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How to Get Around Mallorca: 9 Tips I wish Someone Told Me

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Should I rent a car, use public transportation, or a taxi? Does Mallorca even have Uber?

When planning a trip, many of these questions come to mind to have everything organized down to the last detail.

Yes. There’s uber in Mallorca. You’re not going to a remote island in the middle of nowhere! Also, public transport is quite good and works well! Uber works in Palma, but people in the island usually ride with taxis.

But what is the best way of getting around Mallorca? In this article, I’ll mention every means of transport and the best way to take advantage of them during your stay in Mallorca.

There are countless hidden cities, towns, calas, and beaches you can only reach using transport and never on foot.

Therefore, choosing the most appropriate option depends on the places you plan to visit.

So, keep that in mind while reading this!

Table of Contents ▼ ▶

Do need an itinerary for your trip? Come and discover this wonderful places by yourself! I’m sure you’ll be surprised with the crazy amount of cultural offer Spain provides its visitors.

Choose your Spain Itinerary:

1 Day in Spain? 10 Best Things to Do in 24 Hours!

2 Days in Spain: Trip Ideas & Itineraries to Enjoy Your 48h

3 Days in Spain: What’s the Best Itinerary for Your Trip?

4 Days in Spain - Best Travel Itineraries for Short Trips

5 Days in Spain: Itineraries to See (almost) Everything!

6 Days in Spain: The 3 Best Itineraries for Your Trip!

7 Days in Spain: The 3 Best Itineraries for Your Trip!

Let me know if you have any questions regarding cultural activities and art experiences in Spain. I’ll be happy to help you! Now, let us continue with Mallorca’s transport.

Buses in Mallorca are the most economical option to move around the Island.

If you did not rent a car, you could use the buses to move through most of the Island’s towns, cities, beaches, and calas.

First, you need to know there are two types of buses. On one hand, those belonging to the EMT and operating in the center of Palma and the TIB yellow buses for linking the different towns of Mallorca.

  • Check out this interactive map with all the bus lines in Mallorca 👉 TIB 🗺️

Although schedules may vary depending on the line or the day of the week:

  • Buses from Palma : from 6:30 am to 11:00 pm.
  • Night buses start before 00:00 and end at 6:30 in the morning.

A ticket on the EMT bus costs 2€, and it is also possible to acquire the 10-trip card in Palma (it is not rechargeable), which costs 15 €.

There is also a single ticket to Palma Airport, which costs 6,75 €. You can purchase the bus ticket directly when you get on, in cash. 

Tip #1: Drivers will have some change, but I suggest you don’t get there with a 50€ bill, just in case. They only accept 20 euros bills or less. (Unless the fare is higher)

Also, the  EMT A1 airport   bus  is one of the cheapest ways to get to Palma from the Airport. The ticket is 5 euros and lasts 20 euros, and the city center bus stop is called “Plaça d’Espanya.” 

You can buy the bus tickets at the machine at the Airport or buy them from the driver when you get on the bus.

Remember that you can only pay by cash on the A1 airport bus.

21 Must-Know Tips Before Renting a Car in Spain

If you want to discover every corner of Mallorca, move as you want whenever you want, and have freedom and independence when visiting Mallorca, renting a car is definitely the best option for moving around. 

In addition, some beaches and calas are difficult to access by public transport, so it is only possible to get there by car (and some other ways we’ll see later), plus, you’ll have as much time as you need to move around. 

The requirements for renting are to be 21 years old or older and to have a driver’s license at least two years old.

You can pick it up at the Airport and leave it before departing from Mallorca.

And you should know that most rental companies do not have cars at the Airport but in a nearby space, and a free bus will take you there. 

Many people wonder if it is worth it or not to rent a car in Mallorca. It is actually very helpful and can help you explore the Island. 

Tip #2: You should consider that if you’re staying in hotels far from the city of Palma itself, like Palmanova or El Arenal, it is practically impossible to use public transport to visit calas or towns of interest. So, having your own car is helpful.

These are trustworthy companies to rent a car in Mallorca:

Parking in Palma de Mallorca is IMPOSSIBLE. And people from the city are not very fond of renting cars, so you will have to be very careful. People could go so far to even scratch the cars, so take the necessary measures to avoid any extra charge.

If you are staying in Palma de Mallorca, and have a small rental car, you can park inside the Corte Inglés for the day. It won’t be cheap, but at least your car will be safe.

Taxis in Mallorca are usually taken at stops throughout the city. You can also take one directly on the street or order one by calling one of the companies by phone.

Suppose you are okay with spending a few extra euros and want to avoid complicating with maps and directions. In that case, the taxi is the most convenient option.

And yes, besides the bus, this is the other option from the Airport to Palma. It costs between 15 - 20 euros.

Tip #3: Taxis are the best option after a night out. If you share a taxi with your friends, you can divide the cost between 4 people, which is the maximum number of passengers allowed per car.

They are super safe and reliable. Taxi drivers are usually our first guides when arriving in a new city. They also have stories to tell, are generally very friendly, and can give you their local tips.

These are some helpful phone numbers of taxi companies in Mallorca:

  • Palma teletaxi: 971 20 09 00.
  • Radio Taxi Palma: 971 40 14 14.
  • Radio Taxi Mallorca: 971 20 12 12.

What’s the average price for a Taxi in Mallorca?

  • From Palma de Mallorca to City Center (20 minutes) in the day is around 28 euros. From midnight until 5:00 am, it costs 34 euros.
  • From Palma de Mallorca to Santa Ponsa (30 minutes) in the day is around 42 euros. From midnight until 5:00 am, it costs 56 euros.
  • From the City Centre to Cala d’Or (55 minutes) in the day is around 80 euros. From midnight until 5:00 am, it costs 100 euros.
  • From the City Center to Alcudia (35 minutes) in the day is around 65 euros. From midnight until 5:00 am, it costs 85 euros.

Tip #4: If you are in a small village, and need a taxi, type Radio Taxi plus the name of the village online. That is one of the most reliable ways to search for taxi when you can’t see one.

Mallorca is the perfect place to discover by bike. If you go to Palma de Mallorca, it has large roads, wide promenades, bike lanes clearly signposted throughout the city center, and a fantastic climate.

Tip #5: My favorite route is the one along the Paseo Marítimo. You can pass through beautiful sites such as the iconic Playa de Palma , stopping for a quick dip to refresh, and the Cathedral until reaching El Arenal. All of this is in Palma de Mallorca (capital).

If you want, you can get lost and cycle far until you reach other neighborhoods.

There are many bike rental companies in Palma you can trust. They offer to go on a one-day or several-day bike tour.

Public bike systems like BiciPalma and Mou-te-Bé are quick and cheap and allow people to get arround Mallorca by bike.

Don’t get confused. Palma has a lot of traffic, and traffic rules also apply to cyclists. Espcially during summer.

If you move around the city, please pay attention carefully to avoid an accident and tie your bike well if leaving it for a while.

Moreover, discovering a country by bike brings many benefits to your life.

It does not pollute , it is a very good exercise for your legs, you stay active during a trip, and you even save on parking fines!

Wow, I could go on for hours. This means of transport is guaranteed fun. It allows you to access impossible corners and move freely according to your times. Definitely recommend!

We have fantastic bike routes you should see if you love cycling! Find out here:

13 Things to do in Mallorca to Discover Every Corner of the City

Vespa Scooter

Visiting Mallorca on a Vespa is one of the BEST ways to tour Mallorca . It’s also an entertaining activity to do while exploring the city.

You can rent your Vespa here: Palma Bay Vespa Rental

Also, the guests of the Barceló Illetas Albatros hotel have the possibility of renting them directly at the establishment. Still, you don’t necessarily need to be a guest to enjoy them since they have shared them with the Island’s tourists!

Here are some routes in case you need some help on where to begin:

Tip #6: If you rent a scooter, you should know that only 125cc scooters are allowed on the highways, and you must be over 21 years old to rent a scooter of this size. On the other hand, to rent 50cc models, you need to be 18 years of age or older, AND must have a driver license. Also, it is illegal to drive a scooter in Mallorca without a helmet.

Mallorca has a train, though it is such a small island, reaching three inland destinations: Inca, Sa Pobla, and Manacor.

It is a great way of transport for residents living on the capital’s outskirts.

Tip #7: I recommend tourists and first time visitors to rely on something other than this transport system since the network is deployed mainly in the Island’s interior.

It has 22 train stops in Mallorca that do not correspond to any main tourist destinations. If you plan to travel to your hotel or house by train, you must depend on something else.

They all leave from the Plaça d’Espanya Intermodal station , the same as the TIB buses and the metro, and stem at various places before reaching their final destinations.

But it doesn’t mean you will not have to use the train at all. If you’re an adventurer and want to discover every possible corner of Mallorca, including unique spots and interior towns, visit Sineu !

This town is famous for its market of medieval origin. I highly suggest you visit the old Royal Palace , Plaça de Sant Marc , and the Church of Santa Maria !

There is also a vintage train that goes from Palma to Sóller! It is an experience you must have if you’re visiting the Island.

This train stops at a viewpoint , and you can take pictures and admire the beautiful landscape.

The total 30-minute trio costs: 32 euros . But trust me, you want to have this experience. The train is the only one that unites mountains and sea from the valley in the heart of the Sierra de Tramuntana with the port and the beach.

The Mallorca metro is ideal if you are looking for speed and to move to places far from each other.  

Using the metro for tourists is not so recommended, as Palma has two metro lines that serve the city’s suburbs. 

The single ticket for the Palma de Mallorca metro is priced at 1.80€ , and it is possible to buy it directly from the vending machines in the metro stations of Mallorca.

  • This service operates from Monday to Friday: from 6:30 am to 11:00 pm. 
  • Saturdays: from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm (only line 1).
  • Sundays: no service.

It runs every 20 minutes , but the metro is not practical enough for those first-time visitors. 

And, bad news, there have yet to be connections for moving from the Airport to Palma by metro. The only ways of getting there are by bus (which we discussed before) and by taxi.

Tip #8: I would not consider it the first transportation choice for a tourist. However, use it in case you have a nearby stop at a particular time but don’t waste time on waiting for it.

Still, the metro is very clean and well-maintained , which is a plus! You can purchase the tickets at the Intermodal Station or any station’s ticket machines.

You can arrive via the ferry to Mallorca with your vehicle from Spain.

The ferries traveling from Barcelona to Mallorca are modern, spacious, and equipped with all the necessary facilities.

And you can access many services on board. There are different fares for passengers and vehicles , dining and entertainment options, family experiences, and things for your pet.

Tip #9: If traveling with a vehicle or during high season, arrive with extra time before the ferry departs. Also, consider booking as soon as possible, as they sell out quickly.

You can travel by ferry from the Peninsula to Mallorca, departing from Barcelona, Gandia, Valencia, and Denia ports.

The most popular route is the one departing from the port of Barcelona, on the northeast coast of Spain.

Ferryhopper is the best site to catch a ferry to Mallorca. Always check for discounts because different fares depend on whether you are a child, a baby, etc.

Also, you can move by ferry across most of the Balearic Islands , with many connections between its main ports. The ports of Palma and Alcudia are the biggest and most important on the Island, as they have the most traffic.

  • 👉 And you can sail from Palma to other islands such as Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. On the other hand, the Port of Alcudia also allows you to reach Mahon and Ciudadela .

Tourist Bus

Palma de Mallorca is a tourist destination. So, of course, it has its own tourist bus! Line 50 of the bus , beginning at the Almudaina Palace.

Okay, okay! Don’t be skeptical about this. Open your mind. Imagine you only have a few hours a day to see Palma’s most important landmarks and attractions, the tourist bus is definitely a transport you must consider.

It takes you to the most important spots so you can glance at everything.

You can use the City Sightseeing buses for 24 or 48 hours or pay for the entrance, including access to the main attractions , such as the Es Baluard museum, the Bellver castle, and the Cathedral Basilica of Santa María de Mallorca.

Tip #10: You can see Palma’s tourist bus route online. It gives you the journey and timeframes at each point. Use this to decide ahead of time which areas you will find enough to just drive by and which others you’d like to spend some time at.

Every ticket gets free headphones . And, entrances including the attractions, get 1 drink!

The schedule of the red route is from 9:30 am to 8:00 pm, with a frequency of 20 minutes. Then, the purple route hours are from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with a frequency of 40 minutes.

There are many ways of getting around Mallorca. I hope this article has enlightened you on the best option that suits your needs for making your experience x10 times better!

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding Mallorca. We’ll be happy to help you plan your visit.

4.9 of 5 ( 29 ) Leave a comment!

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Email address (optional), star rating (optional).

Hola Inigo I will be in Majorca for 9 days mid June. I don't drive but am open to public transport and Taxi when needed. 60 + lady with slight knee problems. Can you offer me suggestions. 1: do I stay in Palma old city and take day trips, if so to where. 2. Do you suggest I divide my trip between Palma and a beach, if so which one. Thank you

Nice! Thanks for sharing

Thank you for the tour. I'm sitting in a taxi reading your post and you convinced me of renting a vespa to tour the island!!

Hello Inigo, We would like to stay ın Mollarco almost one week but we don't have driving license. Is it possible to go to beaches near S'illot from Palma de Mollarco (city center) by public transportation? If it is not possible, in which area do you recommend us to stay? (we prefer beach/sea holiday) Cheers, Yasemin

Inigo Author

Hi Yasemin! If you are over 21, and have a driving license, I recommend getting an International Driving Permit to drive in Mallorca. I will leave you the link right here: https://internationaldrivingpermit.org/country/spain/. And regarding public transport, yes! You can go to almost anywhere from Palma de Mallorca. To get to the beaches close to S'Illiot you should hop on the bus 401 at Estació Intermodal from Palma - Cala Millor. In this line, you will find the stop Savines 2 (51001) which is three minutes aways (walking) from S'Illiot. Have a great time! Inigo (:

Elise Pelke

I would like to know if cyclists can load their bikes on public buses. Thanks for all the terrific information!

Hello Elise! Thank for the 5 stars, and your question! In Mallorca, there are two main public bus service providers: EMT, which operates urban bus routes in Palma and TIB, which is the authority providing bus services all over the island. According to EMT's official policies, only foldable bicycles are allowed on their buses. You can see their guidelines here: https://www.emtpalma.cat/en/faq. However, I've seen people carry non-foldable bicycles onto buses and stowing them in the wheelchair space. I guess it depends on the bus driver. And if the wheel chair space is needed, you'll of course have to move. Regarding the TIB's: These bus services are operated by several different companies under license or contract, which means there is a variety of bus types. Most of them do not have specific bike racks or luggage space. On longer routes, such as those running from Palma to the north and east of the island, larger Coach/National Express/Greyhound type vehicles with luggage compartments are used. When this is the case, bikes can be stowed in these compartments, but there's no guarantee, and there are no provisions for securing the bikes, so they could shift during transit. Any luggage or bicycles in the storage space are placed there at the driver's discretion. I would call the company that's offering the ride and ask them directly.r That being said... Mallorca is a fantastic island for cycling and cycling is very popular, so I'm sure you'll find a way to move around with your bike. And although it's not part of your question, it's worth mentioning that many car rental services offer bicycle boxes for an additional fee on top of the car rental price. This might be an alternative solution for transporting your bicycle around the island. I hope this information helps, and happy cycling!

Juanita Uzoma

Hi i’m staying in manacor next week, do you have any recommendations for things to do and see nearish the area. Thank you(: Great article btw.

Jimena Author

Hi Juanita! If you are staying in Manacor, we recommend visiting the Dels Hams Caves, which are impressive and adventurous. You could also fly in an air balloon at Globódromo Son Parot to see the whole island from above. We recommend renting a car to get to hidden calas like Cala Magraner; it is a natural paradise! I will leave you the links to the activities right here! https://cuevasdelshams.com/ https://booking.mallorcaballoons.com/?idioma=en Happy travels, and thank you for reading!

Am interested in staying in Mallorca 8/2/23. Interests are architecture and food. Would love your knowledge of boutique style place to stay for 7 nights.

Hi Kathy! Thank you for your comment (: We sent you an email to answer your question as best as possible. Talk to you soon!

Jerry Edwatds

Thank you so much for this information. It relieves a lot of stress we were having, even though we spent a week in Mallorca a few years ago!

Hey Jerry, I'm glad it helped! If there's anything else I can do to help you organize your trip, don't hesitate to ask. We'll be happy to help :)

This is all AMAZING! I've been trying to figure out if I can rent a car in Mallorca without having an international permit. I am from the US. Do you have any insight?

Hi Lauren! To be able to drive in Spain, you will need to get your International Driving Permit, I will leave you the link to the website that issues them https://www.aaa.com/vacation/idpf.html#Q002 Also, remember to always have you US. license with with you, and respect the traffic rule in Mallorca for your safety. I hope you have an amazing experience!

Hello, thanks for you article, was helpful. I will be staying at a home in the hills about 1km north of Andratx, but haven't been able to verify that I can get a taxi to pick me up there (to go down to Paguera). Do the drivers know this area ? Would you have any advice on who to get in touch with ?

Would you also know if it's allowed to take a bicycle from Andratx on the road/highway down to Pageura ?

Hi Chris! I wouldn't be able to tell the exactly the area that Andraxt's public transport covers, but I am sure that if you go to the commercial center of the village and indicate your exact address to the taxi driver they will give more clear information on how to go from your accomodation to Pageura. Also, is your accomodation an Airbnb? If it's either of them, I am sure the staff or owners of the place can help you with transport information as you are staying a bit further away from the center of Andraxt. I hope this can help!

Hello again! It is allowed to take a bicycle from Andraxt down to Pageura, here is a link of the route that other bikers have ridden: https://cycling-friendly.com/en/items/route-paguera-andratx/ Please remember to be careful when going on the road! If you do go by bike, we would love to know about your experience, so fellow travellers can enjoy the same activity. Good luck and enjoy Mallorca!

Thank you very much, was helpful!

Anytime Chris! Enjoy Mallorca!

Hi Indigo- This was very helpful in planning our trip! Would love your recommendation on whether or not to rent a car in our case. We are staying in Palmanova and really want to visit Cala d'Or and the beaches in that area... would you recommend taking a car in our case? We are aware there are buses we could possibly take but very torn on the best approach

Hi Carol! I'm really glad it was helpful. You're going to love Mallorca. It's so amazing! Regarding the possibility of renting a car, do you mind if I ask you a couple of questions first? When are you coming? For how long are you staying in Mallorca? How many people in your party? I kinda know my answer, but I want to be thorough and be sure I'm giving you the best possible advise. That being said... I recorded a video on renting a car in Spain that you must watch! It's very long, but trust me... it's worth it! Here's the link: https://youtu.be/uV0pwc2gnNg

Sure thing. Thank you for the helpful will link! Will be sure to check it out. And we will be staying in Mallorca from May 24th-30th. We have a bit of time (me and my boyfriend) and are going to celebrate our birthdays. Thus why we want to make sure we are utilizing our time there! It's only us two which makes it easy to be flexible... but we also worry about renting a car in a different country never had driving abroad before. We are coming from New York City hopefully, this is useful in giving me some advice. Appreciate your insights!

That's awesome! I think that May is the best month to go to Mallorca because it's the perfect balance between good weather and not too many people. You'll definitely see some tourists (mostly Germans & Brits) at that time of the year, but it's manageable. Regarding your question... please rent a car!!! Palma Nova is a good place to be for young people. A lot of partying and places to eat. And it's not the most expensive part of the island. But... if you want to see the best beaches, I'm afraid you'll need a car. And since you'll be traveling for a few days, it's totally worth it! Those beaches are extraordinary, and you'll have missed an essential part of the Mallorca experience if you don't go. That being said... you have to understand that renting a car in Spain is a little different to the States, so be sure to watch the video I sent you. I'm not saying it because it's me speaking lol, but there are many small things you need to know to ensure you have the best possible experience. And if you could come back to the post and let people know about your experience once your trip is over... I'm sure a lot of people will benefit from it! If you need anything else, let me know!

Thank you so much! This was so helpful. Will certainly come back and post about our experience :)

Brilliant work, thankyou for helping

Thank you Mark for reading! And welcome to the Sensational Spain family!

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Mallorca Travel Guide

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

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

Best time to visit Mallorca?

Mallorca

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

Alcudia's Old Town

Alcudia’s Old Town

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

Mallorca travel: How to get there and around

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

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

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

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

Hidden Gems

Deia

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

Did you know…?

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

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

Things to do in Mallorca

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

What to do in Mallorca with kids

best way to travel mallorca

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

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

Recommended experiences

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

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

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

Best restaurants in Mallorca

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

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

Dishes to try

Sobrassada

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

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

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The Smooth Escape

The perfect Mallorca itinerary: An unforgettable week in Mallorca

best way to travel 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.

Tall cliffs rising out of the sea at Sa Calobra, a must-visit spot on every Mallorca itinerary

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!

Serra de Tramuntana mountains on the north coast of Mallorca

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 . 

a narrow cobbled street lined with stone houses in Soller

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 .

sandy palm-tree-lined beach at Port de Soller, an excellent destination to add to your Mallorca itinerary

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.

tourists walking along the Port de Soller promenade lined with palm trees, hotels and cafes

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.

best way to travel mallorca

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.

A small pebbly cove with clear turquoise water surrounded by mountains at Sa Calobra beach

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!  

White sailboats floating in azure water in Sa Calobra bay

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.

Traditional stone houses surrounded by green mountains at Valldemossa

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. 

traditional stone house with green shutters and a purple bougeanvillea tree growing along its facade

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 .

a blooming tree with a backdrop of the village of Deia, a must-visit spot if you have one week in Mallorca

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.

A woman hiking along the rocky Archduke's Trail, one of the best hikes in Mallorca

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.

panoramic view of the north coast of Mallorca from Archduke's Trail, a beautiful hike to add to your Mallorca itinerary

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.

people bathing in the turquoise waters of Cala d'Or, a lovely beach town to include in your Mallorca road trip

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.

vivid blue water and rugged cliffs at Calo des Moro, one of the best beaches in Mallorca

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.

White boathouse next to a natural pool at Cala S'Almunia beach, a place that should be on every Mallorca itinerary

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). 

People swimming on a beach in Mondrago Natural Park on the south coast of Mallorca

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. 

best way to travel mallorca

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.

the intricate facade of the gothic La Seu Cathedral in Palma de Mallorca

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.

Historical yellow buildings surrounding Placa Major, the main square of Palma de Mallorca

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 .

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About Getting to Mallorca

© J. Bennett

How to Get to Mallorca

© SeeMallorca.com

About Getting to Mallorca

© Ships Monthly

About Getting to Mallorca

How to get to Mallorca

Discover the top ways to get to Mallorca

The island of Mallorca lies in the Mediterranean, off the eastern coast of Spain near Valencia and between the islands of Ibiza and Menorca. It's very well connected to the continent thanks to its international airport and regular ferry services.

Easiest way to get to Mallorca

Flying is almost certainly the quickest and most convenient method of travel to the island of Mallorca. There's a wide choice of airlines which offer flights at competitive prices. Have a look at our Flight Finder to help your planning. As always, prices are at a premium during the school holidays and at weekends.

Flying to Mallorca

Palma airport , also known as Son Sant Joan Airport, is situated 8 kilometres east of Palma. It's a large international airport which serves the island and is the third largest airport in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona. During the summer months, this is one of the busiest airports in Europe and it's well equipped for the millions of tourists that travel through it each year. The airport is also well-connected thanks to excellent bus services running to Palma and other destinations around the island.

Some international flights in and out of the island are seasonal and only operate between May and October, but more and more airlines are running throughout the year. Mallorca is fast becoming an 'all year round' destination and international routes are starting to become more frequent during the winter months particularly to major airports in the UK, Germany and Scandinavia. Domestic travel to mainland Spain is also available all year round for destinations such as Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Ibiza, Menorca and Seville.

There are plenty of taxis available at Mallorca airport. To ensure the taxi is legal, you must board it at the designated taxi rank outside the airport. There is a €2.90 airport surcharge and a €13 minimum fee for taxi services to and from the airport.

Car hire is a widely available option at the airport, allowing you to drive directly to your accommodation and to have more flexibility once on the island. Be advised that there can be queues at the rental counters at peak times, so we recommend you book your car hire in advance. Alternatively, there are car hire offices outside the airport connected to the terminal via free shuttle services offered by the rental companies, so hiring your car from them can be a cost and time effective solution.

For a luxury experience, you can book helicopter transfers from Mallorca international airport to your hotel, massively cutting down on travel time.

You can also take public buses from the airport straight to Playa de Palma as well as Palma town centre and other resorts, from where you can get another bus to other towns and resorts on the island ( read more about buses to and from Palma airport below ).

Getting from the airport to Mallorca

Airport transfers or shuttle services are a convenient option for onward travel to your destination. Companies generally offer two types of service private and shared transfers.

Private transfers are exclusively for you - once you arrive at the airport they will take you directly to your accommodation. Some hotels offer a private airport pick-up service, so don't forget to enquire about this directly before you travel.

Shared transfers are usually more cost-effective, especially for individuals and couples, the trade-off being you may need to wait for other passengers and the possibility of being dropped-off at a more central location.

You should always book transfers in advance.

Buses to Mallorca

Public transport from Mallorca airport is available via regular bus lines that connect the airport with Palma and, from May to October, Cala d'Or, Portopetro, Cala Millor, S'Illot, Cala Bona, Playa d'Alcùdia, Playa de Muro, Can Picafort, Santa Ponça and Magaluf. One-way tickets cost €5 and you can find the bus at the end of the travelators (flat escalators) outside the airport.

Line 1 connects the airport with the city's main points of tourist interest, including Plaça d'Espanya, Santa Catalina neighbourhood, Palma's old town, its seafront promenade, marina and port. It runs every 15 minutes, from 05:30 to 02:10 May to October and from 05:30 to 01:00 November to April. Line 21 links the airport to several popular hotels along Palma beach. It runs every 30 minutes, from 07:00 to 01:00 May to October and from 07:00 to 21:30 November to April.

To continue your journey to other resorts on the island using public transport, you have to take line 1 from the airport to Plaça d'Espanya. There sits Palma's bus station (Estació Intermodal) with services to Andratx, Magaluf, Palmanova, Soller, Manacor, Inca, Muro, Alcudia, Pollença, Campos and many other towns and resorts throughout the island.

The new five bus lines connecting the airport with the most popular beach resorts on the island will run from May until October 2017, regularly every 60 or 90 minutes.

However, with taxis taking only around 20 minutes to reach the centre of Palma and costing around 10€ to 20€, we definitely recommend you consider this option to reach the city from the airport.

Train to Mallorca

Taking the train and then a ferry or a flight to Mallorca can be a lengthy and time-consuming journey but if you are determined to do it then where there's a will, there's a way!

Once on the island, inland railway services can be quite useful to reach your resort from Palma town centre. Mallorca's train line links Palma and Inca via Marratxí, Santa María, Alaró, Binissalem and Lloseta (T1), with diversions to Sa Pobla via Muro (T2), and Manacor via Sineu and Petra (T3). Tickets cost from €1.60 to €4.10 for a single and from €3.20 to €8.20 for a return, depending on the journey. Trains depart from the same station as regional buses, the 'Estació Intermodal' in Plaça d'Espanya.

The island also boasts a vintage train that links Palma with Sóller and Port de Sóller. Mainly a tourist train, it can be used to reach these resorts from the main city.

Driving to Mallorca

For a little more flexibility getting around once you are here, then having your own car would be an option. Being able to drive yourself around the area is far more comfortable and convenient, allowing you to take day trips and visit places that are off the beaten track. Nevertheless, roads in Mallorca can sometimes be narrow and rocky, and with car hire in Spain being fairly cheap, this is a good choice when visiting the island. Taxis are also very convenient and available at reasonable prices in Mallorca. These two options are probably the most cost-effective ways for travelling around the island without having to bring your own car.

If you choose to bring your own car to Mallorca, you will have at least one ferry crossing to get to the island, and two if you are planning on driving from the UK. When driving through Spain, you will need to carry a high visibility vest and a warning triangle at all times. There's a 120km/h limit on motorways (to use many of them you will have to pay tolls), 90km/h on normal roads and a maximum of 50km/h in populated areas.

Coach to Mallorca

There are a number of companies that offer long-distance coach services throughout Europe. In order to get to Mallorca, you will have to travel by coach to the nearest port offering a ferry service, Barcelona, Valencia or Dénia. The coach will stop at the main bus station, and then you will have to find your way to the port either via public buses or a taxi, so we definitely recommend you take into consideration flying to the island.

The journey time is longer (nearly 24 hours to travel between Paris and Mallorca via Barcelona), but the trade-off is that you don't have the usual airport hassle of checking in luggage and hanging around in the departures lounge waiting for your flight to board, and you'll get to meet new friends along the way. It's also a bit gentler on the pocket. Some of the main European coach companies include Eurolines and Ouibus , and many routes will run year round.

Ferries to Mallorca

Car, coach or train journeys to Mallorca will probably involve a ferry to the island. The principal ferry companies operating in Mallorca are Baleària , Trasmediterranea and Corsica Ferries . The main Spanish departure points are Barcelona (7.5 hours sailing time), Valencia (8 hours sailing time), Dénia - near Alicante - (8 hours sailing time), and the neighbouring Balearic islands of Ibiza (4 hours sailing time) and Menorca (1.5 hours sailing time). There are also express services that cut down journey time. Corsica Ferries travels from Toulon, in southern France near Marseille, to Port d'Alcudia in around 10 hours.

Bringing your skis, snowboard or bike to Mallorca

Airlines, trains and transfer companies are all well-versed in catering for customers who travel with their own sports equipment (bikes/golf clubs, etc.), but it's well worth checking the details in advance. Each company will have their own individual policy terms and conditions depending on the type of sporting equipment you are transporting. Here's a snapshot of the different transport options and a guide to their restrictions:

Some airlines charge for taking equipment, and some don’t, and this can also apply to bikes, golf clubs, parachutes, mountaineering equipment - so check before you book. Make sure you pack your gear well, as it's not unusual for there to be a few bumps and bruises along the way if you don't! The same applies for your bike, whether that be a mountain bike, road bike or touring bike... pack it well and ensure it falls within the packaging guidelines specified by the carrier. For more information see our Cycling and Mountain Biking guides.

Airport transfer companies need to know exactly what you’re bringing so that they can ensure having sufficient capacity for bikes/golf clubs etc. An 8-seater minibus is much more cramped if all 8 of you turn up with bikes without having forewarned the driver!

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Port de Soller Sunset Boat Trip, Port de Soller

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a view over the roofs of Palma at sunset

Greta's Travels

Mallorca Itinerary: How to Spend from 3 to 7 Days in Mallorca, Spain

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Need help planning your Mallorca itinerary? You’ve come to the right place!

In this article I have outlined everything you need to know to plan the perfect Mallorca itinerary, regardless of whether you’re spending three or seven days in Mallorca.

This includes the must-see places in Mallorca, a day-by-day breakdown of where to go, how to get around the island, where to stay and more!

The biggest of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca is characterised by its lush green landscape, turquoise waters, pristine beaches and charming villages. It’s easy to see why Mallorca is such a popular destination in Spain.

Mallorca isn’t a very big island, but there is plenty to do. Which is why I have outlined Mallorca itineraries for three, five and seven days.

Depending on how much time you have, how much you want to see and how much time you want to spend relaxing on beautiful beaches, I’m sure you’ll find an itinerary for your taste.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and plan the perfect Mallorca itinerary for you!

  • 1.1.1 Explore Palma de Mallorca
  • 1.1.2 Visit the Catedral de Mallorca
  • 1.1.3 Wander around the streets of the city
  • 1.1.4 Llotja de Palma
  • 1.1.5 Bastion de Sant Pere
  • 1.1.6 Passeig del Born
  • 1.1.7 Placa Major
  • 1.1.8 Dine out in Palma
  • 1.2.1 Explore the town of Valldemossa
  • 1.2.2 Discover Deia
  • 1.2.3 Relax at Cala Deia
  • 1.2.4 Go to Chillout Sa Foradada for sunset
  • 1.3.1 Discover Pollensa
  • 1.3.2 Chill at the beach in Pollensa
  • 1.3.3 Enjoy the sunset from Formentor Lighthouse
  • 1.3.4 Have dinner in Alcudia
  • 2.1.1 Discover Calo des Moro
  • 2.1.2 Relax at Cala S’Almunia
  • 2.1.3 Go for a night out in Magaluf
  • 2.2.1 Discover Mondrago Natural Park
  • 2.2.2 Explore the Drach Caves
  • 3.1.1 Discover the calas and beaches of the east coast
  • 3.2.1 Head back to S’Arenal 
  • 4.1 How many days in Mallorca?
  • 4.2 How to get around Mallorca
  • 4.3 Best time to visit Mallorca
  • 4.4 Where to stay in Mallorca
  • 4.5 Best Mallorca tours
  • 4.6 What to pack for your Mallorca itinerary

Enjoying the view over Deia, one of the most beautiful towns in Mallorca, Spain

Enjoying the view over Deia, one of the most beautiful towns in Mallorca, Spain

Essentials to book before you read on!

Best tours in Mallorca

Mallorca: Skip the Line Palma Cathedral Entry Ticket

Mallorca: Island Tour with Boat & Train Ride from the South  

Palma de Mallorca Old Town Guided Bike Tour and Tapas

From Colònia de San Jordi : Catamaran Cruise to Es Trenc  

Best hotels in Mallorca

Budget: Mix Smart

Mid-range: Boutique Hotel Petit Sant Miquel

Luxury: The Press

Get 5% off your travel insurance here!

Mallorca 3-Day Itinerary

Got 3 days in Mallorca? Here’s a good round-up of what you should be seeing and doing on the island to really maximise your time, making the most of the island’s hotspots.  

You’ll have the chance to see Mallorca’s biggest attractions, explore the island (road trip!) and hit up a few lesser visited towns and calas too.

Mallorca Itinerary: Day 1

Explore palma de mallorca.

Kickstart your Mallorca itinerary with a trip to the capital of this Spanish island. This is the main city on Mallorca, meaning there are a ton of cool spots to check out.

The city itself dates back to the 13th century, so you can bet there are a load of historical sights to make all your city wanderings worth it.

Exploring the streets of Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Exploring the streets of Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Visit the Catedral de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca’s Gothic cathedral lies at the heart of the city. After centuries of Moorish occupation, construction on this soaring cathedral began in 1230 on the site of a mosque.

As it took hundreds of years to build, it features a range of architectural styles, but its centrepiece has to be its Gothic rosette window.

It’s open Monday to Friday, 10AM to 5:15PM and on Saturdays, 10AM to 2:15PM (closed Sundays). Entrance is €9, which also gives you access to the Museum of Sacred Art.

If you want to avoid the queues, make sure to purchase your fast track Palma de Mallorca cathedral ticket online beforehand ! Your Mallorca itinerary only allows for one day in Palma, you don’t want to spend it queueing!

Click here to purchase your skip the line entrance ticket to the Palma de Mallorca Cathedral, or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Reflections at the famous Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca, in Palma de Mallorca

Reflections at the famous Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca, in Palma de Mallorca

Wander around the streets of the city

The streets of Palma de Mallorca are beautifully winding – a warren of restaurants, bars and artists’ studios, pockmarked by historic sights and aristocratic townhouses.

The city’s central streets in particular are perfect for strolling around, camera in hand, stumbling across charming hidden squares, local markets and Baroque churches.

Exploring the beautiful streets and architecture of Palma de Mallorca

Exploring the beautiful streets and architecture of Palma de Mallorca

Llotja de Palma

One of the most beautiful buildings in the whole city is the Llotja de Palma.

Dating back to the 15th century, this former guild building – once the centre of the island’s maritime trade, and a meeting place for merchants – features a mix of Renaissance and Gothic architecture.

While it looks stunning, it also plays host to occasional art exhibitions.    It’s open every day (except Mondays), 10:30AM – 1:30PM and 5:30PM to 9PM, and entrance is free.

View over the rooftops of Palma de Mallorca from Nakar Hotel

View over the rooftops of Palma de Mallorca from Nakar Hotel

The beautiful facade of a bakery in Palma de Mallorca, Spain

The beautiful facade of a bakery in Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Bastion de Sant Pere

This fortification was built between 1575 and 1578, and once boasted some serious artillery for the protection of the island. Disused since 1952, in the 1990s it became the site of the Museum of Contemporary Art Es Baluard.  

If you’re not into art, don’t worry, as it’s not just about that; there’s also a viewing deck, a terrace and an old cistern (used for holding water).

The view from the walls of the cathedral and harbour makes it a worthwhile stop.

Enjoying a warm summer evening in Palma de Mallorca with my friend Marta (@wherelifeisgreat)

Enjoying a warm summer evening in Palma de Mallorca with my friend Marta (@wherelifeisgreat)

Passeig del Born

This pretty avenue is a beautiful place to stroll. Set in the centre of Palma de Mallorca, this tree-lined boulevard is where you should go to soak up some of the energy of the city.

Placa Major

Speaking of energy, you’ll find plenty of that at Placa Major, the main central square of Palma de Mallorca.

Head here to people-watch, stop for a snack or a refreshing drink, and lap up the traditional architecture edging the plaza.  

There are plenty of shops and cafes to choose from here. The smaller Placa de Cort, a three-minute stroll from here, is where you’ll find the city’s town hall. There’s also a (famous) 600-year-old olive tree here.

The Palma de Mallorca town hall lit up for the night

The Palma de Mallorca town hall lit up for the night

Dine out in Palma

There are a lot of cafes and bars dotted around Placa de Cort. Throughout the centre of the city, dining is best done at one of the many cool tapas restaurants.

If you’re feeling fancy, head over to the Michelin-starred Zaranda for an unforgettable tasting menu.

Tasting pimientos del padrón; a typical Spanish tapas that you can try in Mallorca

Tasting pimientos del padrón; a typical Spanish tapas that you can try in Mallorca

Mallorca itinerary: Day 2  

Explore the town of valldemossa.

Day two of your 3 days Mallorca itinerary begins in the cute historical town of Valldemossa. It’s situated around a 20-minute drive from Palma, so you can consider this stop the start of your Mallorca road trip.

Valldemossa is a beautiful town nestled amongst the Mallorcan mountains. It’s a historical medieval town, and walking through its streets will feel like stepping back in time.

Imagine cobbled streets, golden brick houses and stunning views over the surrounding countryside. After the glamorous city life of Palma de Mallorca, it’s the perfect place to discover the more traditional side of Mallorca.

Sunset views over Valldemossa in Mallorca, Spain

Sunset views over Valldemossa in Mallorca, Spain

Discover Deia

After exploring the picturesque mountain village of Valldemossa, it’s time to head to Deia, a 15-minute drive along the coast.

Another charming town, Deia boasts some truly amazing sea views from its position at the foot of the Teix mountain.  

There are local boutiques and interesting galleries here, as well as a hearty food scene if you’re feeling hungry.

The vibe is similar to Valldemossa, with the cobbled streets and historical buildings, but with the added plus of its views reaching all the way to the sea.

It might sound a bit creepy, but make sure to head to the cemetery of Deia, as from here you get the best views over the town, mountains and sea.

Exploring the charming streets of Deia in Mallorca

Exploring the charming streets of Deia in Mallorca

Relax at Cala Deia

After exploring two historical villages, it’s time to head to the beach! Close to Deia, you will find the famous Cala Deià.

Towards the coast you’ll find this little cala (cove in Spanish). Impossibly picturesque, with restaurants overlooking the sea, it’s a great spot to take a refreshing dip.

Note that if the cove is full (this can happen), you won’t be allowed to drive down; in that case, you have to park in Deia and walk down to the beach for around 45 minutes (and then 45 minutes back up!)

While there’s no doubt that it’s a very picturesque cove, I didn’t personally love it. The beach is rocky, so it’s not a good cala to lie down and just chill.

best way to travel mallorca

The rocky shores of Cala Deia in Mallorca

The picturesque houses and restaurants of Cala Deia in Mallorca, Spain

The picturesque houses and restaurants of Cala Deia in Mallorca

Go to Chillout Sa Foradada for sunset

Once you’re done swimming in the clear water of Cala Deia, head over to Chillout Sa Foradada for a relaxing sunset drink.

A little further along the coast is this unfussy terrace bar. Perched on the cliffs of Sa Foradada, the sea and cliffs views make for a beautiful backdrop for sunset – the perfect end to your day of exploring.

The sunset view over the Mallorcan coastline from Chillout Sa Foradada

The sunset view over the Mallorcan coastline from Chillout Sa Foradada

Mallorca Itinerary: Day 3

Discover pollensa.

This centuries-old town in the northern part of the island is where you begin day 3 of your Mallorca itinerary. Think winding narrow streets, honey-hued houses and a history intrinsically linked to the Knights Templar.

I visited Pollensa on my third trip to Mallorca, and I was pleasantly surprised with this cute town. While it might not be as picturesque as Deia and Valldemossa, it’s still very charming.

You can spend a few hours wandering around its narrow streets, and maybe even climb up its hill to enjoy the views over the town of Pollensa and the surrounding countryside.

Exploring the picturesque streets of Pollensa in Mallorca

Exploring the picturesque streets of Pollensa in Mallorca

Chill at the beach in Pollensa

By now you will have probably realised I like my itineraries to be varied, and include a bit of both history and chilling on the same day. 

A stone’s throw (i.e. 10-minute drive) from Pollensa is the beach at Puerto Pollensa (also known as Port de Pollença). After exploring the town, it’s a great place to head to for some beach chilling.

Alternatively, you could head to nearby Formentor Beach to spend the afternoon lounging around on the sand.  You’ll be heading this way later for sunset, so might as well start to get closer!

There are a bunch of tiny calas around here, so you could move on if the beach is too busy (or you’re feeling restless).

Playa del Moro in Mallorca, Spain

Playa del Moro in Mallorca, Spain

The lighthouse of Cap de Formentor in Mallorca, Spain

The lighthouse of Cap de Formentor in Mallorca, Spain

Enjoy the sunset from Formentor Lighthouse

Cute historical towns in the morning, pristine beaches in the afternoon, and stunning sunset viewpoints to end the day, what more could you ask of from your Mallorca itinerary?

Watching the sunset from Formentor Lighthouse, with the sun dipping into the Mediterranean Sea and turning the Mallorcan coastline red is a must on any Spain bucket list .

Sunset from this beautiful peninsula is a must. There’s a small cafe at the lighthouse, but I suggest bringing your own food and snacks, and enjoying an Italian-style aperitivo as you watch the sunset!

However, due to over tourism there are road restrictions, meaning that normal cars can’t drive to the lighthouse in high season. 

Instead, you’ll have to leave your car – either at Puerto de Pollensa or Platja de Formentor – and take the public bus.

The magical red sunset over the Mallorcan coastline as seen from Faro de Formentor

The magical red sunset over the Mallorcan coastline as seen from Faro de Formentor

Have dinner in Alcudia

After a gorgeous sunset, finish up with some equally gorgeous (and cheap) tapas at Sa Portassa, a small restaurant tucked down a side street in the medieval town of Alcudia.

Once the site of a Roman settlement, today it’s a resort town surrounded by medieval walls, with charming streets to explore.

You can spend some time wandering around the cute streets, and then fill up on delicious tapas to end the day.

Our delicious tapas selection from Sa Portassa in Alcudia, Mallorca

Our delicious tapas selection from Sa Portassa in Alcudia, Mallorca

Mallorca Itinerary 5 Days

If you’ve got 5 days, then you can obviously gets a lot more packed into your Mallorca itinerary.

You’ll really get to experience the vibe of Mallorca, and you’ll end up feeling like staying those extra two days was totally worth it (because it is, trust me). Mainly, this means more beach days!

Mallorca itinerary: Day 4

Discover calo des moro.

On day four of your Mallorca itinerary it’s time to discover one of the most famous beaches in the Mediterranean , also considered one of the best beaches to visit in summer ; Calo des Moro.

The picturesque cove of Calo des Moro is one of the most beautiful beaches on the whole island. Of course, this also means that it can get very busy.

Enjoying the crystal clear water of Cala des Moros in Mallorca

Enjoying the crystal clear water of Cala des Moros in Mallorca

It’s best to go early in the day, which is why you should hit it up first thing on day four of your Mallorca road trip.  

The scramble to the beach itself from the parking lot is a small hike in itself, so bring plenty of water and make sure you’re wearing sturdy walking sandals. There is a small kiosk here for snacks and drinks.

Here you can expect to find crystal clear turquoise water, soft white sand and picturesque cliffs surrounding the beach.

This cala is also a good spot for snorkelling, so if you’ve got a mask and snorkel don’t forget to bring it along!

The famous Caló des Moro in Mallorca, Spain

The famous Caló des Moro in Mallorca, Spain

Relax at Cala S’Almunia

Cala del Moro is beautiful, but it tends to get wayyy to busy as the day goes on, especially in summer. Which is why I suggest spending the morning at Cala del Moro, and then walking over to the nearby Cala S’Almunia.

Not far from the southern tip of Mallorca is this tiny settlement and its lovely little cove. It’s quite unique in that the rocks here form a natural pool, making it a super relaxing place to take a dip.

The beach isn’t very big, but there’s generally more space on the rocks here for lying down and unwinding than there is at the nearby Calo des Moro.

After spending the first few days of your Mallorca itinerary road tripping and exploring around the island, now it’s time to unwind and enjoy the beautiful beaches of this stunning Mediterranean destination.

The turquoise sea and rocky shores of Cala S’Almunia in Mallorca

The turquoise sea and rocky shores of Cala S’Almunia in Mallorca

Go for a night out in Magaluf

After spending the whole day chilling at the beach, you might be feeling pumped and awake for a night out. If that’s the case, there is no better place on the island to do so than in Magaluf.

This notorious party town is where travellers of all ages go to get cheap drinks and dance the night away. I’ll be honest, and admit I’ve never personally been to Magaluf.

That said, I’ve heard plenty of things about it. I’ve heard it can be a bit much, and it can get quite trashy, but if you’re a young traveller visiting Mallorca with a group of friends, it might be just what you’re looking for.

The lively nightlife of Palma de Mallorca in summer

The lively nightlife of Palma de Mallorca in summer

Mallorca Itinerary: Day 5

Discover mondrago natural park.

Start day 5 of your Mallorca itinerary with a trip to Mondrago Natural Park. This 1,893-acre coastal area features grasslands, pine forests, dunes, ravines, and plenty of birdlife.

There are also several different spots to sunbathe and swim here, one of them being the sandy S’Amarador Beach.

It gets crowded in high season, so it’s best to go early in the morning (although if you spent last night partying in Magaluf, you might not be up for that).

The water at S’Amarador Beach is literally crystal clear, so don’t miss out on seeing it for yourself! 

Playa de S'Amarador, on the eastern coast of Mallorca

Playa de S’Amarador, on the eastern coast of Mallorca

Explore the Drach Caves

Once you’ve recovered from your night out, and have spent a solid morning relaxing on the beach, you might start feeling the need for more adventures. 

In that case, you can go explore the unique Drach Caves. They’re located 45-60 minutes drive away from S’Amarador along the coast.

First mentioned in 1388, this huge cave system is 4 kilometres long and reaches a maximum depth of 25 metres.

Entering this natural cathedral-like structure is truly magnificent, and will definitely be one of the most amazing caves you visit. It’s open every day from 9AM to 5PM, and tickets cost €16.

If you’re not feeling heading to the beach in the morning, you can also join an organised tour like this one .

That way you’ll have someone pick you up, take you to Drach Caves, tell you more about the caves and then take you back to your hotel.

Click here to book your tour to Drach Caves, or check out prices & availability for your chosen date in the calendar below!

The sunset view over the Mallorcan coastline from Chillout Sa Foradada

Mallorca Itinerary 7 Days

If you’ve got time for 7 days in Mallorca, you’ll have an extra two days to play with, allowing you to explore much more of the island (and its beaches, obviously).

Mallorca Itinerary: Day 6  

Discover the calas and beaches of the east coast.

For those of you who have a week in Mallorca, you’ll be glad to hear that your trotting about days are over. You can spend the last two days of your itinerary relaxing, and making the most of the Mallorcan beaches.

You can spend day 6 at a leisurely pace, exploring some of the best beaches on a road trip of Mallorca’s east coast (where the most picturesque and less busy calas are found).

You’ll be spoilt for choice! You can spend time relaxing at the Cala Varques, or Cala Mesquida and Cala Agulla, located an hour or so to the north.

There’s also the large Playa del Muro, which is more on the northern coast, towards Puerto de Pollensa.  Wherever you decide to go, you’re sure to find stunning beaches waiting for you.

Playa del Moro in Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca itinerary: Day 7

Head back to s’arenal  .

S’Arenal is a good spot to spend the final day of your week in Mallorca itinerary. This popular resort town has a 210-metre-long beach and plenty of bars and restaurants, and even a water park!

Which makes for a comprehensively fun and relaxing spot to finish your trip.   It’s also close to the Palma de Mallorca airport, which is extra handy.

Depending on your flight time, you could even drive via Far de Cap Blanc and Cala Pi on the way to S’Arenal, thus fitting in yet more beautiful Mallorca coastline into your trip.

The turquoise sea and beach of S'Arenal in Mallorca

The turquoise sea and beach of S’Arenal in Mallorca

Evening walks along the beachfront bars and shops of S'Arenal, Mallorca

Evening walks along the beachfront bars and shops of S’Arenal, Mallorca

Logistical tips for your Mallorca itinerary

We’ve looked at my day by day Mallorca itinerary , but I also wanted to give you some additional logistical tips that will ensure your Mallorca trip runs as smoothly as possible.

How many days in Mallorca?

It depends on how much time you have to spare, obviously, but I would say that three days days in Mallorca is the bare minimum.

If you can give yourself five days that would be better, as you’ll be able to explore beyond the main tourist spots.  

Mainly, this will give you the chance to discover more of the island’s hidden calas (coves), secluded spots perfect for sunbathing and swimming and generally chilling out.  

If you can add another couple of days and make it a week in Mallorca? That would be ideal.

The beautiful coastline of Cap de Formentor in Mallorca at sunset

The beautiful coastline of Cap de Formentor in Mallorca at sunset

The town of Pollensa from above

The town of Pollensa from above

This way you won’t have to rush things, and you’ll get to spend more of your time doing what you’re supposed to do here – having fun, rather than clockwatching and ticking off destinations.

This Mallorca itinerary is composed by a core Mallorca 3-day itinerary, where you will visit all of the must-see sights on the island that you absolutely cannot miss, regardless of how long you spend in Mallorca.

The next itineraries, for five days in Mallorca and then seven days in Mallorca. are built on the core 3-day one, and include additional beautiful spots that you can visit.

Depending on your interests and how long you have, you can shuffle the days around to create your own perfect Mallorca itinerary.

Discovering the local shops of Palma de Mallorca

Discovering the local shops of Palma de Mallorca

How to get around Mallorca

Three words: Mallorca road trip. Getting a rental car and having your own set of wheels to get around is the best way to travel around this island.

There is public transport, of course, but it’s not that great. This exists in the form of buses, which connect the main towns, but they don’t go everywhere that you might want to explore.

In terms of driving yourself around, first off you’ll need a car. There are a range of different international (and local) car rental companies on the island, all with different options.  

My advice is to book in advance to avoid missing out on the car you really want – particularly if you’re travelling during high season.

Cars are limited on islands, and it has recently become an issue in Tenerife as well. You have to reserve your car rental before, because if you don’t, there simply won’t be cars available on the island for you to rent.

Discovering Deia, and Mallorca in general, by car

Discovering Deia, and Mallorca in general, by car

Best time to visit Mallorca

No matter how many days in Mallorca you have to spare, it pays to know the best time of year to visit.

While the summer months are objectively “the best” time to visit this Balearic island, it’s clearly when the rest of the world also thinks it’s the best time to go, meaning that the island is super super busy.  

Beaches and the smaller calas are packed with people – I’ve seen people queueing for one hour plus to get to the beach at Cala del Moro (in August 2022).

In short, while summer is warm and sunny, it can be a nightmare.  

Instead, you should visit Mallorca during the so-called shoulder season, which is around late spring to early June, and again early autumn; September and early October still have beautiful weather.  

Mallorca is also a popular winter sun destination , but note that it does start getting chilly (especially at night) in November.

The cute village of Valldemossa in Mallorca at sunset

The cute village of Valldemossa in Mallorca at sunset

Where to stay in Mallorca

Choosing where to stay in Mallorca can be tricky, as each town and area has a distinctive vibe and is best suited for different types of travellers. For example, if you’re looking for nightlife, you will want to stay in Magaluf.

If you’re looking for beautiful beaches, you can stick to the east coast of the island. If you want city life, Palma de Mallorca is the place to be. 

Regardless of where you choose to stay, you can pick one place as base, and from there adventure around the island.

Mallorca is fairly small, and everything is a short drive away, there’s no need to change hotels for this itinerary. I listed below some of the best places to stay in Mallorca for every budget.

View over Deia in Mallorca, Spain

View over Deia in Mallorca, Spain

Budget: Mix Smart  –  This budget-friendly hotel is located a stone’s throw away from the beach, and features simple, yet contemporary ensuite rooms, perfect for a comfortable stay in Mallorca.

Click here to book your stay at Mix Smart in S’Arenal in Mallorca!

Mid-range: Boutique Hotel Petit Sant Miquel –  Located in Calonge, this small and elegant boutique hotel is an affordable yet clean, calm and stylish accommodation option, close to the beautiful nearby calls (bonus: a swimming pool and a bar).

Click here to see prices & availability at Boutique Hotel Petit Sant Miquel!

Luxury: The Press –  Why not treat yourself to stay at this beautifully maintained finca (farmhouse)? Sleeping up to 12 guests across six bedrooms, here you’ll find panoramic mountain views, a stone-clad terrace, infinity pool and even a tennis court.

Don’t miss out, book your magical stay at The Press here!

The swimming pool and view at The Press - photo by Plum Guide.jpg copy

The swimming pool and view at The Press – photo by Plum Guide

One of the bedrooms at The Press - photo by Plum Guide.jpg copy

One of the bedrooms at The Press – photo by Plum Guide

Best Mallorca tours

Regardless of how long your Mallorca itinerary will be, there are some awesome tours you should join, to maximise your time in Mallorca and ensure you have the best time in this amazing Spanish island.

I always suggest booking your tours online beforehand, especially if you’re travelling in high season, so you don’t have to worry about it once there.

GetYourGuide is my favourite tour booking platform, as they offer cancellation up to 24 hours before, and you can see reviews by previous travellers.

Mallorca: Skip the Line Palma Cathedral Entry Ticket  – If you want to visit the stunning cathedral of Palma de Mallorca, make sure to purchase a fast track ticket, and don’t waste time queueing!

Click here to purchase your skip the line entry ticket to Palma Cathedral!

Mallorca: Island Tour with Boat & Train Ride from the South – This tour is great for those who don’t have long in Mallorca, as it takes you to many key highlights! Take the Tren de Soller tram, go on a trip at Port de Soller and visit the town of Lluc!

Click here to book your Mallorca Island tour with boat & train ride!

View over Deia and the surrounding mountains from the Deia cemetery

View over Deia and the surrounding mountains from the Deia cemetery

Enjoying the view over Cala del Moro

Enjoying the view over Cala del Moro

From Colònia de San Jordi : Catamaran Cruise to Es Trenc  – No trip to the Balearic Islands would be complete without a boat trip amongst the hidden coves and turquoise sea!

Click here to book your catamaran cruise in Mallorca!

From Mallorca: Caves of Drach Day Trip with Hotel Transfers  – Discover the unique Drach Caves with this tour, which includes also hotel pick-up and drop-off!

Check out prices & availability for your Drach Caves day trip here!

Palma de Mallorca Old Town Guided Bike Tour and Tapas – What better way to discover Palma de Mallorca than cycling around the city, and tasting delicious tapas along the way!

Don’t miss out, book your Palma de Mallorca bike tour with tapas here!

Alcudia: Dolphin Watching & Sunrise Coast Cruise with Guide – Want to do something unique? How about this sunrise and dolphin watching cruise? It also includes some sightseeing at Cabo de Formentor and other calas.

Click here to book your dolphin watching cruise in Mallorca!

Enjoying the sunset over the coast of Mallorca from Formentor Lighthouse

Enjoying the sunset over the coast of Mallorca from Formentor Lighthouse

What to pack for your Mallorca itinerary

There aren’t many specific items you need to bring to Mallorca, beyond the usual travel essentials , as you can easily purchase anything there. That said, here are some things I recommend you don’t forget.

Camera – Given how stunning Mallorca is, you want to make sure you capture it in all its beauty!

Fast drying towel – If you plan on visiting all the beaches of this Mallorca itinerary, you’ll want one of these! They don’t take up much space and dry quickly, so you don’t have to worry about your towel not drying from one day to the next.

Walking shoes – Given how much you will be walking, make sure you have comfortable shoes!

Power bank – Regardless of if you have a charger or not, it’s always handy to bring one of these, so whether you need your phone for photos or mapping your way, you know it won’t abandon you when you most need it!

International adapter – You can buy it in Mallorca if you forget it, but it’s always a pain having to head out to search for one with your phone battery dying on you.

The beautiful interior of Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles in Pollensa, Mallorca

The beautiful interior of Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles in Pollensa, Mallorca

Final thoughts on the ultimate Mallorca itinerary

There you have it, the ultimate Mallorca itinerary! Have you been to Mallorca before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

The biggest of the Balearic Islands, there’s no denying that Mallorca is a great destination for a fun summer island road trip. With its cute villages, pristine beaches and stunning landscapes, it has plenty to offer.

While many travellers rave about Barcelona , Madrid, Granada and its Alhambra ,  Seville and other stunning Spanish cities, I have to admit I’m more of a fan of the Spanish islands.

Fuerteventura , Tenerife , Mallorca and all other Spanish islands hold a special place in my heart. I find them incredibly varied and interesting places to discover.

I hope you will find my Mallorca itinerary useful in planning your trip to Mallorca, regardless of whether you spend three days or seven days in Mallorca! If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

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Photo collage of famous Mallorca landscapes, including Deia, Valldemossa, Cala del Moro and the sunset from Cap de Formentor Lighthouse with text overlay saying

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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.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Spain, Balearic Islands, Majorca, Palma de Mallorca, Parc de Mar, Almudaina Palace, Cathedral La Seu

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…

Lluc Sanctuary on Majorca

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…

Spain, Balearic Islands, Mallorca, Palma de Mallorca, La Seu Cathedral in the evening light

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…

Water field natural park of Albufera

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…

best way to travel mallorca

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, a private palace now used as a modern art gallery, with palm trees in foreground.

Palau March

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

Spain, Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca, View of walls of Es Baluard

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…

Grand staircase at the Museum Fundacion Juan March.

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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  • Majorca (Mallorca)

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

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See recent posts by Leon Beckenham

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

The Beach at HYB Eurocalas, Mallorca

Beach at HYB Eurocalas/Oyster

The Best Time to Visit Mallorca

Summer in mallorca.

Beach at Melia Calvia Beach in Mallorca

Melia Calvia Beach/Oyster

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

Fall in Mallorca

Mountains in Mallorca, Spain

Mountains in Mallorca, Spain; Stefan Kunze/unsplash

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

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

Winter in Mallorca

View of Palma, Mallorca

Palma, Mallorca; Mario Klassen/unsplash

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

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

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

Spring in Mallorca

Soller, Mallorca View

Sóller, Mallorca ; Dennis van den Worm/unsplash

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

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

The Best Beaches in Mallorca

Cala mondragó.

Cala Mondragó beach from above in Mallorca

Cala Mondragó; Falco Ermert/Flickr

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

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

Cap de Formentor

Cap de Formentor Lighthouse View in Mallorca

Cap de Formentor; Sergei Gussev/Flickr

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

Portals Vells

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

Cala Torta Beach in Mallorca

Cala Torta; Falco Ermert/Flickr

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

Playa de Muro

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

Cala Mesquida

Beach at Viva Cala Mesquida Resort Aparthotel

Beach at Viva Cala Mesquida Resort Aparthotel/Oyster

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

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

Beach at the Roc Illetas

Beach at Roc Illetas/Oyster

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

Cala Agulla

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

The Best Things to Do in Mallorca

What to do in mallorca for families.

Beach at Hotel Pinos Playa, Mallorca

Beach at Hotel Pinos Playa, Mallorca/Oyster

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

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

What to Do in Mallorca for Couples

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

What to Do in Mallorca for Solo Travelers

The Pool at the Hotel Petit Cala Fornells, Mallorca

Pool at Hotel Petit Cala Fornells/Oyster

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

What to Do in Mallorca for Thrill-Seekers

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

What to Do in Mallorca for Partiers

Volleyball Players on the Beach at the Ipanema Park, Mallorca

Beach at the Ipanema Park/Oyster

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

Essential Things to Know Before Your First Mallorca Vacation

The first language in mallorca is not spanish.

Beach at the TRH Jardin del Mar in Mallorca

Beach at TRH Jardin del Mar/Oyster

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

The Water in Mallorca Is Not Drinkable

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

A Rental Car is the Best Way to Get Around Mallorca

Street at the Globales Pionero in Mallorca

Street at Globales Pionero/Oyster

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

Tipping in Mallorca Is Not Required

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

Local Festivals in Mallorca Are Worth Checking Out

Street at the Palma Suites in Mallorca

Street at Palma Suites/Oyster

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

There’s More to Mallorca Beyond Its Beaches

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

Almost Everyone in Mallorca Has to Pay an Eco-Tax

View of the Spa at the Hospes Maricel Mallorca & Spa

Spa at Hospes Maricel Mallorca & Spa/Oyster

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

The Best Hotels in Mallorca

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

Pool at Son Brull Hotel & Spa in Mallorca

Pool at Son Brull Hotel & Spa/Oyster

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

Pricing for Son Brull Hotel & Spa

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

Rooftop Pool at the Sant Francesc Hotel Singular in Mallorca

Rooftop Pool at Sant Francesc Hotel Singular/Oyster

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

Pricing for Sant Francesc Hotel Singular

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

Pool at Zafiro Palace Alcudia in Mallorca

Pool at Zafiro Palace Alcudia/Oyster

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

Pricing for Zafiro Palace Alcudia

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

Pool and Beach at the Hotel Nixe Palace in Mallorca

Pool and Beach at Hotel Nixe Palace/Oyster

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

Pricing for Hotel Nixe Palace

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Mallorca Road Trip – 40 travel tips (for the best experience!)

Last updated on November 4, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Planning a Mallorca road trip? What a wonderful choice of destination! Below are my best Mallorca travel tips to make the most of your time:

  • Tips to plan your trip,
  • Tips to get around Mallorca,
  • Tips on accommodations and where to stay,
  • Tips on the best things to do,
  • The best drives in Mallorca,

All you need to plan your travels around Mallorca island! Your complete guide.

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

best way to travel mallorca

My favorite platform to rent a car in Mallorca: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: dolphin watching from Alcudia

My favorite excursion from Palma: Port de Soller and Valldemossa

My favorite places to stay:

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

Mallorca Road trips tips Pin

5 Mallorca travel tips to help with planning

#1 – choose the best time to visit mallorca for you.

The traveling season in Mallorca is quite long with pleasant temperatures.  You can even enjoy Winter in Mallorca if you don’t mind a little chill (temperatures between 12 and 15°C). You can enjoy its charm in any season… but, if there are things you prefer, some seasons are better than others. It depends on what you are looking for: 

  • Crowds – Mallorca is a very popular destination. The Summer Months get crazy with full beaches and attractions. Even October remains a busy month. Not crazy but busy. So the shoulder months are quieter (April/May and October). But if you want peaceful, visit in Winter – you can have the roads almost to yourself!
  • Weather – The temperatures get really hot in Summer, are very pleasant in shoulder months and are chilly in Winter.
  • Swimming – Summer is the best times to swim in warm waters.
  • Hiking / biking – But, if you are planning a hiking or bicycle riding trip, then avoid Summer as you may melt because of the temperatures.
  • There is nothing specific to see at certain seasons  – except the harvesting of the Olives late October early November.

Sunrise from Mallorca

#2 – Plan at least 1 week but 2 are better – How long to plan to visit Mallorca

The island is bigger than one imagined. And there is much to do and visit. If you want to road trip around the island, you need to plan enough time to visit:

  • the best beaches and calas ,
  • the best caves,
  • the best villages,
  • the best viewpoints ,
  • the hidden gems,

I think the best length for your Mallorca trip to enjoy a little bit of everything it has to offers is 2 weeks.

Below is a map with the main driving times to give you perspective:

Mallorca driving times - map

#3 – Plan time at the airport

The Mallorca airport is bigger that one could imagine for an island. It could take a lot of time to get out of the airport, with lots of walking depending on the gate where you land.

Island of Mallorca from the plane

#4 – Be ready for the crowds

Mallorca is a very popular destination. The famous sights such as beaches and old villages get very crowded. Even in October, parking at lunch time in Deia or parking at Cala Mesquida in the afternoon can be very frustrating. You need to be aware of that.  Plan your itinerary to arrive at popular spots early and don’t stack them up all on the same day.

Full carparks

#5 – Plan some flexibility to adapt to the weather

Mallorca has some tall mountains. The highest point is Puig Major – 1,436 m (4711 ft). Therefore, it stops the clouds, and you can get rain and cloudy weather. The island is big, but not that big. Therefore, you can plan to adapt your itinerary to visit areas of the island in the best possible weather. For example, when it was raining, I visited the inland with museums and small villages and kept the blue sky for the magnificent landscapes of Sa Calobra or Formentor.

Plan your dream trip in Mallorca thanks to my guide

eBook Travel Guide Mallorca

  • 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

5 Tips for your Mallorca road trip – renting and driving

#6 – rent a car to see the best the island has to offer.

It is possible to explore some areas without a car: There are guided tours that can take you to the most famous places: caves, cliffs.  But Mallorca is so much more than that! There are so many viewpoints, stunning roads and hidden gems to discover… I really think renting a car is the best way to discover the island.

Torrent del Pareis

#7 – Rent a smaller car 

Overall, driving in Mallorca is not difficult, apart from a few scary mountain roads to side attractions. The main issue is that they are often narrow: to drive inside villages, to reach some attractions… And sadly, people renting a car are not good at judging the size of their vehicles and can’t think of folding their mirrors…

To get less stressed on those roads, I recommend renting a narrow car if possible.

Rent a smaller car in Mallorca

#8 – Compare prices

I have seen big variations of prices for car rentals on the island. Some companies are directly at the airport, others, such as Centauro, are outside of the airport, but their shuttle is very frequent, so it is not a hassle at all. I was quite impressed by the Centauro shuttle. Many times, I found much better prices on Discovercars.com compared to the companies direct websites! Not sure why… Anyway, Discovercars.com  is one of the best customer-rated comparison sites – you can choose the car and rental company. Plus, they propose a full coverage option – I always take it for peace of mind! 

  • Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See my  36 tips about renting a car in Mallorca

#9 – Know the driving rules

Driving in Mallorca is nothing special.Rules include:

  • Driving is on the right side of the road
  • Alcohol limit = 0,5g/l
  • Seatbelt is mandatory
  • No cell phone while driving
  • Speed limits are clearly indicated
  • Speed limit = 120km/h on motorway, 50km/h in cities,
  • However, there is a 30 km/h limit in many areas
  • Don’t forget your valid driving license (EU license recognized, otherwise International Driving Permit)

Difficult side road

The 3 main issues to be aware of are:

  • Cyclists love Mallorca, the roads can be full of them – be careful!
  • A few roads can be narrow and winding to reach hidden gems down or up the mountains
  • Parking can be a regular issue even in large towns such as Port de Soller in October – just be ready to be flexible.

Check out my complete article  driving in Mallorca (with video) .

#10 – Don’t jam pack your road trip itinerary

Mallorca is a beautiful island. It is famous for beaches and parties but it has a lot to offer and a great variety of points of interest. You may want to stop at viewpoints, take side roads to explore hidden areas, or just stay longer in a village or at a beach because it is spectacular. Therefore, make sure to be reasonable in your planning.

Check out my itinerary suggestions:

  • 3 days – weekend , 
  • 4 days , 
  • 5 days , 
  • 1 week , 
  • 10 days to 2 weeks

5 Mallorca accommodation tips – where to stay 

#11 – one accommodation or several.

Most destinations around the island are less than 1h away from Palma de Mallorca. Therefore, it is possible to stay at only one place for your entire vacation and road trip every day.

However, in order to reduce driving times and experience 2 different sides of Mallorca, I recommend splitting your holiday in half and pick 2 accommodations are different ends of the island.

I think the best option (for those interesting in road tripping) is:

  • half the trip in the North-East with accommodation around Alcudia – great to explore the Tramuntana and Formentor
  • and half the trip in the South-West with accommodation around Colonia Sant-Jordi – great to explore Palma de Mallorca and the most beautiful calas

It depends on what you are looking for during your holidays.

Get an introduction about each coast in my article – why side of Mallorca is best?

From my apartment in Port d'Alcudia / Platja de Muro

#12 – Should you stay in Palma de Mallorca?

If you enjoy trying various restaurants, then Palma de Mallorca is the best place for you. If you don’t want to rent a car, then Palma de Mallorca is a good place for you, as many day trips are offered from the capital. If you want to visit many museums, then Palma de Mallorca is the good place for you.

Otherwise, Palma de Mallorca may not be the best choice because:

  • it is noisy,
  • the city center is not close to a beach,
  • It means driving through the city to get anywhere else on the island.

Learn more about the best areas to stay in Palma .

Palma de Mallorca - Placa Major

#13 – Best areas to stay in Mallorca

Well, there is no absolute best places to stay in Mallorca. It depends on what you are looking for. Below are some of my recommendations:

  • For a choice of restaurants and a main town –  see best rated accommodations in Palma
  • For beach + practical location to explore –  see best rated accommodations in Port d’Alcudia
  • For a party area –  see best rated accommodations in S’Arenal
  • For a quiet in the mountains –  see best rated accommodations in Valldemossa
  • For a quiet, charming seaside place –  see best rated accommodations in Canyamel
  • For access to the best calas –  see best rated accommodations in Cala d’or
  • For families –  see best rated accommodations in Cala Millor  or in  Colonia Sant Jordi

More tips on my article about where to stay in Mallorca .

#14 – Choose wisely your accommodation 

The accommodation offer on the island of Mallorca is really impressive. You can find every type of accommodation imaginable. However, make sure you check the noise level. Some towns in Mallorca are party towns and there are bars, hotels and nightclubs playing loud music every evening. If this is not what you are looking for, review the situation before booking.

At the other end of the spectrum, if you are not looking for a beach stay, consider agrotourism. Many fincas have been converted to welcome guests. They offer enjoyable experiences surrounded by Nature.

Agrotourism in Mallorca

#15 – Always check the parking conditions

If you are reading this article, you are planning road trips and renting a car. Therefore, you need to park it every evening around your accommodation. If you are staying in a popular beach area, parking can be nightmarish. Therefore, always check the parking situation and any reviews about parking in the area (if no dedicated carpark is available).

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

best way to travel mallorca

4 Tips to make the most of Mallorca road trip itinerary

#16 – wake up early to see sunrises.

I know that on holidays, sleeping in is a must for some. But those sunrises on the East and North coast are splendid. For example, along the beach of Port d’Alcudia and Platja de Muro there are many piers that make for great foreground.

Mallorca sunrise

#17 – Visiting early or late

Waking up early to see the sunrise also has the advantage that you can start your road trip early. As I wrote before, some places get very busy even during the shoulder seasons. When visiting early you won’t stress about parking and you can enjoy the views better. Good examples are:

  • The magnificent Sa Calobra – the carpark is small and the road winding – it is best in the first quiet hours of the days
  • The mountain villages of Fornalutx, Deia and Valldemossa
  • The famous beaches and Calas (such as Calo des Moro )

Plus, later in the day you will cross path with the bus tours of those doing day trips.

#18 – Is Mallorca safe? Be aware of scams

Mallorca is full of tourists. Therefore, sadly, you will find people trying to take advantage of that. However, during shoulder season, I have never felt unsafe. You just have to be aware and take precautions (as always):

  • First thing is to make sure that you don’t leave anything visible in the car (like in most touristic places). Don’t tempt thieves.
  • You also have the classic pickpockets in the popular areas of Palma de Mallorca, around the cathedral – as well as at the airport carousel
  • Change taxi if he/she tells you that the meter is broken

Crowds at Es Colomer

#19 – Carry cash

Most places accept credit cards on the island. However, there are a few cases when you will need cash: 

  • A few places to visit (both on and off the beaten path)
  • To pay for some parking areas 

6 most scenic drives in Mallorca – not to be missed

If you are planning a road trip around Mallorca, you may want to make sure you cover the best places to see and the most beautiful roads. The next 2 sections are dedicated to listing you all my favorites to help you plan. But you can find practical maps and all my favorite places in my Travel Guide eBook:

#20 – Ma-10 Tramuntana road East – Pollenca to Soller

Ma-10 Tramuntana road East - Pollenca to Soller

Ma-10 is the absolute best road in Mallorca as it goes through the famous Unesco protected Tramuntana mountains. It is quite a long drive, it takes 3 hours from Pollença to Andratx with lots to see along the way. Therefore, I have cut it in 3 sections that should be driven on different days, in my opinion.

My favorite section in terms of scenery is the East side from Pollença to Soller. The road is surrounded by mountain peaks and fascinating rock formations.

Highlights along this road include:

  • Historical town of Pollença
  • Lluc Monastery
  • Detour to Sa Calobra
  • Gorg Blau Lake

#21 – Ma-10 Tramuntana Central – Soller to Valdemossa

Ma-10 Tramuntana Central - Soller to Valdemossa

The Central part of the road is the most popular, between Soller and Valldemossa. You are closer to the sea with mountain on one side and water on the other. Highlights include:

  • Soller and its port area + the famous trolley
  • The village of Deia
  • The village of Valldemossa
  • Viewpoints, fincas and monasteries….

#22 – Ma-10 Tramuntana West – Valldemossa to Andratx

Ma-10 Tramuntana West - Valdemossa to Andratx

The West section of Ma-10 is often overlooked, but it offers some pleasant experiences too. It is also closer to the sea with nice cliff views. Highlights include:

  • Village of Banyalbufar
  • Torre del Verger
  • The non-touristy town of Andratx

#23 – Ma-2210 – Formentor road 

Ma-2210 - Formentor road

Another impressive road is the one going all the way through the Formentor Peninsula to the lighthouse. The cliffs in this area are spectacular, tall and falling straight into the sea. Access to this road is limited in Summer, and shuttles are in place. I will share more in a dedicated article. Highlights are:

  • Mirador es Colomer
  • Albercrutx tower (small detour)
  • Formentor beach
  • Cala Murta and Cala Figuera (walking/hiking required)
  • The lighthouse of Cape Formentor

#24 – Sa Calobra – Coll dels Reis

Sa Calobra road

The road down to Sa Calobra is probably the most photographed on the island. From Col dels Reis, the view is quite impressive. It twists between 2 mountain walls and leads to the most incredible place on Mallorca (see next section).

This is a short drive with one very narrow section under rocks. A popular drive.

See my article

#25 – Santuari da Cura road

View fom Santuari da Cura road

Throughout Mallorca, there are a few monasteries perched on top hills. There are often surrounded by flat agricultural lands. Therefore, the drives up to those monasteries offer open views of the island. One of the best is up to Santuari da Cura. It lies at 543m (1781ft) above sea level.

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! 

See all my tips

best way to travel mallorca

12 other things to do on your Mallorca trip – Highlights

As you drive around Mallorca, enjoy road trips, there a few things to do or to see you should not miss. Below are 12 of my favorites for you to consider. Find out more in my article about the best things to do in Mallorca .

#26 – Eat Tapas

Tapas in Mallorca

Before anything else, you need fuel to explore. In every town you can find great tapas restaurant, with a good mix of vegetables, meat, cheeses… Some are traditional (such as the picture above) others create original tapas recipes. I think you should taste as much as possible.

#27 – Do not miss Sa Calobra

Sa Calobra

This is a very popular spot, but I think it is still worth it. This was my favorite place on the island. I visited early morning, before the crowds but with the sun high enough above the mountains (1h30 to 2h after sunrise). And the place was just perfect. From the carpark, it is a short walk along the coast and through 2 tunnels to discover the hidden beach and the bottom of a canyon. The access to the sea is so narrow with mountains all around. Plus, I was lucky to get great reflections on the river.

#28 – Collect viewpoints

Mirador Es Colomer

Maybe what I love the most about Mallorca is that locals have set up viewpoints in may places. It is absolutely fantastic to be driving on a road with magnificent views and finding a spot to park and take the time to enjoy it. It is not in every country. Those viewpoints are called Miradors. Above is a fantastic example. It is Mirador es Colomer. It overlooks the impressive Formentor Cape.

Check out 21 of the best views in Mallorca.

#29 – Visit at least one narrow cala

Cala Beltran

All around Mallorca, the water has cut coves called Calas. Some of them are long, very narrow and wild, like snakes of waters. Other have enchanting beaches and hotels nearby… Most are worth a stop with turquoise waters and lush vegetation. In the picture above, you can see Cala Beltran. It is accessible only via a short hike.

See my article about the best calas in Mallorca .

#30 – Visit at least one mountain village

Fornalutx

The Tramuntana mountains are home to several historical villages which have been able to maintain their charm. The stone houses are well-maintained, and plants add to the picture perfect look. Some of the most famous include:

  • Fornalutx (photo above)
  • Valldemossa

#31 – Walk along one of the long sandy beaches

Port de Alcudia beach

Well, Mallorca is also famous for its beaches. It has several long sandy beaches on the different coasts (except along the Tramuntana mountains). Even if, like me, you are not a beach person, a long walk along one of this beach is a nice experience. One of my favorite is in Port d’Alcudia (photo above) with the many piers and the lagoon.

See my selection of the best beaches in Mallorca

#32 – Learn about prehistoric cultures at one of the Talayots

Ses Paisses

Mallorca has had a long history. It is famous for 2 types of site:

  • The archaeological sites from the Talayotic culture (Bronze age) where walls and towers were built out of large stones – best sites include Ses Paisses, Son Fornes and Capocorp Vell
  • The main towns of the Roman occupation: Pollenca, Alcudia and Palma

I think you should visit at least one of the Talayot sites and the walled town of Alcudia. See more

#33 – Book a boat trip

Formentor Boat Tour

Mallorca is an island, so off course, there are some great boat trips to enjoy the cliffs and more.

I recommend:

  • A boat trip to see the cliffs of Formentor (photo above) – see options
  • and more… see options

#34 – Visit at least one castle and / or monastery

Castell de Bellver

In Mallorca, there are several monasteries and castles built on top of hills. They offer fascinating buildings, historical stories and splendid views of their surroundings.

Some of my favorite include:

  • Castell de Bellver – the round castle of Palma de Mallorca (picture above)
  • Capdepera Castle
  • Arta Monastery
  • Santuari de la Cura
  • Santuari de Sant Salvador

#35 – Visit at least one cave

Campanet caves

In Mallorca, you can also go underground. It is written that the island is home to over 200 caves. Today, 5 karst caves are open to visitors.

The most famous are Drach cave and Hams’ cave but my favorite are Campanet Caves and Arta Caves. Learn more in my article about the best caves in Mallorca .

#36 – Discover  hidden gems

Sa Cova Foradada

With the amount of tourists around Mallorca every year, there are no real secret places. It is very difficult to be all alone in one place, especially if no hiking is required. However, there are still a few gems that remain lesser known or overlooked. One of my favorite is the sea arch of Sa Cova Foradada in the picture above. This place is incredible, but I am not sure it will stay “hidden” without any signs to find it…

See my list of 12 secret places to discover in Mallorca .

#37 – Visit Palma the Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca

I am not a big fan of cities, but the old town of Palma de Mallorca should not be missed. The cathedral is impressive and iconic with the water feature at the front. You can also enjoy the Royal Palace, la Llotja and the Arab Baths. Find out more ideas

#38 – Fun activities to discover in Mallorca

  • Coasteering – Check out this tour and its availability
  • Cliff jumping –  Check out this tour and its availability.
  • The most unique experience of sea caving –  see details and availability
  • Introduction to diving –  see details
  • Check out all the Mallorca kayak tours
  • Check out this paddle board experience
  • Hot Air Ballon –  see availability
  • Parasailing –  see availability
  • Off-road buggy driving –  see details

7 days in Mallorca – road trip itinerary

Here is a suggestion on how to spend 7 days road tripping in Mallorca. You can switch the order depending on the weather:

  • Day 1 –  Cape Formentor with viewpoints and beaches Town of Pollença or Alcudia
  • Day 2 – Cala del Moro area – stunning beaches with walking Mirador das Pontas Cala Figuera fishing village
  • Day 3 –  Sa Calobra area with walk to the hidden beach, Lluc Monastery, lakes and viewpoints
  • Day 4 – Mondrago Nature Park – beach and walking Portocolom and the Sa Cova Foradada hidden gems
  • Day 5 – Valldemossa to Soller – beautiful drive with villages and town
  • Day 6 – Arta Caves and Capdepera area with lighthouse, beaches and castle
  • Day 7 – Palma de Mallorca – visit of the old town and the Bellver Castle

or Check out my  5 itinerary suggestions on how to spend one week in Mallorca.

Find all my favorite places  and practical maps to plan your own detailed itinerary for 1, 2 or 3 weeks, in my Travel Guide eBook:

Mallorca Travel guide – prepare & pack 

#38 – what to pack for mallorca.

The list of things to pack is quite typical, but remember that the island is not tropical. There is a variation in weather.

Plus, one hour you can be by the beach at 25°C (77°F) and 1h later you can be at up in the mountains, where temperatures drop… The best options is to bring layers.

You can refer to my overall travel checklists that include packing lists.

Just don’t forget:

  • Swimsuit to enjoy the incredible natural pools
  • Sunscreen – you can easily burn there!
  • Binoculars to see all the amazing summits – check out my article to help you choose your binoculars
  • Adapter, if you are not using 2 round 220V plugs

best way to travel mallorca

Binoculars to admire all the details in the scenery ( see my guide )

best way to travel mallorca

Adapter to charge all your equipments

#39 – Bring the right camera gear for Mallorca

Nothing really special for a trip to Mallorca. You should consider water protection if you go on a boat tour. I personally just bought a camera that is entirely sealed, which is quite a relief. And I use a lense with a wide range to take landscapes and also zoom in on animals or details. I have:

  • Olympus EM1 MarkIII
  • 12-100 IS lens
  • Extra Batteries
  • A camera clip to relieve my neck and carry the camera on the strap of my backpack – I love soooooooo much!!!!! It works with all cameras.

best way to travel mallorca

Olympus EM1 Mark III with 12-100 lens

best way to travel mallorca

Peak design Capture Clip

#40 – Learn a few words of Spanish

Locals always appreciate when people try speaking a few words of their language:

  • Hello – Hola
  • Bye – Adios
  • Please – Por favor
  • Thank you – Gracias
  • Excuse me – Disculpe

And keep track of your own trip!

Mallorca travel Journal

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Viajar a Mallorca

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.

mallorca travel guide

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

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

visit 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.

mallorca

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

mallorca travel guide

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

Deia

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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She Wanders Abroad

The Perfect Mallorca Road Trip Itinerary for 4 Days

Mirador Es Colomer viewpoint that you need to see on your Mallorca road trip

Situated in the Mediterranean Sea, the Spanish island of Mallorca is a true paradise on earth and it definitely has to feature on top of your Spain bucket list.

Mallorca is the largest island of the Balearic Islands and it boasts many incredible natural wonders ranging from stunning beaches to scenic viewpoints.

Because there are so many places to visit on the island, you might feel a little bit overwhelmed when planning your Mallorca road trip itinerary. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you out!

If you follow this 4 days in Mallorca itinerary, you will be able to visit all the best attractions the island has to offer, from the more famous sight in Palma to the smaller villages and hidden gems that will make your trip even more memorable. Let’s get into it!

Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Table of Contents

Overview of Your Mallorca Road Trip Itinerary

Rest assured that by following this itinerary, your Mallorca road trip will be one that you’ll never forget. Each day will be packed with some of the best attractions and with a car, you’ll be able to get there a lot easier.

The key to getting through everything on this Mallorca itinerary is to start your day early. If you visit during the summer months, you’ll run into lots of other people also doing a Mallorca road trip which could mean you won’t be able to visit every stop on this list.

Parking can be tough to come by in the summer, this is why planning your time in advance is essential!

Below you can see a breakdown of your Mallorca road trip itinerary by day. Feel free to change the order of the days as you please!

Breakdown of your 4 days in Mallorca

  • Day 1: Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, Royal Palace of La Almudaina, Placa de Cort, Placa Major, Passeig del Born, Port of Palma de Mallorca, Poble Espanyol de Palma, Castell de Bellver
  • Day 2: Far de Cap Blanc, Es Trenc Beach, Mirador Es Pontás, Cala Santanyí, Cala Figuera , Cala d’Or, Botanicactus, Cala Pi
  • Day 3 : Valldemossa, Son Marroig, Deiá, Sóller, Port de Sóller, Chillout for sunset
  • Day 4: Port de Pollenca, Mirador es Colomer, Albercutx Watchtower, Platja de Formentor, Cap de Formentor

Map for your 4 day Mallorca itinerary

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Mallorca road trip itinerary.

I marked your 4 days in Mallorca with different colors – I used blue for the first, green for the second, red for the third, and yellow for the fourth day, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Day 1 of Your Mallorca Road Trip Itinerary

The first day of your Mallorca road trip will be spent exploring Palma, the capital city of Mallorca. Many of the attractions are just walking distance away but you’ll want to bring your car for some of the attractions later in the day.

So it’s best to leave your car in a car park for the first half of the day and then pick it up for the last two attractions at the end of the day.

Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma

Begin your 4 days in Mallorca by heading straight to the Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma. Otherwise referred to as La Seu by the locals, this Gothic cathedral looks truly breathtaking and it’s a must-visit on every Mallorca itinerary.

It’s one of the most popular attractions in all of Mallorca, so there’s no better place to start your trip than here. Be sure to check out the beautiful windows – there are 61 stained-glass windows in the cathedral in total!

The entrance fee to the Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma is €9.

Cathedral in Palma de Mallorca

Royal Palace of La Almudaina

Next, take a one-minute walk to the Royal Palace of La Almudaina. The palace was built in the 14th century and it serves as the official residence for the royals when visiting Mallorca ever since then.

In peak season (from April to September), the Royal Palace is open between 10 am – 7 pm from Tuesday to Sunday. It closes earlier (typically around 4 pm – 6 pm) from October to March but it’s closed on Mondays in every season, so it’s worth planning your Mallorca itinerary according to this.

Tickets usually cost €7 per person. According to their website , there is free entrance on Wednesday and Sunday from 3 pm to 7 pm. There’s also free admission on certain days throughout the year, like International Museum Day in May and the National Holiday of Spain in October.

Royal Palace of La Almudaina in Palma de Mallorca

Placa de Cort

From the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, take a five-minute walk over to Placa de Cort. This historic plaza in the city is most well known for being host to the Ancient Olive Tree. It’s located directly in the middle of the square, so you can’t miss it even if you tried!

You’ll also want to check out the Ajuntament de Palma City Hall while you’re here, which dates back to the 17th century. It’s the most picturesque building in the square and is incredibly beautiful.

While in the square, be sure to take the time to walk around and explore the rest of the area if you can.

Girl in front of Ajuntament de Palma City Hall, Mallorca

Placa Major

Another short walk away is Placa Major, which is a great place to head for lunch. This square is always busy with people, and it’s lined with great shops and restaurants so even if you’re not hungry, it’s an awesome place to just people watch.

If you’re looking for a great place to eat you should visit Bazaar Tapas Restaurante & Bar which offers incredibly delicious tapas and if you’re looking for a light lunch with pastries, granolas, and coffee, check out  Mise En Place – people are raving about this cafe!

If neither of these places managed to grab your attention, then take the time to walk around the square and find a different place to eat. There are lots of restaurants in the area so even if you’re a picky eater, there will be a restaurant that’s perfect for you!

Placa Major in Palma de Mallorca

Passeig del Born

After lunch, take another short walk over to Passeig del Born! It shouldn’t be longer than a 10-minute walk in from Placa Major. This is known for being the prettiest place to explore in all of Palma de Mallorca!

The street is lined with beautiful trees, and the avenue is very walkable. Many shops line the road, so you may even be able to pick up some new clothing or even a souvenir for you to remember your trip here.

Port of Palma de Mallorca

From Passeig del Born, make your way back to the cathedral and then head over to the Port of Palma de Mallorca. This is one of the biggest ports in the area and is incredibly scenic and beautiful!

At the port, take the time to take in the breathtaking views and watch some of the boats come in and out. There are also some shops in this area, so you can take the time to walk around and see some other sights if you want.

This is one of the cruise ship terminals, so if you took a ferry to get here, you might have already seen it!

Port of Palma de Mallorca

Poble Espanyol de Mallorca

Next on your Mallorca road trip is Poble Espanyol de Mallorca, an incredible open-air museum with reproductions of many famous Spanish buildings such as Court of the Myrtles from Granada’s Alhambra and Christ of the Lanterns from Córdoba.

You can find 18 buildings and many streets and squares at a 1:2 scale here so you can technically see all the most important buildings in Spain in just an hour, how cool is that?

The easiest way to get here is to get back to your car, and it should be about a 10-minute drive without traffic right along the waterfront.

A standard ticket costs €10 per person and the museum is open between 10 am – 6 pm from April to October and between 9 am – 5 pm from November to March.

Castell de Bellver

End the first day of your Mallorca road trip by getting back in the car for a short drive to the Castell de Bellver.

This gorgeous castle is from the 14th century and was initially built to house royalty, so you can imagine how breathtaking and elegant it is. It’s built in the classic Gothic style of architecture.

To get inside, you will have to buy a ticket for €4. The castle is open every day except Mondays between 10 am – 7 pm from April to September and between 10 am – 6 pm from October to March.

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting on a Sunday then you can enter for free, however, keep in mind that the castle closes at 3 pm on Sundays (and on bank holidays).

Castell de Bellver in Palma de Mallorca

Day 2 of Your Mallorca Road Trip Itinerary

On the second day of your Mallorca road trip, you’ll be leaving Palma and exploring some of the nearby areas. It will be well worth it!

Keep in mind that if you are traveling during peak season, this is one of the days where you may have to pick and choose which attractions you want to visit. This is because parking may be hard to come by at some destinations, so you’ll want to plan wisely.

Far de Cap Blanc

Begin the second day of your Mallorca road trip by gearing up for a drive. Get in the car for a 30-minute drive to the Far de Cap Blanc. This 19th-century lighthouse offers one of the most scenic viewpoints in the area!

If you’re a morning person, get up early enough to see the sunrise, you truly won’t regret it.

Historically, the lighthouse was even powered strictly by olive oil, which makes it incredibly unique. Keep in mind that parking is located a little ways away, so you will have to take a bit of a walk to get up to the lighthouse.

Unfortunately, you can’t enter the lighthouse but the scenery will surely make up for it!

Far de Cap Blanc lighthouse is a must stop on every Mallorca road trip itinerary

Es Trenc Beach

After exploring Far de Cap Blanc, take another 30-minute drive to Es Trenc Beach. This is a gorgeous beach with fine white sand and turquoise waters, you’ll truly feel as if you were laying on a beach in the Caribbean!

Since it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Mallorca, it usually gets super busy later in the day so that’s why it’s a good idea to visit early in the morning. Moreover, there are practically no shades on the beach so it’s better to avoid the midday sun anyways.

Parking spots are quite limited as well so try to arrive before 9 – 10 am, otherwise you might not be able to visit the beach at all. You will need to pay €7 for the parking which is a bit too much, but it’s very well worth it to visit the beach.

The beach extends over 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) but unfortunately, facilities are quite limited, there are no showers or changing stations on site. There is only one restaurant on the beach so it’s better to pack your own food and drink for the day.

Es Trenc Beach is located right next to the flat wetlands of Ses Salines, so you can even get a glimpse into how salt is produced on the islands.

Take the time to relax and swim at the beach, but don’t take longer than a few hours, otherwise, you might not be able to see the rest of the places on this Mallorca itinerary.

The beautiful white sandy Es Trenc Beach in Mallorca

Mirador Es Pontás

Even though you won’t want to leave the beautiful beach, it’s time to! Take another 30-minute drive to Mirador Es Pontás, one of the most incredible viewpoints in Mallorca. You’re seriously seeing some of the best views today!

Es Pontás is a naturally formed rock with a huge cutout in the middle, so it looks like a natural bridge in the middle of the water.

Mirador Es Pontás is the name of the viewpoint from where you can get an incredible view over the rock and the rugged coastline along the sea.

You can leave your car in the nearby parking lot from where you can reach the viewpoint within a few minutes walk. The path is clearly signposted so you can’t miss it!

It’s a very popular place to watch the sunset but it’s less busy during the day so hopefully, you won’t run into huge crowds. The area is very picturesque so don’t forget to bring your camera!

Girl in a blue dress sitting on a rock in front of Es Pontas in Mallorca

Cala Santanyí

If you want to take another dip in the water, you can visit Cala Santanyí after taking in the views at Mirador Es Pontás.

You can just leave your car at the parking lot and take a 5-10 minute walk to Cala Santanyí from the viewpoint.

Surrounded by cliff faces and greenery, Cala Santanyí is another one of the most beautiful beaches in Mallorca. It’s a lot smaller than Es Trenc so if it’s too crowded by the time you get here, feel free to skip it.

Otherwise, stay here for a while and catch some sun rays until you feel like you’re officially ready for lunchtime!

White sandy beach at Cala Santanyi in Mallorca

Cala Figuera

Next on your Mallorca road trip itinerary is Cala Figuera, which is only a short 10-minute drive from Cala Santanyí.

Located on the left fork of a beautiful Y-shaped bay, this small fishing village dates back to the 14th century and offers an incredible panorama.

Unfortunately, you can’t swim here but it’s still worth stopping by and exploring the town. It’s also a great place to grab some late lunch if you’re feeling hungry.

A few of the top-rated restaurants in Cala Figuera include Restaurante Pizzeria Es Port for pizza and Restaurante L’Arcada for Mediterranean. Both have mid-range prices on their menu.

Cala Figuera in Mallorca

Cala d’Or

After you enjoy your lunch and explore the area of Cala Figuera, it’s time to move to another one of the famous Calas in Mallorca. The next stop will be Cala d’Or, which is a 25-minute drive from Cala Figuera if you take the Ma-19 road, or closer to a half-hour if you take Ma-14.

Cala d’Or is a village and a popular beach area located on the southeast coast of Mallorca. It’s most well known for its striking coastlines and its gorgeous beaches, such as Cala d’Or beach, Cala Gran, or Cala Petita.

While Cala d’Or is a really stunning place to visit, it’s quite far away from Palma de Mallorca so if you don’t want to stretch your Mallorca itinerary, feel free to skip it. If you start your day really early in the morning you can still make it, so the decision is totally on you!

Beach in Cala d'Or, Mallorca

Botanicactus

It’s time to start heading back in the direction of Palma but don’t worry, you will still get to visit two awesome places on the way back! One of them will be Botanicactus, one of the most unique botanical gardens in all of Spain.

This botanical garden looks exactly like a desert. Throughout the park, you’ll find more than 400 different plants and more than 10,000 cacti! There is also an artificial lake in the park surrounded by beautiful green palm trees.

Botanicactus is a true paradise for nature and plant lovers! One thing to note is there are no shades in the park so it’s better to visit early or late in the day.

Botanicactus is a 25-minute drive from Cala d’Or a 13-minute drive from Cala Figuera. The park is open every day between 10.30 am – 4.30 pm

An adult ticket costs €10.50.

Desert landscape at Botanicactus in Mallorca

The last stop of the day is Cala Pi, another of the best attractions to visit in Mallorca in 4 days. It’s another 30-minute drive away from Botanicactus, but the route is pretty scenic.

Cala Pi is known for being situated in one of the first-ever places on Mallorca that people inhabited.

You’ll want to check out the breathtaking bay – while you’ve seen a few seafronts today, this one stands apart. Try to catch the sunset in Cala Pi, it will be an unforgettable experience!

The coastline at Cala Pi in Mallorca

Day 3 of Your Mallorca Road Trip Itinerary

Today you’ll be exploring a few more villages around Mallorca! Yesterday was pretty jam-packed so this day will be a lot more relaxed. There aren’t many attractions on your Mallorca road trip itinerary today so you will have more time to explore the different towns and villages.

Valldemossa

Start the third day of your Mallorca road trip by heading to one of the most beautiful villages in Mallorca: Valldemossa!

Located on a hilltop and surrounded by beautiful rolling hills, Valldemossa is a quiet and picturesque village boasting many amazing shops, cafes, restaurants, and art galleries.

Valldemossa is a 30-minute drive from Palma. You can find 2 large car parks in the villages so leave your car behind and start exploring the village on foot! There are quite a few things to do in Valldemossa, so pick and choose what sounds best for you.

Panoramic view of Valldemossa, Mallorca

One of the top attractions in Valldemossa is the Royal Carthusian Monastery (otherwise known as Real Cartuja de Valldemossa), which was originally founded as a royal residence but later became a monastery.

Another must-visit spot is the Jardins Rei Joan Carles, which is a lovely garden area to stroll around.

You could also explore the town without much of a plan and stumble across some of the beauties of the village. Plan to spend around 1-2 hours in Valldemossa so you’ll still have time to visit the other attractions on this 4 days in Mallorca itinerary!

Stone house in Valldemossa, Mallorca

Son Marroig

From Valldemossa, take a 10-minute drive along the Ma-10 road to Son Marroig. It’s a traditional Mallorcan country estate that belonged to Archduke Ludwig Salvator of Austria that has been converted into a museum dedicated to his adventurous life.

From the museum, you can get incredible views of the ocean that will genuinely take your breath away!

Son Marroig is known for being a popular wedding venue, making sense because of how beautiful it is. Apart from visiting the inside of the museum, make sure to spend some time in the gardens as well!

A ticket to Son Marroig costs €4 which is very well worth it. The museum is open from Monday to Saturday between 9.30 am – 2 pm and 3.30 pm – 4.30 pm (it’s closed on Sundays).

View from Son Marroig in Mallorca

Deiá

Next on your Mallorca itinerary is Deiá, another picturesque village that is only a 7-minute drive from San Marroig. Deiá has always been popular among famous artists and writers, it was also home to the famous English poet, Robert Graves.

The main coastal road leading up to Deiá can be very busy during the day and parking is not that easy to come by in the village, so you might need to calculate some extra time for traffic and parking.

Thanks to its famous artists, you can find many interesting art galleries around the village, along with many amazing gift shops and restaurants.

One of the most famous restaurants is the Michelin-starred Es Racó d’Es Teix , a family-owned restaurant offering various Mediterranean and European dishes.

Panoramic view of Deia, Mallorca

Sóller

From Deià, take another 20-minute drive to get to the next village on your Mallorca road trip. Sóller is located in a beautiful valley often referred to as the “valley of oranges” or the “valley of gold”.

If you happen to visit in March, you can even attend the Orange Festival which showcases the best of its orange harvest.

The town is made up of narrow streets lined with traditional townhouses with beautiful green shutters. Make sure to visit Plaça Constitució, the main square of Sóller where you will find countless great cafes and restaurants.

Right next to the square you will find Eglésia de Sant Bartomeu, a beautiful 16th-century baroque church that’s also worth visiting.

Sóller also has three interesting museums: the Natural Science Museum (Museu Balear de Ciències Naturals) promoting botany, zoology, and geology; the Museu del Casal de Cultura (Museu de Sóller) filled with antics and relics and Can Prunera, featuring a Modernist art collection.

Vintage train in Port de Soller, Mallorca

Port de Sóller

Once you’re there, make your way to the Port de Sóller. This beautiful port is a village of its own and is surrounded by beautiful blue water. Be sure to check out the bay here because it’s absolutely gorgeous and incredibly scenic. Everywhere you look, you’ll feel like you are in paradise.

You can either get back to your car and drive down to Port de Sóller in 10 minutes or you can opt to take a scenic ride on the historical tram.

This vintage train is a great tourist attraction in itself which offers an incredible view where you can admire the beautiful mountains, olive trees, and orange groves on the way.

You can find many great restaurants and cafes in Port de Sóller so if you’re hungry, you can stop by to have a light dinner. There are two great beaches in the town as well where you can enjoy the warm water in the picturesque scenery.

Vintage train in Port de Soller, Mallorca

Sunset at Chillout

End the third day of your Mallorca road trip by getting back in the car and heading to Son Marroig, the same place you were at earlier in the morning. It’s another 30-minute drive away on Ma-10, which is the quickest way to get there.

The best place to catch the sunset here is a bar called Chillout, which is the top-rated bar in this area of Mallorca. It’s known for its incredible views, so get cozy, grab a cocktail, and prepare for a beautiful sunset.

It’s a very popular sunset spot in Mallorca and it can get insanely crowded, so try to arrive early to snag a great spot!

Sunset at Son Marroig in Mallorca

Day 4 of Your Mallorca Road Trip Itinerary

Unfortunately, it’s time for the last and final day of your Mallorca road trip! Today you’ll be visiting the northern part of Mallorca where you will see some of the best views that the island has to offer. Let’s get into it!

Port de Pollenca

Begin the last day of your 4 days in Mallorca itinerary by heading to Port de Pollenca, which is a 1-hour drive from Palma de Mallorca.

This small town is incredibly picturesque and is most well known for being a popular resort town. It’s filled with great restaurants, shops, and even more excellent beaches.

At the port itself, if you wake up early enough, you may even be able to catch the sunrise. Take the time to enjoy the water and also walk around the rest of the town if you want to. It’s very serene here, and there’s no better time of day to enjoy the port than in the early morning.

Beach in Port de Pollenca, Mallorca

Mirador es Colomer

From Port de Pollenca, take a quick 10-minute drive along Ma-2210 to Mirador es Colomer. This is one of the best viewpoints you won’t want to miss out on during your 4 days in Mallorca.

The lookout point is perched upon a high cliff so you will be able to see the rest of the area from a great vantage point.

The viewpoint looks out to the ocean and there are tons of beautiful rugged cliffs around, which only add to the view. It can get bustling here later in the day, which is why it’s best to visit right in the morning or earlier in the day to avoid the crowds.

View from Mirador de El Colomer, Mallorca

Albercutx Watchtower

If you can’t get enough of the views, the good news is that you can go even higher! From Mirador es Colomer, a trail leads up to Albercutx Watchtower which is the highest peak on the peninsula, offering some breathtaking views of the island.

The trail is quite steep so I wouldn’t recommend hiking up. Get back in your car and drive up instead! Please note that the winding road leading up to the watchtower is really narrow with many hairpins.

To be honest, it’s quite scary to navigate, so be sure to drive slowly and be really careful.

Once you’re up there you’ll be treated to great views of the coastline and the nearby mountains, it’s truly breathtaking! You can even see Platja de Formentor from the watchtower, which is going to be the next stop on your Mallorca road trip itinerary.

Girl in a pink dress looking at the beautiful view from Albercutx watchtower in Mallorca

Platja de Formentor

Now, it’s finally time to head to the beach! From Mirador es Colomer, it takes a mere 10-minute drive to get to Platja de Formentor, one of the most beautiful beaches you’ll see on the island.

It’s important to know that the road leading to Platja de Formentor is practically a dead-end road so it can get incredibly busy. Generally, if you don’t find a parking spot at the parking lot near Platja de Formentor, you’ll have no choice but to turn back and skip visiting the beach.

That’s why it’s important to start your day early because it’s practically impossible to get to the beach in late afternoon, especially during the summer months. Parking costs €15 for a day (there are no hourly options).

Even if it can be a struggle sometimes to get there, it’s very well worth it as the beach is a true paradise on Earth. The water is incredibly blue and crystal clear and the white sandy beach is surrounded by beautiful green mountains which only add to its charm.

Since you’re going to have only one more stop on your Mallorca itinerary for today, take your time to relax on the beach and swim in the water, you’re going to love it!

Beautiful beach at Platja de Formentor in Mallorca

Cap de Formentor

Last but not least, make your way to Cap de Formentor, one of the most breathtaking viewpoints on the island. There is no better way to end your Mallorca road trip than watching the sunset by the lighthouse at the top!

Getting to Cap de Formentor is a little bit tricky because the road is closed to car traffic between 10 am and 7 pm during the summer months.

Technically you can take a bus during the day but the bus schedule is not so reliable. Instead, I recommend spending the afternoon at the beach and then going up to Cap de Formentor when the road opens.

Girl standing in front of the lighthouse at Cap de Formentor in Mallorca

Now, if you’re visiting during the summer months, it’s super important to be first in line when the clock strikes 7 pm. There is only one road leading up to Cap de Formentor which gets insanely busy immediately after it opens.

On top of that, parking spots are quite limited on the top so if you don’t want to spend a lot of time stuck in traffic and then search for a parking spot, be there at 7 pm sharp (or even better, 5-10 minutes earlier).

Technically it’s a 20-minute drive from the parking lot at Platja de Formentor but you should calculate with at least 30 minutes. This means you will still be able to catch the sunset at the lighthouse which will be an unforgettable experience!

There is a small cafe at the lighthouse but I wouldn’t recommend it as it’s way overpriced. Instead, just take the time to enjoy the sunset on your last day in Mallorca, you totally deserve it!

Sunset from Cap de Formentor in Mallorca

Useful Info for Visiting Mallorca

Where to stay in mallorca.

Since Mallorca is a pretty big island, there is no shortage of options when it comes to accommodation. One of the best places to stay in Mallorca is the southern side, in or around Palma de Mallorca.

The capital city is close to the airport and it’s also one of the biggest cities on the island so it’s a great place to use as a base for your Mallorca road trip.

You could also opt to stay at Magaluf or Palma Nova on the left side, or Ca’n Pastilla or S’Arenal on the right side of Palma. All of these are great options and cater to different budgets, so you should be able to find one that best fits your budget.

If you want to know more about the different areas, be sure to check out my in-depth guide about where to stay in Mallorca.

If you’re in a hurry, here are my top recommendations for staying in Palma de Mallorca for every budget.

  • Luxury in the Old Town | Hotel Can Cera
  • Luxury on the beach | Es Princep – The Leading Hotels of the World
  • Mid-range hotel | Nixe Palace
  • Budget hotel | Meliá Palma Marina
  • One-bedroom apartment | Palma Suites
  • Two-bedroom apartment | The Boc Suites

Beach at Can Pastilla, Mallorca

How to get to Mallorca

Although there are a few options to get to Mallorca, taking a flight is undoubtedly the easiest and most popular option. Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) is located 8 km east of Palma, the capital city of the island.

It’s one of the biggest airports in the country so it can handle lots of travel throughout the year. Keep in mind that some international flights only operate between May and October.

If you’re coming from mainland Spain or another Balearic Island, you can also opt to take a ferry. Mallorca has 2 ferry ports, one in Port d’Alcúdia and one in Palma.

Although this is a more scenic way to get to Mallorca, keep in mind that it takes a lot longer than flying. For instance, it takes around 7.5 hours to reach Mallorca from Barcelona or Valencia and 2.5 hours from Ibiza.

Best time to visit Mallorca

Spain is lucky enough to be one of the prettiest dream destinations to visit year-round. So doesn’t matter when you’re able to make it to Mallorca, you’ll have a fantastic time!

However, there are pros and cons to each season and it’s important to know what to expect, so you can choose the best month for your Mallorca road trip.

Mallorca is a popular summer destination among beach lovers so naturally, the majority of people visit Mallorca during the summer months. During this time, temperatures can get up to 31°C (89°F), so it can get pretty hot. This time of year also doesn’t see a whole lot of precipitation.

The popularity of visiting during this time makes it a lot more expensive for accommodation and flights. On top of that, finding a parking spot is a real struggle during the summer period which is not so ideal if you’re planning to do a Mallorca road trip.

Spring and fall are considered the shoulder seasons of the year and although you will still come across lots of other tourists, the island is nowhere near as busy as it is in the summer. Plus, the weather is still pretty nice, with highs reaching 28°C (82°F) during some months.

However, the fall is the rainiest time of year in Mallorca, which might deter you from visiting during this time.

Due to its location, the winter is usually mild with many sunny days which makes Mallorca one of the best winter sun destinations in Europe .

Although the average temperature during the day is around 14-16°C (57-60°F) from December to February, sometimes the days can be cold and windy as well so be prepared with some warmer clothes.

You’ll most likely be able to snag a great deal on accommodation during this time, which can make it such an appealing time to visit.

Beach in Port de Soller, Mallorca

How to get around in Mallorca

Although you can technically take the bus around Mallorca, they don’t run as often as you’d think and the schedule is especially limited on the weekends.

The island is far too big to explore on foot or with bicycles so if you have an international driver’s license, it’s best to rent a car and opt for an exciting Mallorca road trip! It’s definitely one of the best road trips in Spain so don’t miss out on this opportunity if you’re visiting the island.

Renting a car will also give you the most freedom possible while traveling, so if you come across other great destinations that aren’t included in this Mallorca itinerary, then you can easily add other stops as you please.

Because most people rent a car when visiting Mallorca, there are a lot of different rental companies. The more popular car rental companies like Hertz or Europcar are located right at the airport so if you fly to Mallorca, you can get one as soon as you land.

Most companies will have daily costs starting from around €20. Sometimes there are price breaks if you rent the car for longer. Be sure to research your options to find which rental company has the most affordable price during your 4 days in Mallorca.

Cathedral in Palma de Mallorca

Tips for driving in Mallorca

To drive around Mallorca, you will need an international driving license. Make sure you get one of these before landing, or you might run into problems when picking up your rental car.

Most of Mallorca is pretty easy to drive around, though Palma can sometimes be challenging due to traffic. Plus, a lot of the roads on the island will bring you past beautiful scenery. Make sure you have your camera!

When driving in Mallorca, make sure you drive on the road’s right side, not the left. Knowing what side of the road to drive on when visiting a country is extremely important.

Make sure not to use your phone or drink any alcohol while driving, or risk being fined hundreds of euros or worse. You must also have some sort of insurance in the car in case you are ever pulled over.

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The Perfect Mallorca Road Trip Itinerary for 4 Days

6 thoughts on “The Perfect Mallorca Road Trip Itinerary for 4 Days”

Do you have any recs for a 1 day Mallorca trip? or is that impossible (lol).

Hmm this is definitely a hard question! I wouldn’t say impossible but not ideal for sure. I think it depends on what you’re looking for, I would probably stay in Palma de Mallorca but there are also a few really amazing beaches nearby (around 30-60 minutes from Palma) so if you’re more about nature, I would start looking in this direction.

Is there any Tour company providing this itinerary? Thanks

I highly doubt that anyone provides this same exact itinerary as I personally put it together step-by-step 🙂

Any idea how I can plan my trip to Majorca without driving a car

I would get familiar with the local buses (routes, timetables, etc.) and there are also a handful of island tours you can attend.

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How to Travel to the Balearic Islands

This popular region of Spain includes the islands of Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca, and Formentera.

best way to travel mallorca

The Balearic Islands, a sun-kissed archipelago of islands and islets east of the Spanish mainland, are dominated by four stunning sisters: Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca, and Formentera. Ibiza, the party-loving wild child of the bunch, has a shy side too, by way of hillside hamlets and a storied old town. Mallorca, the largest of the islands, offers contrasting pleasures like all-inclusive resorts and laidback, nature-oriented getaways. Menorca, a haven for the low-key traveler, entices visitors with its archeological wonders and a bevy of postcard-perfect beaches. And then there's Formentera, the tiniest sister, whose ethereal beauty attracts boho-chic types who prefer lazy lounging by gentle turquoise waters over glitzy soirees. Whatever your sensibility, here's how to make the most of your visit to the Balearics.

Located in the Mediterranean Sea, the Balearic Islands enjoy a climate characterized by hot and sunny summers and mild winters. The best months to visit are May, June, and September if you want to avoid throngs of sun-worshiping crowds but still engage in outdoor activities. During this time, temperatures fluctuate between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. In July and August, temperatures can soar up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, complete with 10 to 11 hours of uninterrupted daylight.

As it starts to cool down in October, many seaside businesses shorten their opening hours or close their doors altogether for the winter months. The weather then remains mild — with average temperatures usually hovering in the mid-50s — until springtime. The region is fairly dry year-round, but October is the wettest month, averaging 2.7 inches of rainfall.

Getting To and Around the Balearic Islands

American Airlines, United, and Delta all offer direct flights to Barcelona and Madrid from several U.S. airports, including Miami (MIA), New York (JFK and EWR), and Los Angeles (LAX). From Barcelona and Madrid, local carriers offer short, daily flights to Ibiza, Menorca, and the Palma de Mallorca Airport, the third busiest airport in Spain. Formentera is only accessible by ferry.

Major ferry carriers like Ferry Balearia offer various overnight routes connecting mainland cities like Barcelona, Valencia, and Dénia to the four main Balearic islands, many of which operate every day. If you want to island-hop, Formentera can be reached from Ibiza via the Ferry Balearia and Trasmapi lines.

If you plan to explore each island, first, rent a car on Mallorca and take in the scenic coastal routes. Avoid the parking space dilemma during the high season in Ibiza and Menorca by renting a scooter for easy beach access. When in Formentera, the bus line Autocares Paya makes stops at several beaches, starting and ending at the main port in La Savina. You can also explore the island by bicycle or on foot.

Traveling between islands is a fairly simple affair, with ferries running daily between the four main isles. Some companies permit cars on ferries between islands. And, for seasonal jaunts between Ibiza and Formentera, Aquabus offers a no-frills ride.

Take the vintage tourist train, Ferrocarril de Sóller , to see the breathtaking landscape between Palma de Mallorca and the photo-perfect town of Sóller. Ibiza offers a similar service, a mini locomotive called Tren Ibiza Express . Book this train to embark on a three- or four- hour tour of the island's loveliest towns, including Santa Eulalia and Es Cana. The cheery, red Mao Express train is easy to spot in Menorca's capital and costs only a few Euros for a tour around town, complete with commentary.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

What to Do in Mallorca

Take a scenic drive up the west coast to experience the island's spellbinding natural attributes. Start at Valldemossa, an ancient village revered for its rustic beauty and home to Real Cartuja, the monastery hideaway for 19th-century lovers George Sand and Chopin. Then, drive the winding roads through Sóller (surrounded by the dramatic Tramuntana Mountains), complete with views of striking limestone formations, pine forests, hidden hamlets, and teal-hued waters. This majestic hillside town is known for its fragrant citrus trees and Art Nouveau architecture. Eventually, you'll reach Cap de Formentor at the northern tip of the island, featuring wondrous clifftop views.

Visit the studio of a surrealist master with a trip to Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró , a Palma-based museum dedicated to the works of Catalan painter Joan Miró. Don't leave without viewing the Sert Studio, Miró's final workspace filled with dozens of unfinished paintings.

Take a tour and taste local wine at select wineries. Inaugurated in 1711, family-owned Bodegues Ribas is the oldest estate on the island, offering visitors a sampling of indigenous varietals such as Prensal and Manto Negro. In contrast, Macia Batle , a modern, more commercial winery, blends local grapes with well-known varieties such as cabernet, chardonnay, and merlot.

Where to Eat & Drink in Mallorca

In Mallorca, the cultural mores dictate that cocktail rendezvous routinely turn into late-night dinner plans, and beyond. So naturally, many bars are strategically placed within hotels or restaurant spaces. Outstanding venues include the urban-cool Puro Hotel's Beatnik Restaurant & Bar , a fashionable spot with tasty cocktails and global food made from locally-sourced ingredients. Sky Bar at Hostal Cuba offers breakfast by morning and artisanal concoctions, complete with the most magnificent views over Palma, by night. Portals Hills Boutique Hotel's ultra-chic La Cabana Pool Bar and Lounge , a sleek poolside duplex with floor-to-ceiling windows, offers daybeds overlooking the sea and more than 2,000 wines and champagnes. The quirky Bar Abaco is a retro-fab venue set in a 17th-century estate, serving excellent cocktails and alcohol-free libations.

Located in the 27-room Hotel Convent de la Missió, a 17th-century former monastery, Marc Fosh's namesake Michelin-starred restaurant is the centerpiece of the British-born chef's Palma holdings. With a focus on clean Mediterranean flavors, this contemporary farm-to-table restaurant creates dishes using seasonal, local ingredients, and is a favorite among the capital's well-heeled residents.

The style-centric Zaranda restaurant — decorated in an inviting palette of neutrals accentuated with gold and dark wood — is housed in Palma's boutique Hotel Es Princep. Chef Fernando Pérez Arellano's culinary wizardry shines through his fusion tasting menu, complete with regional meat, fish, cheese, and spices, paired with an extensive list of local and international wines.

In Port de Alcudia, Maca de Castro elevates traditional Mediterranean recipes with inventive modern twists. The Michelin-starred restaurant is located in a swanky Mallorcan-style estate, complete with a posh, art-filled dining room. It also includes a more relaxed al fresco space with well-tended gardens.

Where to Stay in Mallorca

Named after the medieval basilica it neighbors, Hotel Sant Francesc is located in the heart of Palma's historic district. This former manor home of a 19th-century nobleman was immaculately restored and modernized, and of its 10 suites, the most alluring is Sant Francesc, featuring hand-painted ceiling frescoes adorned with gold trim and an ornate iron balcony overlooking the ancient square. Standout amenities include a rooftop terrace bar with a lap pool, custom-tailored Mediterranean spa treatments, and Quadrat, the rustic-chic farm-to-table restaurant housed in the former stables.

Just outside the northeastern town of Capdepera sits Predi Son Jaumell , an idyllic country hotel surrounded by fragrant olive groves and the bucolic Sierra de Llevant Mountains. This restored 14th-century estate has 24 distinctively designed rooms accented with rustic antiques and minimalist décor. This tranquil stay offers the refined gourmet cuisine of El Bulli alumni Andreu Genestra. The storied relics strewn around the property, and the cozy poolside deck where guests can relax on cushy sunbeds, lend an added ambiance to this pristine accommodation.

In a secluded cape on Palma de Mallorca's scenic bay, the 30-room fortress-turned-boutique hotel, Cap Rocat , boasts a magnificent marine backdrop. The El Cabo Suite is arguably the most outstanding, with features fit for royalty: a spacious room and living area complimented with one-of-a-kind artwork, a private terrace, gardens, and a swimming pool. Exceptional extras include an infinity pool built into the former fortress walls, yoga sessions on the beach, and an underground spa for indulgent tailor-made massages.

What to Do in Menorca

Explore the treasure trove of tranquil turquoise coves surrounded by weathered cliffs and pines. Cala Turqueta boasts sparkling shallow waters encircled by a thick, wild forest. And Cala Pregonda features distinctive reddish-gold sand and micro islets, which buffer the gently rolling waves. Sample the island's famous cheese, Queso Mahón, made with hand-pressed, unpasteurized milk and aged for one to six months. Visit top producer Subaida , a 19th-century estate and dairy farm, for a tour around the green grounds, a meet-and-greet with the animals, and a tasting of their best products.

Some of the Balearics' finest surviving examples of prehistoric settlements are found on Menorca. Visit Trepucó and Talatí de Dalt, both just miles from the capital city of Maó, and view the relic remains of ancient Talaiotic ruins.

Where to Eat & Drink in Menorca

Inaugurated in 1979, Bodegas Binifadet remains one of the island's top authorities when it comes to quality regional wines. Visit the cavernous cellars during a tour of the vineyards, which includes a tasting of three of their best-selling vintages. Sample the White Merluzo — a fruity combination of three varieties, incrluding the local grape, Malvasia — paired with homemade organic products, like goat cheese and wine-based jams. Sa Cova, meanwhile, is a beach bar and restaurant wedged between the rocks on the shore of the postcard-perfect Cala Torret in San Luis. Stop by for a cocktail, or linger for fresh salads and seafood. At the cliffside Cova d'en Xoroi beach club, your cover charge includes a mixed drink, live music, and the best sunset views over the striking village of Cala en Porter.

In a spacious setting that combines industrial elements with natural wood furnishings, Smoix is the culmination of chef Miquel Sanchez's long-standing desire to help people enjoy the simple pleasures of eating well. The retro-rustic eatery's hearty, yet visually appealing, dishes feature a medley of Menorcan staples expertly paired with Mexican influences — a nod to Sanchez's partner's heritage.

Pan y Vino is a French restaurant with a Catalan soul. Situated in an atmospheric 200-year-old whitewashed farmhouse, the seasonal menu is an inspired mash-up of international concepts. Their menu changes four times a year based on seasonal food offerings from local farmers.

Where to Stay in Menorca

For a decidedly cozy stay, Hotel Tres Sants, an eight-room boutique hotel, packs a wealth of style and character into an 18th-century mansion, complete with a Turkish bath spa. The arched public spaces are decorated with touches of subdued color, and a rooftop terrace offers a birds-eye view of historic Ciutadella.

On a hill overlooking wildflower fields, vineyards, and the Mediterranean, Hotel Torralbenc's exteriors pay tribute to the area's traditional rural heritage. The inside of this former turn-of-the-century farmhouse, however, is a different story. Here, the spacious interior has been remodeled and painted hues of taupe and bone with minimal furniture, meant to highlight the natural surroundings. Twenty-seven rooms and cottages are available to book, varying in size, and each with fantastic views of the enchanting gardens and sea. The hotel's Torralbenc Restaurant resides in the former wine barrel storage room and uses the freshest local products to create artisanal meals.

Other country-style hotels include the bright and modern Hort Sant Patrici , and Alcaufar Vell , an 18th-century manor hotel with a renowned restaurant.

What to Do in Ibiza

Experience the island's lesser-known northern coast on horseback. Located on 40 hectares in the Es Murta nature park, Ibiza Horse Valley is a unique rehabilitation center for mistreated and abandoned horses. This organization offers bareback treks through lush forests, along the sandy shores, and over panoramic mountain trails.

Shop the original Hippy Market Punta Arabi , which has 500 stalls of handicraft knick-knackery and boho décor and clothing. Opened in 1973, this seasonal market (open April through October, on Wednesdays only) pays homage to the hippies that came to the island in the '60s, and features an eclectic lineup of live music.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dalt Vila, the island's fortified Phoenician old town situated on a hill high above the rowdy revelers below. Climb the narrow cobblestone walkways, accessed through the main entrance, Portal de Ses Taules, to the historic treasures at the summit: the Cathedral de Santa Maria, the Bishop's Palace, and the 16th-century Ibiza Castle. From here, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the city.

Where to Eat & Drink in Ibiza

The Cotton Beach Club is located on the southwestern coast, and serves Asian-inspired bites, international wines, and cocktails in a relaxed setting. The seasonal beach club's stylish wood lounges, accentuated with all-white cushions, provide a welcoming vibe on the sparkling shores of Cala Tarida. Es Tragón , with its culinary team led by reputable chef Alvaro Sanz Clavijo, offers a visually-stimulating prix-fixe menu paired with fine wines (for an extra price). The haute cuisine kitchen caters to guests in an airy dining area nestled in a country-style home.

Located in the sleepy village of San Rafael, Le Belle Ibiza pairs typical white-washed exteriors with a decidedly warmer indoor setting of exposed stone walls, plank wood tables, and patterned seat covers and cushions. The upscale French fusion cuisine focuses on fresh, mostly organic, ingredients sourced from high-quality local producers. The seasonal Amante restaurant takes full advantage of its enviable location on a jagged cliff overlooking the Sol d'en Serra Bay. Serving a healthy, contemporary twist on Spanish and Italian classics, the multi-tiered restaurant and bar offers a luxe reprieve from sun-worshiping on the beach.

Where to Stay in Ibiza

Aquas de Ibiza , a 112-room spa hotel, overlooks the peaceful marina in Santa Eulalia and offers luxury services for the soulful traveler. All the rooms are designed using Feng Shui principles and come with private terraces to ensure maximum comfort. But it's the unlimited access to the deluxe Revival Spa by Clarins that's the real star of the property.

The Giri Residence is nestled in the boho-centric town of San Juan and provides an intimate experience with only five rooms total on the property. The Bougainville Suite, the most stunning of them all, features a neutral palette of furnishings and artwork, an en-suite bathroom with a contrasting stone tub, plenty of natural light, and, arguably, the most sought-after island amenity — a second-floor private terrace, complete with a wood deck dining area and sun loungers. Organically-sourced bites are available on the premises. During the high season, walk a short distance to the property's peaceful garden bar and restaurant, the Giri Café.

For an entirely different look and flavor, book a boutique stay at the dapper, neo-colonial Montesol Experimental . Declared "An Asset of Cultural Interest'' by UNESCO, this completely refurbished 33-room hotel continues its historical vibe with retro-style interiors. Book the suite for city and marina views, a marble bath with a rainfall showerhead, and a king-size bed.

What to Do in Formentera

Spend a day, or several, at one of many stunning beaches on Formentera, each with its own set of amenities. Migjorn — great for snorkeling— has the longest stretch of white sand on the island, providing the best opportunity to snag a sunbathing spot during the busy summer months. Calo Saona is a quaint bay beach surrounded by forests, red-hued cliffs, and an upscale hotel. Ses Illetes has powder-white sand, shimmering blue waters, and grass-patched sand dunes, plus an exceptional selection of eateries.

Steal away to neighboring Espalmador, a private islet with crescent-shaped coves, a pristine beach called Platja S'Alga, and natural mud flats filled with wildlife. Accessible via a short ferry ride from La Savina, this lovely oasis is a total escape from civilization. Pack a lunch, as there are no restaurants or hotels on this island, just a dutiful watchtower, a few seasonal digs, and the peaceful sounds of nature.

Only 12 miles from end to end, Formentera can be easily explored by bike. Green bike paths start in La Savina, Sant Francesc, and Es Pujols. One of the longest routes takes cyclists on a relaxed ride from the Faro de La Mola lighthouse, through a changing landscape of livestock and forests with views from the La Mola clifftops, by the El Pilar church, and through the Bodega Terramoll vineyard.

Where to Eat & Drink in Formentera

Just minutes from Illetes beach sits Es Moli de Sal in a renovated salt mill, located in the natural reserve Ses Salines. This seaside eatery specializes in seafood and oozes a casual elegance with its earth-toned palette of wood, stone, and silver accents.

Juan y Andrea is a favored pit stop for foodies eager to indulge in the island's tastiest seafood paella and fideua (a noodle version of paella). Make reservations far in advance for a table on the grassy sands of Playa des Illetes.

For enchanting sunset views of La Savina marina, reserve a rooftop table for classic bites, fresh seafood, and cocktails at Aigua . This casual restaurant provides breakfast, lunch, and snacks, and boaters can grab Iberian ham, smoked meats, fresh cheeses, and a bottle of sparkling wine to go. Upstairs, the sister restaurant, Aire, offers à la carte bites, a full cocktail menu, and desserts in the evening.

Where to Stay in Formentera

Refined and understated, Es Mares Hotel & Spa integrates natural elements into its elegant interiors. This rural stay allows you to revel in nature's bounty or take a break at the hotel's spa, adorned in reflective golden tiles that radiate warmth. For an ultra-glam experience, try the luxe 60-minute Citrus Essence facial.

Cala Saona Hotel & Spa is situated atop a hill connected by a wooden pathway to one of the island's loveliest coves. This 98-room property blends with the scenery thanks to its earth-toned simplicity. Snag a suite, complete with a private terrace and a Jacuzzi, to enjoy unbelievable views of the sunset's pink and orange rays.

Balearic Islands Travel Tips

Ibiza and Menorca offer a selection of outlets and high-end boutique shops, while Formentera is known for its bohemian clothing, accessories, and decor shops. Commercial stores are usually open late Monday through Saturday, while independent shops routinely take siesta breaks at some point between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., then reopen until 8 or 9 p.m. Outdoor markets operate daily in some communities, and weekly in others.

Restaurant opening times vary by season and location. During the summer, most Mallorca and Ibiza restaurants are open daily, while some Menorca and Formentera establishments close on Sundays and Mondays. Reservations are recommended during this time of the year. Off-season, restaurants adopt a more laidback schedule; some decrease their hours, while others close their doors until the spring. Call ahead to avoid disappointment.

Spaniards dine out a little differently, so be sure to check the hours before you decide where to eat. Some, but not all, restaurants will close after lunch, and won't reopen for dinner until 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. and may stay open as late as 12 a.m. In busy cities and popular tourist areas, some restaurants will be open throughout the day, but it's not a given.

Contrary to popular belief, all of Spain's beaches are public. That said, resort properties pay hefty sums for the privilege to charge visitors for amenities such as sun beds and umbrellas. Expect to pay a separate fee per item, depending on the location.

Tourist Taxes in the Balearic Islands

Expect to pay a tourist tax at your accommodation. Fees will vary, depending on the category of the stay, with discounts offered for extended stays. Cruise ship passengers are not immune; charges are incurred at each port of call.

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13 top tips for travelling to mallorca.

13 Top Tips When Travelling to Mallorca

Before I travelled to Mallorca, I honestly thought it was only a place for package tourists and badly sunburnt brits abroad!

Admittedly, this might be due to an opinion formed during my childhood holidays there in the early nineties, but nevertheless, I certainly wasn’t aware of how great Mallorca was for independent tourists.

I knew nothing of the wonderful resort-free beaches it offers, the great hiking and fantastic cycling you can enjoy there, nor the charming historic port towns and wonderful deserted forests and coves you can easily stumble upon.

Yes, I think it’s fair to say I was a Mallorca novice!

But after just 1 week there, I’ve very much become a Mallorca convert!

Because while there are a few resort spots you can give a wide berth to, the rest of the wonderful island is just begging to be discovered.

Drenched in Spanish sunshine from April to October, the island is not only easy and inexpensive to get to, but it’s also simple and affordable to adventure around once you’re there.

So if you’re thinking of heading to this Balearic beauty, then read on to learn all my top tips when it comes to travelling to Mallorca…

Europe, Spain, Mallorca

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#1 How Best to Get to Mallorca?

Spain, Mallorca, Me Hiking

So first up with the obvious question – how to get to Mallorca!

Confusingly also often referred to as Majorca (so don’t be confused it is the same place – just one uses the Catalan spelling and the other the anglicised one!), this island makes up one of the Balearic Islands, just off the coast of Barcelona in eastern Spain.

The capital of the island is Palma, which is a beautiful city (learn more in this article ) with the only international airport.

As such, unless you are getting a ferry from Barcelona, it’s highly likely you’ll be looking for a flight to Palma to get to Mallorca.

Flights arrive regularly here from many European capitals, including several London airports.

Budget airlines offer the best deals (if you don’t have any check-in luggage), otherwise you might be surprised by the affordability of regular airlines such as British Airways when you include checked luggage.

The best way to get info on all prices is to use a comparison tool of course and, as always, I suggest Skyscanner for the job!

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#2 Do You Need a Visa?

Spain, Mallorca, Palma Wall

Mallorca is part of Spain, so if you usually need a visa to visit this European country you’ll need one for Mallorca.

For those lucky ones, Spain is of course part of the Schengen travel zone in the EU, and this extends to the Balearic island of Mallorca.

For Brits wanting to get to Mallorca, you don’t need a visa, but post-Brexit, we are now limited to 90 days out of every 180 in the EU – boo hiss!

#3 When Should You Visit?

Spain, Mallorca, Beach

No question in my mind that the best time to visit Mallorca is between the months of March and October – this is when the warm weather will allow you to take full advantage of the island’s beautiful landscapes and beaches.

Just beware that in July and August especially, the island can experience some very high temperatures – think mid 30 degrees plus – so do bear that in mind if you’re not a fan of the heat or you want to enjoy some more active adventures on the island.

When I visited in mid-September the temperatures were still in the high twenties and very pleasant.

#4 How Long Should You Visit Mallorca For?

Spain, Mallorca, Building

The amount of time you’ll want to spend in Mallorca will very much depend on what you plan to do there, whether you’ve been before and how long you have for your trip overall!

In general, most people tend to enjoy 1-2 weeks on the island – this is a good amount of time if you want to include some days relaxing on the beach, as well as enjoy some other activities the island has to offer including cycling, hiking and wine tasting – more on this later!

2 weeks will certainly allow you to explore most of the island, especially if you have a car, whereas with just one week you might have to choose certain regions of the island to concentrate on i.e. the west and the north.

#5 How Best to Get Around Mallorca?

Spain, Mallorca, Soller Train

So with the mention of car hire, it seems like a good opportunity to talk about getting around Mallorca and how best to do this.

There are certainly some local bus options you can use to get around the island – although these can be infrequent and irregular.

There’s also a train that runs from Port de Sóller to Palma, and while you certainly can use this, it is more of a tourist option than a regular commuter train.

In all honestly therefore, unless you are planning to stay in a resort and not move, the best option is to rent a car.

This will give the you freedom to get around and explore all the hidden beaches and cute towns you wish too – a key part when travelling to Mallorca.

I usually rent a vehicle with Thrifty Car Hire as they operate globally and have some great rates, however I actually found better deal in Mallorca with Wiber – so do check these guys out too.

All the car hire companies have handy depots near the airport in Palma, with shuttle services that can connect you with the arrival / departure hall and your rental car location.

If you plan to rent a car, don’t forget to check if you need an international driving license to drive in Mallorca.

And do remember to bring this with you, as well as the credit card you reserved the car with, when you come to collect the vehicle.

If you don’t feel confident driving in Mallorca, then I would definitely recommend basing yourself somewhere near the airport for ease i.e. in Palma or the areas around.

There’s lots to do in these places and the beaches are beautiful too.

#6 A Word About Orientating & Driving in Mallorca!

Spain, Mallorca, Ocean View

So that you’ve got your hire car in Mallorca, it’s probably worth talking a little bit about orientating and driving on this island.

Being part of Spain, they drive on the right-hand side in Mallorca – so Brits and other left-hand drivers do keep this in mind!

You’ll also be pleased to know that the roads are very good in Mallorca and that the main highways here are especially well-maintained and easy to drive on.

The only challenging part can be in the north of the island where the twisting mountainous roads do require some patience and skills to navigate.

As always, google maps can get you around safely however.

Just remember that if you are hiring a car, you may want to bring a phone holder that will help you navigate using Google as most rentals don’t include them.

#7 Where Should You Stay in Mallorca?

Spain, Mallorca, Airbnb Shade

The island can generally be split into 4 main regions – the more remote north, the most populated west with Palma and Magaluf, the beach coves of the south and the long sandy strips and resorts of the east.

Thinking about what you want to do during your trip, and also how you might get around the island, are the key credentials when it comes to deciding where you might stay.

Check out this article I wrote specifically about how to choose where to stay if you are travelling to Mallorca.

#8 Best Things to Do in Mallorca?

Spain, Mallorca, Palma Cathedral

So yes, a key part to planning your whole trip to the island of Mallorca is deciding what you want to do there!

Do you just want to laze at the pool in the resort, go out day tripping and exploring, or do some serious hiking and cycling?

Are you up for getting off the beaten track to discover hidden coves, or would you rather stick to the easier and more accessible sandy stretches?

As a guide, the more developed resorts and sandy strips tend to be around Palma in the northwest of the island and also near Alcúdia in the northeast.

The south and especially the north tend to be a bit more remote, with the latter providing most of the island’s great cycling and hiking trails, while the former has some beautiful cove beaches.

And who can forget the wine tasting and all the eating you can enjoy in Mallorca too?!

Many of the vineyards tend to be in the central flatter belt of the island, while wonderful restaurants can be found across Mallorca, but especially in the northern towns of Port de Sóller, Deià and Valldemossa.

Palma itself is also worth a couple of days – it’s a beautiful coastal city with a lovely historic centre and impressive cathedral!

#9 Is Mallorca Safe?

Spain, Mallorca, Palm Tree Sunset

Yes Mallorca is very safe to travel and very easy to as well.

Although the language of the local people is Spanish, due to the well-developed tourism industry here, English is widely spoken.

The island is also very used to tourism, meaning the infrastructure is good and things are generally set up and very straightforward for the average visitor.

Travelling as solo female here I’d certainly feel safe and, even if you don’t speak Spanish or you get lost, there’s good data coverage across most of the island you can always tap into.

On that note, if you’re from the EU you won’t experience roaming charges when you visit in Mallorca, which is a real blessing!

If you come from further afield then, as with anywhere in the world, I highly recommend getting your hands on a SIM card that will allow you to access the data network – you can pick one up at the airport or in Palma.

Having access to the internet is a great way to help you feel safe, to navigate with maps, to book activities or accommodation and to keep in touch with those at home.

If even you decide not to go down the data option, then it’s worth knowing all accommodation and restaurants / cafes etc (well all the ones I experienced anyway) certainly had free wifi you could connect to!

best way to travel mallorca

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

#10 How Much Does it Cost to Travel Mallorca?

Spain, Mallorca, Red Earth

Well this really depends on what sort of trip you decide to do in Mallorca, because honestly you could cycle and camp or stay in Airbnb’s and have a super cheap trip, or you could stay in a 5 star all-inclusive resort and blow a couple of grand!

In general, however, I found Mallorca a pretty affordable destination.

Both food and drinks are cheap in average bars and supermarkets are well-stocked which means if you have the facilities you can certainly cook in.

Airbnb’s tend to be pretty well-priced too, particularly if there’s a large group or family of you going and flights over to Palma are really affordable from elsewhere in Europe.

Our car hire cost a couple of hundreds euros for the week and we got a very efficient car so it didn’t use a lot of petrol.

In general, I find Spain is by far one of the cheapest countries in Western Europe to travel (Germany and Portugal are the other budget gems in this region), so don’t let money put you off if you’re thinking of travelling to Mallorca.

#11 What’s the Food and Drink Like?

Spain, Mallorca, Wine Tasting Glasses

And yes, one reason you might want to head to Mallorca is for the delicious food and drink!

Let’s start with the simple stuff – tap water here is generally potable, which means you don’t have to buy bottled water and waste all those plastic bottles – hoorah!

Beer and wine is also very affordable, especially the local stuff… did I mention Mallorca has a well-established wine culture and you can actually visit vineyards here and arrange tastings?

Food can be very affordable too if you go for the local options, especially tapas.

Paella and all things jamon (if you’re not veggie) are of course also local winners!

Vegetarians (como yo!) might find things a little hard here but not impossible.

The island has a lot of olive groves and orange plantations, so at the very least you should get heavily involved in both of these products!

Other foods such as the pizza and pasta classics are also readily available.

And of course ice cream… what are holidays for after all?!

#12 What Should You Pack?

Spain, Mallorca, Olive Tree

And now that you’re hopefully pretty much sold on the idea that a trip to Mallorca is a good one, it’s time to think about what you should pack for a fantastic trip here.

Well first up, we want to cover the beachwear, as this is pretty much an essential in my opinion!

If you’re not a beach person, you probably won’t be heading to this island!

So yes swimwear, beach towel , sunscreen and a good hat are musts.

I’d also bring activewear with you when travelling to Mallorca so that you can enjoy some of the fantastic hiking and cycling on offer here.

And what about some nice clothes in case you want to go out to dinner?

That said, things are pretty casual on this island, so shorts and t-shirts are totally fine in the day, plus trousers and a top for the evenings.

If you’re visiting outside of the peak summer, then I’d advise a warm jumper and perhaps even a thin waterproof jacket in case of the odd of the shower.

And oh insect repellent is a definite must!

Learn more in this complete Spanish packing list .

#13 Can You Hike & Cycle Unguided?

Spain, Mallorca, Hiking

In a simple, word, yes!

This island is an amazing spot for independent hikers and cyclists and I highly suggest taking full advantage if you’re travelling to Mallorca.

The best spot to get active is probably in the mountainous north of the island, where the twisty-turny roads lend themselves to a good adventure!

There are even several dedicated cycle trails, including the famous 312 route, which will take you a good few days to complete.

For hikers, the north is also the best spot to head for.

There’s some amazing multi-day trails you can walk that take between 8-10 days – the most popular are the GR221 and the GR222.

You can also opt for day treks that take in shorter sections of these routes.

This is what I did when I was in Mallorca and I have to say that the stretch between Deià and Port de Sóller was particularly wonderful – not least because it started and finished in 2 of Mallorca’s top towns!

This meant I managed to combine a good hike and some fab sightseeing, as well as a good sea swim and some beach time all in one day – what a winner!

If you would rather take a guided walking tour in Mallorca however, then this is also possible. Check out these top picks .

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13 Top Travel Tips for Mallorca, Spain

So there you have it, my top 13 tips for travelling Mallorca!

Have I sold you on this beautiful Spanish island yet?

I sincerely hope so!

Got any questions?

Then don’t hesitate to drop them into the comments box below and I’ll get back to you!

best way to travel mallorca

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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Love and Road

Love and Road

Mallorca Weekend: The Perfect 3 or 2 Day Mallorca Itinerary

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Planning a weekend in Mallorca and want to know how to make the most of your time? You’re in the right spot because I’m ready to share with you all my knowledge and love for Mallorca. 

Let me introduce you to Mallorca, an island off the coast of Spain , near Valencia. While many travel to nearby Ibiza, Mallorca has much more charm!

While spending only 2 days in Mallorca will be packed, it’s totally doable and makes for a pretty magical couple of days! This itinerary allows you to experience some of the best on the island and get a sense of its culture. You’ll want to come back to explore more!

Let’s dive in!

A beach cove on Mallorca Island, the turquoise water contrasts with the rock in the background. A few people are swimming in the cove.

Mallorca Weekend Overview

For this Mallorca itinerary, I assume you arrive on Friday evening and spend all Saturday and Sunday on the island, leaving on Sunday. If you arrive on Saturday, you may have to tweak the morning.

Alternatively, if you have a long weekend in Mallorca and have all of Friday, I recommend adding this catamaran tour to your agenda. You will get access to exclusive coves to swim in, along with tapas and wine. Need I say more?

For those who are not fans of boat trips, go to Puerto Pollensa Town and its gorgeous beaches and the famous MIrador Es Colomer. We are not adding Pollensa to this 2-day Mallorca itinerary because it’s a bit far from Palma, you definitely need an extra day(s) to visit it. 

If you keep this Mallorcan travel guide “as is,” you will split your time between beach time and exploring the cities that I love.

Friday night will be spent hanging out in the capital city, Palma. Saturday will be spent exploring the Traumontana mountain towns, with Sunday being a beach day.

Photo of the flight ticket from Mallorca to Ibiza in Spain.

How to Get Around Mallorca

I’ve also created the itinerary, assuming you have a rental car, as this is the best way to travel around Mallorca. Renting a car is affordable and gives you much more freedom and flexibility to see things without worrying about returning to the bus stop at a specific time.

However, when I visited the island, I traveled around by rental car and public bus so I could get a feel for both methods. After the itinerary, I’ll give some ways you could do this itinerary without a car.

Click here to find the best rental car deals in Mallorca.

Photo of the side of Palma de Mallorca Cathedral, one of the tallest cathedrals in Europe and a major attraction in Mallorca old town.

Day 0 – Friday Night in Mallorca

Afternoon/evening.

Since you’re leaving the city tomorrow, today is going to be a full day of seeing all the main sites of Palma before dinner and drinks.

There are a few things that you can’t spend a weekend in Palma de Mallorca without crossing off your Mallorcan bucket list:

  • The Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma —the Gothic Roman Catholic Cathedral—is in the center of town. It is one of the tallest Gothic cathedrals in Europe and was partially renovated by the famous Antoni Gaudi. It is one of the most visited places on the island.

Depending on the season, the inside may be closed—it closes around 3 p.m. in the low season and around 5 p.m. in the high season. If you can go inside, don’t skip it because it has a huge rose window.

If you can’t, no worries because the outside of Palma Cathedral is still stunning.

  • Royal Palace of La Almudaina – When the Spanish king and queen visit the island, this is where they stay. It’s only a 5-minute walk from the cathedral so you can see these 2 relatively quickly.

PRO TIP: if you want epic photos of Almudaina Palace and the cathedral, go down the Parc de la Mar stairs.

After seeing these sites, you’ll have some time to get lost in the streets of Palma Old Town before dinner (remember, dinner is LATE in Spain!) The two streets that you should make sure to visit are:

  • La Rambla: A beautiful, paved street that is designed for pedestrians. It’s a relaxing and pretty road with flowers and trees, which might be very welcome from the sun!
  • Passeig Del Born: If you want to do some luxury shopping, spend some extra time here because this is the place to do it! You’ll find all sorts of designer shops and unique boutiques.

Don’t miss a pre-dinner glass of wine at “WINEING,” where you have a self-service wine vending machine. Yes, you read that right, and yes, it’s awesome.

After wine, head over to La Rosa Vermuteria if you want a more trendy spot for dinner. They are known for tapas and vermouth.

If you want to try traditional Mallorcan food, I recommend Celler Pages or Cafe Ca’n Toni . Just make sure to reserve ahead as these spots are hoppin’.

Hilltop village of Deia, a chaming town in the Mallorca Mountains.

Day 1 – Saturday in Mallorca

Before heading out for the day, wander over to Panadera S’Estacio for a light breakfast. This really cool cafe has a partial-glass floor where you can see the bakers doing their thang.

What you have to get here is the traditional ensaïmada pastry, a spiral-shaped and fluffy pastry that is made with pork lard. Don’t worry, it doesn’t taste weird! You can get it with all kinds of filling, but I recommend sticking to the traditional, un-filled one.

Before heading into the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, take a quick drive outside Palma to visit Castel Bellver . It was built in the 14th century for the royalty to stay, and it has some gorgeous views of Palma City!

If you want to go inside, you have to buy a ticket but, even if you don’t, it’s worth seeing for the beautiful views and outside of the Bellver Castle itself.

For the afternoon, you should divide your time between 2 of my favorite mountain towns – Deia and Valldemossa. These cities make you feel like you’ve gone to Tuscany instead of being in Spain.

It’s important to note that you will be driving along the Highway called the MA10 to get to these towns, and it’s a little scary. We came across blind, hair-pin turns with rails that really didn’t instill a sense of safety.

Make sure you go SLOW. All the other tourist cars are too, so don’t worry!

– Valldemossa Village

The best way to experience Valldemossa is simply by wandering around the narrow streets. They are super charming and lined with flowers, stone houses, cute shops, and some adorable restaurants.

If you like art, check out the Carthusian Monastery, where Chopin used to stay in the winter.

Mountain houses at Tramuntana range. Valldemossa Village is a place you should add to your Mallorca Weekend itinerary.

– Deia Village

Deia is one of the most fairytale places I’ve ever been. It’s very similar to Valldemossa, except the views are better as it’s atop a hill. Make sure you walk down the MA10 to the lookout spot (you can’t miss it) for the best views of the city built on the hill.

Here, you can wander the streets or hit Cala Deia for sun and swimming. You’ll find a beautiful cover with rocks to lay on and suntan.

FYI, Cala is how they call beaches in Mallorca. So every time I tell you to go to those beautiful calas I mean go to those beautiful beaches. 😉

If you’re looking for something fancy and romantic, going for dinner at El Olivio is a must. The view is second to none but it is hard to get in, so make reservations!

You could also head back into Palma and choose one of the recommendations from last night if you want something less fancy and want to spend more time in the lively Mallorcan capital.

Mallorca sandy beach with people relaxing by the sea. The water is crystal clear.

Day 2 – Sunday in Mallorca

Today, you will do a little beach hopping because Mallorca is in the Mediterranean Sea , home to some of the best beaches ever! But first, breakfast!

Head over to the fan-favorite La Moleinda cafe , where you can get some Instagram-worthy breakfast options to tide you over. You can also stop at the supermarket to grab snacks for a beach day!

Once you’re fueled and ready, jump in the car and start the 1 hour and 15-minute drive to the beachy town in the Southern part of Mallorca, Cala d’Or . You can spend time wandering around the town if you want, or get to the beach.

Cala d’Or has a few beaches nearby that are walkable from each other. We suggest dividing your morning between Cala Gran (the closest beach,) Cala Esmeralda, and Cala Ferrera . Or, just stay at one all morning – the world is your oyster.

Now, it’s time to head over to one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Mallorca, Calo Des Moro . It’s about a 30-minute drive and has some of the most turquoise-blue water on the island!

The best way to get to Calo Des Moro is to head to Carrer des Calo des Moro (a street) and then take the staircase down to Cala S’Almunia. From there, you can walk to the beach.

ITINERARY EDIT: If you don’t want to beach hop and prefer to park at one beach all day long, skip the beaches around Cala d’Or in the morning and go straight to Calo Des Moro!

You won’t have many options for lunch around the beach, which is where those snacks come in handy. If you didn’t plan ahead, you could drive about 15 minutes to Cala Figuera, a super cute fishing village that has restaurants on cliffs with stunning views!

Sunset on the Mallorca Island in Spain. The sun is setting behind the rocks and a tiny boat on the sea.

Once the sun goes down, I recommend you catch one Mallorcan sunset as there are some of the most beautiful in Europe!

Route to the “Mirador Des Pontas,” about 15 minutes away. Once you get there, walk down the steep and rocky path to the lookout, where you will see a beautiful rock formation in the shape of an arch where the sun sets!

When you are done with the sunset and panoramic views, head back to Palma to grab dinner and enjoy your last evening on the island!

How to do this Mallorca weekend trip without a car?

If you’re coming to Mallorca and don’t plan to rent a car, you will need to make a few tweaks to this itinerary based on using public transport.

I would recommend a few things:

Mallorca Day 0 evening – keep this the same. You can get the A1 airport bus directly to Palma city center right from the airport, check into your hotel, and then explore and have dinner.

Mallorca Day 1 – I recommend cutting out Castell de Bellver in the morning to have more time to get around the beautiful villages.

However, if you want to use it, do not take public transport. Instead, book a ticket for the Hop On Hop Off bus because it takes you right to the front door. The public bus drops you at the bottom of the huge hill.

Your legs will thank me later.

In order to get to the mountain villages by bus, the easiest way is to get to the intermodal station (bus station) in the city center. From there, take the #203 Valldemossa bus. It’s only 30 minutes or so, and it comes quite regularly, especially during the day.

When you’re ready to leave Valldemossa, take the #203 Soller bus 15 minutes to Deia.

When you’re ready to leave Deia, you must take 2 buses. First, take the #203 Valldemossa to Valdemossa, then the #203 Palma back to the bus station.

It’s confusing because the bus numbers are the same, so make sure you read the screens on the bus. Or, ask the bus driver as they are happy to tell you.

PRO TIP: you can pay for the bus by credit card by tapping when you get on the bus. BUT, you also have to tap when you get off each bus, or you’ll be charged the full rate.

Mallorca Day 2 – If you are taking the bus, skip Cala d’Or and the surrounding beaches because you will have to spend a lot of time on the bus today.

First, you need to take a one-and-a-half-hour bus to Santanyi. Then, from the Polygon S’Olivio bus stop, take the #505 bus to S’Almunia Beach/Calo Des Moro and Cala Llombards. From there, walk 20 minutes to Calo Des Moro.

Some of these buses don’t run in the low season, like November in Mallorca , so this may not be an option if you travel from October through March.

Your best bet is truly to rent a car! Or, if you must take the bus, you could consider the beach right in Palma – Playa de Palma. It’s not as beautiful, but it’s still a Mediterranean beach, so it doesn’t suck, you know?

Where to stay in Mallorca for the weekend

To make the most of this itinerary, I recommend staying all 3 nights in Palma. Palma has the most to do in the evenings and has the most hotel options to suit your travel style and budget.

You could decide to stay the first night in Palma, the second in Deia, and the third in Santanyi, a small and cute town right by the sunset spot, if you don’t want to drive back to Palma each night.

This would be doable if you have a car, but I would not recommend it if you’re taking the bus, as reaching places by bus from Palma is the easiest.

If you’re travelling with family or a large group of friends, these  holiday villas in Mallorca  have all the room and privacy you could ever need. And not to mention — they’ve got stunning views and a wonderful concierge team.

best way to travel mallorca

Here are three options of hotels in Palma de Mallorca I recommend:

(click on the hotel’s name to see the photos and rates)

  • El Llorenc Parc de la Mar – Adults Only (+16) – 5-star hotel in Mallorca / Wonderful 9.2 of 1,108 reviews.
  • AH Art Hotel Palma – 4-star hotel in Palma / Wonderful 9.1 of 930 reviews.
  • Hotel Araxa – Adults Only – 3-star hotel in Palma de Mallorca / Very Good 8.5 of 2,264 reviews.

I stayed at this Airbnb and LOVED it. It’s gorgeous, traditional, and centrally located!

Travel Advice:

Don’t forget your Travel Insurance! You don’t want anything to ruin your trip, right? So don’t take the risk! Reliable travel insurance can help you in case of travel issues, from accidents to health problems, travel delays, and lost luggage.

There are many insurances in the market, our picks are  HeyMondo  and  SafetyWing . We used both and always had a good experience. Click on the insurance names to get a quote.

FAQ – Weekend in Mallorca, Spain

Can you do mallorca in 2 days.

Yes, you can do Mallorca in 2 days! It will be packed if you want to see a lot but it’s doable. You’ll be able to experience a little bit of beach and some of the beautiful mountain villages.

Is Mallorca touristy?

Yes, Mallorca is quite touristy, especially in the summer months. However, it’s still worth checking out for its beautiful beaches, mountain towns, and stunning sunsets!

How to get to Mallorca?

The easiest way to fly to Palma de Mallorca Airport, which receives direct flights from all over Europe including budget airlines.

I suggest you use Skyscanner to find the best flights to Mallorca .

Another option is to take a ferry from a coastal town in Spain like Barcelona or Valencia (here is our Valencia Weekend Guide ). But it’s only worth it if you take the night ferry on Thursday or Friday evening and arrive early in Mallorca to enjoy the day. 

You can search for the ferries to Mallorca on Bookaway .

Which other places you should visit in Mallorca?

Well, the whole of Mallorca Island is stunning and worth seeing, but if you have some extra time go to Puerto Pollensa as we mentioned, also check out Port D’Alcudia which has beach resorts and a cute old town. Port de Soller is also worth visiting. 

There are plenty of charming towns, coastal villages, and beaches to visit in Mallorca. After this first weekend here, you will probably plan many more visits.  

Let’s wrap this Mallorca weekend guide

Phew – that’s it! I hope you found this itinerary helpful and now know how to enjoy the best of Mallorca in 2 days!

Whether you decide to rent a car or be adventurous and do it by bus, you’re sure to have an epic weekend in Mallorca! There are so many beautiful towns, beaches that rival the Caribbean, and delicious traditional food with amazing Spanish wine that it’s hard to have a bad time!

Love this Mallorca weekend guide? Pin it for later!

Follow this guide for the perfect 2 or 3 days in Mallorca, Spain. A practical itinerary with what to do in Mallorca in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Tips on where to stay in Mallorca to maximize your time on the island. Plus where to eat, experiences to have, and how to plan the perfect Mallorca weekend.

Author: Taylor Kiser

Taylor is the creator of Culture Craving Couple, a travel blog focused on traveling in the USA and Europe. She and her husband’s goal is to help couples explore the world, and have amazing, off-the-beaten-path experiences and the best food and drinks while growing closer. However, they also believe that traveling should not just be about “taking” from a country, but also about giving back to it.

Photo of the Luzern-Interlaken Express train riding bay a lake in Switzerland.

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Mallorca   Travel Guide

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best way to travel mallorca

Getting Around Mallorca

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

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

Explore More of Mallorca

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Things To Do

Es Princep

Best Hotels

World Map

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Mallorca road trip: The best itineraries for 4, 5, 7, 8 and 10 days

The 3 best road trip itineraries to visit mallorca by car.

You’re planning to do a road trip in Mallorca ?

Great idea!

Visiting Mallorca by car is the only way to reach all its stunning beaches and coves . A road trip around Mallorca is the perfect way to make the most of your visits and effortlessly uncover the island’s must-see spots.

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared this travel guide with the 3 best road trips itineraries in Mallorca depending on the duration of your stay (4, 5, 7, 8 and 10 days). For each duration, I will give you a summary of the itinerary as well as the link to read the detailed itinerary article.

And at the end of this guide, I will also give you my list of the best accommodations in Mallorca depending on your budget as well as my best tips to enjoy the perfect road trip.

Let’s plan your road trip!

Which airport should you choose to kick off your road trip in Mallorca?

Which port should you choose to start your road trip in mallorca, renting a car for a road trip in mallorca, road trip in mallorca: 4 or 5 days, road trip in mallorca: one-week itinerary, 1) south mallorca (6 days), 2) north mallorca (4 days), best hotels in south mallorca – near palma de mallorca, best hotels in north mallorca – near alcudia, when’s the best time to embark on a mallorca road trip, other activity ideas for a mallorca road trip, you’re traveling to mallorca these articles will help you .

Mallorca boasts just one airport. It’s located in the southern part of the island, a mere 10 km from the historic center of Palma de Mallorca .

Thus, Palma is the ideal starting point for exploring Mallorca by car. That’s why I’ve chosen to commence all of my Mallorca routes from there .

Flight prices to Palma de Mallorca can vary enormously, so it’s a smart idea to start comparing them as early as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner . It’s the guarantee of getting the best price .

Instead of flying, you might also opt to take the ferry to Mallorca .

You can sail to Mallorca from other islands in the Balearic archipelago: Menorca , Ibiza, and Formentera .

You can also get to Mallorca by ferry from certain cities on mainland Spain . It’s a bit of a long haul, but if that floats your boat, here are the details you’ll need:

  • Palma is served by ferries coming from Barcelona . Do bear in mind that the crossing takes about 7 hours on average.
  • You can also sail to Palma de Mallorca from Valencia . The crossing takes between 7 and 8 hours, depending on the company.

In addition to the port of Palma, Mallorca also has a second port up north, in Alcudia .

It welcomes boats from Menorca (1h15 journey from Ciutadella or 3h30 journey from Mahon) and Barcelona (a 6-hour crossing).

Another option to reach Mallorca is by sailing from France, specifically from Toulon . Corsica Ferries operates this route, but keep in mind that the journey takes approximately 18 hours.

Planning a road trip without discussing cars would be nonsense! As I mentioned, to truly experience Mallorca, you should definitely get a car. Without it, reaching all the beautiful coves is practically mission impossible.

If you plan on coming to Mallorca with your own vehicle from Toulon or Barcelona, you can skip straight to the next section .

Otherwise, whether you arrive by boat or plane, make sure you rent a car upon arrival , near the port or directly at the airport. If you’ve used this blog for trip planning before, you know I always vouch for Rentalcars.com .

So, to keep things consistent, I suggest you book through them for your Mallorca journey as well. I’ve relied on them for all my trips, whether to Greece , Sicily , Crete or even Thailand .

I find it super handy because with one click, you can compare all the car rental rates in Mallorca (both local and international). You’ll quickly notice car rental options that include unlimited mileage or the option to add a second driver .

Rentalcars also offers its own insurance, cheaper and far more comprehensive than what local rental agencies might suggest. The complete protection insurance from Rentalcars covers the full refund of costs incurred in the event of an accident or theft .

If this option isn’t already included in your credit card insurance, you can add it at the time of your booking.

The site also allows (under certain conditions) for free modifications or cancellations .

Given the high tourist activity on the island during the peak season, you should definitely book your car in advance to have the widest possible choice and get the best rate .

Click the button below to compare the prices of car rentals in Mallorca right now:

Parque natural de Mondragón - Mondrago Natural Park

If you’ve chosen a brief getaway to Mallorca because you only have a few days’ holiday, I’d recommend you stick around Palma to explore the surroundings with day-long mini road trips .

If you want to explore Mallorca by car , this location is perfect for getting around with ease .

I’ve put together all the details and my top tips for planning your 4 or 5-day itinerary in Mallorca in my dedicated article.

There, you’ll find all my visit recommendations for each day , so you won’t miss out on any must-see attractions and my selection of the best hotels to stay in during your Mallorca holiday.

To read this complete guide, all you need to do is click on the following link (in orange): Recommended itinerary for a brief getaway to Mallorca .

Palma de Mallorca

Here, I’m suggesting a sample road trip starting from Palma to explore Mallorca by car for a week.

On the agenda for this 1-week road trip in Mallorca:

  • Palma de Mallorca (1 day)
  • The beaches of the south (1 day)
  • Sineu, the famous caves and the beaches (1 day)
  • The most beautiful coves of the southeast (1 day)
  • Serra de Tramontana (1 day)
  • Cap de Formentor (1 day)
  • The beaches of the northeast (1 day)

First day – Exploring the city of Palma de Mallorca on foot

  • The covered market
  • The shopping streets of the historic centre
  • The plaça Major and the Plaça Cort
  • Palma Cathedral
  • Royal Palace of La Almudaina
  • Parc de la Mar
  • Boat excursion at sunset

If you’re eager to explore Palma in just one day and want a detailed sightseeing itinerary, look no further! My article has got you covered with all the info you need: Visit Palma de Mallorca .

Second day – Relaxing on the most beautiful beaches in the south of Mallorca, including:

  • The beaches of Cap de Ses Salines : El Caragol beach and Cala en Tugores
  • Es Trenc beach , a must-see during a week’s road trip in Mallorca!
  • Can Curt beach
  • Es Carbo beach
  • Ses Roquetes beach

El Caragol Beach - Around Palma de Mallorca

Third day of this 7-day road trip in Mallorca:

Visit the Sineu market before exploring one of the 2 most famous caves in Mallorca, each housing a subterranean lake and offering a small concert on the water : the Hams caves and the Drach caves .

To book your tickets in advance for the Coves dels Hams , just click on the button below:

You can then go on a hike of the 4 coves or enjoy the wonderful coves of the Cala d’Or resort .

On day four , dedicate your time to discovering the stunning coves in the southeastern part of the island :

  • Calo del Moro , which is in my opinion one of the most charming coves you’ll get to see on this 7-day road trip in Mallorca
  • Cala S’Almunia
  • Cala Llombards
  • Cala Santanyi
  • The 3 coves of Mondrago Natural Park.

Cala del Moro Mallorca

On the fifth day , set a course for the north of the island by taking the road that crosses the quaint, traditional villages of the Serra de Tramontana :

  • Lluc and its monastery
  • Pollença : a must-see during your road trip in Mallorca!

For day six , take the scenic drive along Cap de Formentor and soak in the incredible views of the cliffs.

Stop for a swim at the Formentor beach or Cala Figuera cove before heading to the old town of Alcudia for a stroll among its ramparts.

End the day on the very long sandy beach of Alcudia: Muro beach .

On the seventh day, set off for a hike in the natural park of the Peninsula de Llevant .

Then, have your last swim at one of the stunning beaches of the northeastern coast :

  • Cala Mesquida
  • Cala Mitjana
  • Cala Estreta
  • Cala Es Matzoc
  • Cala Agulla

Eighth day – End of the holidays, it’s off to Palma de Mallorca airport for the return trip.

Fancy a one-week road trip in Mallorca ? Go take a look at my dedicated article : One-week itinerary in Mallorca .

Very handy, you’ll also find plenty of top tips and hotels to sleep in in Mallorca. It’s the best way to easily prepare for your trip !

Pollença

Road Trip in Mallorca: 10 days

For this new adventure, I propose a 10-day road trip to discover Mallorca by car .

This itinerary starts from Palma but if you’re arriving at the port of Alcudia, you can, of course, reverse the stages. This well-rounded itinerary combines sightseeing, beach relaxation, and exciting activities to ensure you experience all the must-visit destinations on the island .

On the agenda for this 10-day road trip in Mallorca:

  • Palma de Mallorca
  • The beaches of the south
  • The coves of the southeast
  • The island of Sa Dragonera
  • The Serra de Tramontana
  • Cap de Formentor
  • Llevant Peninsula Natural Park
  • The northeastern coves

I’ve summarized the main stages of this road trip below, but you can find all the details by clicking on this link: 10-day itinerary in Mallorca .

To begin this 10-day Mallorca road trip , let’s explore the southern region of the island and kick things off with a visit to the vibrant city of Palma de Mallorca .

The historical center isn’t that vast, so a single day is enough to discover the main tourist attractions.

First day – Best things to see in Palma:

  • The old town : the cute alleyways lined with shops and the main squares
  • The cathedral
  • The royal palace

And to wrap up this first day, you should absolutely try this fantastic catamaran excursion with dinner included . All the info and bookings can be found by clicking the button below :

Stay the night in Palma. To plan your stroll around Palma, check out my article: 20 Things to do in Palma de Mallorca .

Palma de Mallorca - Cathedral and Royal Palace

On the second day , continue your 10-day Mallorca road trip by heading to Cap de Ses Salines where, provided you’re willing to walk a bit, you can laze around on the completely wild beaches of El Caragol and Cala En Tugores .

And if you prefer easier-to-access beaches , head to Colonia de Sant Jordi where you can set your towel down on the stunning turquoise water beach of Es Trenc .

In the area, you’ve also got the beaches of Es Dolç, Can Curt, Es Carbo and Ses Roquetes which are really pretty.

Spend a second night in Palma.

For the third day, I suggest a trip to Sineu market and then moving on to Porto Cristo to visit one of the two caves you should see on your road trip around Mallorca:

  • Coves del Drach
  • Coves dels Hams

Those who enjoy a good walk might then choose the hike of the 4 coves ( Cala Bota, Cala Virgili, Cala Pilota and Cala Magraner ).

Others might prefer the relaxation option at one of the coves of Cala D’Or . I recommend, for instance: Cala Esmeralda, Cala Gran, Cala Petita and Calo d’es Pou .

Spend another night in Palma de Mallorca.

Cala d'or Mallorca

Fourth day : head to one of the coves on the southeast of the island for a chill-out day. You can totally check out several coves in just one day .

Among the best-known and prettiest ones in the area, I suggest:

  • Calo de Moro : it’s one of the most popular inlets on the whole island and it truly is a stunning place
  • Cala Llombards : for a more family-friendly beach if you’ve opted for a family road trip around Mallorca

Also, don’t miss out on a visit to the Mondrago Natural Park where you can enjoy 3 more beautiful coves: S’Aramador beach, Cala Mondrago and Calo des Borgit .

Spend another night in Palma.

On the fifth day , I suggest you go and explore the island of Sa Dragonera , that you’ll find in the southwest of Mallorca. You can reach it by boat from Sant Elm, which is a 50-minute drive from Palma.

After Sa Dragonera and on your way back to Palma, you can:

  • Stop by the popular resort town of Magaluf known for its expansive sandy beach.
  • Take a walk around the marina of Portals Nous , to admire the yachts
  • Explore the Pilar and Joan Miró Foundation , a remarkable institution dedicated to the painter and sculptor of the same name.
  • Visit the Bellver Castle located on the heights of Palma.

Sa Dragonera

On the sixth day , I’m leaving the choice up to you, with a few different activities to consider :

  • Visiting Palma’s aquarium
  • Spending the day at Aqualand , the largest water park on the island
  • Going on an awesome quad bike excursion! 
  • Setting off for an exciting buggy outing or in a sports car .
  • Relaxing on the beach.

Spend a last night in Palma.

On the seventh day of your road trip around Mallorca, it’s time to leave Palma and continue your exploration in the north of the island .

The plan for the day: take the Serra de Tramontana road that goes through the whole island from south to north, making some stops :

  • In the pretty villages with traditional stone houses such as Valldemossa, Deià, Soller and Fornalutx
  • At Sa Calobra to see the Torrent de Pareis , a superb canyon with a cute little beach
  • At the Lluc Monastery , that you can visit if you feel like it
  • In the lovely traditional village of Pollença : it’s one of my favorite spots on this 10-day road trip around Mallorca!

Spend the night in Alcudia.

On the eighth day, I suggest you drive around the Cap de Formentor and make several stops at different viewpoints to admire the scenery . You could also take a dip at Formentor beach or the cove of Cala Figuera .

Next, head to the old town of Alcudia where you can take a walk around the city walls .

Finish the day on Muro beach, which stretches along the bay of Alcudia for several kilometers.

Spend another night in Alcudia.

Cap de Formentor - Mallorca

On the ninth and penultimate day of your 10-day tour of Mallorca , put on your hiking boots and hit one of the 13 trails of the Llevant Peninsula Natural Park .

In the afternoon, head to the most beautiful beaches in the north-east. You’ll be spoiled for choice between:

  • Cala Agulla 

Spend your last night in Alcudia.

On the tenth and final day , it’s time to wrap up this amazing road trip around Mallorca!

If you want more details on this 10-day road trip around Mallorca, feel free to check out my detailed article: 10-day itinerary in Mallorca .

You’ll also find my pick of the best accommodations for each stage of your road-trip. You’ll see, planning your 9-10 day trip to Mallorca is going to be quick and very easy !

Cala Gat Mallorca

Where to stay during your Mallorca road trip?

Alright, now you know where to head and what to do and see during your Mallorca road trip ! The last piece of the puzzle I’ve got to share with you are my top tips on where to sleep at each stop .

So, I’ve handpicked the best accommodations for you to rest in Mallorca for the two key stages: south and north.

There’s something for every budget, and all of them are already featured in the articles I’ve just mentioned, outlining the possible routes depending on the length of your vacation.

But I’ll put them here for you again. Feel free to click on the name of the hotel to get more details .

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

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

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

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

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

  • Hotel Victoria Gran Meliá : located right in front of Palma’s harbor. Double room starting at €270, breakfast for €29. Strong points: the great location, the sea view, and the amazing staff.
  • Nixe Palace: : located right next to Cala Major beach, this 5* hotel offers cozy double rooms with a balcony and sea view from €300 per night, breakfast for €24. Strong points: the setting with the stunning sea view, the excellent breakfast and the direct access to the beach. My recommendation for a high-end stay in Palma !
  • Hotel Antigua Palma – Casa Noble : this superb luxury hotel is located in the heart of the old town, just 100 meters from the cathedral. Stay in sumptuous, elegantly decorated rooms, from €450 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: The amazing spa with hammam and indoor pool, the tranquility, the particularly attentive staff and the rooftop. The best hotel in Palma for a luxury stay !
  • Hotel Ivory Playa Sports & Spa : Located just 50 meters from the beach in Alcudia Bay. Clean and well-appointed apartment with a sea-view balcony starting from €75. Strong points: the beach proximity, the pool, the Spa, the friendly staff, spacious rooms.
  • Ona Garden Lago : Located in Alcudia, 1 km from the beach. Large, modern, well-equipped (with a washing machine!), spacious apartment with a lovely terrace with sun loungers and a table, starting from €85 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the peaceful setting, the beautiful pool area, the good breakfast, the comfort. It’s my favorite for value for money in Alcudia !
  • Grupotel Maritimo : Located 150 meters from the beach. Modern and comfortable double room with a balcony starting from €110 per night, breakfast included (a dinner option is also available). Strong points: the indoor and outdoor pools, the Spa, the entertainment, the varied breakfast buffet, the comfortable beds.
  • Hotel Astoria Playa Adults Only 4* Sup : Located 150 meters from the beach. Double room with minimalist decor, a balcony, and for some a whirlpool bath, starting from €140 per night, breakfast and dinner included! Strong points: the pools, the quality of the meals, the kindness of the staff.
  • Forum Boutique Hotel & Spa – Adults Only : Small, charming hotel located in the heart of old Alcudia. Warm and cozy double room starting from €200, breakfast included. Strong points: the Spa with jacuzzi, sauna and hammam, the fabulous breakfast, the tranquility, the excellent reception. The best hotel in Alcudia for a luxury stay!

Cala Torta Mallorca

To hit the road in Mallorca, I highly recommend the months of May – June – July – August – September, and early October .

This is when you can max out on all the island’s attractions under a glorious sun: the beaches and coves, hiking trails, boat tours and the breathtaking natural landscapes.

About July and August, I’m sure I’m not telling you anything new by saying these two months coincide with the island’s peak tourist season . It’s therefore absolutely essential to book your hotels, car rental, and activities in advance , if you’ve decided to do your road trip in Mallorca in summer .

The best time to tour Mallorca by car is in September.

The weather is still warm and sunny , and with summer holidays winding down , you can expect fewer crowds . Indeed, September is hands down the best month to explore Mallorca on a road trip !

Please note, from late October until Easter holidays , many restaurants and hotels close . Most activities, including boat outings, don’t run, and the water’s too chilly for swimming.

So, a winter road trip in Mallorca isn’t really advisable.

If you’re looking to add more activities to your Mallorca road trip , I’ve selected a few that are really worth your time.

You need to click on the orange links below to check the details and make your reservations:

1) Top activities for the southern half of Mallorca (Palma and its surroundings)

Outdoor adventures

  • Off-road quad biking excursion – This is my top pick from this list! The trail’s absolutely ace because you’re hitting dirt paths and the guide’s just brilliant!
  • Guided buggy tour
  • 2.5-hour sports car ride in the afternoon or a 4.5-hour tour in the morning .

In Mallorca, you can also opt for an absolutely stunning activity: a hot air balloon ride !! I’ve put the link in the button below for bookings (it’s a must):

Hot air ballooning in Mallorca

  • Enjoy a sailing cruise with a barbecue onboard
  • Cave and cliff boat tour with two stops at secluded coves.
  • Boat trip around Palma Bay with a swimming stop in turquoise waters
  • One-hour boat ride around Palma’s marina to admire the view of the cathedral and Bellver Castle
  • Speedboat excursion – Thrills guaranteed!
  • Morning or afternoon boat parties
  • 2h30 boat party at sunset
  • Boat party at night – Departure from Palma at 22h

Water Activities

  • A one-hour jet ski tour in the protected Los Deltas area 
  • Jet ski outing in the Bay of Palma
  • Snorkeling in a nature reserve  
  • A diving initiation in a nature reserve – English-speaking instructor and in a small group!
  • A kayak excursion to visit the local sea caves 
  • Coasteering  
  • Marine caving to explore underground lakes
  • Canyoning (activity available only from October to the end of March because there’s no water otherwise)
  • Parasailing in Palma bay
  • A towed buoy session
  • Une sortie en paddle au coucher du soleil  

Sea caving - Mallorca

2) Activities in the north of Mallorca (Alcudia and surroundings)

  • Cruise of 3 hours on a small boat of maximum 12 people where you can see many dolphins around the Cape of Formentor
  • Sunrise cruise to get to see the dolphins
  • Catamaran excursion to the north coast of Mallorca , barbecue included
  • Sailboat cruise, tapas and wine included
  • Zodiac ride (max 12 people) to Cape Formentor and Cape Pinar
  • Sunset cruise for 2 on a beautiful sailboat , with dinner included
  • Horseback riding in the forest
  • Hidropark of Alcudia (water park)

And how about you? What do you plan to see during your road trip in Mallorca?

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

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

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Road Trip Mallorca

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

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Ways to Get from Barcelona to Mallorca: Your Ultimate Guide

Introduction.

Mallorca is a stunning island located in the Mediterranean Sea, and it’s a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to Mallorca, you may be wondering how to get there from Barcelona. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways to get from Barcelona to Mallorca and help you choose the best option for your needs.

The Best Ways to Get from Barcelona to Mallorca

Option 1: by air.

The fastest and most convenient way to get from Barcelona to Mallorca is by air. There are several airlines that operate flights between the two destinations, including Ryanair, Vueling, and Air Europa. Flights are usually between 1-2 hours long and are available throughout the year.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when flying from Barcelona to Mallorca:

  • Book your tickets in advance to secure the best deals.
  • Check the luggage restrictions and make sure you pack accordingly.
  • Arrive at the airport early to allow time for security checks and boarding.

Option 2: By Ferry

If you prefer to travel by sea, taking a ferry from Barcelona to Mallorca is a great option. There are several ferry companies that operate between the two destinations, including Balearia and Trasmediterranea. The journey usually takes between 6-8 hours, and there are both daytime and overnight crossings available.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when taking a ferry from Barcelona to Mallorca:

  • Book your tickets in advance to secure the best deals and to guarantee your spot on the ferry.
  • Check the ferry schedule and plan your journey accordingly.
  • Pack all necessary items, including food, drinks, and entertainment, as the journey can be quite long.

Option 3: By Car

If you prefer to have more freedom and flexibility, driving from Barcelona to Mallorca is an option. However, keep in mind that this requires taking a ferry from the Spanish mainland to the island. You can take a ferry from Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca, the capital city of the island, which is usually a 7-8 hour journey.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when driving from Barcelona to Mallorca:

  • Make sure you have all the necessary documents, including your driving license and vehicle registration.
  • Check the ferry schedule and book your tickets in advance.
  • Plan your route and make sure you have enough time to make the journey.

Option 4: By Bus

If you’re on a budget, taking a bus from Barcelona to Mallorca is an option. However, this involves taking a bus to Valencia and then taking a ferry to Mallorca. The journey usually takes around 12 hours in total.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when taking a bus from Barcelona to Mallorca:

  • Check the bus and ferry schedule and plan your journey accordingly.

Option 5: By Train

While there are no direct trains from Barcelona to Mallorca, you can take a train from Barcelona to Valencia and then take a ferry to Mallorca. This option can be more expensive and time-consuming than other options, but it allows you to enjoy scenic views of the Spanish countryside along the way.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when taking a train from Barcelona to Mallorca:

  • Check the train and ferry schedule and plan your journey accordingly.
  • Pack all necessary items, including food, drinks, and entertainment, as the journey can be quite long

How long does it take to get from Barcelona to Mallorca?

The travel time from Barcelona to Mallorca varies depending on the mode of transportation you choose. By air, the journey takes around 1-2 hours, while by ferry, it can take between 6-8 hours. Driving and taking a bus require a ferry journey, which takes around 7-8 hours, while taking a train can take more than 12 hours in total.

What is the best way to get from Barcelona to Mallorca?

The best way to get from Barcelona to Mallorca depends on your preferences and travel needs. If you want the fastest and most convenient option, flying is the way to go. If you prefer a scenic journey and have more time to spare, taking a ferry or driving can be great options. Taking a bus or train can be more affordable, but they require a longer journey time.

How much does it cost to get from Barcelona to Mallorca?

The cost of traveling from Barcelona to Mallorca varies depending on the mode of transportation you choose and the time of year you’re traveling. Flights can cost between €20-€100, while ferry tickets can cost between €40-€100. Driving and taking a bus require additional expenses such as fuel and ferry tickets. Train tickets can be more expensive, with prices ranging from €50-€150.

Getting from Barcelona to Mallorca is easy, with several options available to suit different travel needs and preferences. Whether you want the convenience of flying or the scenic journey of a ferry or driving, there’s a mode of transportation that can get you to the stunning island of Mallorca. By keeping these tips and factors in mind, you can choose the best way to get from Barcelona to Mallorca and have a memorable trip.

best way to travel mallorca

This Exclusive Helicopter Dining Experience Is the Best Way to See the 'Grand Canyon of Mallorca’

Take in Mallorca's best sights from above and land for a luxurious lunch surrounded by natural beauty.

The Spanish island of Mallorca is known to host some of the most stunning spots in the Balearics , and The Helicopter Centre wants to fly you high over its secluded coves, rolling green wineries, and glittering coastline. The jewel in Mallorca's natural crown is Escorca, with gorges so dramatic, they've been called the "Grand Canyon of Mallorca." Our flight took us gliding with the birds through the steep limestone canyons of Torrent de Pareis, treating us to breathtaking views of silver ridged valleys, narrowly flanked by the Tramuntana mountains.

Before landing for lunch , we swung by the coastline of Port de Soller and drifted over the turquoise water as it glistened with the reflection of the sun. The white flags of the sail boats saluted us as we dipped lower, gently circling to get the best view of this beautiful bay. Our pilot, Bertie, gave us the rich history of the area, detailing the notable and luxurious gems of this unspoiled harbor — not forgetting to point out the century-old tram that runs popular routes from Soller and Palma.

The Helicopter Centre's Helicopter Dining experience includes a pit stop at a "handpicked partner boutique hotel," where you can enjoy gourmet food with a pre-booked reservation. We stopped at Son Brull , a 5-star Relais & Châteaux hotel nestled in 32 hectares of vineyards, orchards, and centuries-old olive trees. Eating at the Bistro Bar, we opted for gyozas to start, followed by grilled sardines, free-range chicken with honey, salad, and red tuna loin. Every bite of avocado and sip of Champagne is produced in Son Brull’s surrounding valleys, where organic and ecological farming principles are applied to provide guests with a mouth-watering farm-to-table experience. Heading back to the helicopter for the final leg of our flight, Bertie casually warned us: “This is the part you get to feel like a rock star.”

And sure enough, as we bid our last goodbyes to the lime orchards, olive trees, and honey farms, guests emerged to wave us off. Finally, the roar of the engine kicked in, the rotor blade set into motion with a hum, and we were off.

Know Before You Go

The Helicopter Dining experience over Mallorca is 1,200 euros (about $1,297 USD) and can be booked via The Helicopter Centre's managing director and head of training, Stewart Jones . Guests can expect to be in the air for one hour. Dining reservations can last up to two hours, and your pilot will wait for you. The flight plan is dependent on the restaurant location. Lunch and drinks are not included in the price.

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

This Exclusive Helicopter Dining Experience Is the Best Way to See the 'Grand Canyon of Mallorca’

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  22. Ways to Get from Barcelona to Mallorca: Your Ultimate Guide

    The travel time from Barcelona to Mallorca varies depending on the mode of transportation you choose. By air, the journey takes around 1-2 hours, while by ferry, it can take between 6-8 hours. ... The best way to get from Barcelona to Mallorca depends on your preferences and travel needs. If you want the fastest and most convenient option ...

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  24. This Exclusive Helicopter Dining Experience Is the Best Way to ...

    The Helicopter Dining experience over Mallorca is 1,200 euros (about $1,297 USD) and can be booked via The Helicopter Centre's managing director and head of training, Stewart Jones. Guests can ...