Destination guide

Mallorca

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Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands and far more varied than its package-holiday reputation suggests. The northwest has the dramatic Tramuntana mountains, terraced hillsides and stone villages. The east has quiet coves, and the south has long sandy beaches.

It works as a beach holiday, a walking or cycling break, or a mix of both. The capital, Palma, is worth a visit in its own right.

How many days: 7

A week gives you time for beach days, a mountain drive and a visit to Palma. A long weekend is enough if you base yourself in one area.

The island is about the size of Greater London, so most places are within an hour or two. A hire car is very useful.

What to do in Mallorca

Drive through the Tramuntana
A winding mountain range along the west coast, with villages, viewpoints and terraced slopes. It is a World Heritage landscape.
Ride the Sóller train and tram
A historic wooden train crosses the mountains to Sóller, where a tram goes down to the port. A nostalgic and scenic day out.
Visit Valldemossa
A pretty stone village in the hills where Chopin spent a winter. The streets are lined with flower pots.
Drive to Cap de Formentor
A narrow road to a lighthouse on a high cliff, with views over the sea. It is busy, so go early.
Swim in a cala
Small coves with turquoise water dot the east and south coasts. Many need a walk, so take water and shoes.
Explore Alcúdia
A walled medieval town in the north, with a Roman site nearby and a long beach. Good for a half day.
Cycle or walk
Mallorca is one of Europe's favourite places for road cycling and hiking. Spring and autumn are best.
Visit Palma
The capital has a Gothic cathedral on the seafront and a lovely old town. Allow at least a day.
Walk to Sa Calobra
A famous mountain road ends in a small cove at the mouth of a gorge. The road is narrow and very twisty, so many people go by boat or tour.
Visit the Caves of Drach
Large caves in the east, with an underground lake and a concert. A good option for a hot day.

What to eat and drink

Ensaïmada
A spiral-shaped pastry dusted with sugar, eaten at breakfast. A Mallorcan speciality.
Pa amb oli
Bread rubbed with tomato and olive oil, served with ham and cheese. A simple island staple.
Sobrassada
A soft, spiced cured sausage spread on bread. A traditional product.
Tumbet
A layered vegetable dish of aubergine, potato and peppers. A summer favourite.
Fresh fish and arroz brut
Grilled fish and a rich rice dish with meat and mushrooms are common on local menus.
Local wine and herb liqueur
The island has a growing wine scene, and a local herb liqueur is served after meals.
Almond cake and ice cream
Almond trees blossom in late winter, and almond sweets are a regional speciality.

Getting around

A hire car gives most freedom, but parking at popular beaches and villages is tricky. Buses cover the main towns.

A train links Palma with some inland towns. Taxis are available, though costly for long distances.

Cycling is popular, and roads are well maintained. Many drivers share the mountain roads with cyclists.

Good to know

  • Summer is hot and very busy. Spring and autumn are better for walking and cycling.
  • Beach parking and some coves fill early. Arrive in the morning.
  • Mountain roads are narrow, with sharp turns. Drive carefully.
  • Many restaurants and hotels close in winter. Check before you go.
  • The sun is strong. Bring sun protection.
  • The island attracts a very mixed crowd, from families to cyclists to nightlife fans. Where you stay shapes your trip, so read about each area.

Where to stay in Mallorca

6 neighbourhoods, described the way a friend would - what each is actually like, not the brochure version.

Palma Old Town

Palma's historic centre is a dense network of medieval streets, elegant squares, restaurants and boutiques surrounding the cathedral. It is the best all-round choice for culture, dining and romantic city stays, though direct beach access is limited.

Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina is Palma's fashionable food and nightlife district, filled with restaurants, cafés, cocktail bars and a lively market. It suits younger travellers and couples, although weekend evenings can be noisy.

Port de Sóller

Port de Sóller sits in a dramatic horseshoe bay beneath the Tramuntana mountains, with beaches, restaurants and a historic tram connection to Sóller town. It is one of Mallorca's strongest options for couples and scenic relaxation.

Alcúdia & Port d'Alcúdia

Alcúdia combines a preserved medieval old town with one of Mallorca's longest sandy beaches and a major family resort area. It is exceptionally strong for families and longer summer stays, though it sits far from Palma's nightlife and business districts.

Deià

Deià is a small stone village in the Tramuntana mountains known for dramatic scenery, boutique hotels and an artistic heritage. It is among Mallorca's most romantic and exclusive places to stay, but prices are high and a car is highly useful.

Cala d'Or

Cala d'Or is a polished south-eastern resort centred on small turquoise coves, whitewashed buildings and a marina. It is particularly suited to couples and families seeking an easy beach holiday, though it has less local character than Mallorca's historic towns.

What it costs

A typical day in Mallorca, per person, in pounds.

£63

Shoestring - hostels, street food, public transport.

£145

Comfortable - a decent hotel, restaurants, the odd taxi.

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