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Wondering about the best things to do in Mallorca? It's easy to see why Mallorca has remained one of Europe's most popular holiday destinations for years. This beautiful Balearic island offers the perfect mix of stunning beaches, hidden coves, charming mountain villages, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant cities. In this guide, we'll share the best things to do in Mallorca, including visits to picturesque villages such as Valldemossa, Deià , and Sóller, a road trip to Cap de Formentor, the highlights of Palma de Mallorca, and some of the island's most beautiful beaches. From famous landmarks to hidden gems, these are the Mallorca attractions and travel tips you won't want to miss.
1. Discover the most beautiful sights in Palma de MallorcaÂ
During a holiday to Mallorca, a visit to Palma de Mallorca is really a must do. The capital combines history, culture, and a lively urban atmosphere in a way you won't find anywhere else on the island.
The Old Town and Plaza Mayor
Palma de Mallorca is best explored on foot, without a fixed plan. In the historic old town, you'll wander through a maze of narrow streets, small squares, and hidden courtyards where cozy cafés and boutique shops appear around every corner. At the heart of the city lies Plaza Mayor, a lively square surrounded by arcades, restaurants, and street performers.
La Seu Cathedral
The absolute highlight in Palma is the impressive La Seu Cathedral. This Gothic cathedral is an impressive 121 meters long and 55 meters wide, and it completely dominates the city skyline. From the outside it’s already a real eye-catcher, but the interior is just as worth a visit, with its soaring columns and striking details. Right next to the cathedral you’ll find the Santa MarÃa Museum, where you can explore the history of the site. One of the highlights here is the peaceful courtyard garden, a quiet spot that feels far away from the bustle of the city.
Paseo MarÃtimo (the seaside promenade)
Paseo MarÃtimo is the long waterfront boulevard that runs along Palma’s harbor, forming a natural divide between the city and the sea. On one side, you’ll see luxury yachts and the bustling marina; on the other, palm-lined streets, hotels, and a long stretch of restaurants, cafés, and bars overlooking the water.
During the day, the atmosphere here is relaxed. It’s a great place for a slow walk along the waterfront or to sit down on a terrace and watch the boats coming in and out of the harbor. You’ll also see plenty of cyclists and runners using the long, straight stretch along the sea. As evening approaches, the promenade really changes pace. Locals and visitors head out for a post-dinner stroll, groups make their way to bars and restaurants, and the terraces slowly fill up as the sun sets over the marina.Â
The best places to eat and drink
Palma is one of the best places on the island to enjoy good food and drinks. In the charming streets and along the Paseo MarÃtimo, you’ll find great restaurants and wine bars that give the city a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
Some great places to keep in mind include, for example Restaurant Alma Palma, where you can enjoy a great dinner in a stylish setting, and the popular cocktail bar Bar Nicolás, a great place to end the evening with a drink downtown.
2. Wander through Mallorca’s most beautiful (mountain) villagesÂ
Mallorca is much more than just sun, sea, and sand. The island is filled with picturesque villages that are well worth exploring. Some of the most beautiful ones include Valldemossa, Deià , Pollença, and Fornalutx, each with its own charm and character.Â
Valldemossa: culture in a lush valley
Valldemossa is one of the most beautiful mountain villages in Mallorca, tucked away in a green valley in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. It’s no surprise the village is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site listing. Wander through its narrow streets and you’ll come across beautiful stone houses with detailed façades, small shaded squares, and plenty of cozy restaurants and cafés along the way.Â
An absolute must-see is the Cartuja de Valldemossa monastery, where composer Chopin and writer George Sand once stayed. Here, you can stroll through the old cloisters, explore the historic rooms, and get a good sense of the village’s rich history.
Deià : the picturesque artists' village
Deià is a town near the coast, north of the island's largest city, Palma de Mallorca. The town lies in a valley at the foot of the Puig del Teix, which stretches along Mallorca's northern coast. Deià 's picturesque streetscape and views of the Mediterranean Sea make the village a popular spot among artists, writers and other creatives.Â
Pollença: climb the stairs for the best view
The charming village of Pollença is located at the foot of the Serra de Tramuntana. One of the fun things to do here is to climb the Carrer del Calvari. As a reward for conquering the 365 steps, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of Pollença and the surrounding area.Â
If you're looking for a place to have lunch in Pollença, La Placeta is a great choice. This charming Spanish restaurant is located in the historic center and is known for its Mediterranean dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The paella is a real standout here, but the risotto and fish dishes are also highly recommended.
The picturesque town of Fornalutx
Fornalutx is often considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, tucked away in the Tramuntana mountains near Sóller (another charming spot we’ll cover later in this article). It’s the kind of place where everything slows down a bit, surrounded by mountain scenery, stone houses, and a peaceful, authentic atmosphere.
The village is made up of stone houses with wooden shutters, narrow staircases, and façades covered in flowers. Everywhere you look, you notice the little details that give it its character: hidden passageways between buildings, shaded corners to pause for a moment, and wide views over the surrounding mountains and valleys.
But what makes it truly special is its location among orange and olive groves. It feels intimate and peaceful, making it a lovely place to stop for a while during a road trip through the Tramuntana Mountains, perhaps in combination with a visit to Sóller.
3. Make an impressive road trip to Cap de Formentor
Did you know that Mallorca has stunning scenery? It’s an incredibly green island with rugged cliffs and hidden coves. One of Mallorca’s highlights is the Cap de Formentor peninsula. With its high cliffs, winding roads, and imposing lighthouse (Faro de Formentor), the peninsula is incredibly impressive. And that’s not even mentioning the breathtaking views you’ll find there. A road trip to Cap de Formentor is definitely something you have to do in Mallorca.
The most beautiful viewpoint: Mirador Es Colomer
The most beautiful viewpoint in Mallorca is without a doubt Mirador Es Colomer, located on the peninsula. On one side, you can see the port of Alcúdia, and on the other, you look out over towering cliffs that rise straight out of the azure-blue sea. But be sure to stop at Cala Formentor Beach as well. The beach is surrounded by forests and the Tramuntana Mountains.Â
Practical tips for your visit to the lighthouse
Please note that you reach Cap de Formentor via the spectacular but narrow Ma-2210 mountain road from Port de Pollença. Traffic restrictions are in effect, especially during the summer (May 15 through October 15): between 10:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., the road leading to the lighthouse is closed to private vehicles. During these hours, you can only continue by shuttle bus, bicycle, or on foot.
Would you like to go by car? If so, early in the morning (before 9:30 a.m.) is the best time to go. That way, you can drive without the crowds and have the best chance of a peaceful experience at the lookout points and the lighthouse.
4. Visit the lively local market in Alcúdia
Alcúdia is one of the most charming places in Mallorca. Its historic old town is full of picturesque, winding streets where you can easily spend hours just wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere. One of the highlights here is the local market. Every Tuesday and Sunday, the streets fill with stalls selling everything from handmade souvenirs to local delicacies, making it one of the best places on the island to experience a bit of everyday Mallorcan life. During the summer months, the market takes up a large part of the historic center and is one of the largest markets in Mallorca.
Alcúdia's market is held every Tuesday and Sunday from 08:00 to 13:30. You will find the market in the center of the city, on the Paseo Mare de Déu de la Victòria and its surroundings.Â
5. Stroll around the market in SantanyÃÂ
After the lively and large market in Alcúdia, it’s worth discovering a completely different side of Mallorca. In the southeast of the island lies SantanyÃ, where the atmosphere is much smaller, quieter, and more laid-back.
The village is known for its lively weekly market, which takes place several times a week and winds its way through the historic center. Stroll through the golden-yellow cobblestone streets, wander past the market stalls, and soak up the delightful local atmosphere.Â
At the market, you’ll find mostly local products such as olive oil, fresh produce, ceramics, and handmade jewelry. Santanyà is a great place to stop, especially on Saturday mornings, if you’re exploring the southern part of the island.
6. Spot dolphins on the open seaÂ
You might not expect it, but dolphin watching in Mallorca is truly a bucket-list experience. Did you know that you have a 99% chance of seeing dolphins here? We saw dolphins up close and it was definitely something we wouldn’t have wanted to miss.Â
We did our dolphin tour with Alcudia Sea Explorer. During a 3-hour speedboat cruise, we sailed from Alcúdia out into the open sea. The dolphins even jumped right out of the water alongside our boat, which was definitely the highlight of the trip. But the experience doesn’t stop there, you also pass dramatic rock formations, hidden caves, and beautiful beaches along the way. At Platja des Coll Baix, the water is so crystal clear that you can easily spot fish.Â
Personal tip: stay overnight in AlcúdiaÂ
Since there’s so much to do in and around Alcúdia, it’s also one of the best places to stay in Mallorca. During our stay in Alcúdia, we stayed at the Viva Blue & Spa Hotel. This 4-star accommodation is located next to the Albufera Natural Park and only 5 minutes from the beach. For those who want to relax in peace, there is a special Adults Only pool.Â
7. Take the authentic wooden train and tram to Sóller
The picturesque town of Sóller is nestled among the orange groves in the Tramuntana Mountains. It’s one of Mallorca’s highlights, especially thanks to the Ferrocarril de Sóller train ride. You’ll travel to Sóller on an authentic wooden train, taking in the vast landscapes along the way.
The historic train ride (Ferrocarril de Sóller)
Ideally, your journey starts in Palma de Mallorca, where you board the historic Ferrocarril de Sóller. This authentic wooden train has been running across the island since 1912 and is an experience in itself. During the roughly one-hour ride, you’ll be treated to stunning scenery as the train winds its way through the Tramuntana mountains, passing olive groves, almond orchards, and endless lemon and orange trees along the way.
Once you arrive in Sóller, it’s great to wander through the colorful streets around the central square. The town’s main highlight is the impressive Sant Bartomeu Church, which stands right on the square and immediately catches your eye.
Take the tram to the beach at Port de Sóller
Are you done exploring the town? Then hop on the authentic, open-air tram that will take you straight to Port de Sóller. This seaside resort is located in one of the island’s most beautiful, sheltered bays and is perfect for a relaxing day at the beach.
You'll find plenty of charming beach bars and restaurants here. Our favorite is Restaurant Agapanto. This charming spot not only offers fantastic dishes and a great wine list, but also a stunning view of the bay and the beach.
Prices and schedules
A single train ticket from Palma to Sóller costs €18 one way. However, if you plan to take both the historic train and the tram down to the harbor, it’s worth opting for a combined ticket that includes both the train and tram ride.
Are you planning to buy the combination ticket for a round-trip journey online in advance? If so, you’ll pay €32.00. At the ticket window at the station, this ticket costs €40.00. So it pays to book online.Â
Please note that online sales are only available for the combined round-trip ticket (train + tram). If you prefer a one-way ticket, a separate tram ticket, or a different route (such as a stop in Bunyola), these cannot be booked online in advance. On the day of your trip, you can simply purchase your ticket at the station ticket office.
Since exact departure times may vary by season, it’s a good idea to check your itinerary in advance on the official website of Ferrocarril de Sóller.Â
8. Rent a car and go beach-hopping along Mallorca’s most beautiful bays
Mallorca is known for its beautiful coves and beaches. There are nearly 180 of them scattered across the island! We therefore highly recommend renting a car to explore the island and the coastline. For example, you can rent a car at Sunnycars, this is a great and reliable company that offers all-inclusive travel insurance.
We visited the nearby beaches of Cala s’Almunia, Caló des Moro, and Cala Llombards, all located close to each other in the southeast of Mallorca. Cala s’Almunia is a small, secluded cove with rocky surroundings and a peaceful atmosphere. Caló des Moro is much busier, which is hardly surprising given its incredibly clear, turquoise water and dramatic setting between the cliffs. Cala Llombards is a slightly larger and more accessible beach, with sunbeds and a small spot where you can grab lunch. Each of these beaches has its own charm, and all are definitely worth a visit.Â
9. Drive the breathtaking route to Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis
One of the most spectacular road trips in Mallorca takes you through the Tramuntana mountains down to the bay of Sa Calobra. The winding road alone is an experience in itself, with sharp bends and dramatic mountain views along the way. At the bottom, you’ll find the impressive gorge of Torrent de Pareis, where towering cliffs meet the sea. It’s one of the most iconic natural landmarks on the island and a truly unforgettable place to visit.
Useful travel tips for your holiday in Mallorca
Mallorca is the largest island in the Balearic Islands and the biggest island in Spain. With so much to explore, from mountain villages and dramatic coastlines to vibrant cities and hidden coves, it’s a destination that deserves a bit of planning in advance. Choosing the right base can make a big difference to your trip, depending on what you want to see and do. We’re happy to help you get started:Â
Where to stay in Mallorca
You'll almost always fly into Palma de Mallorca Airport, which is about a 20-minute drive from the capital. From there, you can go in any direction, but the atmosphere varies quite a bit from region to region.
Northern Mallorca is ideal if you love nature, charming villages, and beautiful coves. Here you’ll find towns like Alcúdia, Pollença, Sóller, and Fornalutx, as well as highlights such as Cap de Formentor and the Tramuntana Mountains. This region generally feels a bit more authentic and peaceful.
During our trip, we stayed at the Viva Blue & Spa Hotel. This comfortable 4-star resort is located in Playa de Muro, right next to the beautiful S’Albufera Nature Park and just a few minutes’ walk from the sandy beach. Ideal for families with children.Â
The south of Mallorca is known for its lively seaside resorts, long sandy beaches, and lively beach clubs. Popular destinations such as Palma, Cala d’Or, and Santanyà are located here. You’ll also find some of the island’s most beautiful beaches in the south, such as Caló des Moro and Cala Llombards.
Here you'll find a number of beautiful, small-scale boutique accommodations, such as Finca Hotel Rural Es Turó Spa and Finca Agroturismo Sa Cova den Borino. Amazing options for those who like to venture off the beaten path and are looking for a touch of luxury and authenticity.Â
Rent a car for maximum freedom
If you really want to explore the island properly, a rental car is almost essential. Especially for places like Cap de Formentor and the small coves along the east and south coast. Distances are manageable, but public transport doesn’t reach everywhere. We often rent our car through Sunnycars. They always include all-inclusive insurance, so you can hit the road without any worries.
The best time to visit Mallorca
The best time to visit Mallorca is from April to June and again from September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, but the island is much less crowded than in peak season. In July and August, temperatures are at their highest and the island is at its busiest, especially in popular coastal areas and tourist hotspots.
Still in doubt? Mallorca vs. Ibiza
Still undecided whether Mallorca is the right destination for your next holiday, or are you also considering its neighbouring island Ibiza? Although both islands belong to the Balearic Islands and share a beautiful Mediterranean climate, each has its own very distinct character and travel experience.
While Mallorca stands out for its diversity (with the rugged Tramuntana mountains, historic villages, and family-friendly beaches) Ibiza is known for its laid-back bohemian atmosphere, intimate coves, and world-famous nightlife. Mallorca is larger and more varied, offering a mix of culture, nature, and city life in one destination. Ibiza, on the other hand, is smaller and more compact, with a distinctive, almost magical island vibe that feels more focused and intimate.
Wondering which island best suits your travel style? Then be sure to read our handy Ibiza guide with tips and places you absolutely can't miss!
And be sure to read our article about the best islands in Spain, in which we compare the Balearic Islands with the Canary Islands.Â
Naomi van Hagen
Curious, creative and passionate about travel, I’m always on the lookout for unique destinations where culture, gastronomy and adventure come together. As a travel blogger, I share personal stories and insider tips from countries like Brazil, Greece, Indonesia, Thailand and Peru, from hidden gems and rich traditions to unforgettable culinary experiences. My blogs are based on real travel experiences and in-depth local knowledge. Ready to plan your own adventure? As a personal travel consultant, I’ll help you create a tailor-made trip that perfectly suits your travel dreams.
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