are at once elegant and earthy, refined and authentic.

Price: About £75 for two Website: dinssantitaura.com

PATIKI BEACH

Farm-to-table cooking at a wooden-decked, waterfront chiringuito in Port de Sóller.

Price: About £50 for two Website: patikibeach.com

Like this? Now read:

The best hotels in Mallorca

By Roxy Kavousi-Walker and Stephanie Rafanelli

The best restaurants in Palma

By Stephanie Rafanelli

The best beaches in Mallorca

Prickly pear sorbet with almond cake and mint at Ca Na Toneta

Living room at Es Racó d’Artá

Hats at Osa Major

Charley Ward

Connor Sturges

Anna Prendergast

Cécile Denis at Casa Balandra

Plates at Ca Na Toneta

Seating area at the finca

Flowers at Arquinesia Perfumes

Ceramics by Jaume Roig

Ceramicist Jaume Roig

Alvaro Garriga at Con Alma

The restaurant’s owners Maria and Teresa Solivellas

Garden at Arquinesia Perfumes

Terrae restaurant, Pollensa

Scooter in Pollensa

Staff­ member at Terrae restaurant

Table setting at Casa Balandra

Tomato and tuna salad at Can Aulí

Sala Bruno Balabi and Edu Martínez Gil at Brut restaurant

Dried palm leaves at Casa Balandra

Eggs at Loft supper club in Palma

Ca Na Toneta artwork

Con Alma workshop

Josephine and Christoffer du Rietz

Table setting at Can Aulí

Swimming at Cala Llombards

• Travel, Tourism & Hospitality ›

Leisure Travel

Industry-specific and extensively researched technical data (partially from exclusive partnerships). A paid subscription is required for full access.

Share of visitor arrivals in Mallorca 2022, by place of residence

Distribution of tourist arrivals in the balearic island of mallorca, spain in 2022, by country of residence.

• Immediate access to 1m+ statistics
• Incl. source references
• Download as PNG, PDF, XLS, PPT

Additional Information

Show sources information Show publisher information Use Ask Statista Research Service

¹Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg. ²Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland. Figures may exceed 100 percent due to rounding.

Other statistics on the topic Inbound tourism in Spain

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

• Countries with the highest number of inbound tourist arrivals worldwide 2019-2022

Countries with the highest inbound tourism receipts worldwide 2019-2022

Inbound tourism volume in Spain 2023, by origin

• Inbound tourism volume in Spain 2023, by region of destination

To download this statistic in XLS format you need a Statista Account

To download this statistic in PNG format you need a Statista Account

To download this statistic in PDF format you need a Statista Account

To download this statistic in PPT format you need a Statista Account

As a Premium user you get access to the detailed source references and background information about this statistic.

As a Premium user you get access to background information and details about the release of this statistic.

As soon as this statistic is updated, you will immediately be notified via e-mail.

… to incorporate the statistic into your presentation at any time.

You need at least a Starter Account to use this feature.

• Immediate access to statistics, forecasts & reports
• Usage and publication rights
• Download in various formats

You only have access to basic statistics. This statistic is not included in your account.

• Instant access  to 1m statistics
• Download  in XLS, PDF & PNG format
• Detailed  references

Business Solutions including all features.

Other statistics that may interest you

• Share of visitor arrivals in Ibiza and Formentera 2022, by place of residence
• Share of visitor arrivals in Menorca 2022, by place of residence
• Palma-Calvià: annual number of tourists in hotels 2011-2019
• Average spending of tourists on the Balearic Islands 2022, by island
• Visitor arrivals in the Balearic Islands 2010-2022, by main origin
• Costa Blanca: tourists in hotels by origin summer 2020
• Tourists by country of origin in the Balearic Islands in 2019
• Costa Brava: annual number of tourists in hotels 2011-2017
• South of Tenerife: annual number of tourists in hotels 2011-2015
• Tourists distributed by province Andalusia 2021
• Annual number of tourists in rural accommodations in Spain 2009-2019
• Overnight stays in rural accommodations in Spain 2019, by tourist origin
• British visitor arrivals in the Balearic Islands 2010-2021
• Quarterly tourism spending in the Canary Islands 2019-2022
• German visitors in the Canary Islands 2010-2022
• Tourists distributed by origin in Andalusia 2020
• Annual number of tourist in Andalusia 2008-2020
• Number of hotel overnight stays in Madrid (Spain) 2016-2019, by origin of tourists
• Madrid: number of nights spent in hotels per month in 2019
• Main inbound tourism markets for the city of Madrid 2022
• Most popular countries among inbound visitors in Brazil 2021
• Number of international visitors to Victoria in Australia 2019
• Share of tourism spending in Cuba 2021, by traveler origin
• Italy: number of Austrian tourist arrivals in 2015, by region of destination
• Percentage change in tourist flows in selected Italian art cities 2018
• Italy: number of overnight stays of French tourist in 2015, by region of destination
• German tourists in the Balearic Islands 2016-2019
• Number of tour operators Vietnam 2015-2019
• Quarterly growth in tourist visits from China to the United Kingdom (UK) 2013-2020
• Tourists growth in Russia 2019-2021, by season and destination
• Number of overnight visitor arrivals in Puerto Rico 2014-2022
• Average daily expenditure of tourists in the province of Malaga in Spain 2013-2018
• Spanish tourists in Thailand 2000-2016
• Main countries of residence among visitors in the Canary Islands 2022
• Overnight tourism volume in Madrid 2015-2022, by type
• International tourism volume in Catalonia 2000-2022
• Average international tourist spend per trip in Catalonia 2016-2022
• Per capita spend by German tourists in Spain 2010-2022
• Inbound visitors in Spain 2000-2023

Other statistics that may interest you Statistics on

About the industry

• Premium Statistic Share of visitor arrivals in Ibiza and Formentera 2022, by place of residence
• Premium Statistic Share of visitor arrivals in Menorca 2022, by place of residence
• Premium Statistic Palma-Calvià: annual number of tourists in hotels 2011-2019
• Premium Statistic Average spending of tourists on the Balearic Islands 2022, by island
• Premium Statistic Visitor arrivals in the Balearic Islands 2010-2022, by main origin
• Premium Statistic Costa Blanca: tourists in hotels by origin summer 2020
• Premium Statistic Tourists by country of origin in the Balearic Islands in 2019
• Premium Statistic Costa Brava: annual number of tourists in hotels 2011-2017
• Premium Statistic South of Tenerife: annual number of tourists in hotels 2011-2015
• Premium Statistic Tourists distributed by province Andalusia 2021

About the region

• Premium Statistic Annual number of tourists in rural accommodations in Spain 2009-2019
• Premium Statistic Overnight stays in rural accommodations in Spain 2019, by tourist origin
• Premium Statistic British visitor arrivals in the Balearic Islands 2010-2021
• Premium Statistic Quarterly tourism spending in the Canary Islands 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic German visitors in the Canary Islands 2010-2022
• Premium Statistic Tourists distributed by origin in Andalusia 2020
• Premium Statistic Annual number of tourist in Andalusia 2008-2020
• Premium Statistic Number of hotel overnight stays in Madrid (Spain) 2016-2019, by origin of tourists
• Premium Statistic Madrid: number of nights spent in hotels per month in 2019
• Premium Statistic Main inbound tourism markets for the city of Madrid 2022

Selected statistics

• Premium Statistic Countries with the highest number of inbound tourist arrivals worldwide 2019-2022

Other regions

• Premium Statistic Most popular countries among inbound visitors in Brazil 2021
• Premium Statistic Number of international visitors to Victoria in Australia 2019
• Basic Statistic Share of tourism spending in Cuba 2021, by traveler origin
• Premium Statistic Italy: number of Austrian tourist arrivals in 2015, by region of destination
• Premium Statistic Percentage change in tourist flows in selected Italian art cities 2018
• Premium Statistic Italy: number of overnight stays of French tourist in 2015, by region of destination
• Premium Statistic German tourists in the Balearic Islands 2016-2019
• Premium Statistic Number of tour operators Vietnam 2015-2019
• Premium Statistic Quarterly growth in tourist visits from China to the United Kingdom (UK) 2013-2020
• Premium Statistic Tourists growth in Russia 2019-2021, by season and destination

Related statistics

• Premium Statistic Number of overnight visitor arrivals in Puerto Rico 2014-2022
• Premium Statistic Average daily expenditure of tourists in the province of Malaga in Spain 2013-2018
• Premium Statistic Spanish tourists in Thailand 2000-2016
• Premium Statistic Main countries of residence among visitors in the Canary Islands 2022
• Premium Statistic Overnight tourism volume in Madrid 2015-2022, by type
• Premium Statistic International tourism volume in Catalonia 2000-2022
• Premium Statistic Average international tourist spend per trip in Catalonia 2016-2022
• Premium Statistic Per capita spend by German tourists in Spain 2010-2022
• Premium Statistic Inbound visitors in Spain 2000-2023
• Premium Statistic Inbound tourism volume in Spain 2023, by region of destination

Further related statistics

• Basic Statistic Contribution of China's travel and tourism industry to GDP 2014-2023
• Premium Statistic Change in number of visitors from Mexico to the U.S. 2018-2024
• Premium Statistic Music tourist spending at concerts and festivals in the United Kingdom (UK) 2012-2016
• Basic Statistic Importance of BRICS countries to UK tourism businesses 2011
• Premium Statistic Annual revenue of China Tourism Group Duty Free 2013-2023
• Basic Statistic Foreign exchange earnings from tourism in India 2000-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of visitors to the U.S. from Russia 2011-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of international tourist arrivals APAC 2019, by country or region
• Premium Statistic Leading countries in the MEA in the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index 2018
• Premium Statistic Middle Eastern countries with the largest international tourism receipts 2018

Further Content: You might find this interesting as well

• Contribution of China's travel and tourism industry to GDP 2014-2023
• Change in number of visitors from Mexico to the U.S. 2018-2024
• Music tourist spending at concerts and festivals in the United Kingdom (UK) 2012-2016
• Importance of BRICS countries to UK tourism businesses 2011
• Annual revenue of China Tourism Group Duty Free 2013-2023
• Foreign exchange earnings from tourism in India 2000-2022
• Number of visitors to the U.S. from Russia 2011-2022
• Number of international tourist arrivals APAC 2019, by country or region
• Leading countries in the MEA in the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index 2018
• Middle Eastern countries with the largest international tourism receipts 2018

• Skip to main content

Turisme Palma

• Press & Media
• Accommodation

• Essential (experiences)
• Palma for all
• Palma in 1 day
• Palma in 2 days
• Palma in 3 days
• Gateway to Mallorca
• Events and conferences
• How to get around/transport
• Tourist Information offices

TOP EXPERIENCES

Palma 360º video.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Download the palma city map here .

Download map

DON’T MISS A THING! 

Inspiration is better when it is shared

RECEIVE OUR NEWSLETTER

Now in Palma

Palma Today

Palma Morning

#PASSIONFORPALMA 

© J. Bennett

Destinations in Mallorca

Discover the top destinations 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 .

Must See Towns & Villages in Mallorca

Mallorca is most famous as a beach holiday destination but those who take the time to explore the island in more detail will be pleasantly surprised at the depth of its beauty. 

The towns and villages have a lot to offer the more inquisitive visitor. Picture pedestrianised cobbled streets featuring pretty blonde stone story book houses complete with green shutters, magnificent churches, historical landmarks and of course enchanting squares with cafes and restaurants with large terraces to indulge in some alfresco dining. These are some of the most common features of Mallorca’s must see towns and villages. 

West Mallorca The Sierra de Tramuntana mountain range and its surrounding area is home to some of the island’s most treasured towns and villages. They each boast an impressive mountain backdrop and claim exciting hiking trails and cycling routes on their doorstep. It would be a sin not to pack some active wear and walking boots if you are heading to this part of the island.

Fornalutx is heralded to be one of the prettiest villages in the whole of Spain. There’s a sense of the old Mallorca when visiting the small settlement, hidden deep within the mountains. Have your camera at the ready as you stroll around because there are many picture worthy moments. We recommend grabbing a coffee or ice cream at Cafè Sa Plaça in the main square next to the ancient olive tree. Also do keep your eyes peeled for the local bakery Panaderia de Fornalutx, a local gem. 

Another photogenic mountain town is Valldemossa, which today is teeming with day trippers who are particularly keen to see the cell in the Royal Carthusian Monastery where legendary composer Chopin notoriously spent a winter and completed his best work. There’s a wildly romantic charm in the air in Valldemossa and many enjoy getting lost in the labyrinth of cobbled streets filled with plant pots. A handful of restaurants and cafes service the town, with QuitaPenas Valldemossa being a firm favourite for its local tapas. Boutique shops and art galleries sell art, handmade crafts, tasteful interior decor and Mallorca’s famous pearls. We would recommend visiting Valldemossa in the winter to get the town to yourself! 

Deia is another beauty spot widely known as a bolthole for creatives. Famous artists, writers and musicians have illustriously congregated here for decades gone-by. Today the real estate comes with a hefty price-tag, and many of its residents are the well-heeled sort. It’s possible to explore some of Deia’s history with a visit to Robert Graves House where patrons are offered insight into the poet and author's life and inspiration. The house and gardens remain as they were when he was alive. A short walk down to Cala Deia is a must. Large boulders and crystalline waters await, along with an idyllic setting for some seafood dining at C’as Patro del March restaurant. If your purse strings allow, book a room (or do lunch, afternoon tea or dinner) at world renowned hotel Belmond Residencia, once owned by Richard Branson.

Banyalbufar clinging to the craggy western coastline is celebrated for its ancient terraces cultivated by the notorious moors who once ruled the island. It stands out from the crowd due to its dramatic vistas of these terraces climbing down to the shimmering blue sea. Scenery that will certainly leave a mark in your memory! There’s also a watch tower just outside of town called Torre des Verger, known to be one of the best preserved on the island. Otherwise Banalbufar remains one of the most authentic Mallorcan villages on the West coast of Mallorca and has a selection of breathtaking hiking trails on its doorstep. 1661 Cuina de Banalbufar serves some Mediterranean style cooking and is one of our favourite places to dine here. 

The arty town of Soller sits within a valley at the foot of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, just a few kilometres from the coastline and Port de Soller. Citrus fruits made this town both well-known and wealthy, and today orange juice, confits and lemon and orange ice cream can be found on every street corner. Soller’s gothic cathedral Iglesia de Sant Bartomeu dominates the main square and is commonly featuredon postcards of the island. A selection of museums, art galleries and quirky boho style boutiques are worth a look. Other than its beauty and citrus fruits, the vintage train operating between Soller and Palma, and the vintage tram service operating between Soller and Port de Soller attract a number of tourists year-round. If tapas is high on your hit list then we recommend a visit to Can Pintxo. 

North Mallorca Pollença is a scenic Spanish town embroidered with centuries-old history. Plaça Major dominated by a large 13th-century church has numerous outdoor cafés, perfect for sitting and watching the world go by. One of the town's most remarkable features is the 365-step stairway to the north of the square; this leads up to a historic chapel known as Calvary. History enthusiasts are always keen to set their eyes on the Pont Romà (Roman bridge) on the edge of town. The Convent and Cloister of Sant Domingo built between 1588 and 1616, is also an elegant piece of architecture hosting a spectrum of cultural events throughout the year. There are a number of dining options available serving some great Mediterranean cooking. If in town for the day, Celler el Molί is a firm favourite for its affordable three course lunch menu. 

On a visit to the ancient walled town of Alcudia one is likely to be pleasantly surprised. Behind the old ‘city’ walls, a maze of pedestrianised cobbled streets await, along with a selection of restaurants and souvenir shops. Guided tours are available for those keen to delve deeper into its history; with remains of one of the smallest roman theatres in Spain, 16th century palaces and the 19th century neo-gothic church of Sant Jaume featuring on the menu. C’an Costa is the oldest restaurant in town and is the place to sample traditional Mallorquin food – think hearty stews, stuffed vegetables, rice and fish dishes. 

East Mallorca We would recommend visiting the town of Arta on a Tuesday to see the town and its offering in all its glory. For this is when it hosts its weekly market, with a long history specialising in basket weaving and pottery goods. Aesthetically the town has managed to stay relatively untouched by tourism. Highlights include the medieval fortress walls of the pilgrimage Church of Sant Salvador which stand above the town. A visit to the Regional Museum of Arta will allow you to learn about the areas history with artefacts dating back to Roman times. Do allocate an hour of time to visit the Caves of Arta on the outskirts of town and prepare to be mesmerized. For an epic dining experience visit Gaudi Restaurant, which sits within a historic palace, serving modern Mediterranean cuisine.

Capdepera is a modestly quaint medieval village in the East of Mallorca. The 14th century castle dominates the landscape and will be etched in your mind after a visit. We recommend strolling around the town and soaking up the historical architecture, but the Church de Sant Joan is an important point of interest for historians. Cova Negra Restaurant should be on your radar for delicious Mediterranean plates in a gourmet setting. 

South Mallorca Santanyi is a historic, yet beautifully polished rural town, famous for the cultivation of Mallorca’s famous blonde stone. Today it is a hub for international artists, which is emulated in the selection of tasteful galleries, workshops and interior décor shops scattered around the town. The 18th century Church of Sant Andreu can be seen for miles and is the town’s defining feature. Porta Murada (an old gate) is also an important piece of history for the town’s residents as it acts as a reminder of the town’s troubled past with pirates. The choice of good-quality international restaurants here makes it a foodie haven. Es Cantonet is a cosy traditional restaurant with top quality homemade food and a renowned tasting menu. 

This is just a selection of Mallorca’s best bits we confidently feel should be on anyone’s bucket list on a visit to Mallorca. There are dozens of small villages and towns waiting to be discovered so hire a car or rent a bike and take a tour at your own leisure.

Foodies Towns & Villages in Mallorca

There’s never been a tastier time to eat on this Balearic island. The city of Palma takes the crown for its forward thinking and cosmopolitan restaurants and even hosts some world-renowned addresses thanks to Michelin star chefs who have made their mark here. At the same time, many of the towns and villages on the island take pride in their restaurants and gastronomic offerings. Read on for the mouth-watering details. 

Mallorcan Cuisine If you are a culture vulture looking to tuck into traditional Mallorcan fare, we would suggest heading away from the typical resorts. Inland towns and villages claim the best restaurants serving authentic Mallorquin specialities like frit Mallorquín (fried lamb innards), cargols (snails) and arros brut ('dirty' rice).

Inca is a typical working town, away from the usual tourist trail and is a treasure trove when it comes to restaurants utilising seasonal produce. People travel from all across the island to visit its famous celler (old wine cellar) restaurants. Celler Can Amer housed in a 17th century wine celler, offers a refined service and has won awards for its traditional cooking and impressive selection of local wines. The suckling pig, shoulder of lamb and a confit of cod are just a few of its specialities. Restaurante Celler Can Lau offers a more rustic affair with home-cooked, hearty style of food. They are known for their caragols (snails) amongst other things. Restaurante Celler Ca’n Ripoll is another firm favourite, the ‘menu del dia’ keeps it busy throughout the year, but the charming terrace is especially popular in the summer months. Alternatively, there’s also the unassuming, traditional and rural village of Algaida which is in possession of some wonderful hidden gems that serve up no-frills, hearty home-cooked feasts. Rub shoulders with the locals at Ca'l Dimoni and encounter an all-round timeless experience.  

Seafood If seafood is on your agenda, then Mallorca’s coastline is the best place to find some freshly caught local treasures. Whether your maritime fix will be satisfied by prawns, clams, octopus, seabass, or even a famed Paella, Mallorca will deliver. 

 The latest catch can be found in the ports, and for us Port d’Andratx is a top pick. From the picture-postcard setting these restaurants enjoy along the promenade, through to the quality and endless choice of restaurants serving fresh fish, it has it all! Walking along the promenade, the smell of frying fish will tempt you in! If you can make it to the far end of the promenade before being drawn in, Rocamar is well worth the wait. It has a loyal following amongst those living on the island, due to its unwavering quality and unparalleled service. Alternatively, Marisqueria Galicia is an old favourite, it offers a rustic setting and a friendlier price point for its offering and has a loyal following from locals. 

A batch of quality seafood restaurants reside along the seafront in the pretty horseshoe shaped bay of Port de Soller. Keep your eyes peeled on the menu for Soller Prawns, as they are an island treasure and should be on any seafood lovers bucket list. The traditional style Restaurante Ses Oliveres nestled along the seafront has been a well-received for many years, and serves paella, prawn carpaccio, anchovies and andalusian style squid. Kingfisher Restaurant has a more modern flair and receives top marks time and time again for its quality of food, presentation, service and magnificent views over the harbour.   

International Cuisine The swanky ports attract some of the world’s wealthiest humans to their destination restaurants. So it goes without saying that these serve up some of the best international cuisine on the island, complete with first class service and exceptional views overlooking the luxury yachts.

The glamorous Puerto Portals has a choice of international cuisine, Mediterranean, Asian, Indian – you name it, it’s here. They tend to have the following in common - first class service, glitzy clientele and dreamy terraces looking out over the marina. You need not look far to find quality seafood, without a doubt Flanigan has long been established as the King of the Sea here, you will find fresh fish, traditional Paellas and more. Ritzi is a long-standing favourite for classy Italian cuisine, and also brags a great al fresco style bar perfect for a pre or post dinner tipple. Whilst 2 Michelin Star chef Fernando P. Arellano has designed a wonderful menu at Baiben with Mediterranean and Latin-American flavour, and last but not least Tahini is without a doubt one of the best Japanese restaurants on the island. 

Port Adriano is another port that is favoured for its gastronomic offering. Coast by East claims the idyllic position at the end of the Philip Stark designed marina overlooking the mega-yachts, and delivers a fusion of Asian-Mediterranean cuisine. We especially love its Robata style dishes! A taste of Italy is easy enough in this port, as Italian restaurants are plentiful, with Trattoria Vino del Mar positioning itself as the gourmet Italian restaurant whilst La Oca offers a family friendly, relaxed vibe. 

The handsome blonde stone capital of Santanyi is home to a vibrant artistic community, emulated in its restaurant settings. In recent years, there have been some impressive additions to the town so it has made it onto our list of top towns and villages for foodies. From traditional Mallorquin cooking, authentic Italians, international fine dining establishments alongside specialist vegetarian alternatives, this town has it all! Here are a couple of names to keep an ear out for. For tapas Es Molí is a must, and we simply love its position within an old mill. East 26 Restaurant wins for its splendid courtyard setting and crowd-pleasing menu, the latter also has a fabulous ‘menu del dia’ offering which changes weekly.  

As far as tourist resorts go, Cala d’Or makes an impression for its food offering and warm hospitality! Like most resorts, the restaurants are open during the summertime only, so April-October and a whole host of cuisines are available. Restaurant Diferent serves up innovative tapas and age-old favourite Spanish plates alongside some modern international additions to the menu. Meat Club is the place for hard carnivores, you won’t find a better T-Bone steak in this part of the island. Restaurant Soy is where it’s at for an Asian feast, its décor and sushi boats are Instagram worthy every time and whether it’s a pad-thai or a sushi extravaganza you are after, the kitchen takes great pride in their food, making it a delicious adventure every time. 

We are just giving you a taster of some of the island’s best bits, so do take a look at our restaurant listings to find out more about the restaurants in your area.

Fiestas & Fairs Towns & Villages in Mallorca

Mallorquin folk are particularly proud of their fiestas and fairs and without a doubt, the capital of Palma hosts some of the islands biggest and best events in the annual calendar, however each town and village seems to specialise in one tradition or another.  

Below we have highlighted some of our favourite events; so do keep an eye on our events calendar for more information.  

Pollenca claims one of the biggest historical fiesta’s on the island with La Patrona in August, as locals commemorate the long history of invasions by Moorish pirates. The main event is a mock battle re-enacted by thousands of residents. It’s compulsory to dress up as either a Christian (in white) or pirate. Wine enthusiasts should try and attend Vi Primitiu Wine Fair, a wine tasting event that takes place in the beautiful Claustre del Convent de Santo Domingo in Spring time - a wonderful opportunity to sample from dozens of vineyards across the island. In Autumn the town’s Fira d'Artesania is a great place to pick up local artisan products. 

Valldemossa has been an inspiration to a string of international artists and musicians, many of whom have famously created some of their best work whilst residing in the town. Therefore it should come as no surprise that a selection of highly regarded musical and art festivals feature in its calendar. Many visitors fly in for the Chopin Festival in August to enjoy first class classical music performances within the magical setting of Valldemossa’s Real Cartuja Monastery. Renditions of Chopin’s famous works alongside other international legends are a major attraction. The town’s Artdemossa is a midsummer affair where the village pays tribute to artists on the island. Visitors can feast their eyes on a spectrum of arts, including sculptures, paintings, photography and music. 

Port de Soller is a centuries old fishing village and its locals embrace its history. Centuries ago it was a popular spot for Moorish pirates trying to land on Mallorca. Each year Port de Soller hosts its own interpretation of a Moorish invasion in 1561 with Es Firó (Moors vs Christians Festival), celebrations take place over a long weekend in May in both Soller town and Port de Soller and is a wonderful time to visit. In the peak of summer, Port de Soller celebrates it’s patron saint, Saint Bartholomew, with a spectacular fire display on the 24th August which is well worth a watch. The annual Classical Music Festival of Port de Sóller is a popular rendezvous for music lovers, as first class international artists perform in the unique setting of a converted chapel in the former Santa Catalina monastery. 

Santanyi oozes history and charm and is famous for its ancient blonde stone. It’s known for its vibrant Sant Jaume festivities in July, where the town comes alive with traditional parades, workshops, sporting and music events. The main event is a parade of giants on the 24th July, followed by a concert. This town also makes a special effort for the island-wide celebration of Sant Antoni on the 17th Janaury each year, as they celebrate with a procession of animals being blessed, a great day out for the kids in particular. Canal’Art is an evening extravaganza of art, where the town's art galleries, bars and shops all around Santanyí display contemporary art for an evening. Santanyi also celebrates an International Music Festival throughout the summer months (between April and September), bringing some critically acclaimed international musicians to the town. 

Inca is one of the largest towns on the island and has remained relatively untouched by tourism which means when you visit the town during one of its fiesta’s or fairs, it feels truly authentic. Most notably, Mallorca’s largest traditional festival known as Dijous Bo takes place in Inca in November, and people travel from all around the island to celebrate local crafts and cuisine. July sees Inca Jazz Festival bring in crowds of jazz lovers to the historical building of Claustre de San Domingo with numerous shows taking place throughout the month. 

Binissalem is home to Mallorca’s most famous wines, and in September during grape harvest the locals celebrate with an annual grape festival known as Festa des Vermar. This event is a great one for wine enthusiasts keen to immerse themselves in the island’s viniculture.  You can expect street dinners, parades, wine tastings and an iconic grape stomping competition. 

This is just a selection of towns and villages we feel stand out from the crowd for their fiestas and fairs, but if you are a culture connoisseur then there are plenty of other towns and villages hosting their own special fiestas and fairs. Many pay homage to the products that they specialise in; for instance Campos celebrates Sobrassada with its Sobrassada Fair in October and  Son Servera hosts an Almond Blossom Fair in February. Or if you want to be transported back in time then perhaps Capdepera’s Medieval Fair in May is a great day out for the wh0le family to enjoy. There are too many to mention, so do take a look at our events calendar for more information about the island’s upcoming events, big and small!

Market Towns & Villages in Mallorca

The weekly markets taking place around Mallorca offer the opportunity to sample some authentic Mallorcan culture. Whether it be to soak up the atmosphere, to jostle with residents for the best local produce or buy some unique souvenirs. Food is always important at these markets, from fresh fruit and veg, to artisan cheeses, cured meats and local honey. Also wonderful Mallorquin handmade local products made from olive wood, leather goods, ceramics, textiles and jewellery. All the markets on the island start early in the morning and close at lunch time. Being a morning event, a pit-stop at a local café for a café con leche and croissant or pan con tomate is an absolute must.

Authentic Markets Without a doubt, for an authentic Mallorcan market Sineu hosts the biggest and best, so pencil Wednesday morning in your diary. This market is a bit of an institution, with locals singing its praises to anyone who will listen. You will find a maize of streets thronging with people browsing the hundreds of stalls around the town. It sells everything - including livestock! Otherwise Santa Maria del Cami market on Sunday is another traditional market on a slightly smaller scale where you can rub shoulders with the locals and a truly authentic feel. 

Best Market Squares The best market square atmosphere can be found in Pollenca on a Sunday. To be honest, this market wins for its setting and all-round experience, and stands out from the crowd due to the buzz in the main square. Soller market on a Saturday also offers a picture-worthy buzzing market square with a gothic cathedral lurking in the background, and ample cafes with outdoor seating where many locals sit and watch the world go by. 

Specialist Markets Arta market on Tuesdays has got an upmarket boho Ibiza-esque vibe, and is the best place to scoop up some of Mallorca’s famed textiles and hand-crafted straw bags. 

Of course, there are many, many more markets to explore on the island; practically every town and village has its own market, but these are some of our top picks.

Start Planning

Start Exploring

Is Mallorca Worth Visiting? 16 Pros and Cons to Consider

Is Mallorca worth visiting? I’m here to spill the tea on the good, the bad, and the ugly.

I’m usually gushing over Spanish destinations because Spain feels like my home away from home, but in this post, you’ll see exactly what I liked and disliked about this island.

If you want to know my final verdict, then yes, I do think Mallorca is a good place to visit, but here’s everything you need to consider before planning a trip.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

My favorite carb in Mallorca: The hot chocolate at Ca’n Joan de s’Aigo in Palma. The island is also known for its pastries, but many of them contain lard (which I don’t consume as a pescatarian).

Table of Contents

The Main Thing That Bothered Me About Mallorca, Spain

Tourists, tourists, and more tourists.

So here’s the thing – I knew Mallorca was touristy and obviously did not expect to be the only one there. BUT it was a different kind of touristy, and I didn’t even visit the peak season.

As a huge Spain lover, it wasn’t my first time in this country (far from it).

I think I visited enough places to know that some regions have yet to be discovered while others have become extremely popular. Yet, in most cases, there’s still a reasonable balance between tourists and locals.

For example, even in a bustling city like Madrid , you don’t have to make a lot of effort to experience its authentic side, and you definitely don’t feel like only tourists are around you.

I’m not saying that Mallorca’s authentic side is non-existent, but I feel like the touristy vibe can overshadow it sometimes, and I wish they were more balanced because that’s a big deal for a traveler like me.

Other than that, there’s also the stereotype of only being surrounded by drunk tourists.

I’d say it depends on where you’re staying because some towns are notorious for being popular party destinations (like Magaluf) while others are more tranquil (like my beloved Port de Pollença).

Is Mallorca Worth Visiting? All the Things to Love About It

You can find quiet even in touristy places.

Considering everything I’ve written about tourists in Mallorca, it really wasn’t difficult to find quiet areas, even in the island’s most visited cities and towns.

The minute you stray from the streets where all the shops and restaurants are, you see fewer and fewer people.

If you think about it, that’s kind of sad, but I can’t say I didn’t enjoy having some streets and alleys all to myself. In these tranquil moments, I could really feel the special vibe of Mallorca.

The Weather

What is Mallorca like in terms of temperatures? As a sun-drenched Mediterranean island (though I’ve encountered a couple of cloudy mornings), Mallorca offers fantastic weather almost all year long.

Take into consideration that it can get extremely hot and humid in July and August (27°C-33°C / 80.6°F-91.4°F by day) and not warm enough to take a dip in the winter months (14°C-17°C / 57.2°F-62.6°F by day).

That still leaves you with more than enough time to visit Mallorca while enjoying idyllic weather.

The summer months are also when hotel prices can be unbelievably expensive, so spring and fall can be good choices for your Mallorca trip.

Beautiful Beaches

Being one of the best beach destinations in Europe , it’s not surprising that Mallorca boasts a dreamy coastline. With dozens of heavenly beaches with crystal-clear waters, this island is a great place to unwind and soak up some sun.

It’s good to know that even though Mallorca is touristy, it doesn’t necessarily mean that every single beach is overcrowded with people, whether you’re staying in the north of Mallorca, in the south, in the east, or on the west coast.

In fact, when I visited popular places like the resort town of Port de Pollença and Formentor Beach, I was pleasantly surprised by their tranquility.

Important to know: Accessibility varies from beach to beach. Some can be reached by bus, some by car, and others require 15-30 minutes of walking from the nearest road/parking lot (including passing through steep, unpaved paths).

Enchanting Towns

Strolling through the cobbled streets of historical European small towns is one of the greatest joys in (my) life, and Mallorca is home to quite a few visit-worthy ones.

From Valldemossa to Alcudia to Pollença, there are more than enough picturesque places that are an absolute delight to explore.

If you love unique experiences, you should also know that you can reach the town of Soller with a vintage train dating back to the early 20th century.

I thought it was going to be an overrated attraction, but I highly recommend it as the views along the way are truly stunning.

Jaw-Dropping Natural Landscapes

One of the best reasons to visit Mallorca is that you don’t only get to see dreamy shades of blue (courtesy of the Mediterranean) but also miles and miles of green.

So many roads offer breathtaking views of fields, almond trees, orange groves, and even vineyards.

If that’s not enough, one of the most scenic parts of the island is the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It’s home to some of the towns I’ve mentioned and countless hiking trails, cycling trails, viewpoints, hidden coves, and unique manmade landmarks. 

Other natural areas you can explore are the coastal Mondrago Natural Park and Sa Dragonera Natural Park (located on a nearby uninhabited island). If you’re an avid nature lover, these parts of Mallorca will surprise you.

Rich History

When Mallorca is often perceived solely as a beach destination, it’s easy to forget that it’s steeped in history.

From prehistory and Roman times to the Arab rule and the conquest of the island by King Jaume I of Aragon (who became the King of Majorca) in the 13th century, each era had its impact on Mallorca and left landmarks you can still visit today.

These include remains of prehistoric and Roman settlements, Moorish gardens, medieval walls, monasteries, cathedrals, and palaces. If you’re a history lover, you’re in for a treat.

Must-See Manmade and Natural Landmarks

Diving a little deeper into all the historical landmarks you can see in Mallorca, anyone can find at least one point of interest to enjoy.

Some of the highlights of this island are: 

• Remains of villages from the Bronze Age like the Talaiots de Son Fornés
• Ruins of the Roman city of Pollentia
• Medieval walls of Alcudia
• Palma Cathedral, Royal Palace of La Almudaina, and Bellver Castle (in Palma de Mallorca)
• Capdepera Castle
• Royal Carthusian Monastery of Valldemossa

If you’re more of a natural landmark kind of traveler, head to the infamous caves of Cuevas del Drach and Cuevas dels Hams, visit Cap de Formentor (Mallorca’s northernmost point) or hike in the Torrent de Pareis canyon.

Palma Is Such a Lovely City

Is Palma de Mallorca worth visiting? I’m pretty sure most people don’t travel to Mallorca just to spend a day or two in the capital, Palma, but don’t underestimate this city.

I thought it was just going to be a base point from where I would take day trips, but I discovered an intriguing city with an incredible old town (and other fascinating neighborhoods), lots of historical landmarks, a great culinary scene, photogenic architecture, and so much more.

So if you’re only a short flight away and a quick Spanish weekend break is all you’re looking for, consider spending it in Palma de Mallorca.

The Culture

If you’re a culture buff, Mallorca is going to win you over.

Apart from the capital city of Palma, which is home to many museums and art galleries (including the Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and the Joan Miró Foundation), you’ll find quite a few intriguing places to visit.

These include the Frédéric Chopin and George Sand Museum in Valldemossa, where the gifted Polish composer spent a very productive time on the island, and La Granja d’Esporles, a museum dedicated to Mallorca’s history and traditions (housed in a 17th-century mansion).

If you’re after authentic souvenirs, pearls, salt, and ceramics are some of the traditional must-buys. Another unique experience is booking a stay in a finca , a traditional Mallorquin countryside farmhouse/estate.

You can also visit the weekly markets taking place in plenty of towns across the island, indulge in typical Mallorquin food (if you love seafood, vegetables, and baked goods, you won’t be disappointed), attend some festivals, and the list goes on.

Diverse and Unique Activities

I hope that by now, you understand that there’s a lot more to do in Mallorca than just unwind at the beach. Besides all the activities and places I’ve mentioned so far, this island has a few more surprises.

Outdoors enthusiasts can go hiking, cycling, scuba diving, kayaking, and canyoning; wine lovers can tour central Mallorca’s vineyards; others can take a boat tour to watch dolphins in the wild. Pretty exciting, right?

You Can Explore It by Car or Public Transportation

Is Mallorca a good place to visit without a car?

There’s no doubt that taking a road trip would be an ideal way to discover Mallorca’s hidden gems , conveniently get to every nook and cranny of the island, and have the most flexibility.

That said, you can also plan a Mallorca itinerary that doesn’t require renting a car (as I did) yet still includes some of the most beautiful places on the island.

Reachable by bus are picture-perfect spots like Mirador Es Colomer (the most iconic viewpoint in Mallorca), Jardines de Alfabia, Valldemossa, and Alcudia, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Traditional Mallorquin Food

It’s not surprising that you can stumble upon plenty of tourist traps when you’re looking for a place to eat.

But if you make the effort to find typical local food, you’ll be rewarded with dishes like Tumbet (a bit similar to ratatouille ), Coca de trampó  (thin bread baked and topped with vegetables), and frito Mallorquín de marisco (seafood with vegetables).

Good to know: Mallorca’s most famous pastry, ensaïmada , as well as some other local pastries, are not vegetarian-friendly – they are made with pork lard.

Suitable for Different Groups of Travelers

Considering what Mallorca has to offer, it can be a good destination for couples, families, groups of friends, and even solo travelers.

As you can see, its attractions are also suitable for different interests, whether you just want to unwind at the beach, enjoy the natural scenery, get to know the local history and culture or take in a bit of everything.

The Mediterranean Vibe Is Addictive

Even though I love exploring different types of destinations in Europe and I love visiting them in different seasons, there’s something addictive about the tranquility of a Mediterranean island on a sunny day.

So when you get to the quiet spots of Mallorca, whether inland or coastal, you feel that contagious laid-back Mediterranean vibe.

Spain Is Always a Good Idea

I know I’m biased because I feel like Spain is my home away from home, but it really is a destination that never disappoints me, even if not everything is perfect.

No matter what region you visit in Spain, you’ll always find beautiful places to visit, interesting local culture, good food, and so much more.

Should You Visit Mallorca? The Verdict

This island is much more than meets the eye, so I definitely think it’s worth visiting Mallorca, but I also recommend choosing wisely when to do so.

I visited at the end of May, and there was already a very respectable number of tourists on the island, so I can’t imagine how crowded it gets in July and August.

I know it’s not possible for everyone, but avoiding traveling to the Balearic island during these months will surely make a positive impact on your trip. Otherwise, you might not love Mallorca as much as I did.

If you’re wondering how many days in Mallorca are enough, I’d say that you need a minimum of 5 days, though I encourage you to spend 7-10 days in Mallorca if you have the time (I could have easily spent 2 weeks there).

Other Mallorca and Spain Travel Guides

Planning a trip to the Balearic Islands? Read:

• Breakfast and brunch places in Palma de Mallorca
• Free things to do in Palma de Mallorca
• What to pack for Mallorca
• Must-see landmarks in Spain
• Best road trips in Spain
• Hidden gems in Spain
• Novels set in Spain
• Spain travel quotes
• Spain travel tips
• Spain themed gifts

Related posts:

• Reasons to visit northern Spain
• Reasons to visit Cadiz, Spain
• Reasons to visit Cordoba, Spain
• Reasons to visit Malta
• Reasons to visit Crete
• Is Budapest worth visiting
• Is Porto worth visiting
• Is Turin worth visiting
• Is Warsaw worth visiting
• Is Poznan worth visiting
• Is Madrid worth visiting
• Is Bari worth visiting
• Is Aosta worth visiting

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

*Your emil address will not be published. By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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

Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

• Holiday Rentals
• Property For Sale
• Businesses For Sale
• Car Hire, Airport Transfers, Bus & Train
• Majorca Best Resorts
• Alcudia-Pto Alcudia
• Andratx-Pto Andratx
• Cala Millor
• Cala Rajada
• Cala San Vicente
• Calas De Mallorca
• C'an Pastilla
• C'an Picafort-Playa de Muro
• Peguera (Paguera)
• Pollensa-Pto Pollensa
• Puerto Portals
• Santa Ponsa
• Towns & Villages
• Soller by Car
• Valldemossa
• Airport Information
• Airport Parking
• Palma Airport Live Flight Arrivals
• Palma Airport Live Flight Departures
• Palma Cruises
• Rural & Petit Hotels
• Tourist Tax
• News From Mallorca
• Attractions / Trips
• Mallorca Shops
• Tourist Information Offices
• Live In Mallorca
• Markets in Mallorca
• Restaurants
• Package Holidays
• Cycling & Cyclotourism
• Hospitals and Health Centres
• Diving - Scuba Diving
• Spa's, Beauty & Wellness
• Mallorca Links

Majorca (Mallorca) Tourist and Travel Information Guide

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

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

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

Why is Mallorca so special ?

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

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

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

Accommodation - Where to Stay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fly to Palma - Mallorca

Information on the Airport and Disabled help

Find the latest Airlines flying to Mallorca, Flight Arrivals or Departures, Airport and Disabled Passenger Information.

Everyone needs to plan around the Weather! See the latest Island Weather Forecast.

Whether you are already Resident and Live in Mallorca or own a Property on the Island, you need Property Management or Services from time to time.

Cala Bona Harbour

Cala Agulla

Palma City Centre 2020

Winter in Cala Bona

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

© 2010-2024 www.mallorca-now.com

Mallorca, Spain: Tourist Trap or Beautiful Island?

Is Mallorca Worth Visiting?

Mallorca has a bad reputation. It is seen as a cheap holiday destination; a party island overrun by young tourists wanting to get drunk every night.

And ok, I have to admit I eventually did find them: loud British tourists  ordering their first beer at 11am and, even more embarrassing to me as a Dutch person, large groups of Dutch boys , barely old enough to legally drink, showing off their decreasing condom supply as their vacation progresses.

But, it took me over two months of living in Mallorca to first come across this type of tourism.

So yes, if you are looking for a party destination Mallorca might be an option. But thankfully Mallorca has much more to offer than the infamous areas of Magaluf and El Arenal . And that is what I want to share with you in this Mallorca travel blog.

I want to show you what’s great about visiting Mallorca.

Also Read: Things to Know Before Traveling to Spain

Mallorca or Majorca?

Ok, before I tell you more about Mallorca, let me answer the two questions I get the most: “Is it Mallorca or Majorca?” and “Is Mallorca Majorca?”

Yes, Mallorca and Majorca refer to the same island. But the correct spelling is Mallorca .

Majorca with a j has been widely used by the British and although not correct, somehow it stuck when Mallorca became more popular as a tourism destination and these days you will even see it in big advertising campaigns.

The ‘double l’ in Spanish is pronounced as a “y” in English, but in some Spanish accents it also sounds a bit like a “j”, so perhaps that’s where it comes from.

Anyway, just remember it is Mallorca, not Majorca .

The Island of Mallorca and Why You Should Visit It

Mallorca is the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, with a long and fascinating history.

Its current population is just over 900,000 with most living in and around the city of Palma. This number increases dramatically during the summer months, when many seasonal workers and tourists descend upon the island.

Visiting Mallorca: a Gorgeous Island, Largely Unspoilt, with Beautiful Scenery

The rich and famous have been visiting Mallorca for generations and consequently, the island offers a large number of unique luxury accommodations.

Mallorca’s hotels range from beautiful historic buildings that have been converted to provide every modern convenience, to charming fincas (converted farmhouses) in the countryside and comfortable villas throughout the island.

It’s true that some of Mallorca’s coastline has been taken over by resorts but these do tend to be very self-contained and are easily avoided if parties & crowds are not your thing.

There are vast stretches of beach, particularly in the south, where there has been no development.

Tip: If you are looking for a hotel in Mallorca I recommend checking Booking.com for a wide selection and the best deals.

Majestic limestone cliffs plunge into the translucent sapphire- and turquoise-hued waters of the Mediterranean for the length of the island’s western and northern coasts.

Vast plains with almond trees, olive trees, and vineyards stretch across the interior. And yachts drop anchor in idyllic inlets along the eastern and southern coasts , that are otherwise only accessible on foot.

Mallorca’s rich history still shows in all the wonderful buildings. Especially capital city Palma de Mallorca is a must-visit for anyone who loves architecture .

The rich cultural history has left many sights to explore throughout Mallorca though, with castles & ruins, cathedrals & monasteries, grand manor houses & gardens, and a host of art galleries and museums.

The stunning scenery throughout the island and its moderate climate make it a popular island for hiking, cycling, and all sorts of water sports .

The warm & dry climate is perfect for golfers and there are around 20 golf courses on the island.

Tip: if you are looking for things to do in Mallorca ranging from water sports to sightseeing tours and wine tastings, check out Get Your Guide .

Each Region in Mallorca Has Its Own Particular Appeal

Visit the northeast of Mallorca for history, the east coast for beaches and caves, the north and west for spectacular mountains and picture-postcard villages.

If you are visiting Mallorca and want to explore ‘the real Mallorca’ I would recommend renting a car because public transport is somewhat limited.

Visit as many of the different towns as you can. Drive along the coast for some amazing views of the Mediterranean and make sure not to miss the Serra de Tramuntana (Tramuntana mountains) with its picturesque villages and amazing winding roads.

Serra de Tramuntana

The Serra de Tramuntana runs along the north-western coast of Mallorca, from the town of Andratx in the west to Cap de Formentor in the northeast, and was awarded World Heritage Status by UNESCO in 2011.

It covers around 30% of the island’s territory and more than 1,000 km2. The scenery is characterized by bizarrely shaped limestone rocks, pine woods and grass with some, partly abandoned, fincas (farmhouses) in between.

The coastline is steep and has several small, rocky bays.

Mallorca is a Good Year-Round Destination

Mallorca has well-maintained roads and excellent travel connections to the rest of Europe and mainland Spain, by air and by sea, making it an easy destination to visit.

Although it does get quieter after the summer months end , Mallorca is a year-round destination.

I would recommend visiting Mallorca before or after the summer months (June until August) if you want to avoid the crowds.

Mallorca Tourism

Mallorca with its rich culture, history, beautiful scenery, and good climate has welcomed tourists since the early 1960s and today is more popular than ever.

Fortunately, most of the mass tourist market is confined to the southwest of the island. The rest of Mallorca retains a more authentic charm.

Mallorca’s Food and Culture

Mallorca has perfected the art of coastal living, with Mallorcan food (including the freshest seafood), wine (vineyards are rarely more than an hour away), and natural attractions at the center of the whole experience.

All across the island, locals are returning to their cultural roots. The island’s old manor houses, country estates, and long-abandoned farms have sprung back to life as refined rural retreats.

Food is also at the heart of this revival, with the island’s chefs – inspired as much by their Mallorquin grandmothers as by the innovative trends of Mediterranean nouvelle cuisine – revitalizing the mainstays of the Mallorcan kitchen.

Also Read: Famous Spanish Food You Should Try

Places to Visit in Mallorca

Some of the places to visit in Mallorca, in my opinion, are:

• Palma de Mallorca – the beautiful capital city
• Port de Soller – one of the nicest coastal resorts
• Valldemosa – the most gorgeous village
• Alcúdia – because of its Roman remains
• Cap de Formentor – for its breathtaking views
• Puerto Portals – with its beautiful luxury marina

Tip: If you are planning a trip to any of these destinations I recommend pre-booking your Palma Airport Transfers with cheap-taxis.com.

Once you’ve seen this side of Mallorca I’m sure you’ll hate having to leave!

So, Is Mallorca Worth Visiting?

Mallorca is a gorgeous island and definitely worth visiting.

I have lived in different parts of Spain for years now and have seen most of the country. And still I believe Mallorca is one of the most beautiful parts of Spain .

And if you ever get the chance to spend some time working and/or living on this island like I did last summer, definitely go for it!

• Some of the Best Activities in Mallorca
• What to See & Do in Soller, Mallorca
• Things to Know Before Visiting Spain
• What’s it Like to Live in Mallorca

Would you like to know more about life on this beautiful island or about Mallorca tourism? Leave a comment below and I will reply asap!

  Like this article about whether visiting Mallorca is worth it or not? Pin it!

This article about visiting Mallorca contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no additional cost to you.

77 thoughts on “Mallorca, Spain: Tourist Trap or Beautiful Island?”

Hi: We are planning a week long trip for mid June and want to rent a 4+ bedroom villa. Do you have any suggestions on best town to use as a home base and best resources to book a villa? We plan to explore the island and will rent two cars for our 7 adults. Thanks so much!

Where to base yourself in Mallorca really depends on what type of trip you are looking for. For the most authentic Spanish experience I personally would book a villa somewhere in the interior and just drive in a different direction every day to explore. But, you’re going to an island so you might prefer to be on the coast. If you’re young (under 30) and want a simple party trip you could consider El Arenal. But otherwise I’d avoid that. Nice coastal towns in Mallorca that can make a good base I would say are Soller and Alcudia. In the southeast Cala d’Or could be a good base that has plenty of tourist facilities and is a good location for exploring quieter areas around it.

I personally tend to use Booking.com to book anything, including villas. You can select ‘holiday homes’ and ‘villas’ when searching. As a platform I find them offering much better quality than Airbnb.

Hello there,

I am planning to visit Mallorca with 2 of my friends (guys vacation). Is it worth the hype visiting Mallorca or the North of Spain. If so, what could be the budget for a 10 day trip in July?

That’s a difficult choice! Mallorca is very different from the north of Spain, so it really depends on what type of trip you prefer. The north is cooler (nice temperature in July though), has stunning nature, great for hiking and outdoor activities, plus some nice cities to explore. But the sea is cold so it’s less of a beach destination. Mallorca is a typical island destination with beautiful beaches, nice coastal towns, beach resorts and a real summer vacation vibe. As for a budget, this depends on whether you’re looking for a budget trip or more luxury. You can find low budget rooms with a double bed or 2 single beds for 50 Euros per night. But if you want something a bit nicer you’ll end up paying closer to 100 Euros per night, or much more for luxury hotels and resorts in Mallorca. You could get a simple dinner for 10 to 15 euros, more if you go to upscale restaurants. I hope this helps!

Hi Sanne, I stumbled upon your blog post while doing some research for a month–long stay in Mallorca. Thank you for the info, it’s very useful. How did you go about renting? We are looking for an apartment to rent for the whole month. Do you know if there are real estate companies renting for such periods?

Well, for longer term rentals in Mallorca I’d recommend Idealista. You could definitely still check that, but a month will be too short for most properties that are listed there. For just a month, Airbnb and VRBO are probably your best options. Some home owners do offer good discounts for monthly rentals.

I would like to go for a cycling trip to Mallorca. Is third week of March too cold? Thank you

Hi Julia, No, during the day it will be well above 10 degrees Celcius and it gets closer to 20 Celcius towards the end of the month. I would say that’s good cycling weather. The only thing is that the water will be cold and it’s not warm enough to lie on the beach. But if that’s not what you’re looking for then I think for a cycling trip the third week of March works.

My husband and I are planning a trip to Mallorca from 18th sep to 23rd Sep. Can you please suggest us 2-3 destinations? our preference is that it should be a mix of nightlife (1-2 nights), not so busy touristy places and car drives. Can you please help us in getting the most of these 3 things and suggesting which place will be best for what? Thank u so much in advance

I’d recommend starting in Palma for good nightlife and culture. Then, since you have a car, I’d stay in Soller for a couple of nights and explore the surrounding area from there. It’s a great area to explore by car and by being based in Soller you still have nice restaurants and cafés to go to in the evening.

Enjoy your trip! I’m sure you’ll love Mallorca 🙂

Thnx so much for ur reply Sanne. Any other recommendation besides Soller pls. I wish to stay in some boutique property away from the big cities

Soller definitely isn’t a big city. But, since you have a car, you don’t have to stay in the center of any town. There are some beautiful boutique hotels just outside Soller. Deia is a cute town but accommodation there is pricey. Check out accommodation around Fornalutx for slightly more bidget friendly options. Because you only have a few days I’d say that’s a good region to stay in. You could go as far as Alcudia, but that’s definitely a bigger town with more tourists.

Hi Sanne! Thanks for your Mallorca posts! I find reading you quite interesting and your recommendations will be useful!

I’ll be reading more of your blog!

Your blog is so helpful! I’m planning a surprise trip for my partner but sadly it has to be over a weekend in July, I know it will be at its busiest, but can you still enjoy Port de Sollér around this time? Is the public transport from Palma to Sollér overrun? I’m just nervous it could ruin the trip!

Many thanks in advance,

You absolutely can! Yes, it will be busier, but Port de Sollér is thankfully not the main place for mass tourism in Mallorca so I think you’re a lot better off there than in one of the tourist towns such as El Arenal.

Love the blog. My wife and I are planning to come in mid June for nights and we were planning on staying at Can Ferrereta in Santanyi.

We’re looking to relax and to be near some beautiful beaches, but I’m unsure whether we’ll feel too far removed on that side of the island. I’m sure we can do a day and dinner in Palma, but do you think we’ll regret not staying closer to the capital?

Thanks so much.

Hi Josh, Well, that depends. I think if you’re just looking to relax, Can Ferrereta is great and you’ll find enough beautiful beaches around there. And like you said, you can go to Palma for a day. I don’t think you’re too far from Palma if you only want to go there once for a day. But, I would say the north-west side of the island is more beautiful and has more to offer when it comes to cute small towns and impressive nature.

Hi Sanne, I just came across your blog about Mallorca. I have visited Mallorca way back in 1993, May, and this is a trip down memory lane. I loved the island. I understand your love of Soller, have you spent much time in Andratx? We stayed in Palma, I had a friend from the Netherlands living there. Often, we went to the outdoor market for fresh olives and lemons. Is the Walking Man trail still there? I believe we ended up in Soller. Also, either in Andratx or Soller that there was a shop named Sniffers. The clothing all had some kind of animal with a huge nose. I wish I knew which town we bought them in. Can you deduce where? Do you recommend any real estate company for looking into retirement in Mallorca?

Things definitely have changed since you were in Mallorca back in 1993! Expect it to be quite a bit more developed and busier. I have visited Andratx but haven’t spent much time there so I can’t say I know it well. I don’t know about the Walking Man trail or Sniffers, so they might both not be there anymore.

As for real estate companies, things work slightly differently in Spain than in most other countries. Because not every agent has the same properties on offer, as a buyer you tend not to stick with one agent (although of course they will all try to persuade you to). You visit all of the agencies you can find to see which properties they are offering. And once you’ve found a property you like I HIGHLY recommend using an independent lawyer/solicitor. The seller’s agent might say they can do all the checks and paperwork for you, but I’ve heard too many horrible stories of sales without good lawyers (I used to work at an estate agency in Spain).

I hope you’ll find a great place to live and enjoy Mallorca!

hi Sanne, we will come to Mallorca for 1 week in june as a couple. We would love staying in the non crowded ares of the island. Do you have advice on which hotels and places could be nice? I allready did some research but my first impression is that its all quite expensive. We have a car so we plan to stay a couple of nights in palma and then search for a nice second location. thank you

Hi Frank, That sounds like a great combination: a few nights in Palma and a few nights somewhere quieter to explore the area by car.

I would recommend Deia. I think the north and northwest side of the island are the most interesting if you want to get away from the crowds a bit and see some beautiful parts of the island. Deia is a very cute, small town. As a hotel idea I’ve always liked the look of Es Moli in Deia: https://www.booking.com/hotel/es/es-moli-deia.xu.html?aid=1761066&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=visit_mallorca

From there it’s an easy drive to Cala Deia, Valldemossa and Soller. And you could easily drive further north as well if you want to explore more.

But yes, unfortunately the cheapest hotel options are some of those standard, touristy hotels by the touristy beaches. You could of course do that as well and just see it as a place to sleep, since you have a car to go to wherever you want for the day. But if you ask me for a cute, quieter town that will give you nice memories of where you stayed, I’d recommend checking some pictures of Deia to see what you think of that.

Have a great time visiting Mallorca!

thank you so much!

Hi, I wonder whether you could advise me on which destinations I might like in Mallorca. To give you an idea of what I am after (which may not exist): – For my son (age 13), I think somewhere with a nice pool and walkable to a sandy beach. Also walkable to restaurants and cafes. Probably means we need a resort. -however, I keep looking and as soon as I see that the hotels offer kids’ clubs and ‘entertainment’ and all-inclusive buffets, it puts me off – I don’t want to be surrounded by screaming kids and sunburnt adults and shouty people. I don’t mind a bit of tackiness, I don’t want a lot. -posh resorts – Too expensive, attracts people who are into showing off wealth and possessions, not down to earth enough (plus I am not rich!)

– I will tell you where I have been that I liked in case you have been there and it gives you an idea of my taste – Cascais in Portugal -reading your article, do you think Port de Soller could be the one? what is the beach like though? Do you think it has any activities to keep a 13 year old happy? Anywhere else you could recommend?

Hi Ruth, Well, it depends a bit on what your son likes. If he is into watersports then Soller will be nice. He could do a scuba diving course there and will then definitely have a great memory, and a new skill! If watersports aren’t something that could keep him entertained, then maybe El Arenal is better as a base, just because it has a more varied offering of entertainment. I would avoid the bigger hotels with kids clubs because yes, I completely understand the tackiness you are worried about 😉

I would choose a smaller hotel (no more than 20 or so rooms) with a small pool and walking distance to the beach. This way you can avoid some of the sides of Mallorca you clearly don’t like, yet still be within walking distance of all the entertainment. There is plenty to do around El Arenal to keep your son entertained! He might enjoy this: https://www.getyourguide.com/mallorca-l47/mallorca-quad-adventure-tour-with-cliff-jumping-t243417/?partner_id=QS7NT3B&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-end&cmp=Mallorca

And if you plan to stay for a week or more then I’d definitely recommend renting a car to explore more of the island.

Hi, my partner and I are planning a trip to Majorca mid October and aren’t really sure about what area we should stay in. I know that’s the end of season but we want somewhere with really nice restaurants and beaches and still has a bit of a lively scene to it. Where would you recommend staying? Thanks in advance 🙂

Hi Caitlin, How long are you staying? Palma is great if you want good restaurants and culture, and now that high season is over it’s not too crowded. Port de Soller is great for its beach and has good restaurants too, plus you can easily visit Soller itself from the port, and surrounding towns and beaches. So if you have enough time and don’t mind changing location, maybe a few nights in Palma and a few nights in Port de Soller?

Thanks for this article. And I find the comments just as informative and historicly very interresting. I’m going to the island tommorow to look for an old finca to fix up as a vacation home/full time home for when I retire.

Hi Ben, Thanks. And that’s great! There are definitely a good number of older fincas on Mallorca that would make a great project. I hope you find a suitable one and enjoy Mallorca!

Did u find one?

Great article. We are 4 active USA seniors who love European travel. We have plans to visit Mallorca in October 2021, having had to cancel last year! We will fly in/out of Palma thus basing there.

We will do self-guided tours of the Palma area, and take the train on our own to Soller and on to Port Soller. Do you think that is a reasonable plan? Then we would like to hire driver/guides to visit other areas of the island as Alcudia, Deia, Valdamossa, etc. Could you advise us on this plan, any other suggestions, and most importantly we need information on guides.

Thank you kindly for your help!

That sounds like a great plan! Palma is definitely easy to explore on your own and taking the train to Soller will be a great experience. Just ask your hotel or Airbnb host for how to use the train and they will I’m sure be happy to explain everything. And although not everyone’s English might be perfect, the people in Mallorca are super friendly and will always find a way to help you out!

Hiring a car with driver is not very common, but there are many tours to book, including private tours. Get Your Guide is a popular platform for that in Europe: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Mallorca&lc=l47&searchSource=2&partner_id=QS7NT3B&utm_medium=online_publisher&utm_source=spend_life_traveling&placement=content-end

If you want to visit Soller, Port de Soller, Alcudia, Deia and Valldemossa I would recommend booking a hotel in the area for at least one or 2 nights, to have enough time to explore the area.

Enjoy! I’m sure you’ll love Mallorca! 🙂

We visited Mallorca in December, 2018. There were 4 of us senior ladies. We were there 2 weeks and stayed at the PuroHotel in Palma. It was lovely. We either walked or took the bus & train. There is an on & off tour bus in Palma. We took the train to Soller & Port Soller. I believe we took the bus to Valdemossa & we also did the Drach Caves. It was wonderful. I think your plan is a great one.

Thanks for the info. Is it crowded right now or do you think there are less tourist due to travel restrictions? Which part of the island do you think is quieter? Looking for an all inclusive hotel that is kid friendly. Thanks

Hi Judith, it’s definitely still quieter than in normal years. But I do expect it to pick up later in the year if things continue to go well. The interior of the island would be the quietest, but you probably want to be on the coast. Then I would say the North, Northeast and Northwest are your quieter options. For a good all-inclusive hotel in a quieter part of the island, check out this one: https://www.booking.com/hotel/es/viva-alcudia-sun-village.en.html?aid=1761066&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2

Hola, I lived in Mallorca ( Esporles mainly, plus many other places on the island) and we left 2 years ago because of suffocating over crowding and tourism. We now live in a beautiful coastal area of Galica, with no tourists most of the year. Mallorca became a tourist Disneyland, and we could not even go to the beaches anymore because they were so crowded, everywhere! Horrible traffic and crime have become normal now. I would not live there anymore.

Wow I’m sorry to hear that! I found living in Soller quite ok. Busy in summer but actually very quiet after the summer season ended. But I can imagine you’ve seen quite a change in Mallorca over the years.

I agree. We have lived in Spain since 2004 and moved to Mallorca a few years ago. We are so pleased we decided to leave and move back to the mainland. The island is suffocating and toxic and when living and working there the Mallorcans can be racist and unwelcoming.

Last time I stayed on the island we rented an Aston Martin (we really did, total blow out holiday) and took it round the island and found the Bond tunnels round towards the north-west and rented a villa. We came back fully recharged.

I love traveling too and spent a good deal of time in Mallorca last summer. I really liked Bunyola which is a stop on the wooden train from Palma to Soller and loved the west coast. Deia was pretty; the drive to Orient was…challenging…did not like Inca. I think the south east is too touristy. Soller I thought was pretty touristy though pretty.

Good afternoon,

Enjoyed reading your post Sanne! I’m also a world traveling fool and traveling to Barcelona 2/19-3/2 with a few friend and extending our trip in Mallorca. We’re renting a car and traveling the island counter clockwise. March 2-3 Deia, March 3-4 Alcudia, March 4-5 Arta’, March 5-6 Alaro’, March 6-8 Palma. My dilemma is do we continue driving the coastline south or head back west via central area to Alaro and hike? It’s chilly this time of year and the coast drive south looks touristy. One of my friends is also departing on 3/5 from Arta – hence we need to keep moving since she is taking a taxi or train from Arta to catch her flight on March 5th. LMK – since I can cxl my room in Alaro.

Hi Joanna, Wow you’ll get to see quite a bit of Mallorca, that’s great! To be honest, I think the south has less to offer. It’s touristy with lots of standard beach hotels, touristy shops and restaurants… The good thing about going in March is that it won’t be busy yet. But whether that makes it worth going… If you enjoy hiking I would definitely go hiking instead. If you like the idea of having seen all the different sides of Mallorca, then go to the south. It isn’t horrible and it is different from the north and east so you’ll still have new places to explore and new things to see. I hope this helps. Have a great time in Barcelona and Mallorca!

Hi!!! Where would you recomend to go hiking? Any tips? 🙂

I really enjoyed hiking around Soller. From Soller to Deia is a nice hike. And in general that part of the island has better hiking, so I’d base yourself in Soller for at least a few days if you want to do some hiking in Mallorca.

We will be coming to Barcelona end of March/early April. We only have one day, and we were thinking of flying into Mallorca for just the day. What do you think of that? Is it just too short? Or can we wander around Palma de Mallorca and get a good feel for the island? Is it walkable? I’m thinking April 1st will still be too cold for anything on the water, correct? If so, what would you recommend we do? We are not really interested in partying/drinking but more the natural beauty of the island. Thanks for any recommendations you have!

One day isn’t really a lot of time to see much of Mallorca, but there are some options… It’s enough time to see the highlights of Palma de Mallorca. So you could just go and explore Palma de Mallorca, enjoy the sights, some local food and then head back to the airport.

Or, if you’d rather see something else, I’d go with a tour to see as much as possible. I highly recommend this trip to Soller: https://www.getyourguide.com/mallorca-l47/mallorca-tramuntana-tour-with-historic-railway-ride-t62634/?partner_id=QS7NT3B&utm_medium=online_publisher&utm_source=spend_life_traveling&placement=content-end&cmp=Mallorca

Or, if you’d rather be on the water, then check out this Catamaran cruise: https://www.getyourguide.com/mallorca-l47/mallorca-half-day-magic-catamaran-cruise-to-palma-bay-t112329/?partner_id=QS7NT3B&utm_medium=online_publisher&utm_source=spend_life_traveling&placement=content-end&cmp=Mallorca

I hope this helps. Have a great time in Mallorca! Even for just a day it’s a great island to visit.

I really enjoyed reading your blog. My fiance and I are looking to visit Mallorca for our honeymoon this coming Sept-Oct. Do you think this is an appropriate honeymoon destination? Any in particular areas of Mallorca you would stay in vs. others? We love food, wine, quaint and beautiful views, but also like to walk/hike/cycle and venture around.

If you are thinking Mallorca isn’t for us, could you recommend any other travel destinations? You seem to have a wealth of knowledge in terms or travel.

I really appreciate it.

Best, Brynn

Hi Brynn, If you love hiking, good food and quaint towns then Mallorca is a great honeymoon destination! I would recommend renting a car and staying in or around Soller. Did you read my article about Soller? https://www.spendlifetraveling.com/life-in-soller-mallorca/

If you want to splurge, then check out the Belmond La Residencia hotel in Deia. But otherwise there are also lots of nice hotels in Soller that cost a lot less.

Enjoy your honeymoon and I hope you’ll have a great time in Mallorca! 🙂

Hello again Sanne, Thank you for your thoughts on Formentara. I was thinking of islands that you like other than the Balearic group–Europe or elsewhere. If you care to mention them I’d appreciate it. Thank you John

Wow there are so many islands I love (I’m really an island person 🙂 ). Anguilla in the Caribbean is a beautiful, less touristy island. Mauritius has great natural beauty and is bigger so has more to offer. Malapascua is one of many beautiful islands in the Philippines (I still have many to explore). I liked Koh Lanta in Thailand and Paros in Greece. Those are the first ones that come to mind 🙂

Hello Sanne, I’ve enjoyed this blog. Would you care to tell us in your opinion which islands you have visited that are more beautiful, remote and unspoilt than Mallorca? Thank you, John

Hi John, Thanks! If you mean islands around Mallorca then I definitely recommend Formentera. It’s beautiful and a lot more unspoilt. Menorca is also a quieter alternative to Mallorca, but Formentera would be my number one recommendation.

Sanne, My family of 5 (kids ages 22, 20 & 16) are looking at Mallorca over Thanksgiving week. My middle daughter is special needs, so hiking and other strenuous activity won’t work for her. My Husband and son plan to golf a few days. Will we be able to fill the time with sightseeing and driving to different parts of the island for a week? I’d love to spend a couple of days in Morocco or even Lisbon while the boys are golfing, but if you think there’s plenty to keep us busy for a week, I’ll stay there? Curious what your thoughts are? Is the weather decent? I know it’s not beach weather.

Hi Synda, There is definitely enough to do in Mallorca to keep you entertained for a week, also without hiking and beach weather. But, it depends a bit on what you and your kids enjoy… In general the weather around Thanksgiving is still nice and good for exploring, although if you’re unlucky it can be rainy. You can easily spend 2 or 3 days in Palma de Mallorca, but by day 3 you will have seen and done most. If you love visiting small towns, driving through the countryside and eating lots of Spanish food then you’ll fill the remaining days easily. Also check Get Your Guide for activities in Mallorca your family might enjoy: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Mallorca%2C+Spain&customerSearch=1&searchSource=2&partner_id=QS7NT3B&utm_medium=online_publisher&utm_source=spend_life_traveling&placement=content-end

If you think you need a bit more variation then Valencia is a short flight away and a fun city to explore for a couple of days. Lisbon is also a good option, just a slightly longer flight. Morocco I would say deserves more than just a couple of days so I’d save that for a separate trip. I hope this helps and that your family will enjoy Mallorca!

Hi Sanne; my family, 7 adults, will be traveling to Spain in September. We initially planned to visit Montserrat but my brother is a huge fan of Nadal and would love to visit the island where he is from. We planned 6 to 7 days in the Barcelona area but are now looking at Mallorca for part of that visit. Not interested in active nightlife but wonder where the best place to stay for a short visit and opportunity to explore some of the island. Any suggestions would be great!

It depends how much time you’ll have in Mallorca… If it’s just 3 or 4 days I’d say stay in Palma de Mallorca (really nice city) and take a couple of day trips from there. You could travel by bus, rent a car (do ask your hotel for parking options because parking isn’t easy in Palma) or an organized tour like this one: https://www.getyourguide.com/mallorca-l47/mallorca-scenic-island-tour-from-the-south-t163878/?partner_id=QS7NT3B&utm_medium=online_publisher&utm_source=spend_life_traveling&placement=%22other%22&cmp=comment

If you’re staying longer you could spend 1 or 2 days in Palma and then base yourself in Port de Soller for the rest of your stay. Get a rental car to drive to Soller, so that you can easily explore the surrounding area, which I would say is the nicest part of Mallorca if you’re not looking for a standard party/nightlife trip.

I hope this helps. Enjoy Mallorca!

Thank you for writing such a great blog for travelling in Mallorca. We are coming for 5 days in January and want to rent a car to drive around the island. Is that enough time?

Yes, although more time is of course better (more vacation time is always better 😉 ), Mallorca is compact enough for you to be able to visit a good number of places in just 5 days. So yes, I would definitely recommend renting a car and exploring the island (I highly recommend Soller and the area around it). Have a great time in Mallorca!

Hi Sanne, since you’re well traveled, my family of 6 adults and 1 toddler would like to visit Spain. We’re thinking of Mallorca, Barcelona and Bilbao area last week of April for 2 weeks. We love site seeing and eating. Any recommendations?

Those are 3 very different destinations! Bilbao is still a bit chilly in April, especially in the evenings. But, if you are ok with that, then it’s a great place to visit. Mallorca is nice in April if you want to avoid the crowds, but it will still be too cold to enjoy the water. So it depends on what you are looking for. If you want the best chance of good (beach) weather in April I would suggest going to the south coast. Malaga and surrounding areas are a good option. Barcelona in April is great. It’s nice and sunny most days but cool enough to enjoy exploring a city.

So, if you are not looking for perfect beach weather and like to avoid high season crowds then I actually think this is a great combination of places to visit in Spain! It will give you a very nice varied view of what Spain has to offer.

Hi Elena, My apartment in Mallorca was arranged through the dive company I worked with. They found that, with some difficulty, through a local estate agent once they were on the island. If you want to find something before you arrive to Mallorca and are only staying for one month, I would probably just go through Airbnb and see who is open to monthly discounts.

Some of the most popular websites to rent apartments, used by locals: idealista.com, milanuncios.com, pisos.com, fotocasa.es, kyero.com But almost all of the properties listed here are long term rentals, so the owners probably won’t be interested in just a 1 month rental. That being said, I definitely would check those websites because you might just find something and that will then most likely be cheaper than Airbnb.

Hey Sanne, Thanks for the insight. I believe all who replied help form an accurate depiction to those of us considering a visit to Mallorca. Even if those comments are at polar opposites! I have lived on the Northern Californian west coast my entire life and have watched quiet beach towns become mired in gridlock. It’s frustrating to see people so disrespectful but that happens all over the world.

We used to vacation on the island of Lanai in Hawaii. It was a former pineapple plantation that had a very laid back, quiet and intimate vibe. You feel that you are the only ones occupying the pristine beaches and there is not one traffic light on the entire island! Unfortunately it has been recently discovered by the nouveau riche techies of Silicon Valley and prices have more than quadrupled.

My wife and I are considering Mallorca. Funny, we were told that Ibiza was the drunken spring break island to avoid by a close Irish family friend. We thought Mallorca would be a great place to visit and even purchase a small vacation home. It has similar climate as California, beautiful beaches, history, wine country (we’re not far from Napa) and we speak Spanish. However the last thing we want is to be around loud visitors who can’t hold their liquor! We could visit Mexico for that.

Where in Mallorca would you recommend?

Thanks again!

Yeah, unfortunately, it’s getting harder and harder to find truly unspoiled places these days 🙁 But to be honest even Ibiza, with its reputation of being a party destination, has beautiful, serene parts! And the same goes for Mallorca: it’s by no means an undiscovered destination, but if you stay away from Magaluf and El Arenal, which are the extremely touristy party places, the island has a lot to offer. Palma de Mallorca can get overcrowded in summer, but the city does have character. If you want to be on the coast I recommend the North West coast. It’s more rugged with beautiful little bays and less room for massive developments. Most towns here, although tourists do visit them, have retained their charm. Inland is definitely less touristy so if you really want to get away from it all you could buy an old finca (farmhouse) and enjoy a much quieter side of Mallorca.

In short: yes, Mallorca is definitely still worth visiting even with all the tourism. Rent a car (which most of the partying tourists won’t) and explore the island to get a better feel for it. Depending on how long you want to go, you could base yourself in Palma for 2 or 3 nights to get a feel for the city and perhaps venture south on a day trip. Then base yourself in Soller for the remainder and explore the North, the West and inland areas from there.

I hope this helps and I’d love to hear what you think of Mallorca if you do decide to visit! 🙂

Fantastic Island, been there 2 years ago, and was amazed by the nature, views and clear blue water.

Next to Hawaii, Mallorca is the most beautiful place on earth. Always have a hard time deciding which one is more attractive. As of now I live in Europe and Mallorca is the place to go for me. Have to admit, one day I could live there once my retirement is up.

Hi Jess, Palma is definitely a good idea. Apart from that I love Port de Soller: https://www.spendlifetraveling.com/life-in-soller-mallorca Deia is another cute town with a lot to explore around it (do rent a car).

In general I would recommend the north-west coast if you are not into the overly touristy.

Also, if you aren’t into the overly touristy, young, beach-party type trip, definitely avoid Magaluf and El Arenal.

Thank you for the quick reply! Just wondering, given it is quieter during this time, how long would you suggest staying in Mallorca? Would a week be too long? Also would appreciate a suggestion regarding which town to stay at. We would definitely stay longer in Palma but would like to spend a few days somewhere else also.

If you don’t mind the island being quieter then I’d say Mallorca for Christmas is a great idea! In Palma de Mallorca things should be lively enough, in the smaller towns you might find some places to be closed, but even those towns should still be fine. I can’t think of any parts of Mallorca I wouldn’t want to visit around Christmas.

If you plan to eat out for Christmas, I would recommend booking a restaurant. And ask your hotel or Airbnb if anything is going on in the area for New Year’s Eve or if they have any recommendations for what to do.

Hi, just wondering what you think about spending Christmas/new year’s period in Mallorca? I realize it will be quieter but don’t mind that as I prefer less crowds. Are restaurants open? Are there any places which would not be worth seeing during this time? Thank you!

Everywhere in Mallorca is now fully geared towards tourists, period. I lived in Mallorca for 20 years, and just now moved to a much more beautiful and un touristic part of Spain. (Not telling!). The prices in Mallorca are at least 40 % more than where I live now, and there are NO really wonderful restaurants that serve real food in Mallorca. Horrific traffic jams, mass overcrowding, even air pollution is a huge problem now in Mallorca. I am very happy I finally left and found another paradise.

I have to say that I don’t recognise the Mallorca that Camilla is describing. My family and I have just returned from a holiday at a “finca” in the centre of the island, near to Sineu, and we had the most idyllic time! All we could hear were the birds and the bells that the farm animals wear, the roads were relatively empty except near large towns, the small towns and villages were sleepy and felt unchanged, and yet we were only 40 minutes drive away from the coast with its resorts and beaches. The mountains provide a beautiful backdrop in most directions. We discovered Soller and its port this holiday, and would definitely like to return to that area next time; both the town and the port are lovely!

Thanks for sharing your story Hans! Between 1977 and now you must have seen Mallorca change so much… I wish I would have had the chance to see the island back then!

But I am happy that you still speak positively about Mallorca and still return every year 🙂 And I am sure you know the best places on the island, the ones most tourists don’t know 😉

I arrived on Mallorca in December 1977, initially for a couple of months, because later I was supposed to go to Madrid for my Spanish-language studies. A Spanish friend of mine convinced me to stay on Mallorca – I then invested my money in a piano night bar in Palma, in the night-life area called Terreno. The bar became famous – and since I was also one of the pianists playing jazz there, I got to know quite a few Mallorcan girls and towards the end of that experience I got married to a girl from Soller – this was one year before I gave up the bar.

Needless to say that I got to know all those magnificent places all over the island – in particular Soller. And since I’m also a linguist, I also started to learn the insular version of the Catalan language, apart from the Spanish language…

Finally I returned with my Mallorcan wife to my mother country, Switzerland, but we continue to visit this beautiful island every year, since our daughter opted for Mallorca as her mother country.

Some 40 years later, I must admit that mass tourism has had some negative influence on the island, although this summer was the first time that tourism has somewhat declined due to the fact that Egypt is recovering cheap tourism.

I first arrived on Mallorca in 1970. The next year my mother bought a cottage in a tiny village in the mountains. The cottage cost as much as a car in the USA.

The locals were mostly very private people, then as now, but as I was a child I had more connections than the adult foreigners through relationships with the children. I ran with the local boys and played soccer in the village field.

Mallorca was a slow moving, peaceful, quiet island. From the church steeple about 1/2 km away one could hear a bird flap its wings as it took off. We would follow a Donkey cart up the hill in our broken down Seat 600. There was no other traffic. There was one phone in the village, located in a wooden booth at the local store. Mallorca had not completely awakened from the medieval age.

The eccentric expat personalities made for an exceptional social environment. Mostly English, but also Americans, Scots, Dutch, Danish, Swedish and South African. There were many poets and writers and artists. Some full time, some just for summers. The village was full of abandoned houses, some just ruins, which could be bought for a few hundred dollars. Most of the renovations that took place were exceptionally modest and beautiful. Discreet and tasteful. The exceptions in the village were two garish monstrosities built by two German women, one painted pink. There was almost no German presence on the island.

The vast changes to Mallorca are hard to sum up. Imagine an almost silent airport in 1970 with perhaps 50 people in all, collecting their bags from the one carousel, and a handful of taxis waiting for them. A plane lands. Maybe an hour later another plane. Picture Palma with so few tourists that when you saw another foreigner you might introduce yourself.

I know this phenomenon has occurred the world over. I feel lucky to have seen this exceptional island closer to its original state.

The blogger here has found a lovely island which does have some still authentic corners and breathtaking landscapes to be seen. It might be worth a visit if you are willing to go deep and take the time to find those places. I would encourage young people to do exactly that. Don’t miss what there is for you to see before it changes all the more.

What a beautiful Island! I didn’t know this Island although I’ve been to Spain! The only Island I know in Spain is Ibiza! Spain is my favorite country since I’ve traveled. Definitely, I’ll visit Mallorca on my next travels!!!

I will say that everything you said was true. Mallorca is beautiful if you stay away from the mass tourism spots. Having said that if you are traveling for a short period of time, and are not from Europe you will be frustrated to say the least. GPS didn’t work. Traversing the island is difficult when signs have no direct (East or West) just town names and they aren’t always true. As a tourist who came for relaxation and a bit of sightseeing I was stressed and regretting ever coming to this Island. Or my favorite thing of no signs at all or them blending in with the building they are on. If you don’t have 2 months to learn the lay of the land and don’t enjoy being lost all the time, pick somewhere else. It isn’t a tourist trap but there has to be better out there for a quick and relaxing beach vacation.

Hi Greg, I am sorry you feel that way about Mallorca and feel you have to express yourself in this way instead of sharing more useful facts and figures with my readers. Because of course, no place is for everyone and therefore neither is Mallorca. But I lived on the island for months and have been back several times and still love the island. And no, not the parts that are overrun by tourists. But have you been to places like Deia, Llucalcari and Valldemosa? They are stunning and don’t cater to the mass tourism in the way you describe at all. And for the record: this article did not earn me anything. I love Mallorca and I love showing people that it has much more to offer than drunk tourists in Magaluf. Oh and if you would have taken some time to read a bit more about me you would have known that I have been living abroad and traveling the world since I was 17 so I do know what’s out there. And yes, I have been to more beautiful, remote and unspoilt islands. But those also require more money, time and effort to get to. Mallorca makes for a perfect European travel destination and I will happily give my money to my local Mallorcan friends who run small bars, restaurants, water sport companies etc… all of which are privately owned.

hi Sanne, how much did they pay you to write this nonsense? this island is just horrible and without looking at the map I can name a dozen more beautiful ones in the mediterranean sea. the vile architecture of the hotels, resorts and palma is a manifestation of a greedy mass tourism industry. there is nothing sustainable about this form of tourism. I am sure you have your reason to play in the hands of greedy hoteliers. Start travelling there is a world out there!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Contact: [email protected]

Created by Mar y San Design

Search only in:

Advanced search

Remember password

Tourist Information Offices

All the tourist information at your disposal.

Mallorca has many offices and tourist information points spread throughout the territory. There are currently 2 offices offering general information about the island located at the airport and city centre of Palma. In addition, most municipalities have tourist information offices or local tourist information points in their urban centres or tourist areas.

Link to an external page

"You will be redirected to an external website where you can find all the information you need."

5/17/2024 - 5/19/2024

Medieval Market

5/18/2024 - 6/9/2024

Port Adriano

Teatre Principal. Palma

Cookies Policy

Mallorca.es uses its own and third-party cookies for internal and analytical purposes only. You can obtain more information or find out how to change the settings in our Cookies Policy .

Click Accept to accept all cookies and confirm that you have read and accepted the information given. If you wish to modify your cookie settings and select which cookies you would like to enable or configure, click the Modify settings button. Once you accept, we will not show you this message again.

Depending on the purpose for which the data obtained through cookies are processed, the Website may use:

Technical cookies:   These cookies are necessary to facilitate correct navigation through our website and ensure that the content loads efficiently, as well as allowing user sessions to be identified and access to restricted parts of the portal.

Analysis cookies:  They are those that allow the monitoring and analysis of the behavior of the users of the websites to which they are linked. 

Technical cookies (mandatory) Analytics cookies (optional)

Alcohol ban in Ibiza and Majorca - what tourists need to know as new rules come in

Tourists could face fines of up to €3,000 if they break new rules on drinking that have come into force in parts of Majorca and Ibiza popular with British holidaymakers.

Wednesday 15 May 2024 12:07, UK

Tourists in parts of Majorca and Ibiza will face hefty fines for drinking alcohol on the streets as part of a crackdown in areas of "excessive tourism".

The government of Spain's Balearic Islands has toughened laws that were first introduced in 2020.

As well as banning drinking on public roads, the rules stop shops from selling alcohol late at night and put tighter controls on party boats.

Any tourists found breaking these rules could face a fine of up to €3,000.

Here is what you need to know to avoid a fine.

What areas are covered by the ban?

The rules apply in three resorts in Majorca - Llucmajor, Palma and Calvia (Magaluf) - as well as San Antonio in Ibiza .

The ban extends one nautical mile (1.85km) off the coast for all of these destinations, with party boats banned from getting any closer and forbidden from picking up or dropping off passengers in those areas.

The Palma mayor Jaime Martínez said one of his main objectives is to "correct uncivil attitudes".

Does an alcohol ban mean no booze at all?

No. Tourists will still be able to drink, but there are now stricter controls on where.

Crucially, you are not allowed to drink on the street.

The only exception to this is on the terraces of bars or restaurants or other legally authorised areas.

But wandering down the street with a half-finished pint or open bottle is a definite no-no.

Shops that sell alcohol must close between 9.30pm and 8am.

What are the penalties for tourists who break the rules?

People could be fined between €750 and €1,500 (£645 and £1,290) if their public drinking "disrupts coexistence, involves crowds or deteriorates the tranquillity of the environment".

If the offence is considered very serious, the fine could range from €1,500 to €3,000 (£1,290 to £2,580).

Local authorities will report the number of foreign tourists who have been sanctioned to the respective embassies.

How will the ban be enforced?

The government has committed up to €16m (£13.7m) to spend on enforcing the ban on public drinking.

There will be extra security and inspections as well as a focus on raising awareness of the rules among tourists in the hotspot areas.

Read more from Sky News: Milan backs down on plans to ban late-night ice cream Tyson Fury's dad headbutts member of opponent's entourage

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

When does the ban come into force - and for how long?

The ban came into force on 11 May 2024.

It will remain in place until 31 December 2027. After that, the government hopes the law will no longer be necessary.

How is this different to what was already in place?

The new decree strengthens laws that were introduced in 2020 banning happy hours, pub crawls and two-for-one drink offers.

Those rules prohibited the sale of alcohol in shops between 9.30pm and 8am and stopped party boats from advertising in designated areas.

The main change is that drinking on public roads is now banned.

It also extends how long the laws are in force; in 2020 the government said they would be in place for at least five years and that has now been extended to the end of 2027.

Related Topics

Bar manager arrested in Majorca after British tourist raped as cops hunt two others

Police have arrested a bar manager in Majorca on suspicion of raping a teenage UK tourist after a holidaymaker raised the alarm upon returning to her hotel in the early hours

• 07:24, 18 May 2024
• Updated 07:25, 18 May 2024

Police have arrested a bar manager in Majorca on suspicion of raping a teenage British tourist.

Detectives are said to be hunting two other men described as his friends who allegedly witnessed the sex attack and “did nothing to prevent it.”

The holidaymaker raised the alarm after returning to her hotel in the early hours of Friday morning. She told cops she had been plied with alcohol at a bar in S’illot, a small tourist town on the south east coast of Majorca, before being taken to a storeroom when she became dizzy and “offered sex”.

Local newspaper Ultima Hora said she had claimed she was followed after managing to open the storeroom door and leave the unnamed bar - and was raped by the manager after being taken to a secluded spot nearby. The two men described as friends are said to have watched the alleged sex attack but failed to stop it.

The man who has been taken into custody, and who has denied any wrongdoing, is Spanish, as are the two friends police are trying to locate. He is expected to appear in court later today. The British teenager has been asked to ratify her police statement in front of the same judge who questions him, before they decide whether to release him on bail or remand him in custody.

The ongoing investigation is being led by the Civil Guard, who are awaiting the results of DNA tests and collecting footage from CCTV cameras in the area as well as speaking to locals to see whether they saw witnessed anything that could help them. Police have not yet released a statement regarding the investigation.

This is a breaking news story. Follow us on Google News , Flipboard , Apple News , Twitter , Facebook or visit The Mirror homepage.

MORE ON Majorca

Get email updates with the day's biggest stories.

Spanish island limits number of holiday beds saying 'we are suffering a tourist collapse'

T he number of tourists staying on the Spanish island of Mallorca is being cut after the government decided to restrict the number of beds for tourists. Officials on the island said the number of tourists was putting the coexistence between visitors and residents ‘at risk’.

The crackdown comes as the Balearic Islands increase curbs on street drinking and further restrict party boats in an effort to deter alcohol-fuelled holidays. This week Marga Prohens, the conservative president of the Balearic Islands government said: “The time has come to set limits and ask ourselves where we are going and what we want to be.”

Lluís Apesteguia of the left-wing More for Mallorca coalition added: “Nineteen million tourists in a territory of 1.3 million inhabitants is unacceptable, it is not good for the territory, nor for the residents, nor for the tourists themselves. In Mallorca we are no longer overcrowded, we are suffering a tourist collapse.”

Mallorca has announced a cut of 18,000 tourist beds on the island, 4.2 per cent of its 430,000 beds, the Mallorca Daily Bulletin reported . President of the Council de Mallorca, Llorenç Galmés said at a press conference “It is time to set limits,” because the growth has put the coexistence between tourists and residents “at risk”.

The island’s tourism councillor admitted that this season will be “complicated and difficult”, but he said that this is the first step to “begin to minimise the effects” of overcrowding. “We cannot increase the number of beds any further,” he said.

“What we have not tried to solve in eight years, we are not going to solve immediately,” he said, adding that “to be honest” the situation will be “complicated” and the president made it clear that “there will be more measures”.

A social debate is growing about the island’s tourist “saturation”. In recent weeks concerns have mounted over traffic jams in villages. Until recently, they were limited to the months of July and August.

Movements against mass tourism have called rallies on May 24 in Ibiza and May 25 in Mallorca. Authorities fear protests such as those that brought thousands of citizens onto the streets in the Canary Islands last month including some threatening hunger strikes. Ibiza has announced that it will limit the entry of vehicles to the island to reduce congestion during the high season. The number of vehicles entering Ibiza has quadrupled from 51,000 in 2001 to 206,960 in 2022, with 40 per cent of all arrivals occurring in July and August.

Last week the Balearic Islands government toughened a law passed in 2020 to curb excessive drinking. The restrictions will apply to hotspots including Playa de Palma and Magaluf in Mallorca and Sant Antoni in Ibiza. People caught drinking outside authorised areas will be fined between €500 to €1,500. They will also be barred from buying alcohol in shops between 9.30pm and 8am.

The legislation introduced tougher rules against party boats, which will be banned from going within one nautical mile (1.852 km) of the designated areas. Picking up or dropping off passengers will continue to be banned.

Under the law, which came into force on Saturday, the number of sanctions taken against foreigners will be counted and sent to the embassies of the countries involved.

A commission on “the promotion of civility in tourist zones” will be expanded to include representatives of the countries whose tourists are most associated with problems — the UK and Germany.

Sun 19 May 2024

2024 newspaper of the year

@ Contact us

Your newsletters

The Spanish holiday hotspots fighting against mass tourism this summer

As the balearic islands tighten rules on alcohol consumption in popular resorts, visitors can expect pushback against overcrowding across spain.

Spain’s Balearic Islands have brought in more restrictions on street drinking and party boats in effort to crack down on alcohol-fuelled holidays as part of a widespread backlash against mass tourism .

The islands’ regional government has toughened a law passed in 2020 that will apply in the most popular resorts in Playa de Palma and Magaluf in Mallorca, and Sant Antoni in Ibiza .

People caught drinking outside authorised areas face fines of between €500-1,500 (£430–1,290).

The new law, which came into force on Saturday, will submit the number of sanctions against foreigners to embassies.

Party boats will be banned from getting closer than one nautical mile (1.852 km) of designated areas. Picking up passengers will be banned, and the advertisement of party boats has been banned in the three areas.

British and German diplomats, representing the two countries whose tourists account for the highest number of visitors, will take part in a commission on the Balearic Islands to “promote civility in tourist zones”.

The 2020 law banned shops from selling alcohol between 9.30pm and 8am.

However, drinks are often sold to tourists under the counter and it is hard for police to control this illicit sale.

The move follows a wave of mass tourism protests that have taken place across Spain in recent months as residents say they can no longer afford to live in their own cities because of the surge of Airbnb -type short-term lets.

Anti-tourism group Prou Ibiza is planning a protest on 24 May to demonstrate against how holiday accommodation pushes up the price of rents for local people.

Karla Andrade, 36, a teacher and mother, flies back and forth every day from Palma in Mallorca to Ibiza where she works, rather than pay the high rent on the White Island. It means she flies 40 times a month, getting up at 6am to get the plane to work.

“The rent would be impossible to pay for me, so this is the only choice I have,” she told Antena 3 television.

Last month, pressure group Canarias Se Agota (Canary Islands Sold Out) staged a 20-day hunger strike to halt large hotel developments.

Thousands joined a protest against the mass tourism model across seven islands in the Spanish archipelago.

The protests attracted international attention with demonstrations staged in London, Berlin, Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga and Granada.

In Malaga, stickers with slogans such as “this used to be my home” and “tourist go home” have appeared on holiday flats.

A similar protest was staged in Lavapies, an inner-city neighbourhood in Madrid, where activists have put up signs on tourist flats reading “F**k Airbnb”.

Residents claim the character of the original neighbourhood is dying as foreigners move in and older residents have been forced out by rising house prices .

In Barcelona and the Balearic Islands, activists have put up signs at popular beaches in English. The signs carry warnings of fake hazards such as falling rocks or dangerous jellyfish.

Xavier Pascuet, former director of tourism for Calvia Council in Mallorca (which includes Magaluf) and a consultant for innovative tourism and sustainability, has seen the negative impact of mass tourism.

“It is hard to face the concept of an unlimited number of tourists, especially on an island when the number of tourist beds has not been increased,” he told i .

“This increases the amount of money paid for buying and renting houses. Young people cannot afford housing,” he added.

He said even with new restrictions in the Balearic Islands, it was very difficult for authorities to control excessive drinking and party boats.

“It is so hard to control where they are departing and what they are offering, especially in a digital world so there are no leaflets or tickets. They communicate via WhatsApp or Telegram. It involves so many authorities.

“These restrictions can work but you need good collaboration between authorities and it’s necessary because excessive alcohol in the sea is especially dangerous.”

Mr Pascuet believes more protests will follow because of the growing division between Spanish society and the tourism industry.

“There should be good salaries in the tourism sector and maybe we should start thinking about working all year round, instead of just six months.

Spaniards forced to move after tourists push up prices in UK holiday hotspot

“If they make tourist workers unemployed for six months of the year, you end up seeing no reward so the division between the civil society and the tourist sector keeps growing,” he said.

Last month, the Spanish government said it was committed to sustainable tourism, but emphasised how this key sector of the economy brought 2.7 million jobs and holidaymaker numbers were set to reach record numbers.

Spain’s tourism minister, Jordi Hereu, said 9.8 million international visitors had visited Spain so far this year.

“The tourist employment data for March is at the level of a country that is a world power and that is committed to a more sustainable model,” he said in a video statement posted on X, formely Twitter, in April.

Tourism accounts for 13 per cent of Spain’s GDP.

This year, Spain could attract as many as 90 or 100 million tourists, outdoing France as the most popular destination in the world, according to an estimation from Exeltur, a tourist industry body.

However, José Luis Zoreda, vice-president of Exeltur, which represents 30 of the largest companies in the Spanish tourism sector, said he is worried about the backlash against the industry.

“Continuing to measure the success of Spanish tourism based on the numbers arriving is irresponsible. A new model is necessary that involves residents: where limits are exceeded, decisions must be made,” he told La Vanguardia newspaper.

Among the other rules facing tourists this summer is a six-drink per person, per day limit on all-inclusive packages in Mallorca and Ibiza, which was introduced in 2020, and fines for wearing swimwear or going shirtless away from beaches and poolsides, peeing in the sea in the Galician city of Vigo (a regulation that brought international derision given that it would be hard to enforce) and smoking on beaches.

Most Read By Subscribers