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

By: Charlotte · Last updated 30. May 2024 · In: Spain , Travel

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

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

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

So let’s get to it!

Article overview

What is the best time to visit Mallorca?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7 best ways to get around Mallorca

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

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

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

How long does it take to drive around Mallorca?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 12 things to see and do in Mallorca

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The canyon is also in close proximity to the Mortitx vineyard, allowing visitors to combine their outdoor adventures with a taste of local Mallorcan wines.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1: Sóller and Port de Sóller

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

Day 2: Cala Deià and Valldemossa

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

Day 3: Fornalutx and hiking

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

Day 4: Sa Calobra and Port de Pollença

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

Day 5: Cap de Formentor and Pollença

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

Day 6: Alcúdia and Playa de Muro

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

Day 7: Caves and beaches of the East Coast

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

Day 8: S’Aramador , Santanyí and Cala Figuera

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

Day 9: Cala Pi and Palma

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

Day 10: Enjoy Palma

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

Best areas to stay in Mallorca

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best restaurants in Mallorca

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Mallorca expensive?

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

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

How to travel Mallorca on a budget:

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

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

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

About Charlotte

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

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

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

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Mallorca travel blog: Where is Mallorca?

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

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

Mallorca travel guide: How to get to Mallorca?

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

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

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

Mallorca travel blog: Getting around Mallorca

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

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

You can see details Mallorca routes and bus stops here .

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

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

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

Mallorca guide: Where to stay in Majorca?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mallorca travel blog: What to do in Mallorca?

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

The capital of Palma

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

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

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

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

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

On a 1 hour cruise tour in Palma city:

Port de Soller

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

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

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

Can Picafort

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

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

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

Cap de Formentor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Best Things to Do in Mallorca

By Helene Sula

Warm, sandy beaches. Epic cliff-side inlets. Quiet hilltop towns carved out of stone. It can all be found in the beautiful Balearic island of Mallorca. 

I spent a wonderful, fast-paced three days on the island and found the best things to do in Mallorca. In this travel guide I'll share how to make the most of your itinerary and budget. 

What I love about Mallorca, besides the views, are the numerous options for your style of travel. This is a great destination for beach goers, adventurous thrill seekers, honeymooners, all-night partiers, luxury travelers, and sleepy hill top town explorers. Better yet? I did almost all of these travel experiences in the span of 3 days. Making Mallorca a no-brainer travel destination. 

On the plane, on the way home from Mallorca, a man sat next to me with a straw hat emblazoned with a German flag ribbon around it with the black bold letters reading “MALLORCA.” It’s no secret this is a big destination for the Germans. And that’s how I always thought of it. A party destination for European travelers. But mostly not dramatic beaches or beautiful cities. 

Wrong and wrong.

It has all of that and so much more. 

Mallorca quickly won me over. Once I drove up to the main city of Palma and glanced at the drip sand-like castle of the Palma, I was hooked. Little did I know the views would only improve from here. 

I spent three days in Mallorca and packed in as much as possible to enjoy on this beautiful island. You could absolutely spend more time here. But since I was on a schedule and just went for a long weekend you can still make headway with a short amount of time. 

This Mallorca guide will share with you what to do in 3 days, where to stay, what to see, eat, and even gives a cost breakdown for the trip.

Itinerary at a glance:

Day 1 – Palma, Beaches, Nightlife

Day 2 – beaches, alcúdia & formentor, day 3 – sant elm, valldemossa, deia, soller, how to get around mallorca, what to eat, where to stay , other things to do in mallorca, cost breakdown for mallorca.

Below you can find a map of all the places discussed in this post:

I took a 7 A.M. flight to allow time to explore and enjoy the splendid weather and make the most of my quick trip. We started in the main city of Palma and explored the old city on foot. This is the biggest city of the island and has half of the island’s population. Expect to spend a good half day exploring here, but realize that there’s so much natural beauty on the island so don’t miss out! We hit the town early to avoid the crowds and the heat. We went shopping, ate lunch, and toured the magnificent cathedral and other attractions.  

Here’s a look at what to see:

• Catedral de Mallorca – It's hard to miss this striking cathedral in the heart of Palma. Take a tour of the ornate Gothic masterpiece dating back from 1229. I recommend buying tickets ahead of time to skip the line.
• Can Forteza Ray – As soon as I saw this building I thought “Gaudi” and I was right! This historic landmark has surprising decorations and screams Art Nouveau . Gaudi lived on the island for 10 years and many credit him to the modernist government on the Balearic islands. Intended as an apartment block, the architect Lluís Forteza Rey created various sculptural decorations on the gallery and bay windows. It's one of the cities must see sites.

• Royal Palace of La Almudaina – located right next to the cathedral, this palace is the king's residence and is used for events.
• Plaza Mayor   – A sunny little square surrounded by restaurants and shops.
• Parc de la Mar – this is a public square in front of the cathedral and is the perfect viewpoint for the town.
• A good spot or a quick lunch is Café la Lonja to try traditional Sobrassada sandwiches. 

Now that you’ve seen Palma check out some nearby beaches. You have options nearly everywhere. Towards the south east, you can go to Illetas Beach or El Molinar . Two restaurants near there would be perfect for lunch. Either Restaurante Cocco Portixol or Izizi Nunnak are great choices. Over to the south west is Puro Beach Club for a beautiful view and expensive bite to eat overlooking the water. We took in the view then headed over to a dramatic cliff-side beach.

Cova de Portals Vells was absolutely stunning and offered multiple inlets and sandy places to explore. After you get your fill of swimming and sand, drive up to the top, away from the parking area, for a short hike down to see the stunning scenery and crystal clear water. 

For our last beach spot of the day we headed towards the south east of the island to Torre de Cala Pi . Here you'll find ample parking and an easy to maneuver stone staircase to take you down to the sandy beach. Make your way down towards the “beach” signs for Playa de Cala Pi. This was also a great place for snorkeling.

If you have time before hitting the night clubs, head to the Castillo de Bellver located a few miles from Palma, this round castle was used as a royal residence for centuries.

One of the big reasons many people come to Mallorca is to enjoy the spirited nightlife . I found it to be much, much smaller than the clubby Ibiza. But there are a few options that are really fun. LAB bar is a local hangout with great cocktails and funky music. Bar Cuba is a trendy dance club with a DJ playing the hits and serving overpriced drinks. If you want an all out party go to Europe's largest open-air beer garden Mega Park . It gets rowdy here so be aware!

Get up early, even if you’ve been partying late, and head to the beaches. In my opinion, this is the main reason to come to Mallorca, so get up and get going. We are hitting up the beaches on the South East and Eastern tip- my favorites on the island. 

I’ve been to a quite a few beaches in Europe but I think Caló del Moro is one of best I’ve ever seen in my life. Be aware, this is not for the faint of heart. The trek to the beach is a strenuous 30-40 minute hike. But well worth it for some of the most epic scenery I’ve ever seen in my life.  

The steep cliffs are hard to meander down, especially near the beach. But the pool-like water will make it worth your while. 

After our hike down we enjoyed the views then actually kept walking to the other side for the equally beautiful beach of Cala s’Almunia . We found a great, nearly tourist-free spot to put our belongings and go snorkeling. There’s also a spot to cliff jump- sadly I wasn’t brave enough. I didn’t want to leave, but I was so impressed, I wanted to keep exploring. 

Some other beaches I suggest going to:

Cala Mondragó – a pretty sandy beach that has a few beach front restaurants and welcomes families. You can also walk (or swim) to the other side, S’Amarador. 

Cala d’Or – Known for its yacht marina, this is a beautiful spot to watch the boats bob on the crystal clear water.

Cala Varques   – A nice, sandy beach known for clear waters and quiet spots.

Cala Mesquida – This was a beach recommended to me by the hotel concierge who wrote in big bold letters “AMAZING BEACH” and it is! A long sandy beach perfect for lounging. 

Cala Agulla   – If you like long sandy beaches then look no further!

Sa Colobra – this beach lies in the north of Mallorca and offers a dramatic setting with steep cliffs.

If you need more, Heart my Backpack also has a great list of beaches!

Next, head up to the town of Alcúdia , known for it's beautiful preserved old town and the walls that still encircle it. The town dates all the way back to 123 B.C. and offers sweeping views and cool historical center. Check out Restaurant Punyetes for great tapas.

Now, we're making our way to the north east tip of the island, Formentor. It's worth it for the epic sunset views by the lighthouse in Formentor called “ Cap de Formentor .” Just keep on driving until you meet the lighthouse at the end of the road.

It's a treacherous road, but well worth it for the views. It took a good, solid 30 minutes just to makes it to the tip of the of Formentor. On the way I dodged goats munching on the side of the road and cars stopped in the middle of the road, in awe of the view.

So drive carefully and make sure to stick around during sunset.

Today we're heading to a completely different experience on the island. These towns reminded me of my Southern Spain road trip , or even a trip in Tuscany . I was immediately taken with the cliff-side towns that stretched up the mountains in Mallorca.

We are making our way up north, but on the way we will stop at Sant Elm for a picturesque fishing village and sea views.

Valldemossa is one of my favorite towns in Mallorca. The monastery town, where Chopin once spent a winter, is a dramatic sight, but the whole town is absolutely breathtaking. This is a great place for gelato, shopping, and walking around the pretty stone buildings.  

Deia has become a holiday favorite for honeymooners or those that want to take it easy. This fairy-tale village is around a winding road on the north end of the island. I recommend you go to the uber fancy Belmond La Residencia for a drink and to take in views. 

Soller is a town in the valley of the northern part of Mallorca. Here you'll find a vibrant town and a pretty 14th-century Church of Sant Bartomeu . Take the tram to the sleepy port. I recommend going at sunset to catch the views.

Arrive in the idyllic Port Soller for sunset and dinner. For a great view you'll need to go up the mountain. Either head to the lighthouse, or go to a hilltop restaurant.

I highly recommend Restaurant Ses Oliveras for amazing squid ink “Fideua” which is paella made with noodles. It was served with seafood and we were given fresh baked bread and olives and divine aioli dipping sauce. This was one of my most memorable and delicious meals of the trip!

If you have time, you can take a tour of the pretty lemon and orange orchards nearby Soller.

A bit out of the way, but worth it for the incredible beach and scenery is Sa Calobra . There are 26 hairpin turns to get to this steep, rocky inlet and beach. It is worth it for the stunning views.

If you’ve been following this blog for a while I almost ALWAYS recommend a car. You most definitely need one in Mallorca. In order to really see it all, and do it on your own time, you need a car . The island is large and some of the roads are steep so a car is your best bet for making the most of your time. Driving is very easy in most places in Mallorca but I recommend you park (the port has ample parking) and walk the city center of Palma.

As you're making your way around the island don't forget to check out the windmills you'll see dotted along the road. These were used by farmers to grind grain and pump water. Now, they are restored and are a great reminder of how life used to be.

There are so many delicious dishes, it can be hard to choose. Some of the regional dishes include….

Eat Sobrassada – Sobrassada is a raw, cured sausage from the Balearic Islands made with ground pork, paprika and salt and other spices

Café la Lonja – a quick bite to eat in Palma, try the sobrassada.

Restaurante Cocco Portixol – Located right on the coast this is an upscale but comfortable setting for dinner. You'll find Italian food here if you want a break from Mallorcan.

Izizi Nunnak in El Molinas is right near Restaurante Cocco Portixol and offers pizza and risotto in an urban setting.

Can Punyentes in Alcúdia – For tapas and seafood. Cheap, good service, and delicious.

Restaurant Ses Oliveras – the best place for typical Mallorcan paella.

Budget – Brick Hotel is a 3-star hotel in the heard of Palma. This is great if you want to be in the center of the action. Great place for bars, shopping and restaurants. This is a clean and pretty place to stay at a reasonable price.

Mid Range – GPRO Valparsio Palace – shockingly, this 5 star hotel is a mid range priced hotel. I stayed here (I found a great deal on Booking.com ) and absolutely loved it. Close enough to the main sites and Palma, but not too close to be loud. Free on-site parking, multiple pools, beautiful rooms. Just everything you need. I highly recommend this place.

Luxury – The most famous luxury hotel in Mallorca has to be Belmond La Residencia in the lovely town of Deia. I didn’t stay here but came over for a drink and views. This hotel is so beautiful you might never leave. You might not want to after paying for it, but it’s well worth it for the experience. Would be perfect for a honeymoon.

Lux Villa – Another option is renting a villa overlooking the azure water of the sea with ample opportunities for swimming and relaxing. See some options below:

There are endless options of things to do in Mallorca but here are a few things to do if you've got an extended vacation. A great option is to rent a boat . You can do this nearly anywhere on the island but Soller and Palma offer easy points of access. You can also book a guided cruise that includes lunch.

The Drach Caves are filled with stalactite formations and tower 82 feet below the surface. They are best seen on a guided tour .

Because of Mallorca's diverse landscape. there are myriad of options for hiking trails. Backroads offers many different hiking tours.

There are many markets open daily throughout the island selling food, clothing, and hand-made crafts. We went to one in Palma and found some delicious 5 euro pina coladas and dried fruits. 

It’s fairly easy to make this trip all your own – budget, mid-range, or luxury. Most parking was on the street and either free or very cheap. We ate at a few fancy restaurants but also had some delicious street food. It was easy to not go over budget here, another reason I loved Mallorca. Here’s my trip breakdown:

Hotel – €259 for 2 nights 

Car – €106 for 3 days 

All Meals (for 2 people) – €250 

Total trip cost = €615 

Budgeting about €100 a day staying at a 5 star hotel and going out to eat is absolutely awesome! 

Mallorca was the perfect destination for a summer European getaway and an island I know I will be visiting again.

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MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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The perfect Mallorca itinerary: An unforgettable week in Mallorca

Lying in the western Mediterranean Sea, Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations in Spain. 

Also known as Majorca, the island is often associated with beach resorts and a vibrant party scene. However, Mallorca has so much more to offer if you make the effort to venture out of the main tourist zones. From coastal mountain ranges and dramatic gorges to fairytale-like villages and beaches with crystalline water, there’s no shortage of amazing places to include in your Mallorca itinerary!

With one week in Mallorca, you won’t be able to see everything this idyllic island has to offer – there are simply too many exciting spots to visit. But with a proper plan, you can still tick off many of the highlights.

This 7-day Mallorca itinerary will take you from the scenic Serra de Tramuntana mountains in the north all the way to the breathtaking beaches in the south, stopping at the most beautiful destinations along the way. 

At the end of this post, you’ll also find a map with the exact locations of all the stops in this travel itinerary and my tips on what to do if you have more than 7 days in Mallorca.

Ready to start planning your trip?

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

How to get around Mallorca

The most common ways to get around Mallorca are by car, bus or train.

I only used buses during my Mallorca trip and it worked out really well. In fact, I was surprised by how convenient and easy to understand the public bus system was, especially because most articles I read about Mallorca before my trip advised against it. 

With that said, I still think the best way to explore the island is to rent a car and take a Mallorca road trip. Having a car will allow you to get around the island faster and give you the freedom to also visit some more remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations. In general, driving in Spain is safe and easy, and Mallorca is no exception.

But if you can’t or don’t want to rent a car, you definitely shouldn’t let this hold you back from taking a trip to Mallorca!

7-day Mallorca itinerary: How to spend one week in Mallorca

Day 1: soller & port de soller.

On your first full day in Mallorca, head to the charming town of Soller. 

Regardless of whether you’re driving or taking the bus, it’s a scenic journey as you’ll be crossing the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these mountains are known as the backbone of Mallorca and stretch over 90 kilometers along the island’s northwest coast.

You can also get from Palma to Soller on a 100-year-old wooden train . If I ever return to Mallorca, I’d love to try it out!

Soller is located in a lush valley and is known for its citrus orchards, Art Nouveau-style architecture and beautiful natural setting.

Take your time to stroll through the town’s historic center, sip some fresh Soller orange juice in one of the cafes on its main square and enjoy the view of the wonderful Church of Sant Bartomeu. If you’d like to visit a working citrus farm, you can do so at Ecovinyassa . 

As Soller is surrounded by mountains, it is also an excellent base for cyclists and hikers and offers a variety of exciting trails like Barranc de Biniaraix or the trek to Mirador ses Barques.

For more tips on what to do in this wonderful town, including the best day trips to take from here, read my detailed post on the best things to do in Soller .

Just 5 kilometers from Soller lies the picturesque coastal town of Port de Soller. With its palm tree-lined promenade, numerous hotels and a long sandy beach, it is a quintessential Mediterranean beach holiday town.

To get from Soller to Port de Soller or vice versa, you can take the famous vintage electric tram, which is one of the top attractions in the area. It’s a fun experience and the journey takes around 15 minutes.

I chose to hike from Soller to Port de Soller along the GR221 trail (see the exact route here ) and return to Soller by the tram.

Where to stay

Spend the next two nights in Soller or Port de Soller. If you like the idea of having the beach at your doorstep, stay in Port. But if you prefer a more authentic vibe, stay in Soller.

BUDGET: Hostel Soller Located in a beautifully restored historical building in Soller, this is one of the prettiest (and cleanest) hostels I’ve ever seen. They offer both private rooms and shared rooms.

MID-RANGE: Bikini Island & Mountain Hotel This 4-star hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Port de Soller beach and has stunning bohemian style decor, a heated outdoor pool and daily yoga classes.

LUXURY: Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa Situated on a hill overlooking the Port de Soller Bay, this 5-star hotel offers an unforgettable level of luxury, complete with an amazing infinity pool and a world-class spa.

Day 2: Sa Calobra & Torrent de Pareis

On day 2 of your Mallorca itinerary, take a boat trip to Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis canyon. 

The Sa Calobra boat departs from the marina at Port de Soller. I recommend taking the earliest boat, so you could get there before the crowds arrive. See the prices and book your tickets here . 

The 1-hour boat ride takes you along the spectacular northwest coast of Mallorca, past towering cliffs, sea caves and magnificent views of the Tramuntana mountains. 

If you prefer to have more privacy and the flexibility to explore the coast at your own pace, consider taking this full-day or half-day private sailboat tour instead.

As an alternative to taking the boat, you can also drive to Sa Calobra. The road leading there is apparently very scenic and offers amazing panoramic views. Just be prepared for lots of narrow steep hairpin turns.

If you choose to go by boat, you’ll be dropped off at a gorgeous turquoise cove from where it’s a short walk through breathtaking scenery to Torrent de Pareis canyon. In about 10 minutes, you’ll arrive at a tiny beach hidden between tall cliffs at the mouth of the canyon. It’s definitely one of the highlights of this Mallorca itinerary and truly a sight to remember!  

Be sure to also hike into the canyon for more incredible views of the majestic scenery around you. You might even meet some wild goats! Once you’re done admiring the beauty of Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis, catch the boat back to Port de Soller.

Spend another night in Soller or Port de Soller. See my hotel recommendations under Day 1.

Day 3: Valldemossa & Deia

Kick off the third day of your Mallorca itinerary by exploring Valldemossa. This small mountain town is characterized by traditional stone houses and quaint cobblestone streets lined with cute shops, cafes and restaurants.

Spend a few hours strolling around the town’s historic center to take in its old-world charm and enjoy the views of the surrounding green hills. Visit the Gardens of Rei Joan Carles and the centuries-old Carthusian Monastery, which the famous composer Frederic Chopin used as his winter residence.

Valldemossa is also known for its pastries and one of the best places to try them is the famous Pastisseria Ca’n Molinas bakery. Here you can sample the most beloved local specialties like coca de patata (a sweet fluffy potato bun) and ensaimada (sweet spiral pastry made with lard). 

Next, head to Deia, a little hilltop village that looks like something straight out of a fairytale. It is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Mallorca and it’s easy to see why. The best way to experience Deia is to simply wander around its idyllic streets and marvel at the adorable houses with green shutters – a characteristic feature of Mallorcan architecture. 

For an amazing view of the village, visit the viewpoint (‘Mirador’) on the main road – see the map at the end of the article for the exact location. And in case you get hungry, there are many nice cafes and restaurants to choose from, including the enchanting El Olivo restaurant .

To the north of the village, lies Cala Deia, a small rocky cove with crystal-blue water perfect for swimming. Although I didn’t get to visit Cala Deia myself, I’ve heard it’s gorgeous and totally worth the steep walk or drive to get there.

Head back to Valldemossa and spend the night there. 

BUDGET: Cosy private room   Basically the only budget accommodation in Valldemossa. Located in the heart of the town, it’s a simple room with a private bathroom and access to a kitchen.

MID-RANGE: Hotel Sa Vall Set in a former manor house, this stunning hotel offers rustic yet elegant rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and large gardens full of orange and lemon trees.

LUXURY: Hotel Valldemossa This upscale boutique hotel is set in two beautifully restored 19th-century stone houses with views over the mountains. Featuring a spa, two pools and a gourmet restaurant, it’s the perfect place to pamper yourself.

Day 4: Archduke’s Trail & Cala d’Or

On the morning of Day 4, before leaving the north coast of Mallorca, I recommend hiking the Archduke’s Trail (Camí de s’Arxiduc) near Valldemossa. This moderately challenging trail is known as one of the best hikes in Mallorca and takes around 4-5 hours to complete.

Starting just north of Valldemossa, the rocky trail ascends through an oak forest to the top of a panoramic ridge, where you can enjoy jaw-dropping vistas of the coast and the Tramuntana mountains. Along the way, you might also bump into some cute mountain goats.

You can hike the Archduke’s Trail as a loop (starting and ending in Valldemossa) or as a point-to-point hike from Valldemossa to Deia, and you can also add optional extensions.

I hiked it from Valldemossa to Deia following this route . Note that you need to request a free permit to hike this route as it passes through a private estate. It’s super easy – you just need to message them your name and the date you want to hike. Find the contact details here .

Since there’s no internet connection up in the mountains, it’s essential that you have a mobile offline map of the trail or a GPS to avoid getting lost.

After the hike, it’s time to say goodbye to the north coast of Mallorca and head south to Cala d’Or. If you’re driving, it will take a little over an hour and by bus, it’s two hours.

Cala d’Or is a small beach holiday town known for its magnificent sandy coves (or calas) with vivid turquoise water.

There are several beautiful beaches to explore here, such as Cala Gran, Cala Esmeralda, Cala d’Or Beach (also known as Cala Petita) and Cala Ferrera – all within a short walking distance from each other. I visited Cala Gran and Cala Esmeralda and both were equally stunning, although crowded.

Cala d’Or also has a lovely marina lined with restaurants and filled with yachts. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or an evening stroll.

Be sure to also read my post on the top things to do in Cala d’Or for more details on the best activities and day trips to take from here.

Spend the next three nights in Cala d’Or.

BUDGET: Hotel Antares This budget hotel is located in the center of the town, near all the beaches, restaurants and shops. The rooms are simple but modern and comfortable and come with an AC.

MID-RANGE: Casa Ceiba Maria A cute family-run guest house just 300 meters from the beach. With their spacious rooms, an outdoor pool and wonderful breakfast, this place offers great value for money.

LUXURY: Inturotel Cala Esmeralda This stylish seafront hotel is the perfect option for those looking for a bit of luxury. It is ‘adults only’ and has an on-site spa, beautiful gardens, 3 outdoor pools and direct access to Cala Esmeralda beach.

Day 5: Calo des Moro, Cala S’Almunia & other beaches

Wake up early and get ready to explore some more fabulous beaches on the southeast coast.

The first one I recommend that you visit is Calo des Moro. This little slice of paradise is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Mallorca. And I have to agree. The color of the water in this narrow bay is the most unbelievable shade of blue. This together with the cliffs around the beach make it such a scenic place. It’s a must-visit spot in every Mallorca itinerary.

Because of its popularity and small size, the beach tends to get packed very quickly, which is the reason I recommend coming here early. I’ve heard that in July and August, you sometimes have to wait for an hour to get to the beach since the authorities regulate the number of people they let there.

Just a few minutes’ walk from Calo des Moro lies Cala S’Almunia beach, which I found equally beautiful. This tiny cove is sheltered by rocks and surrounded by old boat houses. It’s an incredibly picturesque place with calm, crystal clear water – it almost felt like being in a swimming pool.

If you’re in the mood to see more beaches, consider visiting Cala Llombards or Cala Santanyi. I visited Cala Llombards and while it’s definitely a lovely beach, it wasn’t among my favorites in Mallorca. Due to the currents, the water was a bit dirty when I was there and it was also very crowded.

Alternatively, you could visit the small fishing village Cala Figuera. Although there’s no beach here, I’ve heard it’s a very charming place and worth a quick visit.

Spend another night in Cala d’Or. See my hotel recommendations under Day 4.

Day 6: Mondrago Natural Park

Today will be all about exploring Mondrago Natural Park. Situated just 6 kilometers from Cala d’Or, this coastal nature reserve is home to pine forests, wetlands, various bird species and several beaches with white sand.

Depending on your interests, you can make it a relaxing beach day or you can explore the different coves, walking trails and viewpoints the park has to offer. The three main beaches here are S’Amarador Beach (the largest), Cala Mondrago and Calo des Borgit (the smallest). 

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, you can visit the park on a guided jetski tour departing from Cala d’Or.

On the day I visited Mondrago Natural Park the sea was really rough. This unfortunately meant that the water was cloudy and full of debris, and the beaches didn’t look very inviting. 

From what I’ve read though, this is rather unusual, so you’ll probably have better luck than me. Based on the photos I’ve seen, the beaches here look heavenly when the sea is calm. Plus you’ll also be able to go snorkeling. Apparently, there are lots of fish to see around the rocks.

Day 7: Palma de Mallorca

Spend the final day of this Mallorca itinerary by discovering Palma, the capital city of Mallorca. The best way to explore this beautiful seaside city is on foot since the main sights are all within walking distance from each other.

One of the most iconic attractions here is Palma Cathedral, better known as La Seu. Visiting this impressive gothic masterpiece is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Palma de Mallorca . The cathedral, which took almost 400 years to build, overlooks the Bay of Palma and features magnificent stained-glass windows.

Right next to the cathedral lies the 14th-century Royal Palace of La Almudaina, which is one of the official residences of the royal family of Spain and is open to visitors.

In the charming old town of Palma, you’ll find lots of cozy cafes, tapas bars and shops lining the narrow cobblestone streets. Visit the bustling Placa Major, the main square of the city and sample some local delicacies at Mercat de l’Olivar, Palma’s oldest food market.

If you have time, you could also visit some of Palma’s fantastic beaches like Cala Major or Playa de Palma and stroll along the seafront promenade.

Mallorca itinerary map

On this map, you can find the locations of all the stops included in this one week Mallorca itinerary. The destinations of each of the days are marked with a different color so you can have an easy overview. Click on the top left corner of the map for more details.

Other destinations to include in your Mallorca itinerary

If you have more than a week in Mallorca, you’re lucky because there are lots of exciting places left to see on this mesmerizing island. 

If I had more time, I would have loved to visit the following spots: 

• Cap de Formentor – a narrow peninsula with dramatic scenery and spectacular beaches like Cala Figuera and Platja de Formentor
• Puig de Massanella – a mountain peak with panoramic views; accessible only by hiking
• Ses Salines – a small village surrounded by several postcard-perfect white-sand beaches like Es Trenc, Cala Màrmols and Es Caragol
• Fornalutx & Biniaraix – picturesque villages in the Tramuntana mountains
• Cuevas del Drach (Drach Caves) – a cave system with one of the largest underground lakes in the world. Book your tour to the caves here .

Pin this 7-day Mallorca itinerary!

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ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

Mallorca Travel Guide

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

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

Make the most of your time in Mallorca!

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

Travel Guide written by Claire , the ultimate Travel Planning Geek

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

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Best things to do in Mallorca

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

40 best Mallorca landscapes in pictures

15 Best Talayots and Ruins in Mallorca

7 best caves in Mallorca

12 Mallorca hidden gems, off the beaten path

10 best Calas in Mallorca

Best beaches in Mallorca

21 most beautiful views in Mallorca

Which side of Mallorca is best?

Most beautiful towns and villages in Mallorca

35 best things to do in Mallorca

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

Plan your dream trip in Mallorca thanks to my guide

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

Planning a road trip in Mallorca

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

Mallorca road trip – 40 Travel tips

Where to stay in Mallorca? 15 best areas

How to rent a car in Mallorca – 36 tips

Driving in Mallorca

Mallorca Itineraries

2 or 3 days in Mallorca – weekend ideas

4 days in Mallorca itineraries

5 days in Mallorca itineraries

One week in Mallorca – itinerary suggestions

Mallorca in 10 days or 2 weeks

Need to rent a car in Mallorca?

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

See all my tips

Useful Links to book your trip

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

West Mallorca – Things to do (Serra de Tramuntana)

Sa Calobra – road, beach, tips

Best things to do in Port de Soller

North Mallorca – Things to do

Cap de Formentor (road, beach, lighthouse…)

Things to do in Alcudia, Mallorca

15 things to do in Capdepera, Mallorca

East Mallorca – Things to do

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

Mondrago Natural Park

South Mallorca – Things to do

Cala de Portals Vells – beaches and cave

Cala Pi (Mallorca) and Cala Beltran hike

Palma de Mallorca

40 Best things to do in Palma de Mallorca

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

And keep track of your own trip!

General Travel Tips

Travel Checklists

Travel Safety Tips

Best Travel Binoculars

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MALLORCA Travel Guides & Insider Tips

Mallorca is like my second home! I’m spending so much time on the island and in Palma de Mallorca , that I’ve collected so many great tips that I want to share! So if you’re looking for the latest insider tips or cool locations for your Mallorca vacation or a short weekend trip to Palma, you’re guaranteed to find what you’re looking for on my Mallorca blog!

Welcome to my Mallorca Blog!

Are you looking for the best travel tips for Mallorca in a nutshell? Check out my recommendations for your trip to Mallorca:

➜ Cheap flights to Mallorca * ➜ The best hotel deals for Mallorca * ➜ Cheap rental cars for a road trip in Mallorca * ➜ Mallorca Guide: You can’t miss these sights ! ➜ Mallorca Pass* ➜ Latest news for Mallorca: Mallorca Magazin and Mallorca Zeitung

Activities in Mallorca

In Mallorca you will find everything: party, tranquility, nature, solitude, lifestyle, relaxation! Mallorca is the perfect island: not too big, not too small, there are offers for every taste and budget. Although I know Mallorca really well by now, I also keep discovering great new corners.

By the way: You can also find many impressions from Mallorca on my Instagram channel @thehappyjetlagger .

Follow me there for news from my life as a travel blogger and flight attendant. There you will find many tips for my favorite island as well as tips for other great destinations!

Palma de Mallorca

Mallorca’s most beautiful beaches

Amazing places in Mallorca

Travel guides & secret spots.

All Mallorca Guides, Tips & Sights at a glance! The list will be updated frequently, so feel free to check back often. Or subscribe to my newsletter right now!

Palma & Southwest

Puerto Portals

Ses Salines

Central Mallorca

Jardines de Alfabia

Serra Tramuntana

Valldemossa

Torrent de Pareis

My travel guides for Mallorca with insider tips, beaches and hip locations

All articles about Mallorca

Are you planning a vacation in Mallorca ? Or a city trip to Palma ? But you’re not in the mood for partying in Magaluf and are tired of all the tourist traps? Then you’ve come to the right place!

Cala Figuera: The Cutest Fishing Village On Mallorca

Hotel Review: Cook’s Club Calvià Beach in Mallorca

Puerto Portals: The beautiful marina in the southwest of Mallorca

The Best Markets in Palma

These Are The Top 20 Things to Do in Mallorca

Alcúdia: What to Do in Mallorca’s Oldest Town

Museo Sa Bassa Blanca near Alcúdia: An impressive space for art lovers

Restaurant Es Verger in Alaró

Molinar: The hotspot in Palma!

Excursions in mallorca*.

Do you have any other great tips for Mallorca? Or are you representing a shop/café/restaurant that you would like to feature? I am always on the lookout for exciting locations. Just send me a message. :)

Adventures with Jane

Travel & lifestyle blog

30 January 2024

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

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I make a commission if you purchase or book through my links at no extra cost to you More info: Read Disclosure & Privacy Policy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Is Mallorca worth visiting?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Guide to Mallorca: Other Pro of visiting off-season

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

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

How many days in Mallorca are enough?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Guide to Mallorca: How to get to Mallorca

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

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

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

Getting to Mallorca Travel Guide: Tips for booking tickets

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

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

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

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

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

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

First-timers Mallorca Travel Guide: Accommodation Options

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

Mid-Range Budget Accommodations in Mallorca

Apartamento delante del mar

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

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

Apuntadores 8

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

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

Budget-Friendly Accommodation in Mallorca: Hostal Bonany

Hostal Bonany

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

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

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

How To Get Around on Mallorca Island : Rent a Car

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

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

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

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

GET AROUND MALLORCA: Mallorca Travel Guide

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Mallorca Without a Car

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PORT DE SOLLER

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

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

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

Must-Visit Destinations in Mallorca

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mallorca Villages—you can’t miss it!

VALLDEMOSSA

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

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

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

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

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

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

An Experience You can’t miss in Mallorca

DRACH CAVES

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

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

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

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

THE BEST BEACHES IN MALLORCA

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

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

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

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

CALA LLOMBARDS

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

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

Must-visit Beaches in Mallorca

CALO DES MORO

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mallorca Travel Guide: Where to Eat in Mallorca

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Mallorca Travel Blog

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Agoda  is my preferred hotel search engine. I also use Airbnb ($31 discount) for booking rooms/apartments.

Discover Car Hire  is a great site for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local and international rental companies.

Book an experience

When I’m travelling solo, especially to a new city, I use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours and excursions, in particular, food walking tours or to visit somewhere tricky to get to by public transport.

Protect yourself and your trip

Don’t forget travel insurance! Protect yourself from possible injury, theft, and many other unexpected mishaps while abroad. World Nomads provides travel insurance to travellers from over 140 countries. For UK residence, Alianz Assistance offers insurance for backpackers, as well as annual multi-trip cover and single-trip cover starting from £3.36.

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Mallorca travel guide: 6 cool things to do & our favorite Mallorca hotspots!

Looking for the best things to do in Majorca? Then read on. In this guide, we give you all kinds of tips about this fine Spanish island. We tell you what the most beautiful beaches and hotspots in Mallorca are. Besides, this blog about Mallorca also contains wonderful hotels and delicious food hotspots!

Majorca travel guide: tips for Mallorca!

When our home country turned ‘orange’, we were on a plane to Majorca. On a whim, we booked a long weekend Mallorca a few weeks before. Although we did not celebrate King’s day, we celebrated the king’s night in Amsterdam.  Visiting Majorca turned out to be a great decision! After a short night, we landed on Palma de Majorca with one goal: relax and enjoy the Spanish cuisine with her fine wines!

What to expect from a visit to Majorca, Spain?

Mallorca is a fantastic island. However, Mallorca has a reputation as a German enclave where you can buy beer and bratwurst on every street corner, but that is absolutely not the case anymore. If you love active holidays, Majorca is a perfect destination: Mallorca is the cycling Walhalla of Spain. For us, Majorca is a beautiful island with magnificent landscapes. In the west, the landscape is rough and hilly. In the east, you will find long stretched beaches, perfect for swimming. The capital of this island is often compared to Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca! This vibrant city has design shops, cosy restaurants and some fine historic buildings!

Ibiza island vs Mallorca island: which island to choose?

Which Spanish island should you visit: Ibiza or Majorca ? It is a tough choice. Both islands are definitely worth paying a visit. It depends on your preference which island you should visit. Even though Ibiza is close by, Mallorca and Ibiza are totally incomparable.

Why should you go to Ibiza?

Ibiza is many times smaller than Mallorca and has a high party-scenery . On Ibiza, you can expect to see some famous people and DJs from all over the world. Ibiza has not only a party vibe but also a hippy vibe. You can visit many cozy ‘ hippy’ markets . You drive around the island in half a day. In the countryside, you still see some authentic farms and typical Spanish landscapes.

Why you should pay a visit to Mallorca:

Mallorca is a big island. You need a few days to discover the whole island. Mallorca offers some great cycling itineraries and multiple-day tracks for hikers . Some bays are ‘colonized’ by Germans and people from England meaning they drink all day and their sole-purpose are partying. These places are easy to avoid and you can enjoy more beautiful beaches .

In short , both islands are worth a visit. Both have beautiful beaches. Ibiza is more known for its parties and Mallorca has more interesting landscapes which makes it very suitable for hiking and cycling.

The Best time to visit Mallorca

Planning a visit to Mallorca? The best time to visit this island is from June until September . During this time of year, you have long summer days and good weather. Do you prefer fewer tourists? Visit Majorca early in May or in October . Weather will be a little colder but still very nice for hiking/cycling activities.

More travel inspiration on Spain? Read this blog with the best restaurants and hotspots in Madrid !

The best beaches of Mallorca

Long stretched beaches and bays with turquoise sea. Below, our list of favorite beaches in Mallorca. These beaches are easy to visit by (rental) car. Four beaches worth checking out:

• Playa Mondrago:   by far the number one beach in Mallorca. They are actually several beaches that are connected by a beautiful nature reserve. The water is crystal blue and the view is fantastic!
• Playa es Trenc:  stretched long sandy beach with beautiful clear water.
• Sant Elm: Cozy small village with a nice beach.
• Cala Deia:   Small romantic beach in the west of Mallorca. Here you will also find restaurant Ca’s Patro March.

Tip: are you planning to rent a car in Mallorca? We always rent from Sunny Cars ! Here you are always fully insured and that saves a lot of hassle!

6 Cool things to do when visiting Mallorca

Besides relaxing, eating well and going to the sea, there is much more you can do in Mallorca. Below are 6 cool things to do . From a visit to Ses Salines to Canyoning in wild waters to visiting wineries and tasting locals wines!

1. Yoga in Mallorca

Take a class at Earth Yoga right in the centre of Palma de Mallorca . You are completely zen afterwards. Since you are already in the city, you can grab a coffee in one of the hip coffee shops in this beautiful city!

2. A fun thing to do in Mallorca: stand-up paddling!

Mallorca is not the place where you can surf well, but what you can do here: SUP, stand-up paddling . Rent a stand-up paddleboard (SUP board) at sunset and take to the water. Click here to rent a SUP board in the bay of Palma.

3. Something different: visiting the salt flats of Ses Salines.

You can take a tour of the salt mountains, but you can also have a coffee in the sweet boutique and buy some local products. The shops of Ses Salines can be found in several places in Mallorca.

4. Canyoning: the activity in Mallorca for adrenaline junkies!

5. discover the island on a scooter.

Visit the most beautiful beaches in the east of Mallorca, then drive north for some good local restaurants and bays. Finnish, your day at the lovely city of Palma de Majorca. A day on a scooter is a wonderful way to get to know Mallorca better and at the same time experience the ultimate holiday feeling. Click here to rent a scooter directly!

6. Visit vineyards and wineries in Mallorca!

Did you know that a lot of wine is produced in Mallorca? During this eight-hour wine tour , you will visit the most beautiful wineries in Mallorca. Wine tastings are included. The best part: you will have a picnic among the vines and you will learn everything about the wine process. Click here to book directly. From 149 euros per person.

The best beach city in Spain: Barcelona! Click here for our free travel guide with tips on Barcelona !

The best restaurants and food hotspots in Mallorca: 

Looking for some nice restaurants for diner? Below you find our favorite restaurants, bars and hotspots in Majorca. Including some top quality restaurants in the city of Palma de Mallorca.

Ca’s Patro March – West Mallorca!

Delicious fresh fish in a beautiful location. This restaurant is located in a difficult to reach bay where you have a great view of the sea. Click here for the location on Google Maps!

La Boveda  –  Palma de Mallorca

Tapas as intended, with a lot of meat, fish and nice wine. Note, this restaurant is best known so make a reservation before you go. Click here for the location on Google Maps!

La Rosa Vermuteria  – Palma de Mallorca

This new restaurant specializes in Vermouth, among others. And they also have delicious food for a very good price. Click here for the location on Google Maps!

Es Pinaret –  Ses Salines

This romantic restaurant is located near the cute village of Ses Salines. Simple but good dishes with a lot of taste. Click here for the location on Google Maps!

Off the beaten track in Spain: Andalusia! Perfect for a weekend getaway or longer holiday! Find tips and more in this Andalusia blog !

Mallorca Hotels: The best hotels, fincas and B&Bs

From wonderful traditional farms (i.e. fincas) for the whole family to cosy bed & breakfasts. Mallorca has it all. Below our 3 hotel recommendations for this Spanish Island! All these accommodations have great reviews too.

Finca Sa Calma €

Comfortable beds, in a quiet area. There is a small pool and every morning you get a fresh egg from the chickens in the garden. Prices start from €50 per night including breakfast.

Jardin del Eden €€

Great breakfast, cozy rooms and a quiet environment. Just a 20-minute drive from Palma de Mallorca. A lovely place for families with kids. Prices start from €128 per night including breakfast.

Belmond la Residencia €€€€

Always wanted to sleep like a movie star? Then stay in this hotel where all the celebrities visiting Mallorca stay too! Breakfast is very tasty. Prices start from €600 a night including breakfast.

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EUROPE , MALLORCA , SPAIN · January 20, 2017 Last Updated on March 16, 2024

HOW TO SPEND 3 DAYS ON THE ISLAND OF MALLORCA

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The Spanish island of Mallorca has become well known for its stunning beaches, limestone mountains, and popular nightlife in the capital city of Palma. Spring and early fall are the best times to visit because you will get the benefit of great weather without hordes of tourists, but really, anytime is a good time to visit this beautiful Mediterranean island.

In this blog post, I’m sharing my tips on how to spend three days in Mallorca!

How To Get To Mallorca

Mallorca is a quick, two-hour flight from London and most major cities in Europe, making it a popular weekend destination. You’ll fly into Palma de Mallorca Airport  (PMI), which is the third-largest airport in Spain. 

If you are flying from the US, I recommend flying into Barcelona first and spending a few days there exploring the city (see my Barcelona Guide ), before popping over to Mallorca. Plan your Mallorca itinerary to spend at least three days on the island.

What To See & Things To Do In Mallorca

In the summertime, I suggest spending at least some of your trip lounging in the sun at one of Mallorca’s many gorgeous beaches. The East side of the island is said to have the most beautiful beaches and fun little beach clubs.

Since my friend and I visited in the winter month of November, (though still 70F+ most days!), we spent our time exploring the island by car. 

Mallorca Tours

There is so much to do and see in Mallorca! Below I outline my three-day Mallorca itinerary but before we get to that here are some ideas for fun guided tours you can take if you prefer to go that route. Enjoy!

• Scuba Diving In A Nature Preserve – Learn the art of diving in a beautiful setting on Mallorca, surrounded by qualified instructors. 
• Jet Ski Tour – Take a fun 50-minute jet ski tour around the beautiful Bay of Alcudia and Coll Baix.
• Mallorca Hot Air Balloon Ride – Take an hour-long hot air balloon flight where you will enjoy stunning views of Mallorca Island. 
• North Coast Catamaran Cruise – Enjoy a five-hour catamaran cruise of the north coast of Mallorca where you will stop to explore caves, kayak, and snorkel. This tour also includes lunch and drinks.
• Dolphin Small Group Cruise – Enjoy an unforgettable three-hour sunrise cruise with a small group of 12 people. Experience the calm of the sea at dawn and watch the dolphins play. 

3 Day Mallorca Itinerary

Day 1: old town.

On our first day in Mallorca, we spent hours walking around old town Palma. I loved the Catedral de Mallorca . We did a self-guided tour, which was just €7, and then explored the rest of old town on foot.

There are gorgeous little winding roads everywhere and several cool shopping streets in old town. I could have spent at least another full day just wandering around the city, soaking in the culture and beautiful architecture.

We didn’t end up making it to Beller Castle , but I heard that it has an amazing view of the city that is worth exploring.

DAY 2: CAP DE FORMENTOR 

On our first adventure out of the city, we rented a car and headed north to Formentor. Getting out of the Palma was a little scary because the streets in old town are small and windy, but once you are on the main roads, it is a breeze driving around Mallorca.

It is very easy to find the main towns that you’ll want to visit with just a simple map that your hotel will provide.

Cap De Formentor , on the northern tip of the island, is breathtaking, and there is a lookout, jetting over a cliff, where you can take a million photos and soak in the coastline.

It only takes about 35 minutes to get to Cap De Formentor from Palma so I recommend continuing on and driving to the lighthouse. The Formentor Lighthouse itself is nothing to write home about, but the drive along the ocean is gorgeous and reminds me of driving Highway 1 up to Big Sur, California.

Just be sure to drive slow and look out for bikers, as the roads are windy and small! After the lighthouse, head to Formentor Beach , a beautiful, pristine beach lined with pine trees, where you can swim and lay out in warmer months.

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DAY 3: VALLDEMOSSA, DEIA & SOLLER 

On our last day in Mallorca, we decided to explore the West side of the island. We drove to the mountain town of Valldemossa , which is only about 20 minutes from Palma.

Valldemossa is so charming with its tiny cobblestone streets and pretty, old buildings built into the mountainside. This was by far my favorite town on Mallorca!

Our next stop, just 10 minutes down the road was Deia , a gorgeous, mountain town that also has ocean views! In the summertime, be sure to stop by the Belmond La Residencia for cocktails at their poolside restaurant & bar.

The town of Soller is just 15 minutes passed Deia and also worth a visit. If you go, make sure you see Port de Soller . We didn’t know about the port so we missed the best part of the city!

Where To Eat & Drink In Palma

Can Cera Gastro Bar , is a great Mediterranean restaurant in the Can Cera Boutique Hotel . The atmosphere is upscale and the food was excellent (the burrata salad with basil pesto dressing was amazing)!

If you are looking for upscale Spanish cuisine, try La Bodeguilla.

They have delicious Spanish tapas; everything on the menu was great, but I loved the cheese plate (it’s only listed on the desert list for some reason so you have to ask for it), and the seafood paella was fabulous. They also have an excellent selection of wines.

Café La Lonja is a great place to grab Spanish tapas and drinks for lunch. This place has a cool vibe, good food and cocktails, and a nice outdoor seating area right across from the harbor.

And for the best burger in Europe, you have to try California Burger Bar! My friend, Mark, opened California Burger Bar in May of 2014, and since, people have been flocking to Palma just to try these famous burgers.

The fries are also delicious, the cocktails are served stiff, in large glasses, the bar has hip decor, and they play old school gangster rap!

There are lots of cool bars in old town Mallorca but another one of my favorites is Bar Abaco , an old-world Mallorcan manor house.

Grab your cocktails at the bar and then head upstairs to explore the sitting rooms, kitchen, and terrace where you can enjoy your drinks in a unique, intimate setting. Saludos!

Where To Stay In Mallorca

Nestled in the heart of old town Palma, Boutique Hotel Calatrava  is in the perfect location to explore the city on foot, and it’s also across from a beautiful bay that has a jogging path running along the water! 

Hotel Calatrava is a 5-star hotel with world-class charm. This is where I stayed during my trip.

I love everything about this hotel, but my favorite amenity is the rooftop terrace overlooking the city and sea, where you can enjoy breakfast each morning, and champagne sunsets in the evening.

You can read my full review of  Boutique Hotel Calatrava  for more information. 

Here are five other well-rated hotels to stay at in Mallorca :

• Hotel Cappuccino Palma – Uniquely decorated rooms, rooftop pool, and terrace with amazing views!
• Grupotel Parc Natural & Spa  – This luxury hotel is surrounded by the stunning S’Albufera Nature Reserve and offers magnificent views over the Bay of Alcudia.
• Jumeirah Port Solher Hotel & Spa – Set on a cliff overlooking this sea, this luxury hotel is the perfect Mallorca escape. 
• Caprice Alcudia Port – Chic and affordable, in the entertainment district near the beach. 
• La Residencia, Belmond Hotel – Arguably the nicest hotel on the island, set in the picturesque villa of Deia. 

What To Pack For A Trip To Mallorca

We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Mallorca. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Please visit our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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Read More About Spain

• Mallorca: An Adventure Guide To Port De Pollensa
• 7 Hangouts for Creatives In Seville
• How To Have The Perfect Girls Getaway In Barcelona
• 5 Things You Cannot Miss In Barcelona
• How To Spend 2 Days In San Sebastian

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You’ll Also Love

Olivia says

January 20, 2017 at 3:12 pm

I love Mallorca! I’ve only ever been on family vacations there as my Stepfather loves it! So glad you managed to find all these spots too.

Did you make it to Cala Deia Beach? It’s such a stunning spot and great for snorkelling. Though I believe it has become much busier over the past year as it was featured in The Night Manager, hopefully this hasn’t ruined it!

We Are Travel Girls says

January 24, 2017 at 8:18 pm

Hi Olivia! I did not have a chance to visit Cala Deia Beach during my trip but I am going back to Mallorca in September for a wedding so I will for sure check it out! I also hope it will not be too crowded. Thanks for the suggestion! X, Vanessa

Jennifer says

January 21, 2017 at 1:51 am

Wow! Mallorca is stunning. I would love to visit there someday. The food looks delicious too. :)

January 21, 2017 at 2:33 am

Thanks for reading Jennifer! Let us know if you travel there we would love to see your pics!

Anonymous says

January 21, 2017 at 8:22 pm

Thank u girls for visiting us at Cali burger always great to see yah have a few drinks and intalectual convo ;) haaaaa cheers

January 24, 2017 at 9:48 am

Can’t wait to come back for another one of those amazing Burgers!!!

Polyana says

January 22, 2017 at 4:01 pm

Mallorca looks so beautiful. Can’t wait to visit. Thanks for sharing this xx

Becky van Dijk says

January 23, 2017 at 12:46 am

Thank you for reading Polyana! Do share your pics with us if you go! #wearetravelgirls

Tilly Horseman says

April 29, 2017 at 11:41 pm

You’ve brought back many fabulous memories from my 2 weeks in Mallorca. So much to see and do there, I could easily spend a month exploring the island! The north of the island is definitely the area to visit. Especially the Torrent de Parais and Sa Calobra… oooo….I want to go back now! Someone please take me! ?

April 30, 2017 at 4:58 am

Pleased to hear this post brought back some great memories! Thanks for reading and sharing your own tips. XO, Becky

February 12, 2018 at 1:27 pm

This was great. Thank you very much for the insights. Heading to Mallorca for the Easter weekend, can’t wait.

February 14, 2018 at 4:48 pm

Thanks for reading Suren, glad you found this article helpful for your own trip. Enjoy! Becky, Founder – We Are Travel Girls

we are leaving traces says

February 26, 2018 at 9:14 am

Hey, great travel report! Mallorca is such a beautiful island. There are still a lot of tourists that only come for the party and cheap all inclusive hotels, but Mallorca has so much more to offer. We have been to Mallorca a couple of times and just came back a few weeks ago. This time we finally wrote our own report. Maybe you are interested in reading about our experiences as well :) https://weareleavingtraces.com/2018/02/20/mallorca-spain/ Safe travels :)

February 26, 2018 at 11:04 pm

Thanks for reading and sharing your own tips!

June 11, 2018 at 11:24 pm

Great article ! Beautiful pictures.From my side will recomend rent a boat and enjoy Mallorca from the seaside! We have been using https://mallorcaboathire.eu/ – amazing feelings, amazing day and fun ?

Best wishes

From Julie with Love says

April 23, 2019 at 5:05 am

Thanks for the great post! I’m heading to Valdemossa and Deia this weekend. Will soon blog about it on http://www.fromjuliewithlove.com Follow me too please

Chris Vasilopoulos says

August 11, 2019 at 11:10 am

Isn’t this one of the most fantastic places ever? Lots of things to do for everyone’s bucket list for Mallorca. Tons of beaches.

Nick Jonas says

November 26, 2019 at 3:39 am

Thanks for sharing beautiful memories. Mallorca is one of the most popular holiday destinations with a perfect combination of historical landmarks as well as spectacular beaches. I knew a bit more about Mallorca through your article.

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Mallorca travel guide: Everything you need to know

• Sofía Pozuelo
• UPDATED: 25/11/2023

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

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

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

Table of contents

Best time to visit mallorca.

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

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

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

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

How to get to Mallorca

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

Affordable flights to Mallorca

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

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

Travel to Mallorca by ferry

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

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

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

How many days to spend in Mallorca

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

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

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

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

What to do in Mallorca

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

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

Palma de Mallorca

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

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

Beautiful towns in Mallorca

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

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

Best beaches and coves in Mallorca

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

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

Other places worth including in this Mallorca travel guide

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

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

How to get around in Mallorca

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

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

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

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

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

Best tours in Mallorca

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

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

These are some of the best tours in Mallorca:

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

Where to stay in Mallorca

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mallorca travel guide itineraries

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

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

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

Traditional food you should taste in Mallorca

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

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

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

Best restaurants – Mallorca travel guide

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

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

Map of Mallorca

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

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

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

• PLAN A TRIP STEP BY STEP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Local’s Guide to Authentic Mallorca

Mallorca is a hugely popular holiday destination, and as such you’ll find a wealth of things to do if you choose to rent one of our luxury villas in Mallorca . Depending on what you’re looking to do, there are loads of options when it comes to finding out information on the best things to do, which is why we’ve been getting out and asking our local experts for the scoop on their favourite places.

This time we’re talking to Johanna, the MD of Globo Events, an events management company specialising in bespoke events on Mallorca.

Tell us a little bit about you – who you are, what you do, and what makes you an expert in the region.

I have been coming to Mallorca since I was young, and moved here permanently following a career with Alexander McQueen in London eight years ago. Since then I have worked in the events industry and am now Director of Globo Events. We manage a huge spectrum of events from start to finish ranging from private parties to beautiful weddings, bespoke holidays and some of the largest corporate events in Europe, all of which are supported by our exclusive concierge service.

Mallorca Expert: Globo Events

Why people should travel to Mallorca at least once in their lifetime?

Mallorca has so much to offer for visitors of all ages! Whether you are looking for a relaxing break, a holiday filled with adventure for all the family or a trip of fine dining, yachting and incredible nightlife – for such a small island it really can offer you everything.

Beautiful Mallorca, Spain

Summarize the region for us in three words!

Luxurious, beautiful and captivating.

What should visitors always pack with them ?

Visitors should always pack their driving licenses! You can travel all over the island and see everything from incredible harbours to underground lakes and caves, hidden beaches to spectacular mountain views and tiny Mallorcan villages to the glorious historical city of Palma.

Sa Calobra Beach, Mallorca

What makes people come back time and time again?

Everyone who visits Mallorca falls in love with something special about the island. The thing that will surprise most first-time visitors is how accessible the island is and how much there is to do and see whilst you are here… You will always be left wanting more!

Time for some travel inspiration – can you give us your recommendations  on…

The first thing to do – drop your bags and … Order a jug of sangria, a plate of Pam boli and enjoy the real taste of Spain!

Pam Boli, Spanish taste

Don’t miss! Lunch or dinner at the King’s favourite restaurant Flanigan in Puerto Portals; the most exclusive Port on the island

Best restaurant – Cala Conills, the most divine fish and seafood restaurant tucked-away in the cove of Sant Elms

Cala Conills Restaurant, Mallorca

Best drinking spot – La Llonja Palma

Best activity: Charter a yacht to take you to Ibiza for the day

Yacht charter, Mallorca

Something free to do – See Palma Cathedral and enjoy a walk along the promenade of Playa de Palma to the former fishing village of Portixol.

Best spot for an amazing panoramic view – The most northern tip of the island Cap de Formentor.

Cap de Formentor, Mallorca

Best things to do for group of friends/adults – Dinner in the exclusive Port Blanc restaurant in Palma followed by a VIP night at Pacha

Port Blanc and Pacha, Mallorca

Best kept secret – An incredible drive from Valdemossa to Sa Calobra via the beautiful village of Deia where you can enjoy a beautiful lunch in the hidden beach restaurant Ca’s Patro March

Best day tour activities – The traditional train journey from Palma to Soller through the Sierra de Alfàbia mountain range

Best way to spend a week in your region –   All of the above if you can fit it all in – but if not, you can just do what everybody else does and come back to visit us again!

Traditional Train Journey, Mallorca

Best Towns & Villages in Mallorca – Oliver’s Insights

Now you’re clued up on some of the best-kept secrets, we wanted to share our favourite towns and villages in Mallorca. You see, it’s so easy to get caught up in tourist traps, that you never really begin to touch the surface on some of the authentic gems in the region. We want your holiday in Mallorca to be fun and memorable so we’ve picked 5 special locations that will add depth to your Spanish holiday, and we have no doubt you’ll love them as much as we do.

Street in old town of Alcudia

No doubt you will have heard of this tourist hub, and rightly so, this ancient town in Mallorca oozes Spanish authenticity.

Alcudia is a restored walled city, which was once the Island’s prime Roman settlement, but today, it has equal measures of daintiness and charm – the bountiful brick houses and cobbled streets are a true testament of the town’s history, and visitors are hell-bent on visiting time and time again.

Just a 5 minutes’ drive to the coast, families and friends alike can enjoy the splendid array of beaches. The beaches here differ in that they’re more peaceful and the water is shallow enough for children to enjoy safely. Golden sands await and a whole host of water sports will be waiting for those looking for a thrill. Sailing, windsurfing and parasailing, but which will you pick?

2. Binissalem

Take your pick from the very best grapes in Mallorca

Binissalem is a real find, not only does it lie between the Mallorca plain and the mountains, but this village is also a wine growing region. If you order wine in a Mallorcan restaurant, chances are it will probably come from Binissalem. Pretty cool eh?

This village is what all Instagram feeds yearn for: vibrancy, orange trees and vineyard action shots. It would be in poor taste to not sample a glass or few and the local vineyards are the perfect hub for exploration. Though the village is semi-industrialised, that doesn’t mean the locals don’t know how to have some fun.

In fact, a visit in September is a great and you’ll be around for  Festa des Verma , the highlight of this festival is no doubt the grape fight, where locals dress up in white clothes to chuck grapes at each other. Sounds like a laugh if you ask us.

3.  Banyalbufar

The beautiful views of Banyalbufar

Tourists visit this beguiling vill age to see one thing and one thing only – the mesmerising terraced hillsides, sloping down to sea.

The name rightly encompasses this Mallorcan village to a T – ‘founded by the sea’, Banyalbufar has been the centre of fishing for many centuries. Unlike the other towns and villages in Mallorca, the population here is less than 500, which is a nice detox from life back home.

The beach is extremely popular, but it’s made of pebbles, so it may not be the comfiest to work on your tan. However, the coves are worth the trip and make an ideal base for a pretty picnic especially in the afternoons while the sun is setting.

4. Pollensa

Take on the 365 Calvari steps

One of Mallorca’s most popular tourist spots, and yet the town still appears unchanged and as beautiful as ever.

The town is made of narrow streets and exemplary buildings like the Calvari   – Pollensa is old and rich in culture, and with 8000 locals, the town is big enough to feel the buzz but small enough to not get lost in crowds of people.

Pork is the main ingredient in Pollensa, but above all, you have to try Langosta a la parrilla, which is lobster tail cooked on the grill, served with homemade mayonnaise. It’s seriously irresistible, you have our word on that!

The production of artificial pearl making

Manacor is most definitely not on one’s immediate radar, but that’s the beauty of discovering something first – you get to enjoy it in all its unspoilt glory.

Situated at the eastern end of the centre of Mallorca, Manacor is home to the artificial pearl industry, so make sure to check out the jewellers to get your hand on world famous pearls!

And if you’re a tennis enthusiast you most likely will know this is the birth place of Rafa Nadal; when he’s not playing you’re likely to find him around the town.  The Rafa Nadal Academy is also in the town and attracts talent from all over the world.

Johanna Lane is the MD of Globo Events , a company specialising in arranging and creating amazing experiences and events on the island of Mallorca, from unforgettable holidays to dream weddings and corporate events. If you’re looking to get an event arranged, check out their website! Alternatively, if you’re looking for some amazing villas in Mallorca , Oliver is your man!

5 Responses

Hello Oliver,

I will be traveling to Mallorca on May 25 and would like to know how much would be to rent a boat to go to Ibiza for one day. Is it possible?

Thanks a lot,

Thank you for some great info! Can you tell me the name of the beach in the photo at the top of this blog? It is simply amazing! I am headed there in 2 weeks and I would LOVE to visit it! Thanks

Great guide! Congrats. We go to Mallorca every year, and really really it’s a good choice for traveling. Great sea, great food and great people.

Hi Tom, thanks so much for the great feedback 🙂 Glad you enjoyed the guide!

Hello I am looking for a nice beach hotel in Mallorca, smaller more stylish for myself and my daughter for a week stay. Please can you recommend? Thank you Jana

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Visit Mallorca Island: A Gem of the Balearic Islands

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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.

Matador Original Series

Where to eat, stay, and play in mallorca, spain.

M allorca, off the coast of Spain, is an enormously popular island getaway. Though it’s feeling the impacts of overtourism, there are always ways to enjoy the island responsibly — and Mallorca’s many quiet corners offer a far more authentic taste of Mallorcan living than tourist resort towns like Magaluf, anyway.

Mallorca, also spelled Majorca, is in the Balearic Islands, the best-known of which is Ibiza. But the best way to visit the islands is to leave the party cliches of Ibiza behind and look for character, charm, and culture in smaller towns. And you’ll find plenty of all three in abundance on Mallorca. Travelers curious enough to scratch beneath the surface will not only enjoy sun, sea, and sand, but also be able to discover what distinguishes Mallorca from other islands in the Mediterranean .

Photo: Marina Kryuchina /Shutterstock

Mallorca is dominated by the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site stretching majestically along the northwest coast. The eastern side of the island holds the Serres de Llevant hills, known for their intricate cave systems carved from limestone. Central Mallorca is a vast and fertile plain teeming with olive groves, almond trees, and citrus fruits. And the island’s 350 miles of coastline have dramatic cliffs and secluded coves to the north, while the south boasts long stretches of pristine white-sand beaches and calm water.

Most visitors to Mallorca stay in the popular tourist cities of Palma, Alcúdia, Magaluf, or Sóller. There are plenty of opulent accommodations throughout Mallorca , but those cities will offer the largest variety of price points and levels of luxury.

• The best time to visit
• Getting there and around
• What to do in Mallorca, Spain
• The best restaurants on the island
• Where to stay in Mallorca

The best time to visit Mallorca, Spain

Photo: Cristian M Balate /Shutterstock

Generally, the best times to visit are spring and fall. The height of summer is not for the fainthearted, as the sweltering heat can be unforgiving. Exceptionally mild winters mean that while the temperatures might not be warm enough for serious swimming or sunbathing – and you’re highly unlikely to leap into a hotel pool in mid-December – but you can definitely enjoy a cultural break with some indoor attractions in winter.

Highs in December average at around 61 degrees Fahrenheit. But the chillier season also means lodging bargains (aside from during Christmas holidays), with prices dramatically slashed with those willing to forego summertime. Fortunately, there are festivals, events, and tourist draws available all year.

How to get there and around

Once you’ve touched down at the Mallorca, Spain, international airport, it’s seamless and easy to get into town. The airport is just a 12-minute drive from the bustling city of Palma de Mallorca (home of the famous Cathedral of Light), a 35-minute drive to coastal beauty Port de Sóller, or a 40-minute drive from idyllic Deià. There are usually taxis at the airport, though you can also rent a car when you land (or have your hotel arrange an airport pick-up).

The only international airport is Palma, so no matter where you stay on the island, your trip will need to start and end there.

What To Do In Mallorca

While relaxing on a beach, sailing, and hiking and cycling adventures are all top attractions in Mallorca, there are many other possibilities, too.

Explore Deià

Photo: vulcano /Shutterstock

The village of Deià is indisputably one of the most scenic villages on the island, with hilltop coastal views so dreamy that they resemble a watercolor painting.

There’s a slow and languid pace to life everywhere in the village, and although it has its fair share of celebrity residents (the famous composer Andrew Lloyd Webber has a part-time home there), it’s more about rural charm than conspicuous glitz and glam. Like the nearby town of Valdemossa, the picturesque surroundings have inspired many an artist, while the likes of Jimi Hendrix, the Rolling Stones and David Bowie all spent time here in the past to work on their craft away from the peeking eyes of the paparazzi.

An essential stop should be the grounds of Belmond’s ultra-fancy La Residencia Hotel . The sprawling gardens are a botanical paradise, and you can stop in for a cocktail or mocktail before taking a stroll through the grounds. From there, you can wander through the picture-perfect streets, keeping your eyes peeled for exhibitions where you can purchase original pieces from local artists and wandering into one the many boutique shops. There’s also a small archaeological museum (open Tuesday and Thursday), as well as a museum in the former home of poet Robert Graves.

Further afield, hopping on a boat from Deià to the Sa Foradada viewpoint is a luxe experience, and Maksy Boats can help arrange charters for quick trips or all-day coastal tours. The viewpoint’s eponymous clifftop restaurant offers spectacular sea views and woodfire-cooked paella (advance reservations strongly recommended), while the viewpoint is perfect for relaxed outdoor sunsets. If you don’t take a boat, there’s a two-mile (each way) coastal hike to the same point — just remember you’ll have to hike back up later.

Elsewhere, Cala Deià is an idyllic beach worth the visit, thanks to its clear turquoise waters and serene rock pools in an exceptionally picturesque cove, even by Mallorcan standards. Later, if evening is approaching, Nama is a great place for a sunset cocktail with two large terraces overlooking a sprawling canyon, including one for adults only.

Explore Parc Nacional de Cabrera

Photo: skipperernst /Shutterstock

Cabrera National Park is a collection of islands south of Mallorca. You can get there from Ses Salines via Mar Cabrera Boat Excursions . You can book just transportation for about 40 Euro, or opt for one of several more extensive tours. The ride each way takes only about 30 minutes.

Within the park, you can visit the famous Blue Cave (Sa Cova Blava), explore one of seven hiking trails , or go scuba diving or snorkeling . Back in Ses Salines, birdwatching is popular thanks to the nearby salt flats, and the town’s Es Trenc Beach is always popular, with beach gear rentals and a few nearby affordable beach bars.

Visit a museum for Mallorca’s greatest sports legend

Photo: neme_jimenez /Shutterstock

Fans of pro tennis, or just sports legends in general, can head to the Rafael Nadal Museum . In addition to in-depth exhibitions about his life and career, superfans can catch a glimpse of trophies and other notable memorabilia, and there’s even interactive space with VR simulators on tennis and other sports. Visitors to Mallorca who want to hit the real-world tennis courts can attend single-day clinics at Nadal’s tennis center in Manacor .

If you’re not up for breaking a sweat on vacation (or aren’t in Manacor), head to nearby Sa Punta Restaurant in Cala Bona . It’s owned by the Nadal family, and Rafael’s piano-playing grandfather has been known to join in with live music sessions in the past.

Take an adventurous trip to a hidden beach

Photo: KVN1777 /Shutterstock

The two beaches of Sa Calobra, on the northwestern side of Mallorca, enjoy a stunning setting among steep and rocky cliffs, plus an impressive gorge. But the road to get there isn’t for the fainthearted. With no fewer than 26 suspenseful hairpin bends, it’s one of the most dramatic driving roads in Europe, with jaw-dropping views nearly the entire time.

Its never-ending, myriad twists and turns is seductive for the brave, but anyone not courageous enough to drive, cycle, or hike the route themselves can also find other ways to get there. Visitors to Mallorca, Spain, can catch a passenger boat from the coastal village of Port de Sóller and arrive at the same scenic viewpoint. The trip takes about an hour each way and costs 30 Euros; you can make reservations in advance via the boat operator’s website.

The two popular beaches are called Cala Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis; the latter requires a very short hike to reach. Both have opportunities for snorkeling, but you’ll need to bring all your own gear (as well as towels and chairs) as there are no services in the vicinity. Barefoot revelers should be vigilant for occasional jellyfish appearances, generally in the height of summer. But the crystal clear water and gorgeous landscapes make it worth the small risk.

Have an agro-tourism experience in the country

Photo: Lapa Smile /Shutterstock

Whether because of the TV show “The Simple Life,” the growing knowledge of farm-to-table cuisine, or the efforts around the world to buy local and reduce one’s carbon footprint, farm tourism is growing. Much of the non-coastal part of the island is farmland, and major exports include oranges and lemons, almonds, and olives. Many farms run farm stay hotels, allowing guests to have rural experiences ranging from hands-on farming to luxurious tasting dinners. Options range from the pricey Richard Branson-owned Son Bunyola to the more budget-friendly Agroturisme Son Pons .

But don’t feel that you’re limited to staying in a specific residence to enjoy what agrotourism has to offer. Eco Vinyasa near Sóller runs guided tours of its orange farm with a focus on the history and production of the crop on the island, and nearby Can Det offers free and paid visits focused on olive oil production; the paid visits come with a guided olive oil tasting.

One location worth a visit is Artestruz , a working ostrich farm deep in the Campos countryside that offers guests the novel opportunity to feed and pet ostriches. No reservations are needed, and there’s also an on-site shop selling ostrich-related goods.

Where To Eat in Mallorca

Mallorca is full of inspiration for foodies, with the island’s capital, Palma, representing the best of the best. The olive oil is arguably better there than anywhere in the country, while seafood dishes (including succulent Sóller prawns with black rice), are irresistibly tasty. Whether shopping at Palma’s famous produce market ( Mercat Olivar ), trying out coca mallorquina (a pizza-style flatbread topped with fresh veggies) at a bakery or stall, or indulging your tastebuds at the island’s many restaurants and cafes, there are endless tasting opportunities. Meanwhile, the local Malvasia white wine is unmissable.

El Olivo, Deià

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by La Residencia (@belmondlaresidencia)

Belmond La Residencia: Carrer son Canals, 07179 Deià, Illes Balears, Spain

Sa Terrassa, Cala Pi

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Son Bunyola (@sonbunyola)

The deliciously tender, melt-in-the-mouth squid and octopus dish on the starter menu is almost substantial enough to be a main course, and is highly recommended.

Meanwhile, the nearest village, Banyalbufar, is known as one of the last remaining authentic coastal villages on the entire island, with a local feel and a total absence of tourist traps. Cala Pi is one of the prettiest natural coves on Mallorca , too.

Restaurante Sa Terrassa: Passeig de Cala Pi, 2, 07639 Cala Pi, Illes Balears, Spain

Cap Roig Brasserie, Port de Sóller

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa (@jumeirahportsoller)

For many dishes, you’ll choose between having your fish cooked in a charcoal oven, or heated over a clay tile with an infusion of taste bud-tickling salt and herbs.

Cap Roig Brasserie: Hotel & Spa, Jumeirah, Carrer de Bèlgica, S/N, 07108 Port de Sóller, Balearic Islands, Spain

Maca de Castro, Alcúdia

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Maca de Castro (@maca_de_castro)

Maca de Castro: Carrer de Juno, s/n, 07400 Alcúdia, Illes Balears, Spain

Where to stay in Mallorca, Spain

Travelers are spoiled for choice in Mallorca, with accommodation options ranging from converted medieval fortresses to ancient fincas (farms) where most, if not all, of the food is sourced locally. Deià, Palma, and Port Sóller are among the top areas for show-stopping views, but with so much natural beauty, finding an undesirable area to stay is virtually impossible. The idyllic island location can mean high prices, but there’s something for every budget. And you’re still likely to get more for your buck than at an equally luxurious hotel in a pricier destination like Hawaii or the Amalfi Coast.

We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

A unique Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Mallorca is struggling with overtourism , which makes Airbnb a more complicated issue (as it is everywhere). However, renting an Airbnb in a smaller town brings more spending and tourist action to lesser-visited destinations and helps spread out the crowds, which is a very good thing. Some of the rentals in Mallorca, Spain, are downright gorgeous, from sprawling fincas with private pools and hottubs to artsy apartments inside historic stone buildings.

Matador rounded up 11 of the prettiest Airbnbs across the island.

Boutique Hotel Posada Terra Santa

Photo: Booking.com

For a charming stay in the heart of downtown Palma, it’s hard to beat Hotel Posada Terra Santa . It’s walkable to everything in Palma but tucked down a street that doesn’t get much noise, with an on-site bar and restaurant and rooftop pool. It’s in a historic building from the 16th century and blends traditional features with modern luxury. It’s a good pick for couples looking to up the romance. Rooms start around $240 per night in winter but can be twice as much in the summer.

Posada Terra Santa: Carrer de la Posada de Terra Santa, 5, Centre, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain

Can Simoneta Hotel

Can Simoneta is an adults-only clifftop resort directly on stunning Canyamel Beach, on the island’s east coast, near the town of Artà. It has huge private gardens, lots of outdoor space, and large rooms with lots of light. Rates start around $450 per night.

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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…

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