The Only Travel Guide You’ll Need for Mallorca, Spain 2024
If you’re looking for the next destination for your European Vacation, look no further than the beautiful island of Mallorca. While many people tend to overlook Mallorca for its glitzier and naughtier neighbor, Ibiza; the truly-in-the-know travelers, choose Mallorca out of all the Balearic Islands to relax and recharge their gypsetting souls.
Perhaps it’s the stunning, secluded beaches, the crystal-clear water, or the picturesque hilltop villages that keep them coming back. After all, there’s a reason why this island has, for decades, inspired generations of artists, writers and musicians with its charm. Whether you’re a sunbather, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Mallorca is the perfect place that has something to offer everyone.
In this travel guide, I’ll share my favorite spots on this Spanish island, from secluded beach coves to hidden gems in tiny villages. As a former luxury travel planner, I enjoy finding the spots that only the locals know about and the best experiences that each destination has to offer. If you’re contemplating planning a trip to this sweet little haven, I hope this post is just the inspiration you need to book a ticket to Mallorca for your next beach holiday.
WHEN TO VISIT MALLORCA
As a part-time resident of London, I’ve learned that most people tend to avoid Europe in the popular Summer months of July/August, and instead opt to visit their favorite warm weather destinations in the shoulder months of June, September and October. I visited Mallorca in late September / early October and found that the weather in Mallorca in October was still warm and sunny, with daily temperatures of 80+ degrees, and not a cloud or crowd of tourists in sight. It was the best way to see the island IMO!
Why visit Mallorca in the shoulder season:
- Fewer crowds: During the summer months, Mallorca can be busy with tourists. But in the off-season, you’ll have the beaches and villages to yourself and a few locals.
- Lower prices: Flights, accommodation and activities are typically cheaper in the off-season.
- More relaxed atmosphere: There’s a more laid-back vibe to Mallorca in the off-season. You can take your time exploring and really savor the island’s unique charm.
- Weather: Because of its location in the Mediterranean, Mallorca’s weather is still warm and sunny in the shoulder months.
HOW TO GET TO MALLORCA
Getting to Mallorca is a breeze, no matter where you’re coming from. The island has its own international airport, Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), which is serviced by airlines from all over the world.
If you’re flying from the United States, there are direct flights to Palma de Mallorca from major cities such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. If you’re flying from Europe, there are even more options, with direct flights from major cities such as London, Paris and hourly flights from Barcelona.
PRO TIPS FROM A LUXURY TRAVEL PLANNER:
- Book your flights in advance. The earlier you book, the more likely you are to get a good deal (Duh)! Flights are typically cheaper on weekdays than on weekends.
- Be sure to pay for any extras such as checked baggage fees upfront, as it’s typically cheaper to do so online than at the airport. Discount European airlines especially like to tack on sneaky little extra fees anywhere that they can.
- Fly into Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) during the off-season (May-June or September-October). Flights are typically cheaper during these months.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR SPAIN
PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS
- You must have a valid passport that is valid for at least 3 months after your planned date of departure from Spain.
- Your passport must have at least two blank pages.
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Citizens of most countries, including the United States, Canada, EU, the United Kingdom, and Australia, do not currently need a visa to visit Spain for stays less than 90 days. However, this is due to change mid-2025.
There are always a few exceptions when it comes to visas depending on which passport you have, so it is always best to check with the Spanish embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel.
TIPS FOR VISITING MALLORCA
- Language: The language of Spain is Spanish (obvi). While most people who work in the tourism and hospitality industry tend to know English, it’s always polite to brush up on your Spanish and worst case, I recommend downloading the Google Translate app on your phone to help you communicate. It can even translate menus for you!
- Average Weather in Mallorca in the Summer: The average temperature in Mallorca in the summer is in the high-70s/low 80s. The weather is typically sunny and warm, with little rain.
- Currency: The national currency of Spain is the Euro. I always recommend having a few Euros when traveling, especially for places like the popular markets in Mallorca, just in case. If you need to exchange currency, I recommend doing so beforehand at your local bank, but call ahead of time to make sure they have Euros on hand. You can also use an ATM to receive currency or exchange at most hotels, but expect to pay higher exchange rates. Avoid exchanging currency at the airport as you’ll encounter the highest fees.
- Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Spain, but it is customary to tip for good service. A tip of around 5% – 10% of the bill is considered to be standard. You can tip in cash or by adding it to your credit card bill. If you’re unsure if a tip is required, it’s always best to err on the side of leaving a little tip to thank someone for their hospitality. Here are some tipping guidelines for different types of establishments in Spain:
- Restaurants: Tip the waiter or waitress around 5-10% of the bill.
- Bars: Tip the bartender around 1-2 euros per drink.
- Hotels: Tip the porter around 1 euro per bag.
- Taxis: Tip the taxi driver around 1 euro.
- Tour guides: Tip your tour guide around 5-10 euros per person.
- Electricity/Converters: The voltage in Spain is 230 volts, which is higher than the voltage in some countries, particularly the US and UK. If you are traveling from a country with a lower voltage, you will need a voltage converter in addition to an adapter. I recommend getting an International Travel Adapter for electronics that can be used anywhere in the world, like the one shown below.
For more powerful appliances, such as your nice hairstyling tools, I recommend getting an adapter that converts the voltage, and avoid the risk of ruining your expensive Dyson air wrap. Most hotels have hair dryers on hand, but it’s always best to double-check ahead of time.
Valldemossa
HOW TO GET AROUND IN MALLORCA
RENTAL CAR
When visiting Mallorca, I recommend renting a car, as most of the little towns and beaches that you’ll want to visit are spread throughout the island. The Island is fairly small and most towns can be reached in under 1.5 hours depending on traffic and your destination.
When booking a rental car, be sure to book the car in advance so that the prices will be cheaper and to ensure the type of car that you want is available. If you’re like me and can only drive an automatic car, make sure that you’re booking the correct vehicle type, and do so ahead of your trip, as automatic cars are not as widely available at most car rental companies on the island.
I also recommend checking out the reviews of the car rental company before booking, to make sure that you are booking with a reliable company.
Many hotels on the island have a partnership with a local car company, and can even arrange for discounts and the car to be dropped off and picked up at your hotel. Be sure to bring your driver’s license!
TAXIS
I found that taxis were fairly easy to hail in the large towns like Palma and Palma Nova,and there is a taxi stand upon arrival at the airport. However, taxis can be hard to come by in smaller towns and villages, so if you’re headed somewhere a little more secluded it’s probably best to rent a car.
If you need help finding a taxi, most hotels and restaurants will be happy to assist you with calling one. Sometimes it can take 15 – 20 minutes for a taxi in peak hours, so just plan accordingly. All the taxis that I took accepted credit cards, but it’s always best to check with the driver beforehand just to make sure. Most drivers spoke a bit of English, but it never hurts to brush up on a little Spanish beforehand or have your Google translator available to help you communicate.
UBERS / RIDE SHARE APPS
Is there Uber in Mallorca? Uber is relatively new to Mallorca and currently is not the most reliable form of transportation on the island as there are not too many drivers at this time. You can always check the app while on the island to see if there’s one available nearby. Most Ubers tend to be located in the main city of Palma.
MY FINAL OPINION: Rent a car from a reputable car company, but be sure to do so in advance before arriving to the island. There is so much to see in Mallorca, and having your own car is the easiest way to get around the island, especially to smaller towns and beaches where taxis are not available. The roads and highways were well-marked and easy to navigate.
WHERE TO STAY IN MALLORCA (THE BEST TOWNS)
Although Mallorca is a relatively small island, many of the places that you will want to visit are spread out around the island, which can make choosing a home base a little confusing for someone who has never visited before.
There is so much to see around the island that you may want to split your stay in Mallorca between at least two different locations, based on the things you want to do and the areas you’d like to explore. That way you’ll spend less time getting around and more time just simply enjoying the island.
The locations I’ve chosen to highlight below are based on my personal experience, along with the town’s location, vibes and proximity to activities and things to do nearby.
THE WEST SIDE OF THE ISLAND
PALMA DE MALLORCA
Palma is known as the beating heart and city center of the island of Mallorca. It exudes a unique blend of Mediterranean charm and cosmopolitan life. In Palma you can enjoy wandering the streets of the old town that dates all the way back to the 14th century, where you can easily walk to a number of historic landmarks, such as the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, trendy boutiques, bustling markets and delicious restaurants. Palma is also known for its rich history and for being the center of nightlife on the island.
If you prefer a cosmopolitan vibe over a resort vibe, and being able to walk to bars and restaurants, then you’ll enjoy Palma and its central location. It’s conveniently located about 15 to 20 minutes from many of the Island’s main attractions, but just be prepared to hop in a bus or taxi if you want to head any of the more picturesque little beach towns.
PALMA NOVA
Located about a 20-minute car ride from the Airport, Palma Nova, is a sun-drenched coastal town that offers a nice blend of beach vibes and night-life. Bask in the golden rays on its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, stroll along the vibrant promenade, lined with palm trees, great restaurants and shops, or indulge in the beach clubs and busy nightlife scene in nearby Magaluf. If you’re looking for a mixture of relaxation and action, Palma Nova offers the best of both worlds.
Palma Nova is a great home base for your trip because of its central location and beautiful beaches. It can, however, feel a bit more touristy and less quaint than other towns on the island. One of the major pros of Palma Nova is being within walking distance to beaches, water activities, shops restaurants and nightlife. The nightlife scene in nearby Magaluf tends to be a draw for a younger crowd (think bachelor/ette parties) and in my opinion, less sophisticated than the bar scene in downtown Palma; but we definitely were able to find a few nice bars and lounges in the mix and had a great time.
MAGALUF (SKIP IT)
Magaluf is extremely touristy and can be over run with rowdy bachelor and bachelorette parties enjoying the nightlife scene. In my opinion, only visit Magaluf for a beach club or a night out, if that’s what you’re after, and stay in nearby Palma Nova instead.
VALLDEMOSSA
Just 17km from Palma, perched up in the picturesque hilltops of Mallorca, you’ll find the fairy tale like village of Valldemossa. Known for its serene ambiance, beautiful panoramic views and rich cultural heritage, this historic little town winds throughout winding streets dotted with little shops, cafes and traditional stone houses surrounded by colorful flowers and fragrant citrus trees. In Valldemossa you can visit historical sights on a guided tour, take in the scenery on a beautiful hike or enjoy delicious tapas and a wine tasting while people watching on a cobblestone street.
Make Valldemossa is a good place to visit for just a few days if you’re looking for a more relaxed scene that is steeped in natural landscape, old world charm and feels worlds away from the nearby scene of Palma Nova. It truly is one of the most beautiful villages on the island.
THE NORTHWEST SIDE OF THE ISLAND
DEIÁ
Nestled up high in the mountains amidst up the lush olive groves and overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the charming little historic town of Deiá offers a serene retreat where you can immerse yourself in nature’s beauty and savor the simple pleasures of Mediterranean life. Here you can wander through its cobbled streets adorned with rustic stone houses and vibrant bougainvillea, and feel the creative energy that has drawn artists and writers to this hill top town for centuries. It also has some of the best views on the island. More recently, Deiá has been known as a secret escape for celebs and glamorous jet-setters including The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Kate Moss, Princess Diana and even the queen herself, Beyoncé was spotted there recently.
In my opinion, Deiá is a beautiful town to visit for a day trip or a home base for visiting some of the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site nearby, but I personally found it a bit sleepy to choose as a home base for myself compared to the rest of the island. However, if you’re truly trying to disconnect from the outside world and prefer relaxing poolside, a stay at the stunningly beautiful Belmond La Residencía Hotel is absolutely worth a visit to Deiá for a day or two, and who knows, you may even spot a celeb sipping on Sangria at the historic Sa Fonda bar.
If you do choose to stay in Deiá and are renting a car, be sure to check out the parking situation in advance, as this hilltop town runs along a winding, narrow streets with very few parking lot. However, these winding road keep out large tour buses and tourists, making it truly a hidden gem located only 45 minutes from downtown Palma.
PORT DE SÓLLER
Tucked away in a scenic bay on Mallorca’s rugged northwest coast, Port de Sóller offers a tranquil escape surrounded by natural beauty, sandy beaches and turquoise waters. This quaint little seaside town offers a charming waterfront promenade full of cute shops and delicious seafood restaurants. With its laid-back atmosphere, Port de Soller is the perfect destination for a seaside escape in Mallorca, while still offering a bit of an evening scene, albeit more relaxed than downtown Palma or Palma Nova.
PORT DE POLLENÇA
Nestled on the northern coast of Mallorca, Port de Pollenca is a family friendly resort town that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and laid-back charm. This picturesque town is known for its stretches of sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful views of the Tramuntana mountains. Its proximity to the mountains attracts nature loving hikers and cyclists in addition to holiday beach goers. With its inviting marina, vibrant market, and friendly locals, Port de Pollença exudes the vibes of a serene little coastal town. If you’re seeking a mix of both adventure and relaxing at the beach, Port de Pollença could be the perfect spot for you.
THE EAST SIDE OF THE ISLAND
The east side of Mallorca is known for its picturesque beaches, with shallow bays and idyllic calas (coves) dotting the coastline. This part of the island has a much more laid-back vibe with far less development than the bustling west, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. It’s also home to some of the best tennis and golf resorts on the island. If you’re seeking tranquility, natural beauty and prefer exploring off the beaten path, then the East Coast might be your perfect haven.
Your time on the East side of the island will mostly consist of exploring little calas, caves and sleepy little beach towns, so a car is a must. If you find yourself more drawn to staying somewhere on the West side of the island, then I highly recommend renting a car for the day and visiting the beautiful turquoise waters of the calas, the breathtaking beaches and my favorite, the little chiringuito beach bars of the East Coast.
THE BEST HOTELS IN MALLORCA
Hotel Corazón
ISLAND BLISS: THE CHICEST HOTELS IN MALLORCA SPAIN
Mallorca is home to so many beautiful hotels, fincas and resorts, that we decided to make a part two to this post dedicated to choosing the perfect hotel for your stay on any side of the island. Whether you’re looking for 5-star luxury or charming finca vibes, we’ve curated the ultimate list to help you find your dream stay on this enchanting island.
For those seeking the perfect place to stay, be sure to check out part two of our Mallorca travel guide: The Chicest Hotels in Mallorca, Spain.
Happy Travels! xx