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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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!
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
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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.
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Time to book your boat to get to the Islands? Head over here.
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Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Palma de Mallorca so you don’t miss a thing!
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