Best things to do in Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca is a versatile destination that has something to offer for everyone. It’s no surprise the island attract many world stars, sports enthusiasts and vacationers alike. Whether you come for the beautiful beaches, hiking the GR221 or to discover the cultural capital of Palma, Mallorca is always the place to be. The best way to get around the island is by renting a car. This way you can also reach the more remote places such as Sa Calobra.
1) Visit Palma de Mallorca
Palma de Mallorca, the island’s vibrant capital, is the perfect starting point for your road trip. Its Gothic cathedral La Seu, is the city’s crown jewel and an absolute must-see. Stroll along the elegant Passeig del Born for shopping, explore the circular Bellver Castle, or join a free walking tour to dive into the history and highlights of the old town. In the evening, Palma truly comes alive, with countless restaurants and bars serving delicious tapas.
Where to stay in Palma de Mallorca?
- Budget (€): El Josemari
- Comfort (€€): Palau Sa Font
- Luxurious (€€€): Hotel Cappuccino
2) Beach hopping along the many calas
Both in the East and West of Mallorca you will find plenty of beautiful beaches. From narrow gorges (called calas) with crystal clear waters to wider sandy beaches surrounded by pine trees, there is something for everyone. The beaches Calo des Moro and Cala s’Almunia are the most popular beaches in Mallorca, and rightly so. Cala s’Almunia is incredibly photogenic with the surrounding boathouses while nearby Calo des Moro has the bluest water you’ve ever seen! Cala Llombards is also definitely worth a visit and is great to combine in one day with the other beaches.
3) Wander through mountain village Valldemossa
You can’t come to Mallorca without visiting the charming mountain village of Valldemossa. Hidden in the Tramuntana Mountains, you’ll find this authentic spot. Stroll through the cobblestone streets that take you past the stone houses with pastel-colored shutters and doors. The best thing to do in Valldemossa is to take in the village and enjoy its beauty. Be sure not to forget your camera because this is one of the best things to do in Mallorca!
Where to stay in Valldemossa?
- Budget (€): Ca’s Papa
- Comfort (€€): Son Niu Vell-La Hermossa
- Luxurious (€€€): Es Petit de Valldemossa
4) Sunset at Cap de Formentor
If there is one place to watch the sunset in Mallorca, it is at Cap de Formentor. This is the northernmost point of the island and is characterized by its many steep cliffs and spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. The winding road across the peninsula takes you closer and closer to the white lighthouse, one of the most popular places to watch the sunset. Another beautiful viewpoint is Mirador del Puat.
CAUTION: From June 1 to September 30, the road to Cap de Formentor is closed to cars between 10:00 and 22:00. The best option is to park at Playa de Formentor and take the shuttle bus from there.
5) Dining at Barretes restaurant
Barretes Restaurant is perhaps the most beautiful restaurant in Mallorca. We were looking for a budget-friendly alternative to the popular El Olivo restaurant and found Barretes. Located on a hill in the Soller valley you will find this beautiful restaurant. From the terrace you have a great view over the valley and in the distance the port of Soller. Dine in a dreamy setting surrounded by olive and citrus trees. The chef himself is from Soller which makes for a local but refined menu.
More info at www.barretesrestaurant.com – advance booking is recommended
6) Boat trip along the coastline (best thing to do on Mallorca)
Another, great way to explore Mallorca’s many beautiful beaches is with a boat trip. Boat tours are offered in the popular coastal towns, from snorkeling tours with lunch to romantic boat tours during sunset. Even more fun is to rent your own boat for the day. That way you can explore on your own, from the long sandy beaches in the south to the rocky cliffs in the north. And with your own boat, you can even uncover hidden coves where few others go.
7) Authentic train ride in Sóller
Soller is a charming village in the Serra de Tramuntana valley. Located in the “Valley of Oranges,” it is surrounded by orange trees and olive groves. The best thing to do in Sóller is to take the “Orange Express.” This wooden train has been running since 1912 and takes you from the historic center of Soller to the port (Port de Soller) in about 15 minutes. Furthermore, Soller is the ideal base to discover more of the Tramuntana Mountains.
DID YOU KNOW: This train runs all the way to Palma? Those who want can take the Orange Express to Soller starting from Palma de Mallorca. The ride takes about an hour during which you will pass through the valleys and mountains of Serra de Tramuntana. Tickets can be booked here.
Where to stay in Sóller?
- Budget (€): Hostal Nadal
- Comfort (€€): Hotel Casa Bougainvillea
- Luxurious (€€€): La Residencia (Belmond Hotel)
8) Road trip to Sa Calobra
In Mallorca, you have it all: views of the Mediterranean, historic villages and rugged nature. This makes driving a car in Mallorca a real pleasure. One of the best road trips to make on the island is undoubtedly the road to Sa Calobra. This 10 km long road winds through Serra de Tramantuna where you conquer one hairpin bend after another. At the summit you will arrive at the “Nus de Sa Corbata,” where the road passes under itself! You can park your car there to take some pictures of this spectacular view.
The final stop is the stunning beach of Sa Calobra. To get there, you’ll walk through a narrow cliff passage that opens up to a stunning beach tucked inside the Torrent de Pareis gorge. Towering rock walls rise dramatically from the sea, contrasting with the deep blue water, making this one of Mallorca’s most breathtaking spots. Be sure to pack plenty of food, drinks, and sun protection, as there are no facilities on the beach. No car? You can also reach Sa Calobra by taking a daily ferry from Sóller.
9) Shopping at the Santanyi market
Mallorca is full of markets, ranging from small local stalls with fresh produce to larger, bustling events. One you shouldn’t miss is the Santanyí market. Every Wednesday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the town’s streets come alive with stalls selling everything from fresh pastries and flowers to clothes and unique souvenirs. If you’re making a road trip around Mallorca, try to plan your route so you can experience the Santanyi market. It’s truly worth it!
Where to stay in Santanyi?
- Budget (€): Hostal Cala Llombards
- Comfort (€€): Hotel Apartamentos Cala Santanyi
- Luxurious (€€€): Can Ferrereta
10) Hiking in Serra de Tramuntana
Serra de Tramuntana in Mallorca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a hiker’s paradise. You can take short day hikes to multi-day hikes that take you past valleys, gorges and rugged mountains. The most famous hike is the 150-km-long GR221, also known as the “Dry Stone Route.” This hike takes you past gorges, villages and mountain peaks in eight days. Those who want can also do parts of this hike. Popular choices are from Valldemossa to Deia or along Santuari de Lluc.
Santuari de Lluc is a former monastery transformed into an austere hotel. Now it is still an important pilgrimage site that attracts many pilgrims, hikers and cyclists every year. Book this unique overnight stay here!
11) Fishing village of Cala Figuera
Cala Figuera is unlike most other calas in Mallorca. Instead of sandy beaches, you’ll find a charming fishing village that has kept its authentic character, unlike many of the island’s busier seaside towns. It’s especially worth visiting in the late afternoon, when the fishermen return with their daily catch. Stroll around the harbor, past boats gently rocking on the water, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. For dinner, Restaurante Pura Vida is a must, offering both fantastic food and an unforgettable view.
12) Concert in Coves del Drach
One of the most surprising activities in Mallorca is a visit to one of the many impressive caves. The most famous are Coves del Drach, a system of four underground caves that extend up to 25 meters deep underground. Here you will also find the largest underground lake in Europe, which makes this place extra special. During a visit, you will sail on the mysterious lake and enjoy an atmospheric classical concert, performed by musicians on a boat. A magical experience underground!
13) Have lunch at C’as Patro March (Deia)
Deia is Mallorca’s artists’ village. For a long time it was an important meeting place for musicians, poets and painters. And to this day, the charm of Deia still attracts many world stars. You will find luxury hotels such as La Residencia and fine-dining restaurants tucked away in the stone houses and cobblestone streets. Within walking distance of Deia, you will also find Cala Deia. The beach itself is rocky, but the cove is a popular snorkeling spot. What really stands out, though, is the cliffside restaurant Ca’s Patró March, where you can enjoy freshly caught fish with breathtaking views over the cove. Be sure to book in advance because everyone wants a seat with that view!
14) Stay in an agriturismo
Although the beautiful coastline makes Mallorca a popular vacation destination, the inland has a lot to offer as well. Here you will discover a quieter and more authentic part of the island, among rolling hills, vineyards and olive groves. Scattered throughout these rural surroundings you will find countless agritourismo’s: atmospheric farms or charming country houses that have been transformed into small-scale accommodations. These places form an oasis of tranquility, far away from the hustle and bustle of the coast. You can often enjoy home-cooked meals with local products, take a look around the farm or explore the surroundings on beautiful hiking or biking tours.
Wondering where to find such an idyllic spot? These are three of the best agritourismo’s in Mallorca where you are guaranteed to completely unwind:
15) Fruit picking at Ecovinyassa
Want to really go for a local experience in Mallorca? Then Ecovinyassa is something for you. Just a stone’s throw from Soller, you’ll find this sustainable, organic citrus farm. There you can take a self-guided tour through the orange and lemon groves and pick your own fruit. During your tour, you can also sample the freshly squeezed orange juice and other local produce. You can visit the farm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. A tour takes about 2 hours. Adults pay €20, children €10.
Let us know what you would love to do in Mallorca in a comment below! Looking for more information for your next trip? Please do not hesitate to contact us contact or feel free to email info@snoezelsontheroad.com
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What a fantastic guide to Mallorca! Your list perfectly captures the island’s diversity, from the lively capital to the hidden mountain villages and stunning calas. The practical tips, like the seasonal closure of the road to Cap de Formentor, are exactly the kind of insider information that makes a trip much smoother.
I’m particularly drawn to the inland experiences you mentioned, like staying in an agriturismo or visiting the organic farm Ecovinyassa. They sound like a wonderful way to connect with the island’s quieter side. My question is about timing for such a trip: For a first-time visitor hoping to enjoy both the beaches and the mountain hikes without the peak summer crowds, would you recommend late spring (May) or early fall (September) as the better time to visit?
This guide is a great resource—thanks for putting it together. I’m already saving it for future trip planning!
Hi Mark,
I think both times are great for visiting Mallorca :)! September might be a bit more busy still, but the ocean will be warmer which is nice for swimming.