3 Exciting Day Trips From Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Planning a trip to Palma de Mallorca? Woo-hoo! But let me tell you one thing: PLEASE, please consider exploring at least a bit of the rest of the island too; it would be such a shame not to! In case you’re looking for some exciting day trips from Palma de Mallorca, I got you!
When we visited Mallorca, we stayed in Palma. It made sense, as there was so much to see and do in the city. However, our favourite days were the ones we spent exploring the rest of the island. There are SO many beautiful towns to be explored and stunning beaches to see that made our trip to Mallorca feel complete. Below you’ll find the itineraries of my 3 favourite Palma de Mallorca day trips that we did on our trip and we really enjoyed ourselves.
NOTE: These day trips are a drive away, so you’ll need to take a bus, taxi or rent a car. Taking public transport around the island can seem a bit tricky, so I wholeheartedly recommend renting a car if you can. You can check for the up-to-date rates and available cars right here.
NOTE #2: Please remember to bring cash with you, as there will be restaurants that don’t accept card and all parking must be paid in cash.
1 – Formentor and around
Going to Formentor means doing a day trip to the Northern part of Mallorca, which will offer you the opportunity to take a quick tour around the island. It will also take you to some of the nicest beaches and little towns in Mallorca. The shoter driving time gives you enough time to slowly explore each place and enjoy the day to the maximum.
TOTAL DRIVING TIME: 2h30m-3h
PRICE: 40-80€/pp
DIFFICULTY: Easy. The roads are easy to drive and safe
STOPS: Pollença, Platja de Formentor, Cap de Formentor and Port de Pollença (if you choose to)
Lunch option:Celler es Moli does €12 amazing menus del dia that include bread and olives, water or a bottle of red or white wine, a typical Mallorcan dish and dessert.
Dinner option #1:La Llonja (€€€€) – This fancy seafood restaurant has one of the best locations in town and provides a great meal with an amazing view over the Port of Pollença.
Dinner option #2:Ca’N Josep (€€) – A less expensive option that does not sacrifice quality. The menus del dia are incredible, providing a really strong seafood meal at an affordable rate.
ITINERARY, TIPS AND WHAT TO EXPECT
I recommend you leave Palma in the morning, after having breakfast in town.
Drive to Pollença and explore this historical hotspot. This town will keep you busy for a few hours, as there are so many little roads to walk with boutique shops and places to eat and drink to explore. Have lunch in Pollença (I recommended some places above) and then move on to your next stop.
Drive up to Playa de Formentor. Spend some time on this beautiful beach with a view over the mountains spread across the horizon. Don’t spend too long though, you want to get moving to the next spot before sunset!
Drive up to Cap de Formentor for sunset. Important to note that you can only drive there before 9 AM and after 7 PM during high season, otherwise they won’t let you pass. Enjoy the sunset in the most beautiful place in Mallorca!
At this point, you can choose to go back to Palma or go for dinner in one of the amazing specialized seafood restaurants of Port de Pollença.
Going to Sa Calobra means doing a quick run through some picturesque little towns and the high hills of Mallorca, showcasing the most beautiful landscapes you’ll see on this island in just one trip. I’m not kidding, this day trip will show you some of the most famous places on the island!
TOTAL DRIVING TIME: 3h20m-3h40m
PRICE: 40-80€/pp
DIFFICULTY: Hard. The roads are quite hard to drive, and less-experienced drivers will struggle going down the twisting roads down the mountains leading to Sa Calobra. But it’s definitely doable!
STOPS: Valldemossa, Deià, Sa Calobra and Fornalutx (if you choose to)
S’Hortet– This lovely healthy food restaurant in a corner of Deià is an amazing place for breakfast, brunch or lunch, as you sit in the nice and fresh backyard garden. They have food options for vegetarian and gluten-free.
ITINERARY, TIPS AND WHAT TO EXPECT
Drive to Valldemossa, one of the prettiest towns and most touristy destinations in Mallorca. I recommend you visit quite early so you can enjoy the town almost to yourself. You don’t need very long to catch the feeling of Valldemossa and move on with your trip.
Next, drive to Deià. This cute little town in the hills is a lovely place to explore on foot, as you walk through the steps and alleyways of the Tramuntana Mountains. Enjoy 1h – 1h30m in this beautiful town and then move onwards with your trip.
Make sure to buy some snacks before moving on to Sa Calobra. The drive is long and eating in this half-deserted place is not as easy or as enjoyable as it sounds, so I recommend you get something to eat on the go.
Enjoy the beautiful popular beach of Sa Calobra for a few hours. After you’re done (or it gets dark), move on to your next stop or to Fornalutx, if you’re still up to visit another little town. Fornalutx is known for being a mix of a dreamy medieval village and for its local and authentic feeling of Mallorcan culture. Stopping here will only add 20 minutes to your drive home, unless you choose to stay for dinner.
This is an easy tour across some easy-going beaches found in the East of Mallorca. This day trip features an enjoyable and easy drive and a relaxed day at some of the most remote beaches on the island.
TOTAL DRIVING TIME: 2h30m-3h
PRICE: 30-80€/pp
DIFFICULTY: Easy. The roads are easy to drive and safe.
STOPS: Cala Pi, Calo Des Moro, Cala Llombards and S’Amarador (if you choose to)
La Torre (Bar) is one of the best restaurants in town for a delicious, quick and cheap meal.
ITINERARY, TIPS AND WHAT TO EXPECT
Drive to Cala Pi. This is one of the dreamiest beaches in Mallorca so make sure to enjoy some time here. I recommend you move on with your trip at least one hour before your ideal lunchtime to give yourself enough time at your next stops.
Drive to Calo Des Moro. This beach is the most famous beach in the whole of Mallorca and for such, it will probably be more crowded than other places. Regardless of that, this is one of the most beautiful beaches in Mallorca, so you don’t want to miss it!
Time for lunch at La Torre at Calla Lombards (recommendation above).
After lunch, move on to the actual Calla Lombards for some more beach time.
After Calla Lombards you can choose to either head back to Palma or stop by and visit Praia S’Amarador as well, as it only adds about 20m to your drive home. This beach is located in the natural park of Mondragó and is an absolute beauty!
All three day trips above are self-organised and we did them all ourselves, so I can totally vouch for the experience.
BUT! If you cannot rent a car or don’t want to do it all by yourself, worry not, as I have a simple solution for you: booking an organised day trip! These day trips are organised by local guides that will take care of the transportation and the itinerary/activities for you. These are usually done as private tours or in small groups – both are equally charming. Plus, another huge benefit is that you won’t have to drive or worry about arranging transportation yourself!
Here are the best organised day trips from Palma I have found for you. All of them have pick-up from Palma available:
Mallorca: Scenic Island Tour from the South – Looking for some Palma de Mallorca boat trips? Heh, get ready! This scenic tour offers a complete experience by bus, tram, train and boat. You’ll be going to Lluc, a charming town in Mallorca, you’ll ride the famous Tren de Soller and you’ll also be exploring Sa Calobra Cove by catamaran.
The Caves of Drach Full or Half-Day – The Caves of Drach on the East coast of Mallorca are a famous attraction that’s worth visiting if you have the time. There’s also an underground lake to be explored there with a live concert included.
Mallorca: Soller Port and Valldemossa – During this tour, you’ll go to the town of Valldemossa and to Port de Soller as well. You’ll visit the main points of interest here with a knowledgeable guide.
Majorca Winery Tour – if you’re a wine aficionado, this tour is definitely for you. You’ll go from Palma to the fascinating La Raixa Estate and some other wineries as well to sample some exquisite wines!
This guide is based on my honest experience driving around Mallorca and 3 of my recommended Palma de Mallorca trips. Although there are so many interesting things to do in Palma de Mallorca, it would be a real shame not to visit some other parts of the island as well such as Port de Pollença, Valldemossa, Deià, Sa Calobra, Cala Pi and more! And the best way to do this is to organise your own Palma de Mallorca day tours or to join some organised experiences. Regardless of your choice, you have ALL of our tips above to create the perfect Mallorca road trip!
In case you need more helpful tips and personal stories that will help you organise the best itinerary for your Mallorca adventure, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles about this wonderful destination.
xoxo,
Melissa
Want to know more about travelling to Mallorca?
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Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your boat to get to the Islands? Head over here.
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10 Best Beaches in Mallorca, Spain
People aren’t wrong when they say Mallorca is all about the beaches. With over 200 stretches of sand, it’s hard to choose where to enjoy the sea on this Balearic Island. There is the resort haven of the southern beaches, the more remote beaches further across in the northeast, and the stunning stone beaches etched into the cliffs in the west. So which are the best beaches in Mallorca?
Wait ‘til you hear it: there are no less than 262 beaches in Mallorca and their added length is 50 km. HOW on this Earth could you choose just one?!
Luckily for you, below are 10 of my favourite beaches around Mallorca, each a little different from the other and all worth a visit! And by the way, I totally recommend going around the island to explore the different strips of fine white sand instead of staying in one place – it would be such a shame!
Here we go:
A couple of things to know before
Without a rented car, it may be tricky to reach some of these beaches, as you’ll need to make your way there by bus. So I totally recommend you rent a car for your trip around Mallorca – this will help you reach the more off-the-beaten-path beaches. You can check for up-to-date prices and types of cars available right here.
There are many blue flag beaches in Mallorca which means they respect all health and safety rules.
The weather in Mallorca is warm all year long; in summer the temperatures can reach 40ºC with an average of 30ºC.
The high season in Mallorca is from June to August. I recommend visiting in mid-May or September-October if you want to enjoy perfect weather and fewer tourists on the beaches.
Should you book one of those Mallorca beach hotels? Most people choose to spend their vacation in an all-inclusive beachfront resort. That’s an excellent idea and here are some very good options – St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort, Pleta De Mar Luxury Hotel By Nature and Iberostar Selection Playa De Muro Village. However, I recommend doing at least a couple of day trips to different beaches in order to explore a bit – remember, all of them are different from each other!
You won’t find any shops near many of the beaches in Mallorca, so I recommend buying everything you might need before getting there.
Be a conscious traveller and make sure you don’t leave any garbage behind on the beach. There aren’t many trash cans either, so I recommend taking your garbage back with you and maybe taking a bag with you for this exact purpose.
Make sure you wear reef-safe sunscreen when swimming.
ALWAYS make sure you bring cash as you cannot pay for parking by card and there are no ATMs around the beaches. Guga and I got caught out with this and it was really not fun.
Getting there by scooter? Make sure you set your sat-nav to avoid highways as scooters are not allowed to drive on them.
Last but not least: be considerate of other people on the beach and your surroundings.
10 Best beaches in Mallorca
It has been SO hard to choose, but below you’ll find my short list of the 10 best beaches in Mallorca, with a few extra (bonus) recommendations down below in a separate section:
1 – CALA FORMENTOR
Located on the most northern tip of the island in a stunning bay, you would think that Cala Formentor would be pretty untouched. But its reputation is out and Cala Formentor has become a popular spot with tourists. Even though it’s popular, I didn’t find it particularly overcrowded. Its setting is so pretty, with mountains sat at either side and crystal-clear blue water giving home to little boats moored in the distance. You can rent leaf huts (with a little safety box for your valuables) or loungers if you’d prefer some shade.
HOW TO GET TO CALA FORMENTOR
Car: 1h10m drive from Palma de Mallorca. Parking costs between €8-12 for the day.
Bus: TIB bus – line 353. Leaving from Alcudia, duration of 30min – costs 1.85€ each way. Leaving from Port de Pollença, duration of 1 hour – costs 1.55€ each way.
WHERE TO EAT
La Veranda Restaurant serves Mallorcan traditional dishes as well as some western favourites like pizzas and burgers.
WHERE TO STAY
Mar Calma Hotel is a great value option offering modern and comfortable facilities at below-competition prices, located in the nearby town of Puerto Pollença.
With sharp turns through the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, it’s a thrilling drive to reach the beach of Sa Calobra. The way the road snakes up and down is spectacular in itself, but if you get motion sickness, make sure you shotgun a front seat!
Once you arrive, you’ll find the beach itself is tucked away between the cliffs. There’s a 15min walk down a narrow footpath through a tunnel etched into the rocks to reach it. Although the beach is small, and with pebbles instead of sand, it’s very beautiful. It’s easy to see why it’s so popular with tourists! I loved swimming out of the small opening of crystal clear water and into the open sea. With the gigantic mountains hugging the ocean on either side, it makes you feel so small.
TIP: Be prepared as this beach can get REALLY crowded, especially if you are visiting in the high season.
HOW TO GET TO SA CALOBRA
Car: 1h30m from Palma de Mallorca. Parking costs 0.50€ for 30min and 5€ for the entire day.
Bus: TIB Bus – line 355. Leaving from Alcúdia at 10:15 AM, duration of 2h 35m– costs 6.90€. Leaving from Pollença at 10:50 AM, duration of 2 hours, costs 4.80€. Returning from Sa Calobra at 3 pm. There is only one bus a day (one going to Sa Calobra and one returning), so keep in mind that you are dependent on bus times and seats.
Boat: There are lots of companies that offer boat tours to Sa Calobra, most commonly from Port de Soller. A good company to check out is Civitatis.
WHERE TO EAT
There are a few restaurants on your walk down from the car park to the beach, however, I would not recommend eating here. These restaurants are more expensive and don’t have particularly great reviews. I would opt to eat in the nearby town of Soller instead or bring a packed lunch to have while at the beach.
WHERE TO STAY
Tuent Experience is a remote hotel hidden amongst the Sierra de Tramuntana, located close to Cala Tuent and 10 minutes away by car to Sa Calobra.
3 – CALA COMTESA
Looking for the best beaches near Palma? Just south of Palma de Mallorca, Cala Comtesa is the closest beach to the capital to resemble paradise. Its stretch of fine white sand, prettily surrounded by rocks and trees, looks perfectly aesthetic. However, what is not perfectly aesthetic is the crowds of locals and tourists alike who set up their towels packed up like sardines along the shoreline.
Initially, I wasn’t sure if I should include Comtesa in this post but it’s still a very beautiful spot, even if it is very crowded. My favourite thing about this beach is that you can follow the water to the right and explore a little rocky peninsula. There are even some private spots where you can set up among the rocks (be careful as they can be a bit jagged) and cave-like entryways down into the sea.
TIP: Splash out and spend a day at a nearby beach club. That way you get the privacy AND the view! Check out Purobeach Illetas which is one of Mallorca’s best relaxation spots!
HOW TO GET TO CALA COMTESA
Car: 20-minute drive from Palma de Mallorca. There is a car park nearby and also street parking.
Scooter: 20-30min from Palma de Mallorca.
Bus: EMT Palma – line 3. Leaving from multiple stops in Palma, duration of 45min – costs 1.5€ each way. This bus goes all the way through the city, stopping at the main hub for public transportations Plaça d’Espanya. There are buses every 20 minutes, with the first one at 5.45 AM.
WHERE TO EAT
You can find a tiny restaurant above the beach where you can eat a quick lunch, but I still recommend bringing your own food with you in case you’re visiting late in the day, as the restaurant closes after lunchtime.
Cala Deia is a very pretty, small cove made up of large, smooth rocks, small pebbles and a short dash of sand. Its crystal-clear waters and surrounding rolling hills make Cala Deia a highlight. However, my favourite part of Cala Deia would have to be the jump spots! There is a higher jump point (3 meters) to the right side of the cove and a much smaller one in the middle if you need a warm-up jump to help build up your confidence.
NOTE: Please make sure it is completely safe before you jump in. Watch out for swimmers below and check for depth and any hidden rocks hiding under the water before taking the leap!
TIP: Bring water shoes if you are not comfortable with pebble/rock beaches. You may appreciate them!
HOW TO GET TO CALA DEIA
Car: 1h from Palma de Mallorca. Parking costs approximately 1.50€ per hour
Scooter: 1h20m from Palma de Mallorca. We took this option! The drive felt safe and relaxed, and we split up the journey by stopping in the town of Valldemossa. The benefit of scooters is free parking and how easy it is to find a space!
Bus:EMT Palma – line 210 Leaving from the TIB’s station in Plaça D’Espanya, duration of 45min – costs 2.95€ for a single and 5.90€ for a return. There are buses roughly every 1–2hrs, with the first one at 6:30 AM. The bus takes you to the town of Deia, then you must walk 20-30min downhill to Cala Deià. You can also get a 10min taxi which will cost 5-7€.
WHERE TO EAT
S’Hortet is a great, healthy option in the town of Deia. The meals are prepared with fresh and creative ingredients and they make some delicious cakes too!
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Des Puig is a pretty 4-star hotel and apartment with a gym, cosy communal living spaces and two outdoor pools.
5 – CALA MAJOR
The best beach in close proximity to the capital of Palma would have to be Cala Major. With 250m of golden sand surrounded by hotels, bars and restaurants, this beach isn’t the place to go if you’re in search of the secluded beaches on Mallorca island but it gives you everything you need if you’re looking for good summer vibes. It’s pretty popular, but there is a little rocky area to the right of the shore that’s a good place to set up base if you’d prefer to sit further from the crowds.
HOW TO GET TO CALA MAJOR
Car: 15min from Palma de Mallorca. Parking costs are approximately 1.50€ per hour
Scooter: 20min from Palma de Mallorca.
Bus:EMT Palma – line 3, 20 or 46. Leaving from multiple stops in Palma, duration of 20min – costs 1.50€ each way. This bus goes all the way through the city, stopping at the main hub for public transportations Plaça d’Espanya. There are buses every 15-30min, with the first one at 5:29 AM. All of the buses stop directly in front of the beach.
WHERE TO EAT
The Crow’s Nest serves delicious, authentic food with South African influences. Some excellent vegetarian options as well!
WHERE TO STAY
Nixe Palace is a 5-star beachfront accommodation with an outdoor pool, a spa and more!
This is not just a beautiful beach… but it’s probably one of the MOST beautiful ones on the coast! There’s one downside to it, though – like all good things in life, it’s not as easy to access. You’ll have to climb down some rocks in order to reach it, but the effort is totally worth it. Es Calo del Moro is a small, natural, well-preserved beach that will feel like your own strip of secluded Paradise with blue waters. A great spot for snorkelling too!
HOW TO GET TO ES CALO DEL MORO
Car: 1 hour from Palma de Mallorca.
Scooter: 1h20m from Palma de Mallorca.
Bus: I’ll warn you from the start: it’s very hard to get to this beach without your own car. You can only get to Es Calo del Moro by bus from Santyaní. So you’ll first have to get to Polygon S’olivo bus stop from Palma. Then take TIB bus no. 505 to Calo del Moro – duration 20min.
WHERE TO EAT
There are no restaurants, beach clubs, bars or sun loungers on this beach. You can grab a bite at Cala Figuera, which is close by.
WHERE TO STAY
There are no accommodations on the beach. The White Beach House is a beautiful holiday home located only 20 minutes by foot from Es Calo del Moro.
7 – S’AMARADOR
S’Amarador Beach is one of Mallorca’s most nature-rich beaches! It’s located right in Mondrago Natural Park (a protected nature preserve) and it’s surrounded by sand dunes, rocky coves and pine and cypress trees. And yes, you guessed it, it’s truly natural and unspoiled! And because it’s only reachable by car, it’s one of the most secluded beaches on Mallorca Island that you surely want to visit. It’s a good choice for a family with children as well, as there’s plenty of space for the little ones to play frisbee and run around the sandy beach.
While you’re here, make sure you check out the nearby Cala Mondragó which is smaller but equally nice!
HOW TO GET TO S’AMARADOR
Car: You can only get to this beach by car. Travel time is 1h10min from Palma de Mallorca. You can leave your car at Strand Cala Mondragó for 5€/day which is donated to charity (so nice!). Then you can walk to the beach.
WHERE TO EAT
There are no restaurants on this beach (but there’s a beachside bar). However, I recommend going to Restaurant Sa Font De N’Alis which is only 7 minutes walk. They have yummy seafood dishes as well as some vegetarian options.
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Playa Mondrago is not on this beach, but it’s only half a kilometre away and offers nice rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and more!
8 – ES TRENC
Es Trenc Beach is known as being the biggest unspoilt beach on the coast of Majorca – after all, it’s 3.5km long and 60m wide! It’s surrounded by sand dunes and turquoise waters and there are also two beach bars with cool drinks and music. If you visit during the weekend in the summer, don’t expect it to be quiet, as you might encounter lots of tourists and locals alike.
HOW TO GET TO ES TRENC
Car: 50 minutes from Palma de Mallorca. There’s limited free parking available and paid parking right near Es Trenc Restaurant (they give you a voucher which you can deduct from your restaurant bill).
Bus: There are no direct buses or bus stops close to Es Trenc Beach.
WHERE TO EAT
There are a couple of beach bars here but they’re really expensive (12€ for a drink). You can eat at Es Trenc Restaurant where the food is good and, if you use their parking (costs 10€) you can use deduct the price of the parking ticket from the price of your meal (not available for drinks or kids menu).
WHERE TO STAY
Es Trenc doesn’t have any hotels on the beach. I recommend staying at Agroturismo Ses Arenes which is a super nice country house located only 1 km from this beach.
This beach is located near Arta town, in the northwestern part of the island. It’s not that easy to reach, as you’ll have to drive on an unpaved road – but the effort is definitely worth it, especially if you’re looking for a natural sandy beach, turquoise water and some peace of mind. Although you can’t do any water sports here (no sun loungers or toilets either), the clear water is excellent for snorkelling or scuba diving in the bay. Make sure you check out Arta and Cala Mesquida as well while you’re there!
HOW TO GET TO CALA TORTA
Car: 1h30min from Palma de Mallorca. Car park available for free. This is the only way to get there (or a scooter), but please keep in mind that the last kilometre of the road is not that “friendly”, as it’s a dirt road with lots of potholes. If you have a rented car, pay attention!
WHERE TO EAT
There are no restaurants or beach bars here except for a small snack stand only open in the summer.
WHERE TO STAY
No hotels directly on the beach. If you want to be as close to it as possible, book a room at VIVA Cala Mesquida Resort & Spa which is a 4-star resort located 1.2 km away. They have 7 swimming pools (what?!), sun terraces, parasols, hammocks and everything else in-between.
10 – CALA VARQUES
Located on the East coast, Cala Varques is a beautiful bay and one of Mallorca’s best-kept secrets. Part of its charm is the fact that it’s not easily accessible – you’ll have to park your car, then walk through pine trees to get to the beach. What you’ll find there is a quiet, laid-back beach, but please note that it’s not advisable to reach it with your kids, as there’s a bit of climbing included. But if you’re up for a bit of adventure, Varques Beach might just be the best one for you on the entire coastline!
There are no water sports or loungers here… but there IS a slight chance you’ll find people practising nudism here.
HOW TO GET TO CALA VARQUES
Car: 1h10min travel time from Palma de Mallorca. You’ll have to leave your car in the “Fig Parking Place” on Google Maps and then keep walking (15 mins) until you reach the end of a road. That’s where you’ll find a metal gate. Follow the arrows and then climb the 1.8m tall wall (you’ll have some rocks there to help you) then another short wall. After this, you’ll clearly see your way to the beach.
WHERE TO EAT
There’s a small snack stall on the beach with drinks. That’s it. I recommend taking food with you when you go and maybe a coolbox with drinks as well!
WHERE TO STAY
No hotels on the beach. The closest accommodation is Finca Son Josep de Baix which is a nice country house with private apartments, BBQ facilities and more.
BONUS: Other notable beaches in Mallorca
Playa de Alcúdia – a popular blue flag beach perfect for families, located in the Northern part of Mallorca;
Cala Mesquida – a super nice beach to visit, right near a nature reserve and pine trees, as well as sand dunes. Recommended for a secluded experience, but with several restaurant options! Plus, it’s one of the few ones where you can surf!
Playa de Cala Pi – busy beach located between cliffs with a very nice vibe. The road down to it offers an impressive view too!
Banyalbufar Beach – a superb, scenic beach in western Mallorca surrounded by pretty vineyards. Water shoes are recommended if you want to swim, as there are lots of rocks on the seabed here.
Cala Barques – this one is located in San Vicente town and it’s a blue flag beach with lots of hotel options along the coastline. There are also water sports, sun loungers and lots of other amenities.
Magaluf – a very popular beach and the perfect spot to make some travel friends. There are also lots of hotels, shops, food places and cute cafes along the beach and the vibe is young and fun.
Cala Mondragó – located in the Natural Park of Mondragó, this superb double bay has soft sand, turquoise waters and a laid-back vibe, ideal for families with kids.
Cala d’en Borgit – right near Cala Mondrago, this one is tiny and charming, hidden between big bushes. A small piece of Paradise on earth!
Sant Elm – this is actually a gorgeous beachside village with mountain views – what more do I need to say?! There are two beaches here – Sa Platja G (bigger, lots of amenities) and Cala Petita (smaller, good for kids).
This was my complete guide to Mallorca’s best beaches – Cala Formentor, Deia, Sala Calobra and 7 others! Most of these are not among the most popular ones where all tourists flock year-round. Instead, I tried to recommend some real hidden gems where you’ll feel like you have the entire place to yourself. But if this is not enough, I also have a bonus section with extra recommendations – you know I always got you covered! 😉
If you need more info and advice for planning your Majorca beach holidays, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles about this wonderful destination.
xoxo,
Melissa
Want to know more about travelling to Mallorca?
Check out all my Mallorca Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book some wheels! Head over here to get your car rental sorted.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Mallorca so you don’t miss a thing!
Pin it for later!
Sign Up For Our Newsletter!
Want to stay in the loop? Join my exclusive mailing list, plus you’ll gain access to my ever-growing free resource library!
9 Best Restaurants in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Planning a trip to Palma de Mallorca in Spain soon? That’s great! Prepared to be amazed by its superb beaches, unique Mediterranean vibe and, of course, incomparable gastronomy. If you’re a dedicated foodie, you might be wondering which are the best restaurants in Palma de Mallorca. In which case, let me tell you that you are in the right place!
Being an international hub for holidays, you’ll find all kinds of great places to eat in Palma de Mallorca. There are incredible local choices for tapas and paella, hipster hangouts for coffee and brunch, rooftop cocktail bars for sunset sipping, and Michelin-starred wonders in the high-end restaurants. Below are 9 of my favourite places to add to your list for your culinary adventure around Palma de Mallorca!
NOTE: In peak season it’s necessary to book ahead for dinner as the popular places in the city get full up fast. Apart from that, happy eating!
Now, let’s find out about the 9 best restaurants in Palma de Mallorca:
1 – Bar Cabrera
Located in the district of Santa Catalina, Bar Cabrera specialises in the Mallorcan cuisine – more specifically their speciality called Pamboli. The concept is simple: slices of bread topped with local Spanish ingredients. Super delicious and so worth a visit! This is definitely one of the best restaurants in Palma de Mallorca (at least from what I tried) and it provides an incredibly local experience and great food for a relatively low cost.
You’ll find this unique food place in all popular lists of the best restaurants in Palma de Mallorca – and with good reason! Adrián Quetglas is a Michelin-starred restaurant that gives you a fine dining experience without breaking the bank. You won’t often find this quality for this price, so if you’re a foodie, Adrian Quetglas is an obvious must-visit.
During lunch, they serve a five-course menu for 35€ and at dinner a seven-course for 55€. Pretty good for a Michelin-star restaurant, right? And so, so delicious!
This local bar is found in the centre of Palma de Mallorca and is among the most popular restaurants in town. The Spanish tapas (some of the best tapas in Palma btw!) combined with the smooth wines sourced from Mallorcan wineries make up the ultimate local meal!
Duke restaurant in Palma de Mallorca is known for its fun and vibrant atmosphere. The owners are passionate surfers and they designed a menu that blends the Asian, Mediterranean and South American lifestyle into their dishes. And let me just say this – they did so with great success!
El Aquanauta is one of the more popular restaurants in Palma, especially if you’re on a budget as they serve up amazing Mexican food for a great value. I’d recommend going for dinner and enjoying a cheeky margarita or two!
With incredible views over the ocean from its dining terrace, the laid-back Italian restaurant Il Paradiso is the perfect place for date night! For a cheaper option, visit during lunchtime as they serve the most amazing Menu Del Dia. For 25€pp it includes a salad, main, dessert, wine, water and coffee.
Il Paradiso may come in a bit more expensive than other nearby options but the food is good and the view alone makes it completely worth it!
La Molienda was my favourite brunch spot on the island. Their healthy, fresh menu made up of local, Mediterranean ingredients was the perfect way to start the day right. Make sure you try their amazing invention: the Nuttel-cino. Coffee served in a glass, lined with Nutella… need I say more?!
Located in a visible, bright corner of Santa Catalina, Santina is one of the most popular options for brunch around Mallorca. Their international menu is made up of healthy favourites (smoothie bowls and avo toast) and also a couple of classic American treats (burgers and waffles). Simple and delicious, exactly as I like it!
In Yoga, the word Santosha is often referred to as “satisfaction” and Santosha sure lives up to its name! Locally sourced ingredients make up their drool-worthy dishes and their lovely, ready-to-help staff really make the space feel cosy and welcoming.
BONUS: Other notable restaurants in Palma de Mallorca
Now that I’ve shared with you my personal list of the best restaurants in Palma de Mallorca, let me add a few bonus places to check out while you’re here (especially good if you’re on your second, third or tenth visit):
Fera – Fera is a contemporary restaurant close to Palma’s Old Town. Their menu is a fusion between Asian (Japanese) and Mediterranean dishes, all with a modern twist, created by their passionate chef. I recommend the tasting menu paired with your choice of wine. This is truly one of Palma’s most unique restaurants and I’m pretty sure it will be awarded a Michelin star soon!
Marc Fosh – If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Palma de Mallorca where a renowned Michelin chef will cook for you, you just found it. I definitely recommend the tasting menu – Mediterranean ingredients, superb plating and lots of textures to play with. Menu Natural (their vegetarian menu) is an excellent, modern choice as well!
Botànic – Really one of the top restaurants in Mallorca for healthy eating that isn’t actually tasteless! They use fresh, organic ingredients and everything is super delicious – and the price is accessible too!
Dins – Located at El Llorenç hotel in the Old Town, this is the restaurant to go to for a contemporary chef’s table experience in Palma de Mallorca. Their menu is really unique and there’s room for only 16 people at once – needless to say that reservations are mandatory!
Aromata – Incredibly delicious three-course menu for a really good price – what more can you wish for from such an elegant restaurant? Andreu Genestra is a Michelin-starred chef and the one behind their amazing menu. I recommend it for dinner, the atmosphere is so romantic!
Café La Lonja – Located right in Plaça de la Lonja, this amazing restaurant is perfect for an affordable lunch paired with a glass of wine. They also have delicious Spanish tapas on their menu and, best of all, garrotines (stuffed baguettes – a must-try!).
Forn de Sant Joan – a beautiful restaurant with three different areas, depending on your mood: a Red Room, a Crystal Room and a classic main room. The tapas here are a must, trust me!
BONUS: Must-try dishes in Mallorca, Spain
Palma de Mallorca is a foodie’s paradise! If it’s your first time in Mallorca, regardless if you’re visiting Palma de Mallorca or any other nearby village or resort, you MUST have a list of traditional dishes to try! Expect some yummy tapas, lots of seafood, Mediterranean flavours and fresh ingredients. Here’s my list of dishes to try while you’re checking out the restaurants in Mallorca:
TAPAS
I’m sure you’ve heard about this type of Spanish food before. Tapas are small plates with various snacks and they can include anything from sausages, oysters, olives, fries with different sauces, pan-fried Pimientos de Padron – and more. Going to a tapas bar in Palma is a must during your trip (and in any other place in Spain), so get ready for a table filled with goodies!
SOBRASSADA
Cured sausage (similar to chorizo) in the form of a spread. You can add it over bread, eat it with slices of cheese, put it on top of pizza. Yum!
COCA MALLORQUINA
The Mallorcan take on the classic pizza. Really. It’s traditional, it’s healthy, it’s delicious and it’s usually made with fresh produce such as veggies and spices.
ENSAÏMADA
A type of spiral pastry made with pork lard instead of butter (read: it’s non-vegetarian), dusted with powdered sugar. Delicious food for breakfast, together with a cup of coffee.
TREMPÓ
The perfect dish to eat during summer – a salad made with fresh, juicy tomatoes, bell pepper, onions, salt. And lots of olive oil, of course! It may not be a modern dish, but it’s all you need on a hot summer day, trust me.
COCARROIS
The Mallorcan version of empanadas, which are Spanish stuffed pastries. In the capital of Mallorca, they fill them with veggies and raisins – a unique mix!
This was my complete, subjective list of the best Palma restaurants! I have recommendations for all types of restaurants above in the capital of this Balearic island – fine dining, traditional Mallorcan cuisine, contemporary fusion food, affordable lunches and more. Plus, I’ve also given you my insider tips about which are the best dishes to try while you’re in Palma de Mallorca, Spain. In short, you have everything a foodie needs to know in the article above, no need to search anywhere else!
In case you need more help with planning your trip to Mallorca, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles about this amazing destination. And here you’ll find all my articles and stories about Spain.
xoxo,
Melissa
Want to know more about travelling to Palma de Mallorca?
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Mallorca Travel Guide: 12 Most Beautiful Mallorca Resorts, Cities and Villages
Mallorca is known for its dreamy beaches and endless party nights. However, my favourite part of my visit was neither of these things. Personally, I loved exploring the little charming towns on the coast. And if you’re planning a trip through the most beautiful Mallorca spots, my list is here to help! In this article, I have made a list of my top favourite 12 Mallorca resorts, towns and villages that should be on your itinerary as well.
I loved spending the day exploring the cobbled streets, eating at local restaurants and finding little boutique shops, then ending the day at a nearby beach away from the major crowds you find around the capital, aka Palma de Mallorca. There is something so calming and relaxed about spending your time in the smaller Mallorcan towns, so I’ve highlighted my 12 favourites below to show you why they’re worth a day trip from the capital. You just need to choose your favourite ones and go!
Here are all 12 towns I included in my Majorca travel guide:
Getting around Mallorca
In this guide, I’ll mention the TIB buses a lot, as it is the main method of public transportation outside of Palma de Mallorca. To check all the schedules and pricing, you can visit the Transport public de Mallorca’s website.
TIP: If you buy your ticket online, you’ll get it in digital QR format and it’ll be 40% cheaper than the price on the bus.
Another option of getting around in Mallorca is by rented car, which is also my most recommended option. There are some places that are a bit harder to reach with public transportation, so a car will offer you ALL the flexibility in the world! I recommend checking for car options and up-to-date prices on this website. Alternatively (and a fun option) would be to rent a scooter for your day trips!
Okay, let’s get this started! If you’re curious to find out where to go in Majorca, in the following list you’ll find my top Mallorca resorts, towns and villages. I am, of course, excluding Palma de Mallorca. For a complete guide to Palma de Mallorca, check out the following article:
This is probably one of the most romantic places in Majorca! Valldemossa, located just 17 km from Palma, is one of the most famous villages on the island and not just for its cobbled streets, pink houses and fairytale feel. Valldemossa is the destination where the composer Chopin and his lover, Aurore Dudevant, spent one of their winters almost two hundred years ago. In fact, Frédéric Chopin himself liked the place so much, he said that Valldemossa is “the most beautiful place in the world”. That MUST mean something!
Valldemossa also has a museum in Chopin’s honour. It can be found within a 13th-century monastery and it is filled with memorabilia from their stay, as well as Chopin’s Mallorcan piano, with which he composed his collection of 24 preludes. And there’s also a festival taking place here every year, called the Chopin Classical Music Festival.
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND THERE?
Valldemossa won’t be a very long visit. Although popular with tourists, the town itself is quite small and you’ll find that 1-2 hours is more than enough. You can walk around the village, visit the museum, drink a cup of coffee and enjoy some coca de patata, one of the village’s staple sweets.
WHERE TO STAY?
Mirabó de Valldemossa – Located on a hill, this hotel provides beautiful views across the town. I’m in love with the bare stone walls in the hotels interior and the outdoor infinity pool overlooking the mountains!
Ca’n Mario – A family-run restaurant that has gained its place in the heart of the locals. This restaurant is great for trying traditionally Mallorcan dishes.
HOW TO GET TO VALLDEMOSSA?
By car: 15 min drive from Palma de Mallorca By scooter: 40 min drive from Palma de Mallorca By bus: TIB bus – line 210 Leaving from Palma Plaza d’Espanya every 1-2hrs, starting at 6.30 AM. Duration: 30 minutes. Costs 1.90€ each way
Life in Deià is still led by locals and holds a simple, laid-back vibe. This pretty little village is etched into the hills, so even though it has some of the cutest streets to explore, be prepared to walk up and down a lot here. While in town, make sure to check out La Casa de Robert Graves, a well-known English novelist and poet that used to live here in the ‘30s. The overall mood is of a wealthy village, with pretty upscale hotels and amazing restaurants.
A 20-minute walk (or 10 minutes by car) from Deià you’ll find the cobbled shores of Cala Deia, a stunning cove beach set between large rocks and the perfect place to spend the afternoon.
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND THERE?
I recommend making a full day trip by combining a visit to Valldemossa and Deia. Then end the day chilling at Deia Beach.
WHERE TO STAY?
Hotel Des Puig offers spacious, great value apartments and suites with an outdoor pool, restaurant and gym.
S’Hortetserves healthy and delicious meals in a little lush corner and for a really good price. (I loved their buddha bowls, yum!).
HOW TO GET TO DEIÀ?
By car: 50-min drive from Palma de Mallorca
By scooter: 40-min drive from Palma de Mallorca
By bus: TIB bus – line 210. Leaving from Palma Plaza d’Espanya every 1-2hrs, starting at 6.30 AM. Duration: 45 minutes. Costs 2.95€ one-way, 5.90€ return. Please be sure to ask if the bus stops at Deià when you jump on, as not all buses on this line do.
Please note that there’s quite a difference between Pollensa, the inland village and Puerto Pollensa, the port. Both of them are worth a visit and I’ll tell you about each below:
Pollença
Made up of super narrow streets, the northern town of Pollença is built like a maze with the main square right in the centre of it all. It holds two main historic places of significance. First, there’s the Roman Bridge, one of the only remaining parts of Roman history in Mallorca and a mystery to most people that studied the history of this island. Second, there are the 365 Calvari steps – a stairway that brings you from the main square directly to the Calvario Chapel with every step representing one day of the year. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with an amazing view over the Tramuntana mountains.
Pollença is one of the bigger towns on the island and offers many more options for accommodation and dining.
Puerto Pollensa
The port is only 7.6 km away from the village and it’s a must on your Mallorca itinerary! Wide areas of white sand beach, palm trees, tons of charming cafes, historical buildings and an authentic vibe – this is what you’ll find in Puerto Pollensa, a perfect place for relaxation in Mallorca. There’s also a former fortress here – La Fortaleza and plenty of amazing beachfront restaurants where you can grab a bite and unwind. If you have enough time, make sure to drive to Cala Sant Vicenç as well, a superb natural cove located only 10 km away from the port.
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND THERE?
You can visit both places on a one day trip.
WHERE TO STAY?
POLLENSA: Son Brull Hotel & Spa is a modern hotel with beautiful rooms and a stunning outdoor pool. They also have a tennis court – how cool is that?
PUERTO POLLENSA: Hotel Miramar is a great beachfront hotel with an outdoor pool and wellness centre.
POLLENSA: Celler El Moli has local food, a great vibe and an amazing menú del día set for a good price.
PUERTO POLLENSA: Ca’n Panxo is where you’ll find amazing food and a very relaxed atmosphere.
HOW TO GET TO PUERTO POLLENSA?
By car: 50-min drive from Palma de Mallorca
By bus: TIB bus – line 340. Leaving from Palma Plaza d’Espanya every 30-50 min, starting at 5.30 AM. Duration: 1 hour. Costs 5.50€ one-way, 11€ return.
Self-titled as the prettiest village in Spain, the cobbly hilltop village of Fornalutx is praised for perfectly maintaining its picturesque streets. Once a simple Arab farm, the town’s charm lies heavily in its deep history which dates back to the 13th century when the Catalans settled on the island. Also, its position between the Alfabia Mountains and the Els Cornadors make for absolutely phenomenal views. This means that one of the best things to do here is to sip a coffee in a charming cafe with a view of the mountains! Make sure to check out Plaça d’Espanya as well, the heart and soul of the city.
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND THERE?
I would recommend giving yourself 2-3 hours to roam around in Fornalutx.
Café Med – A gourmet experience with a specialised tasting menu for either lunch or dinner.
HOW TO GET TO FORNALUTX?
By car: 30-min drive from Palma de Mallorca
By bus: TIB bus – line 212 Leaving from Port de Sóller at 8:45 AM, 11.00 AM, 1.00 PM and 5.15 PM. Duration: 15 minutes. Costs 1.50€ one-way or 3€ return Leaving from Sóller at 8.50 AM, 11.05 AM, 1.05 PM and 5.15 PM. Duration: 10 minutes. Costs 1.50€ one-way or 3€ return
By foot: 45 minutes from Soller
Santanyí
WHY VISIT SANTANYI?
Santanyi is found in the Southeast of Mallorca. Its walls, once protecting the town from pirates, are built with the same golden stones that were used to build the iconic La Seu Cathedral in Palma. Even though this town is known for its calm atmosphere, it is still a nice tourist hotspot, genuinely Mallorcan due to its architecture. Its local market (taking place Wednesdays and Sundays) has gained a reputation as one of the best in Mallorca.
Near Santanyi are some of Mallorca’s most beautiful beaches such as Calo Des Moro and Cala Lombard if you want to make a day trip out of it. Totally recommended!
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND THERE?
I recommend reserving a whole day to visit Santanyi and its surrounding beaches.
WHERE TO STAY?
S’Hotelet de Santanyi is a charming bed & breakfast with beautiful rooms, a cool outdoor pool and it’s located 5 minutes by car from the beach.
Exciting, yet still hidden from the hustle and bustle of tourist crowds. Soller is a fishing village scattered with cosy restaurants and cafes that offer an incredible view of the Tramuntana mountains. The town is surrounded by orange groves and it’s set in a lush valley – an image to remember! Unforgettable cliff hotels, a nice central square, hiking opportunities, charming cobbled streets, artisan shops with local goods – you’ll find all these in Soller and more. Oh, and by the way, the freshly squeezed orange juice is a must!
Only a short orange, wooden tram ride away (Tranvía de Sóller) from Soller, you’ll find Port de Soller. Just like Pollensa and its harbour, these two destinations are totally worth visiting on a day trip. Port de Soller is where you’ll find beachfront cafes, two lighthouses and lots of beautiful beaches where you can relax all day long.
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND THERE?
I’d recommend reserving a full day trip to explore Soller and its harbour.
WHERE TO STAY?
SOLLER: Hotel Finca Ca N’ai – a gorgeous 4-star hotel in a renovated country house that preserves an authentic vibe. The large balconies are a huge plus!
PORT DE SOLLER: Hotel Esplendido is a beautiful 4-star hotel located right on the beach, with modern rooms, an on-site restaurant and bar and more.
SOLLER: Casa Álvaro is located right in the city’s main square and it serves great Spanish food and wine.
PORT DE SOLLER: Sa Barca serves fresh Mediterranean dishes with a contemporary twist and sunset views! After your meal, make sure to stop by IO Gelats Artesans for some yummy ice cream.
HOW TO GET TO SOLLER?
By car: 25-min drive (25km) from Palma de Mallorca
By bus: TIB bus – line 204. Leaving from Palma every half an hour, starting at 8 AM. Duration: 30 minutes. Costs 3€ to 5€ one-way.
Alcudia, in north Majorca, is one of the most well-preserved towns in Mallorca, with a medieval old town and lots of narrow streets, as well as 13th-century buildings. While you’re here you can walk around, grab a bite or drink a coffee in one of the numerous restaurants and cafes or, if you’re visiting on a Tuesday or Sunday, you can explore the local market. Alcudia is also surrounded by beautiful beaches (Playa de Alcudia, Playa de S’illot) – the perfect ending to your day.
TIP: I also recommend this awesome cruise that will take you from Alcudia to some of the most important highlights around: Formentor Lighthouse, Cap Pinar, Es Coll Baix beach and more. This Llevant Peninsula Nature Reserve private boat tour is another cool idea.
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND THERE?
Not too long, 2-3 hours will be just enough. If you’re visiting on a market day, you might want to add a couple more hours to your stay.
My recommendation is to combine Alcudia and Cap de Formentor (below) in a one day trip.
WHERE TO STAY?
ARA Alcudia is a beautiful 4-star hotel with a terrace, rustic yet modern rooms, a concierge service and a wonderful buffet breakfast.
Pipper’s Restaurant is located on the beach in Alcudia’s harbour and it serves fresh Mediterranean food, as well as sushi.
HOW TO GET TO ALCUDIA?
By car: 35-min drive from Palma de Mallorca (55 km)
By bus: TIB bus – line 302. Leaving from Palma approx. every hour starting at 7.45 AM. Duration: 50 minutes. Costs 6-9€.
Cap de Formentor
WHY VISIT CAP DE FORMENTOR?
Epicness at its best! Unlike all the villages and towns I mentioned above, Cap de Formentor is actually located on a superb peninsula (Formentor Peninsula) with an unforgettable landscape. It’s located in the northern part of Mallorca and the best way to reach it is by car – trust me, you’ll be snapping pictures the entire ride! Once you’re there, enjoy the remote vibe or go to the lighthouse (Far de Formentor – one of the best Majorca attractions!) to take some incredible pictures. It’s the tallest lighthouse in all the Balearic Islands!
By the way, I totally recommend a morning cruise with a stop at Formentor Beach. More details here.
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND THERE?
I recommend doing a combined day trip to Cap de Formentor and Alcudia on the same day. You can reserve a full day for both. Or combine Puerto Pollensa with Cap de Formentor for one full day as well.
WHERE TO STAY?
Formentor Royal Hideaway Hotel is the only accommodation on the peninsula, but they don’t currently take reservations. You can check the link to see the updated situation. Alternatively, you can stay in Pollensa or Puerto Pollensa, which is only 17 km away.
Platja Mar Restaurant is right on the beach and they serve Mediterranean dishes with views of the bay.
HOW TO GET TO CAP DE FORMENTOR?
By car: 25-min drive from Port de Pollença (16 km). 1h10’ from Palma de Mallorca (77 km).
By bus: From Puerto Pollensa – TIB bus, line 353. There are only 4 buses per day. Duration: 30 minutes. Costs 4€ for the roundtrip ticket. From Palma – TIB bus, line 340 to Puerto Pollensa (see details above), then take line 353 to Cap de Formentor.
Please note that the bus to Cap de Formentor only works from the 15th of June to the 15th of September.
Authentic and a little bit posh too! Located in the Southwest of Mallorca, 5km from Andratx town, Port Andratx is the perfect spot to escape the tourists crowds and spend some time on stunning beaches. The harbour is filled with bars, cute shops and cosy cafes and don’t be surprised if you spot some celebrities around here as well, as many own hillside houses in Port d’Andratx. Definitely one of the best resorts in Mallorca!
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND THERE?
I recommend reserving 2-3 hours to walk around Port d’Andratx.
WHERE TO STAY?
La Pérgola is a stunning aparthotel with a huge outdoor pool and peaceful rooms. Very close to the beach as well!
10th century vibes in a charming, small hilly town. Banyalbufar will definitely take you back in time when things were simpler and a lot calmer and you’ll get to see how locals used to live hundreds of years ago. Banyalbufar is one of the best Mallorca towns to visit if you want to enjoy beautiful beaches but also hike in gorgeous settings with a mountain view. There aren’t many restaurants and cafes around and few hotels too, so Banyalbufar is all about stepping back and calming the mind. By the way, don’t forget to check out the famous watchtower here – Torre del Verger!
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND THERE?
I recommend reserving around 3 hours for Banyalbufar.
WHERE TO STAY?
Son Borguny – cute, cosy and nicely decorated! This 3-star hotel is only 700m from the beach, which is a great advantage.
By bus: TIB bus – line 202. Departs from Estació Intermodal in Palma several times a day, starting at 9 AM. Duration: 45 minutes. Costs 3-5€.
Portocolom
WHY VISIT PORTOCOLOM?
Portocolom is one of the best natural harbours in Mallorca and one of the most beautiful destinations around. In all honesty, I think Portocolom is a bit underrated! It has colourful fishermen houses, stunning beaches with golden sand (Cala Marçal is just an example) and an unforgettable laid-back vibe. There are also tastings at the nearby vineyards, diving opportunities and everything in between. Perfect spot for total relaxation!
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND THERE?
I recommend reserving around 2-3 hours for Portocolom, more if you want to do some diving or join a wine tasting.
WHERE TO STAY?
Es Varadero is a gorgeous 70 m² apartment on the beachfront with a superb terrace where you can enjoy the view.
HPC Restaurant – restaurant, cafe and music bar all in one! They serve very good food, including some yummy salads!
HOW TO GET TO PORTOCOLOM?
By car: 1-hour drive from Palma de Mallorca (68 km)
By bus: TIB bus – line 501. Departs from Palma at 9, 10.30, 12, 1, 2, 3.30, 5, 6.30, 7.30 and 8.30 PM. Duration: 1 hour and a half. Costs 5-7€ one-way.
Cala Figuera
WHY VISIT CALA FIGUERA?
Last but definitely not least, there’s Cala Figuera village. Located in the Southeast part of Mallorca, this is one of the less touristic places on my list. Cala Figuera is a tiny fishing harbour (and it shows!) where you can do some people watching and indulge in fresh seafood in one of the restaurants or local markets. Although it doesn’t have its own beach, there are diving opportunities here as well as some hiking trails departing from the harbour and up to the cliffs. If you want to stay the night, I recommend booking an apartment or villa in order to completely immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this pretty place!
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND THERE?
A couple of hours should be enough to explore the harbour and taste some seafood dishes.
WHERE TO STAY?
Apartaments Marina Sol i Pins offers lovely apartments with access to a garden and an outdoor swimming pool. Barbecue facilities included too!
Es Port serves big portions of Mediterranean food as well as pizzas.
HOW TO GET TO CALA FIGUERA?
By car: 1-hour drive from Palma de Mallorca (69 km)
By bus: TIB bus – line 501 from Palma to La Verge 2 (7 stops), then switch to line 516 from La Verge 2 to Cala Figuera (3 stops). Departs from Estació Intermodal in Palma 3 times a day, starting at 8.50 AM. Duration: 1 hour 30’. Costs 7-9€.
This was my complete Mallorca guide to the 12 best towns, villages and resorts! If you want to visit Mallorca, please don’t make the mistake of only visiting Palma, there are so many other wonderful destinations – from Valldemossa to Fornalutx, Santanyi and Pollensa, I have told you everything you need to know about each of them in this article!
And if you’re curious to read more about other places to visit in Mallorca, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles about this amazing place in the Balearic Islands. And in this section you’ll find all my articles about Spain!
Which one is your favorite?
xoxo,
Melissa
Want to know more about travelling to Mallorca?
Check out all my Mallorca Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your boat to get to the Islands? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Mallorca so you don’t miss a thing!
Pin it for later!
Sign Up For Our Newsletter!
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Travel Guide: How To Visit the Atomium in Brussels, Belgium
The Atomium is the symbol of Brussels and it’s a real sight to see at least once in your lifetime! If you’re planning a trip to Belgium soon, I’m guessing this landmark is definitely on your bucket list. If so, then you opened the right article!
In this post, I will tell you everything you need to know about how to visit the Atomium, from the ticket prices to opening times, when to visit, how to get there from central Brussels, where to eat nearby and more.
Let’s get started!
First of all, is the Atomium worth visiting?
In short: yes! At the absolute least – a quick glance from afar.
The Atomium is a remarkable sight. Firstly, it is massive. Secondly, the architecture is insanely cool. Thirdly, (and this may sound super childish, but here goes), it is seriously shiny, so don’t forget your sunnies unless you want to be Squinty-McGee all day. Even though it’s impressive, I’m not sure you could call it beautiful. The obscure Atomium structure looks like it’s been teleported out of a 1960s sci-fi film. For me personally, that’s just another tick on the pro’s list for reasons to visit.
Now there’s one thing left to find out: if you’ll visit the inside of the Atomium or not. And all the information below will help you decide for yourself!
Everything you need to know before you visit the Atomium
Why was the Atomium built?
Located on the Heysel Plateau, the Atomium was initially built for the first post-war Brussels World Expo in 1957 and it was meant to be a central piece of the event. Why did they choose atoms, though? Well, science was extremely popular in the 50s in Belgium and people believed it’s one powerful activity.
Nowadays the landmark is a significant tourist spot, housing a museum devoted to the historical exhibition. It wasn’t intended to be a permanent part of the Brussels architectural landscape – the initial plan was to keep it for 6 months only. However, just like the Eiffel Tower in France, the Belgians loved it so much they decided to keep it!
The Atomium derives its name from a combination of Atom and Aluminium. The unique structure represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Originally, the spheres were coated with sheets made of aluminium, but they faded over time, so they were replaced with stainless steel in 2004.
The Atomium is located in Northern Brussels, around 8-9 km from the city centre, in Atomium Square.
There are different ways of getting to the Atomium from the centre of the city, depending on your preferences:
SUBWAY: This is the cheapest option. The closest subway station is called Heysel and it’s a 5-min walk away (648m) from the Atomium. You have two choices from central Brussels: line 6 from Midi Station (45 minutes, 3€) or line 1 or 5 from Central Station or De Brouckère Station (30 minutes, 5€) and change at Bekkant to line 6. From Heysel station, you just need to cross the tramlines and walk for a couple of minutes and you’ll reach the Atomium.
BUS: The closest bus station is called Brussel Brugmann and it’s 10 minutes away from the Atomium. You can take bus no. 241 which will take you to the monument in around 50 minutes.
UBER / TAXI: This is the fastest but also the most expensive option. The journey from central Brussels takes 10 minutes and it costs 10 to 15€.
The Atomium is open every day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The last entrance is at 5:30 PM. You can check the up-to-date schedule on the official website here.
If you only want to see the exterior, you can do so any time, any day. It’s super pretty at night too, when it’s all lit up!
Best time to visit the Atomium
In general, the Atomium gets crowded from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. That’s why I recommend visiting as early in the morning as possible, meaning at 10:00 AM. Or late in the evening, at 4:00 PM. If I were to choose, I’d say to go for the 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM option because the sunset is simply stunning seen from the inside! Plus, there are almost no crowds.
HOW LONG TO SPEND AT THE ATOMIUM
1 to 2 hours should be plenty, queuing included. You can spend more time in the surrounding area – for things to do around the Atomium, please check the dedicated section further below.
Atomium tickets and prices
Below I’ll list the Atomium price for all types of travellers:
Adults: 16.95€
Teenager (up to 17 years old and >115cm): 9.25€
Children <115cm: 0.35€
Seniors (over 65 years old): 14.85€
Student: 9.25€ but you must present your student ID
People with disabilities: 0.35€
Free entry if you have the Brussels Card. More information about what this is below.
NOTE #1: Your Atomium ticket provides access to the full Atomium Museum inside, but also free entry to the Design Museum (right next to the Atomium).
WHERE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS:
From the ticket office on-site – this requires queuing and lots of time wasted
Online in advance – recommended. This way you can select your preferred time slot and skip the long lines (tourists with pre-bought tickets have a separate queue).
You can buy adult tickets with free cancellation here. For all other categories, you can buy your tickets on the official website here.
NOTE #2: You can also buy a combined ticket for the Atomium + Mini Europe, another popular attraction close by. The combined ticket can only be bought from the ticket office at the Atomium. No online option (yet).
NOTE #3: If you want to learn as much as possible about the Atomium building, I recommend downloading CloudGuide on your phone – they have a pretty nice Atomium audio guide. You can get the free app on iPhone here and on Android here.
Should you buy a Brussels Card for the Atomium?
Brussels Card is a typical tourist pass that offers:
Free entrance to 49 museums – Choco Museum, Rene Magritte House, Art & History Museum and more. The Atomium is included ONLY if you select the special option and it costs 12€ more;
Various discounts to shops, tours, restaurants and other attractions;
Free city map;
Optional: unlimited public transportation for 8, 15, or 19€ more
The Brussels card with Atomium entry costs 41€ for 24 hours (+8€ for unlimited transport), 49€ for 48 hours (+15€ for unlimited transport) and 57€ for 72 hours (+19€ for unlimited transport).
In my humble opinion, the Brussels Card is only worth it if you have at least 3 days to spend in Brussels and you want to make the best of it. This means seeing as many attractions as possible and using public transport a lot. Otherwise, I think it costs a bit much. As usual, I recommend making a list of all the places you want to see, calculate the costs of all the tickets and then see if the tourist pass is worth it for you or not.
NOTE: You must exchange your online Brussels Card for the actual card at any Tourist Office once you arrive in the city (they’re close to most train stations and other popular spots in the centre).
Apart from the three outer spheres, you can visit the insides of the other six if you choose to purchase a ticket. There is a viewing platform and restaurant in the 7th and highest sphere. With 360 degree views of the surroundings, they say you can see all the way to Antwerp if the weather is good – so you can expect to take some pretty nice pictures from up there.
The other spheres hold a minimalistic museum dedicated to the Atomium expo from 1957, continuing to the present day. There is also a tourist shop selling merchandise inside the building but beware of the sky-high prices.
I think the Atomium interior is worth it for the panoramic views from the highest level (100m tall!) and the museum if you’re an architecture fan. Plus, it’s pretty fun to walk around the spheres and to see the light shows on the elevators! But if you’re on a budget or you’re short on time, just admiring the outside and taking some pics should be enough.
If you’re really passionate about the Atomim and want to book a hotel as close to it as possible, I got you! I have selected some excellent accommodations below for all budgets, so you won’t need to waste time searching yourself. But please keep in mind that this landmark is not located in the city centre, but in the northern part of Brussels, half an hour from the centre by public transportation.
Because the Atomium is not located in the city centre, it makes all the sense in the world to make the best out of your trip there and visit some other cool attractions nearby. Here are your options:
Design Museum – included in your Atomium ticket, 10€ for the separate ticket.
Mini Europe – you simply can’t see the Atomium and not visit Mini Europe as well! They’re both near each other and there are also combined tickets for both of them available (only at the ticket office at the Atomium). Mini Europe is a miniature park with iconic sculptures all around Europe. It’s like seeing the most important sights in Europe in one hour!
Planetarium – for all space lovers and great for families with children too. Combined tickets are available for the Planetarium + Mini Europe for 21.60€/adult.
Laeken Park – if you’re tired of museums, maybe you’re better off with a relaxing walk in the park! The Japanese Gardens inside the park are a must, as well as the Laeken Notre Dame.
Best restaurants near the Atomium
Sadly, there aren’t a lot of restaurant options around the Atomium. Still, I have gathered all the information you need about the ones available:
Atomium Restaurant – yes, this is a restaurant located inside the Atomium, in the highest sphere! As you might expect, the prices are high – after all, you’re paying for the experience rather than the food. The restaurant serves a combo of Belgian and international dishes and the service can be quite slow, especially during rush hours. But if you really want to tick this experience off your bucket list and you want to have a bite with a panoramic view, go for it! Make sure to make a reservation beforehand. You can find more details about the opening times and offers on the official website.
Atomium Terrace – not really a fancy restaurant like the one on the top, Atomium Terrace is a nice eatery at the foot of the monument, right at the ticket office. They have your typical sandwiches, snacks and some drinks. A good lunch if you find you’re hungry!
Friteries – These are traditional food stalls serving Belgian fries and you can find two of them near the Atomium – one on the north side and one on the opposite side. They’re usually open from morning until around 7 PM and they’re a very good idea for a quick bite.
MY RECOMMENDATION: Visit the Atomium, grab some Belgian fries from one of the friteries nearby and then return to Brussels centre for your next meal.
BONUS #1: Where to go for the best views of the Atomium
If you’re not interested in seeing the inside of the Atomium and admiring the panoramic view from the top level, maybe you’ll prefer taking some postcard-worthy pictures of it to bring back home as a memory! Here are the best spots to get a view of the Atomium:
Under the Atomium – the foot of the monument provides some pretty amazing angles for pictures;
In the northern part of Laeken Park – if you want to take a picture of the Atomium surrounded by trees;
From Mini Europe – walk around and you’ll surely find a good view of the Atomium;
Place Poelaert – not the best spot, but you’ll be able to see the Atomium from a distance.
BONUS #2: Fun facts about the Atomium
Let’s get you all hyped and excited for your upcoming trip with some FUN Atomium facts:
The Atomium was created as a central monument and symbol of Expo 58 (the 1958 World Expo of Brussels) and it was meant to only “last” for 6 months. The locals loved it so much that it stayed until the present time!
The Atomium was built in 18 months;
It’s 102m tall;
Each sphere has a diameter of 18m;
It weighs 2.400 tons;
The Atomium was designed by André Waterkeyn (engineer) and André Polak and Jean Polak (architect duo);
Its shape doesn’t look like an iron atom (as most people say) but as one unit cell of pure iron, magnified 150 billion times.
Each of the 9 spheres symbolises the fact that science is the epicentre of human progress;
For safety reasons, only 6 out of the 9 spheres can be visited;
There are escalators inside connecting the spheres;
The monument was under renovation from 2004 until 2006. With the renovation, they also added almost 3.000 LEDs that create a beautiful light show at night that resembles the range of an electron around its core;
The spheres were once made of aluminium, but they were replaced with stainless steel;
Even though it sounds absurd, the building’s design is copyrighted worldwide;
If the weather is clear, you can look out of the Atomium Restaurant’s window and see as far as Antwerp city;
CNN named the Atomium the most bizarre-looking building in Europe.
This was my complete guide to the Atomium in Belgium! In this post, I have told you everything you need to know about when, how and why to visit the Atomium and I offered you updated info about ticket prices, nearby attractions, nearby restaurants and more. In case you were wondering if the Atomium is worth visiting or not, I’m pretty sure the article above has already answered your question!
If you need more help in planning your upcoming Brussels trip, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles about this fun city.
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12 Incredible Things to Do in KL (Kuala Lumpur): Tours, Restaurants & More
Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia and one of the most interesting destinations in South East Asia. If you’re planning a trip or a short layover there soon, you need to make a list of the best things to do in KL for your trip! This is exactly why I created this complete Kuala Lumpur travel guide which includes the best Kuala Lumpur attractions as well as the best hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, tours and more!
I made the mistake that so many do and only booked our trip to Kuala Lumpur as a stopover, leaving us with only a short three-day trip to explore. We quickly realised that there were A LOT of things to do in KL that we just didn’t have time to fit in. For our first trip to KL, we wanted to focus on seeing all the most iconic sights. Luckily, Malaysia is one of the main flight connection points between Europe and Asia, so we’ll surely be back for more!
Without further ado, scroll down to find my first-timers guide with 12 unmissable places to visit in Kuala Lumpur!
NOTE: You’ll see that I’ll use KL and KLCC frequently in this article. KL stands for Kuala Lumpur and KLCC is Kuala Lumpur City Centre. It’s the way both locals and internationals abbreviate these words.
But first – why visit Kuala Lumpur?
Ah, for SO many reasons! Kuala Lumpur is a very interesting place full of incredible attractions. High towers with unique observation decks and revolving restaurants, lots of animal parks where you can see anything from birds to bigger wildlife and butterflies, mosques, temples, cultural neighbourhoods. And of course, delicious local food and endless shopping opportunities. Kuala Lumpur is a destination that definitely deserves more than 3 days if you want to explore all the main attractions.
What to do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
My list of things to do in Kuala Lumpur is long and wide, but below you’ll find 12 attractions that I consider to be essential if you’re visiting for the first time. I also prepared a bonus list for you with extra sights to see in case you’re not on your first visit and want something new. You can find it below.
1 – Petronas Towers
Of course, I’m starting this list with THE most iconic landmark in the city! The world-famous Petronas Towers are the first thing that pops into mind when we hear the words Kuala Lumpur – and with good reason! The Kuala Lumpur Petronas Twin Towers are the tallest twin towers in the world and they were considered to be, until 2004, the tallest towers ever. Needless to say they’re the symbol of the capital and one of the fun things to do in KL!
The towers are 88 floors high and 452 meters tall and they have a bridge connecting them between the 41st and 42nd floors.
What’s there to do here? First, you can admire the towers from KLCC Park, especially in the evening when the buildings are beautifully lit up. You can also go up the towers and visit the Sky Bridge (that connects the two buildings) and the Observation Deck (at the 88th floor) as well.
TIP: This is THE most famous attraction in the city so tickets sell out fast. This, combined with the fact that there’s a strict 1.000 person limit per day brings me to my recommendation: make sure you buy your tickets IN ADVANCE. And I mean at least 1-2 weeks in advance, especially if you want to visit the towers on a certain date and time.
PRICE: 80 MYR/person for tourists (19 US$). You can buy your tickets online in advance here on the official website. Or you can test your luck and go to the ticket counter early in the morning (8:30 AM) but I really wouldn’t advise that! You can also buy the skip-the-line ticket with a one-way transfer for 27.55 US$. By the way, all tickets include access to the Sky Bridge and Observation Deck as well.
Now that I told you about the Petronas Twin Towers, I have to mention KLCC Park right away. This green landscaped park is located right behind the towers and it’s a great place to relax, unwind and get a great view of the towers from afar. Don’t get me wrong, the park is quite large – it has over 20 hectares, so you’ll have plenty of space to find a good spot for you.
PRICE: Free
3 – The Batu Caves
RELATED READ: If you want to read more info about this awesome place, I recommend checking out my dedicated article where I’m telling you about my experience and lots of useful info: Kuala Lumpur: A Complete Guide to the Batu Caves.
Okay, I admit it: I cheated a bit by inserting this attraction here, as it’s not exactly inside the city. But it’s still one of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur – and a famous one, too.
The Batu Caves are actually a Hindu Temple built inside a cave and it is said to be around 400 years old. You should definitely pay a visit to this place – and while you’re here, I recommend checking out the Dark Cave as well.
PRICE: Free. The Dark Cave is 35 MYR/person (8.50 US$). I recommend taking a group tour or a private tour if you want to visit this place and also benefit from hotel pick-up and lots of fun info from a local guide.
Did you expect to find an even taller tower than the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur? Heh, enter Menara KL Tower, also known as the place with the most beautiful views of the city! The viewing deck of Menara is around 100m taller than the Petronas – and you can actually see the famous twin towers from here. And yes, this tower has its cool viewpoint too (the Sky Box) and it’s completely made of glass. Just think of THAT view and the endless photo opportunities!
You have 3 different spots to visit here, each with its own price: the Observation Deck (indoor), the SkyDeck (outdoor) and the SkyBox (the glass box I was telling you about above). You can also buy combo tickets for these in case you can’t choose.
TIP #1: The best time to visit is in the morning or during the evening, preferably at sunset if you want to get the most beautiful view of the city.
TIP #2: If you’re looking for a unique experience with fewer tourists, I recommend going to Atmosphere 360, a revolving restaurant that offers an equally awesome view as any viewing platform here. You can grab an afternoon tea for 75 MYR/person (18 US$) or a lunch set meal for 95 MYR (23 US$) and just enjoy the vibe.
PRICE: The Observation Deck is 49 MYR (12 US$) and the combo with all 3 is 99 MYR (24 US$) per person. I found way cheaper tickets on Klook right here – 9.65 US$ for the Observation and 21.25 US$ for the combo ticket. 100% recommended!
Thean Hou Temple is also known as the Temple of the Goddess of Heaven and it’s famous for being one of the oldest Chinese temples not only in Malaysia, but in this entire part of the world as well! It’s massive and its six tier architecture is simply stunning: a red roof, hundreds of hanging Chinese lanterns and intricate carvings painted in endless colours. If you only visit one temple in KL, Thean Hou should be it; it is surely high on my list of beautiful tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur for some incredible photos!
6 – Merdeka Square and Sultan Abdul Samad Building
Merdeka Square (Dataran Merdeka) is one of the most important spots in the city, as this is where Malaysia declared its independence! Along with the Petronas, this should be on top of your cultural Kuala Lumpur itinerary. Although the square itself is pretty nice, with green lawns and a massive flagpole, the most unmissable spot here is definitely Sultan Abdul Samad Building. This Moorish and Gothic-style building made entirely of bricks was built in 1897 and it has a superb, intricate design. Seriously, it’s something to witness!
If you want to find out more about the city’s colonial past and these historical buildings, I recommend taking a guided tour. I recommend this half-day tour that will take you to Merdeka Square, Petronas, Istana Negara and more.
7 – Sri Mahamariamman Temple in Chinatown
Sri Mahamariamman Temple (well that’s a fun name to pronounce!), dating from the 19th century, is the oldest Hindu temple around and it’s the best place to visit in KL if you want to learn more about the numerous religions and cultures that this place encompasses. The Hindu architecture is simply stunning – vibrant colours on the façade, sculptures and well-known legends.
This temple (along with the Toaist Sin Sze Si Ya temple) is located in the Chinatown neighborhood, a unique place to visit while you’re in Kuala Lumpur. Chinatown revolves around Petaling Street – it’s the place where you’ll find endless shops with extremely cheap prices and lots of restaurants with traditional dumplings, noodles and more. Make sure you pay Chinatown a visit, day or night!
8 – KL Forest Eco Park
Hanging bridges, lots of nature and endless rows of trees – the KL Forest Eco Park is a real jungle in the middle of the city! The canopy walk is a well-known activity in the park and seeing a monkey or two is to be expected. Sounds fun, right?
The canopy walk (200m long) is the most popular route, made of hanging bridges among lush trees. It takes around 30 to 40 minutes to complete, photos included. It’s not hard at all, trust me, even kids can do this!
PRICE: Free
TIP: The Eco Park is located very close to the Menara KL Tower, so you can visit both in one day.
9 – Jamek Mosque and Wilayah Mosque
Jamek Mosque is one of the most important mosques in all of Malaysia and it’s around 100 years old. It has beautiful architecture and it’s located at the intersection of two rivers – Klang and Gombak. The setting is simply amazing and you can also visit the inside of the mosque!
Wilayah Mosque is very pretty mosque in KL hosted in one of the most striking buildings in the city of Kuala Lumpur and it’s open for anyone to visit. There are volunteers offering free guided tours of the mosque at the entrance. They’re very eager to share the interesting facts they know with tourists, so I definitely recommend this experience!
10 – Try some durian and the local dishes
Have you heard of durian before? I’m pretty sure you have! If not, let me tell you a few words about this weird and wonderful fruit. Durian is a pretty common fruit in Southeast Asia. It’s big, spiky and interesting-looking but, most of all, it’s know for being extremely smelly. Yep, you read that right! Durian is only for the brave! Some say it has a strong smelly socks aroma, but if you can ignore the initial wiff, you’ll discover a world of flavour. Tasting durian should be in every Kuala Lumpur guide. Or you can at least TRY to taste it! You can do it in one of the local markets or during a food tour such as this chef-designed small group food tour.
Talking about food tours… I hope you know that tasting as much street food as possible is a MUST while you’re in KL, right? One of the best places to go to enjoy some amazing street food dishes is definitely Jalan Alor Food Street, also known as the best open-air night market, but I’ll tell you about some other cool places in the “Where to eat” section below!
11 – Sip a drink on a rooftop bar
Just like in Bangkok, the Kuala Lumpur nightlife is pretty vibrant and one of the most popular activities here is going to a sky-high rooftop bar. There are so many good ones in KL that you simply have to try at least one! Here are my best recommendations:
Heli Lounge Bar – 360° view and a cool location on a helipad. Make sure you reserve a spot beforehand, otherwise you’ll have to sip your drink while standing – or go early, at 5 or 6 PM. More information here.
Sky Bar at Traders Hotel – cute and cool, located at the 33rd floor of a hotel! I recommend going on Wednesdays for Ladies Night so you can enjoy free cocktails from 6 – 11 PM. Plus, they have new DJs daily so you can enjoy some good music while you’re there. More information here.
Marini’s on 75 – This is the rooftop bar to go to for close up views of the Petronas Towers. They also have an Italian restaurant on-site and a whiskey lounge. More information here.
TIP: Tight budget? Two words: happy hour! Most bars have them in their schedule, so remember to check ahead and you shouldn’t miss them.
12 – Do some shopping
Wondering where to shop in KL for the best experience? Oh, there are so many places worth noting! Here are some of the best shopping places in Kuala Lumpur below:
PETALING STREET – The well-known street in Chinatown I mentioned before. There are countless stalls here with VERY cheap items and souvenirs, anything from electronics to clothes and accessories. There’s also tons of street food options to try.
SURIA KLCC – Located in the city center, this huge six-story shopping complex has anything from shops, supermarkets, a cinema and a food court with Malaysian and International dishes as well.
PAVILLION – A more modern approach to shopping, this mall is located in Bukit Bintang area and it hosts more than 700 shops. Probably the coolest mall in town!
CENTRAL MARKET – Also called Pasar Seni, this place is divided in different sections such as Malay, Indian and Chinese, each of them with numerous stalls where you can find different souvenirs. There’s also a food court at the upper floor of the Central Market with local dishes as well. And if you’re lucky enough, you’ll also get to witness a street performance!
KAMPUNG BARU SUNDAY MARKET – A local night market where you can find all kinds of items, from clothes to jewellery. It’s open on Saturday night until Sunday morning so yes, the name is a bit… misleading.
BUKIT BINTANG – For all pockets. You’ll find everything here from luxury shops (at Starhill Gallery especially) to local brands, from clothes to electronics.
LITTLE INDIA – Just like Chinatown, Little India is the perfect place for affordable souvenirs and TONS of Indian spices. The only downside is that the neighbourhood is located at the outskirts of the city.
BONUS: Extra places to visit in KL
If you still have some time to spend here and you’re out of KL attractions, don’t worry, I got you! Here’s an extra list of exciting things and places to add to your itinerary:
KL Bird Park – 21 acres and more than 200 species of birds! There are 4 different areas that you can explore and it’s a great place to unwind and see the local birds. Entrance fee to the bird park is 63 MYR / 15 US$ per adult on the official website.
Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park – with over 120 species, this place is perfect for some relaxation while admiring the colourful butterflies! Entrance fee is 25 MYR (6 US$) and you can buy it at the entrance. If you want to visit both the bird park and the butterfly park with a combo guided tour, I found this one.
Little India neighbourhood – for those of you that want to learn more about the Indian culture or just to taste an amazing tikka masala!
Perdana Botanical Gardens – formerly known as the Lake Gardens, this place hosts the largest collection of flowers in KL for sure. And the Orchid Garden is surely the most beautiful site there. Entrance fee is 6 MYR / 1.50 US$.
Aquaria KLCC – not just an aquarium, but an entire underwater world with more than 5.000 aquatic specimens! They call themselves an “oceanarium” and I think it’s pretty cool. Entrance fee to Aquaria KLCC is 71 MYR (17 US$) on the official website but I found cheaper prices on Klook here – 54 MYR (13 US$) per person!
Negara National Zoo of Malaysia – with almost 500 species of animals, this is the place to go, especially with the little ones! Entrance fee is 88 MYR (21.20 US$) on the official website but I found cheaper tickets on Klook here for 73 MYR (17.60 US$) that include access to the Panda Center as well.
Sunway Lagoon Theme Park – both a theme park and a water park with lots of fun activities for the entire family. Both relaxation and adventure await here! Entrance fee is 202 MYR (48.60 US$) for one adult on the official website, but I found way cheaper tickets on Klook here for 172 MYR (41.40 US$).
National Museum – the National Museum is a traditional house where you can learn about the history and culture of Malaysia. Entrance fee is 5 MYR / 1.20 US$.
National Mosque – visit the National Mosque if you want to be in awe of a superb Islamic building!
Kuala Lumpur Railway Station – once the main train station (now dethroned by KL Sentral), this building is super pretty and worthy of at least a quick look.
Royal Selangor Visitor Centre – an underrated pewter museum where you can learn about the history and the way the Royal Selangor products were made. Free entrance and free guided tours available! More information here.
Istana Negara – the former palace where Malaysian kings lived; nowadays it’s the best place to learn about royal life in KL. Entrance fee is 10 MYR (2.40 US$).
Dine in the Dark experience – Dining in the Dark is exactly what you expect it to be – a total sense experience during which you’ll eat in complete darkness. Sounds pretty cool to me!
Best Kuala Lumpur city tour options by type of traveller
I know, I know, my list of places to go in KL can be a bit overwhelming, to say the least! If you need a little bit of help organising your itinerary, my recommendation is to book some organised tours of the city. This way, you can tour Kuala Lumpur and see its main highlights without the timing and transportation stress!
Here are some of my best recommendations for tours of Kuala Lumpur by type of traveller:
Hop On Hop Off Kuala Lumpur sightseeing bus – a great way to navigate the city, stop close to the most important attractions for you and then hop back on the bus! Available for 24 or 48 hours;
Wondering where to stay in KL? Luckily for us travellers, Kuala Lumpur’s hotel scene is full of TONS of amazing places to stay for the best experience! A rooftop pool, city views, clean rooms but also nice hostels and affordable apartments – you can find all these in KL and more!
The best areas I can recommend are KLCC, Bukit Bintang and Chinatown, especially if you want to be close to all the most important landmarks such as the Petronas Towers.
And here’s a short roundup below where you can find the top hotels in Kuala Lumpur I’m recommending, all sorted by budget:
Everyone knows that you can’t visit any place in Asia without trying the local food – Malaysia included! And trust me, the local dishes in Kuala Lumpur are pretty much unforgettable. Here are some unmissable dishes to try as well as some excellent foodie spots out there:
NASI KANDAR
Mixed rice – one of the most common foods in Malaysia. You basically receive a portion of plain rice and you can mix and match your favourite ‘toppings’ (seafood, meat, veggies etc.). I recommend trying it at the street stalls or at Nasi Kandar Bestari.
NASI LEMAK
The national dish of Malaysia, usually served for breakfast. It’s coconut rice mixed with fried chicken, chili paste, fried eggs and anchovies – and it’s delicious! I know, they take breakfast seriously for sure. I, again, recommend the street stalls or Village Park Restaurant.
ROTI CANAI
Indian-style flatbread, also known as a “flying bead”. It goes wonderfully with stews and spicy curries and you can find it pretty much everywhere you look. Try roti canai banjir if you want to taste the bread with just curry sauce.
HIGH TEA
High tea is a world-famous British tradition. And because Malaysia was colonised by the British, this tradition is well-known around these lands as well – and there are plenty of nice places to sip a good tea in Kuala Lumpur and to enjoy some quality time. I recommend The Orchid Conservatory at Majestic Hotel, Atmosphere 360 or Newens Tea House for this.
FINE DINING
Cantaloupe is located at the 23rd floor of the Troika building and they have an amazing 7-course tasting menu. Talkin’ about sky dining!
VISIT THE CUTE CAFES
You know how much I love brunches and cafes – and Kuala Lumpur is the perfect place to stop by some cute cafes to start your day right. Merchant’s Lane is a great place in Chinatown that serves an Asian fusion menu and The Husky Cafe Kuala Lumpur (Huskiss) does not disappoint: it’s a cafe with perfect coffee and DOGS!
JALAN ALOR STREET FOOD MARKET – This is literally foodie heaven and one of the most famous places in KL for tasting authentic dishes. You can find tons of cheap (and delicious) Malaysian food stalls here serving anything from barbecue meat to soups and desserts and the best part is that it’s open 24/7. It’s in the Golden Triangle area and it’s the REAL deal.
TAMAN CONNAUGHT MARKET – Another notable place; the good thing is that it’s not as touristy as the first one, so you’ll find more locals here. There are also stalls selling clothes, electronics and more.
If you want to taste ALLLL the best food that Kuala Lumpur has to offer, I recommend joining a food tour. A local guide will take you to all the best food places in KL and will show you exactly what to try and how. I recommend this Kuala Lumpur Street Food Tour with 10 tastings or this Local Street Food Night Tour.
Or, even better, you can join a cooking class. It’s a wonderful opportunity to not only learn about the local dishes, but also find out how to properly cook them using authentic ingredients and techniques. For this, I recommend this New Malaysian Kitchen Cooking Class and Garden Tour.
The good news is that the local transportation system in KL is very well-connected and pocket-friendly too. The downside is that you’ll have so many options, it can be a bit hard to choose. I don’t recommend you simply walk around the streets, as KL is pretty massive and the landmarks are not that close to each other (unless we’re talking about Petronas Towers and KLCC Park).
But I’ll elucidate all the transportation mysteries for you below:
MRT and LRT
These are the local trains and they connect the centre to numerous other neighbourhoods. One ride is 1.20 MYR (0.30 US$) and you can buy your ticket from the vending machines at the stations.
KL MONORAIL
Connects KL Sentral (main train station) to KLCC. One ride is 1.30 MYR (0.30 US$ as well) and it works with tokens that can be bought at the station and validated before you enter the train.
RAPIDKL BUS
Local buses that work with a digital TnGo Card. You charge it with at least 3 MYR (0.25 to 1.20 US$) and you can use it on all lines. Fees for one ride range from 1 to 5 MYR depending on where you’re going.
GO KL CITY BUS
Free local bus that takes you to the most frequented train stations, areas and attractions. It has a pretty lilac colour and you can board it for free.
TAXI
They’re a fast and convenient way of navigating the city, although I’d recommend avoiding them. If you HAVE to use them, make sure the driver uses the meter. If he refuses, just find another one. Alternatively, there’s also Grab in KL (Asian version of Uber). Also, it is said that red taxis are better than blue taxis.
TIP: If you plan on using the public transportation system a lot while you’re in KL (LRT, MRT and KL Monorail, I recommend a MyCity Pass, which is a well-known transportation card. It offers unlimited rides on all three of them for 1 and 3 days and the prices range from 20 MYR to 35 MYR. You can buy it at all stations and I think it’s a great deal.
This was my complete guide to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia! I hope you found this article useful, as I did my best to include EVERYTHING you might need here, from the best things to do to the best tours, hotels, restaurants, dishes, transportation methods and everything else in-between!
When it comes to it, Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is an incredible destination and people from all around the world flock here to discover its secrets and see its attractions. If you’re one of them, I hope this article was useful in planning your itinerary!
In case you want to read more about Malaysia, I recommend clicking here to find out everything about my adventures in this amazing country.
xoxo,
Melissa
Want to know more about travelling to Kuala Lumpur?
Check out all my Kuala Lumpur Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your tour in the city? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
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12 Top Attractions in Brussels, Belgium – A Complete Guide to the City
Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is one of the most popular and culture-rich vacation destinations in the entire Europe. In case you’re planning a visit there soon, scroll down to find my complete list of unmissable attractions in Brussels, as well as the top places to stay, what to eat (and where to eat it!) and information about public transportation in the city as well.
Brussels is well-known for its historical buildings, incredible gastronomy (think about chocolate, waffles and beer) and beautiful museums. It’s a capital city full of history, that caters for all types of visitors. Regardless if you’re interested in architecture, exploring the historic centre, going on day trips or you just want to spend some quality time relaxing and tasting some incredible dishes, get ready for one of your best vacations!
Okay, enough talking, let’s get down to business! Get ready to make some real travel plans!
12 Top things to do in Brussels, Belgium
There are so many interesting attractions in the city of Brussels that it was really hard to make a shortlist! Regardless if you want to visit the Grand Place or a UNESCO World Heritage site or simply indulge in traditional gastronomy, the list below has it all:
1 – Grand Place
The Grand Place (also known as Grote Markt) is the main square in Brussels’ historic centre. Famous for its jaw-dropping architecture (including a 15th-century town hall!), the stunning buildings that surround the cobbled plaza offer an insight into Brussels through the eras. Most of the buildings in the Grand Place are full of history, dating from the late 17th century, but the earliest date all the way back to the 12th century.
Their golden exteriors have been preserved to retain their original Gothic and Baroque style, but inside they are now filled with restaurants, cafes and shops. The Grand Place is pretty impressive, I promise!
2 – The Atomium
The Atomium is one of the most well-known landmarks in Belgium and a symbol of Brussels! It was initially built for the first post-war Brussels World Expo in 1957. Nowadays it holds a museum devoted to the historical exhibition inside its spheres along with a restaurant and viewing platform.
Atomium entrance fee: 16€/person. You can buy your tickets online here.
If you want to travel around the world (okay, just Europe, but still!) while you’re in Brussels, this is THE place to go. With over 350 miniature buildings including all the major European landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben and the Venice canals, Mini Europe is a great attraction for families to learn about European history in an interactive way. 100% a great place to go with little ones!
Mini Europe entrance fee: 12€/person. Children under 1.15m can enter free of charge! You can buy your tickets online here.
TIP: You can buy a combined ticket for the Atomium + Mini Europe + Brussels Design Museum for 18.40€ here.
4 – Eat Waffles
You can’t come to Belgium and miss out on waffles! Luckily, Brussels is the perfect place to sample the real deal. There are two different types to choose from; the Brussels waffle (rectangular and flaky, often coated in icing sugar) or the Liege waffle (sweeter, with rounded corners and a crystalized surgery coating). The most famous spot for this Belgian delicacy is Maison Dandoy, and I can confirm it is well worth a visit to get one there!
TIP: If you LOVE waffles, you might be interested in joining a waffle making workshop, why not?
5 – Palais Royal / Royal Palace of Brussels
Although the palace is no longer home to the King and Queen of Belgium, the stunning building still acts as the monarchy’s headquarters in the centre of the capital. Aside from its stately importance, the building and its surrounding parks and grounds are beautiful and easy to explore during a trip to the city.
TIP: During summer (late July to late August), visitors can even go inside and see the rooms of the palace free of charge. You can check out more details about this event when the palace is open to the public here.
6 – Palais de Justice
The Law Courts of Brussels is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys European architecture. The Palais De Justice is an impressive building both inside and out and with visits being absolutely free of charge, it’s one of Brussels must-visits – especially if you’re into photography!
7 – Parc du Cinquantenaire
A park, really?! I know, but trust me, it’s worth a visit! Not only is this park super photogenic, but its surrounding buildings house museums on either side. By the way, Parc du Cinquantenaire hosts a beautiful Triumphal Arch as well – a must see!
TIP: I recommend visiting the Cinquantenaire Park during spring when the park is full of flowers and you can enjoy the sunshine.
8 – Manneken Pis
This little landmark is a bit of an odd one, but tourists crowd around the fountain to see the sculpture called “Manneken Pis” – a 61cm bronze statue of a… peeing little boy. Some may find it altogether unimpressive but it seems here in Brussels that size does not matter, haha! And as odd as it may sound, Manneken Pis is actually a symbol of Brussels. You’ll see replicas all over the city; painted on walls, stencilled onto your waffle in icing sugar, decorating the chocolate shops you visit – he seems to be everywhere! You can even take him home as a magnet, bottle opener or keychain – lucky you!
FUN FACT: Except for Manneken Pis, there are two other “members” of this odd family: Jeanneke Pis (a girl) and Zinneke Pis (a dog).
9 – Eat mussels and fries
Mussels in Brussels! It rhymes, so you know it’s good! This delicacy can be served in a variety of ways; steamed in white wine sauce, garlic and lemon or with some spicy tomato sauce – but they always come with fries on the side. Eating mussels in Brussels is a real art, so make sure you don’t miss this from your bucket list.
TIP: We had a particularly great experience at Chez Leon where they serve generous portions and the flavours are on point. I also heard Le Zinneke and In’t Spinnekopke are popular spots.
10 – The Tintin Street Art Trail
Take a self-guided walking tour of Brussels by following the Tin Tin Comic Strip Trail! Wear comfy shoes as it’s a 3-mile route that takes you on the hunt for 30 wall murals inspired by the comic strip throughout the city. Hergé, the cartoonist behind the Tin Tin comic was Belgian, so you’ll notice TinTin and snowy pop up a lot around the city.
TIP: If you don’t fancy so much walking, you can cheat a bit by using the hop-on / hop-off bus – for this I’d recommend getting a bus pass.
11 – Taste some Belgian beer
Belgium is possibly the most celebrated beer brewing nation in the world today, so it makes sense to try some of the finest artisanal beer in the world while you are in Brussels. Join a beer tasting tour or visit a brewery to learn the latest wave of brewing innovation. Whether you’re into classic beer or modern brewing techniques, everyone loves to sample the goods!
12 – Eat Belgian chocolate
Belgium is famous for its incredible chocolate, so you’ll find no shortage of amazing chocolatiers all over Brussels. There are so many treats to sample, from chocolate-covered strawberries to caramelised pralines to truffle liquors. The most famous and my personal favourite are the handmade Belgian chocolate bars. They are the yummiest but also the priciest!
TIP: If you want to truly enjoy Belgian chocolate, I recommend visiting the Choco-Story Museum, followed by a workshop with a professional chocolatier during which you’ll make your own chocolate bars. Alternatively, you can opt for a Chocolate Tasting from 5 renowned confectioneries in the city.
BONUS: Extra Brussels attractions if you have more time
In case you still have some days left to explore Brussels or if you’re not visiting for the first time and you’ve already seen the Grand Place or Manneken Pis, I have a BONUS list of fun things to do for you!
MORE THINGS TO DO IN BRUSSELS:
St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral – If you go on Treurenberg Hill, you’ll find the famous St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, plus probably the best place to see the city from above;
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert – I know, you might expect the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert to be some kind of a museum or art gallery in the city – in fact, this is the first covered shopping arcade in Europe, built in the 19th century!
Mont des Arts – now we’re talking about museums! The “Mountain of Arts” (literal translation of Mont des Arts) is an area with many famous museums such as the Magritte Museum and MIM;
Le Botanique – a historical botanical garden/greenhouse;
Fashion & Lace Museum – Brussels is one of the top cities when it comes to the lace industry and this museum hosts over 10.000 pieces of beautiful clothing!
Best tours for visiting Brussels by type of traveller
I know, my list of recommended things to do in Brussels is long and complex. It might be a hassle trying to organise a complete itinerary to suit your needs. BUT! I have a solution. Guided tours! There are many options to choose from, depending on what you want to visit.
If you’re up for a fun day trip from Brussels, I got you covered! Brussels has a great location that makes for an amazing starting point for day trips all over Europe. Here are some interesting choices:
When it comes to hotels in Brussels, the possibilities are endless. The city has tons of options for all types of travellers and budgets out there, from hostels and apartments to luxurious 5-star hotels.
RELATED READ: If you want to read everything there is to know about the best areas and accommodation options in Brussels, I recommend checking out this article: Where to Stay in Brussels, Belgium.
Here are some of the best options I have selected for you:
What to eat in Brussels & Best restaurants in the city
I mentioned at the beginning of this Brussels guide that the city is well-known for its gastronomy. Well, I wasn’t kidding at all, as there are SO many dishes to try here! And some people visit this capital just for the food. From pralines to artisan beers, here are some unmissable dishes to try while you’re here:
C-H-O-C-O-L-A-T-E
Decadent. Incredible. Unmissable. It’s a well-known fact that Belgian pralines are top-notch and, although you can pretty much find them everywhere around the city, I recommend joining a Chocolate Tasting that will take you to 5 renowned confectioneries in the city.
MUSSELS AND FRIES
A match made in heaven! And by heaven I mean Brussels, of course. They’re also called “moules frites” here and I recommend heading over to Chez Leon for big portions and incredible flavours.
BELGIAN FRIES
Here’s some information that will blow your mind: French fries are not actually… French. Nope, they’re Belgian! Needless to say that you need to try some “Belgian fries” which are actually French fries which are actually Belgian while you’re in town! One of the best places to try them is at Fritland.
WAFFLES
I guess waffles need no introductions, my friends. And if they’re served as a special breakfast in other parts of the world, they’re a staple sweet snack here and you can grab one at every corner of the street. But I recommend going to Maison Dandoy for some of the best waffles in town! By the way, you’ll encounter two types of waffles in this city: Liege Waffles (crispy) and Brussels Waffles (fluffy). Make sure you try both of them!
BEER
Yep, you know it – you cannot visit Brussels without tasting some national beer, my friends! And because there are endless bars in the city and you might get confused, the easiest way to do it is to join a beer tasting tour!
Getting around Brussels
Now that you have a complete list of things to do in Brussels, you might be wondering what are the best ways to get from point A to point B. Luckily for visitors, this capital has a very good public transportation system that makes things smooth and easy.
Here are the best ways of getting around the city:
WALK
If you’re staying in Brussels city centre, you’ll be pleased to see that this is a super walkable city. So if you’re an active tourist, you might want to experience the center by foot and admire all that stunning architecture.
TRAM. BUS. METRO
Now here’s some good news: all public transportation in the city is operated by the SAME company – how awesome is that? This means that you can get tickets easily and you can even change means of transport whenever you want. Moreover, you can get the Brussels Card – it’s basically a public transport pass available for 24, 48 or 72 hours that will make things even simpler. You can buy it here.
BIKE
This place is incredibly bike-friendly, which I find to be simply awesome. You can rent bikes using Villo!
RENTED CAR
Although it’s not convenient at all to rent a car in order to explore the city, it might be an excellent idea if you’re planning on going on some day trips – such as Ghent or Bruges!
Phew, I’m done now! This was my complete Brussels travel guide full of unforgettable things to do, hotels, unmissable dishes and more.
Regardless if you want to see some top sights such as the Atomium, the Grand Place or Parc du Cinquantenaire, or some lesser-known attractions such as the Mont des Arts, Cathedral of St. Michael and the Museum of Musical Instruments, the list above has EVERYTHING you might need to create the perfect itinerary for your trip.
Although Brussels is an incredible travel destination where you can spend quite some time without getting bored, it’s not the only worthy city in Belgium. To read more about my adventures in this wonderful country, I recommend heading over here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book a tour in the city? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Brussels so you don’t miss a thing!
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7 Things to do in Palma (Mallorca, Spain) – Ultimate Guide to the City
Palma de Mallorca is so much more than perfect weather and glorious beaches! If you’re looking for the ultimate list of things to do in Palma, scroll down, as I have plenty of hand-picked recommendations for you, as well as hotels, restaurants and more.
Palma, more popularly known as Palma de Mallorca, is the capital of Mallorca, in the Balearic Islands of Spain. Palma de Mallorca has become a top tourist destination over the years – and with good reason. It is fun, there’s sun and the chilled vibes of Spanish island life make it perfect to switch off and unwind. Palma has superb beaches to laze on, a historic old town to explore and an infamous nightlife to round it all off.
But Palma is not just a pretty city where you can spend endless hours catching the sun and people watching — it’s actually a melting pot of cultures and a vibrant city brimming with history and foodie delights.
Are you ready to find out everything about it?
Best things to do in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
There are so many unforgettable things to do in Palma de Mallorca, I don’t even know where to start! But as hard as it may be, I’ve made a hand-picked selection of my favourite places to see:
1 – La Seu / Cathedral of Palma
No visit to Palma would be complete without a visit to the majestic Mallorca Cathedral, its most iconic landmark, which dominates the city’s waterfront and took more than six centuries to build. The Cathedral is located in Palma’s Old Town, also known as Casco Antiguo, a charming place full of cobblestone streets, well-worth walking around for at least a couple of hours.
The construction began in the 13th century, and it continued up until the days of Antonio Gaudi, who famously made alterations to the Cathedral between 1904 and 1914. Today, tourists can admire the sandstone construction and its soaring spires, as well as its seven rose windows, including one of the largest in the world.
TIP: If you want to enter, consider buying tickets in advance and visiting before midday to avoid crowds. If you want to admire the colours of the stained-glass windows from the inside, it’s recommended to visit the cathedral early in the morning, right after they open (8.30 AM).
Mallorca Cathedral entrance fee: €8 per person. Buy skip-the-line tickets online here. I also recommend taking the audio guide separately (4€) on the official website for a complete experience.
Once you finish your visit to Mallorca Cathedral, you can rest your feet in Parc de la Mar – a wonderful public space located right in front of the cathedral. This spot offers a scenic view, awesome photo opportunities and it hosts tons of parties, festivals and live music celebrations all year round, such as the Sant Joan celebration at the beginning of summer. There are also many cafes there where you can sit and people watch and even a mural by Joan Miró.
Located to the west of the city, 3km away from Palma’s Old Town, Bellver Castle offers some incredible views across the capital – and it’s one of the top things to do in Palma for sure. Here you can enjoy a 360° panorama of the Bay of Palma and the Tramuntana mountains. Ah, fun fact: this iconic castle is the only round castle in Spain, and it was built in the 14th century! Today, locals and visitors enjoy frequent concerts here during summer evenings, which take place under star-studded skies.
Bellver Castle entrance fee: 4€. Free entry on Sundays.
4 – Paseo del Borne
Arguably the most elegant avenue in the city, Paseo del Borne or Passeig Des Born has been nicknamed “The Golden Mile”, and numerous luxury designers such as Louis Vuitton and Rolex have set up shops here. Except for beautiful shops, there are also tons of cute cafes with terraces along the avenue, as well as bars and restaurants, perfect for people-watching.
5 – Paseo Maritimo
Tired of walking yet? I hope not, as I have another spot to recommend to you! A promenade that runs parallel to the sea in Palma, Paseo Maritimo is the perfect place for golden sunset walks and bike rides. Once you get there, you’ll be able to admire the harbor with its many yachts, shops, fancy seaside restaurants and places to party during the evening.
Mallorca is home to no less than 262 beaches, with a total length of over 50 km. 25 of these beaches fly the blue flag and are perfect for those who love turquoise waters and long stretches of white sand. The best beaches on the island are located further away from the capital, but the good news is that many of them are easily accessible and they’re less than one hour away by car.
If you’re ready for some sunbathing, here’s where I recommend going:
Ca’n Pere Antoni – closest one to Palma, only 2km away from the city center and 1km from the Cathedral. It’s a small beach with golden sand; very popular because it’s so easily accessible from the city, and it also offers stunning views of the Cathedral and plenty of restaurant and bar options;
Illetas – one of the best beaches in Palma de Mallorca, located only 15 minutes away from the center. Small, but calm and super nice;
Cala Brava – 20 minutes from Palma city center. Go there to sit on the rocks and admire the sunset;
El Mago – very quiet and pretty, less than half an hour from the city. Please note this is a nudist beach – just saying, so you don’t have any surprises!
Playa de Formentor – this one’s a bit more far away, but I recommend it if you’re looking for a remote beach where you can enjoy sailing.
7 – Beach clubs
Partying at a beach club is a MAJOR thing in Mallorca – and in Palma as well! Many of the beach clubs in Palma are open year-round and they come with a vibrant party vibe that goes on into the evening. I mean, just picture this: you’re on vacation and you’re enjoying the superb, golden sand beaches of Palma with a glass of wine in your hand at the club. What could be better than this?
BONUS: Extra things to do in Palma if you have more time
There are many more things to see in Palma de Mallorca, so if you have one or more extra days to spend in the city, here are some bonus places to add to your itinerary!
MORE THINGS TO DO IN PALMA DE MALLORCA:
San Juan Mercado Gastronómico / San Juan Market – If you want to indulge in some authentic cuisine, then you cannot omit this market from your list, as it’s one of Palma top spots for foodies. There are tons of stalls here where you can try countless dishes, wine and much more. The market is a perfect spot for lunch!
Joan Miró Foundation – If you are an art lover or a fan of Joan Miró that always dreamed of seeing his real studio, this is the place to go! At Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró a Mallorca you can see his working studio, as well as a gallery. Ah, and the pretty views of the city and the sea are just a tiny bonus!
Arab Baths – Dating from the 10th century, the Arab Baths are one of the hidden gems of Palma. They’re full of history and they’re nested in a secluded garden worth discovering. By the way, the Arab Baths were only discovered 100 years ago!
Royal Palace of La Almudaina – If you’re visiting Palma’s Cathedral, it would be a real shame to omit the Royal Palace of La Almudaina from your itinerary as well, as it’s located right across from the Cathedral. “Almudaina” means fortress, so the name reflects the rich history of this great place. Entrance fee is 7€.
Es Baluard Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art – Are you a fan of contemporary art? Then this museum is one of the unmissable things to do in Palma for you! Es Baluard Museum is located right in the heart of the city and it’s home to more than 500 modern artists, including some ceramics by Picasso. Take your time and explore it! Entrance fee is 6€.
La Ruta Martiana trail – Ruta Martiana, also known as the Tapas Route for us English-speaking people (or Tapas Tuesday if you want), is basically a pub crawl, but with food! It’s an excellent way of discovering the Old Town of Palma, as it takes place there, and an unforgettable gastronomical activity. There are special deals for tapas and beer dedicated to people taking the rail, valid every Tuesday in a selection of bars.
Tours of Palma de Mallorca by type of traveller
In case you want to visit Palma but you don’t want to waste your time planning a complex itinerary of the city, rest assured that you don’t need to stress. There are plenty of organised tours out there that will take you to the top Palma attractions with a professional guide!
Here are the most exciting tours of Palma handpicked by me and broken down by interests:
Mallorca is an island full of surprises, and its historic capital city offers an incredible variety of hotels to suit a wide range of budgets. Choosing the best place to stay in Palma only depends on the kind of holiday you’re planning to have (budget stay? royal treatment? – you choose!).
RELATED READ: If you want to find out all about the most recommended areas in Palma where you can search for accommodation as a tourist, the only thing you need to do is to read my dedicated article: Where to stay in Palma
Here is a short round-up of the best hotels in Palma chosen by me:
When it comes to food, Palma has you spoilt for choice any day of the week. I loved the little local bars and big seafood paellas, as well as the brunch spots with healthy options and much more. Palma de Mallorca offers a big range of food places for all budgets, from Michelin-starred kitchens to Spanish menús del dia.
Make sure you don’t miss out on anything important and follow my list of must-try dishes during your Palma vacation:
TAPAS
Among the first things that come to mind when thinking of Spanish food – and there’s no shortage of it in Mallorca. Going to a bar and indulging in some food must be one of the first things you do in Palma!
PAMBOLI
One of the most common dinners on the island is Pamboli. “Pa amb Oli” means “bread with oil” in the local dialect, and the basic ingredients are usually brown bread, ramallet tomatoes, virgin olive oil and salt.
IBERICO JAMON
Jamon serrano, or Iberico Jamon, is a type of cured ham that is very popular in Spain. You can have it anywhere from breakfast to dinner!
SEAFOOD
Mallorcan seafood is the reason many foodies are attracted to the island, and most of the restaurants have some sort of local recipe involving seafood. Make sure to try the sea bass in rock salt, lobster casserole, and seafood rice.
Getting around Palma de Mallorca
The easiest and most convenient way to get around Mallorca (the entire island but Palma as well) is by rental car. You can rent it right at the airport when you arrive or at your hotel or resort. A car is extremely convenient if you want to see more of the Balearic Islands (read: day trips!).
If you cannot rent a car because of various reasons (or if you want to save some money), the next most convenient means of transportation is the bus. You can check out this website to find out everything you need regarding public Palma transportation including routes, timetables, fares and more.
TIP: The most personal way of exploring the city centre is by foot, considering that Palma de Mallorca is not that huge. So if you only have one day in Palma and your hotel/resort is located in the centre, you can forget about public transport!
Best day trips from Palma de Mallorca
In case you’re done with all the beautiful attractions and things to do in Palma, rest assured that there are plenty of things to see around the area as well. So your next option would be to take some day trips. Here are some amazing ideas that I added to my Palma de Mallorca guide:
Deia – small, charming village in the Serra de Tramuntana, with plenty of things to see;
Valldemossa – located into the Tramuntana mountains as well, Valldemossa awaits with cute cobblestone streets, superb villas and many other things to see;
Sa Calobra – beautiful beaches and rocky cliffs – a combo worth exploring!
RELATED READ: These are just a couple of fast ideas, but if you want to further read about the best day trips from Palma, I recommend checking out my dedicated article where I talk about some extensive options, as well as practical info about each of them: 3 Exciting Day Trips From Palma de Mallorca, Spain
There are so many things to do and places to visit in Palma de Mallorca, that I’m sure you’ll need more than a couple of days to properly indulge in everything that this city has to offer! Regardless if your ideal vacation in Palma includes relaxing at a bar with a cocktail in your hands, exploring cathedrals or going on a shopping spree, this article has everything you need and more!
I hope you will save quite some time organising your Palma itinerary by using my recommended places above. And if you want to further explore the wonderful country of Spain, I recommend checking out all my articles and adventures here.
xoxo,
Melissa
Want to know more about travelling to Palma de Mallorca?
Check out all my Palma de Mallorca Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your boat to get to the Islands? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Palma de Mallorca so you don’t miss a thing!
Pin it for later!
Sign Up For Our Newsletter!
Want To Stay In The Loop? Join my exclusive mailing list, plus you’ll gain access to my ever-growing free resource library!
