Spain

Mallorca

It’s easy to see why people keep coming back to Mallorca. I’ve been twice now, and there’s still so much left to explore. From long, lazy lunches with Spanish tapas and Aperol spritzes to strolling the cobbled lanes of Deià and Valldemossa, this island has a way of slowing you down in the best possible way. If Spain’s on your radar, make sure Mallorca is too. It brings a whole different vibe you won’t want to miss.

What to Expect in Mallorca

Language: Spanish is the main language in Mallorca, though you’ll also hear Mallorquín (a local Catalan dialect) and English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Currency: The currency in Spain is the Euro.

Credit Cards and ATMs: You won’t have any trouble finding ATMs around Mallorca, especially in the main towns and coastal areas. If you’re heading to smaller villages or more remote parts of the island, it’s a good idea to carry some cash just in case. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at most restaurants, shops, and hotels.

Plugs: The plugs in Spain are type C and F. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter (make sure it has surge protection) and using a converter for hairdryers and hot tools.

Climate: Mallorca has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. From June to September, you can expect long sunny days and very little rain — perfect for beach hopping and outdoor adventures. Winters are cooler but still pleasant, especially along the coast.

Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) is peak season in Mallorca — think hot, sunny days, and buzzing beach clubs. It’s a great time to visit if you’re all about swimming and lively vibes, but expect crowds and higher prices. If you’re after fewer people and more chill, the sweet spot is spring (April to early June) or autumn (September to October). The weather is still warm and dreamy, hotels are more affordable, and it’s easier to snag that seaside table for tapas.

Safety: Mallorca is one of the safest places to visit in Spain, and solo travelers will generally feel very comfortable here. While violent crime is rare, it’s still smart to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy markets, tourist hotspots, or on public transport.

Getting Around in Mallorca

By Foot: In towns like Palma, Sóller, Deià, or Valldemossa, walking is an easy way to explore, especially in the old town areas where the streets are narrow and really charming. But beyond these hubs, Mallorca is far too spread out to rely on walking alone.

By Taxi: Taxis are easy to find in Palma and at the airport, but they can be expensive for longer trips across the island. Uber is available in Mallorca, but coverage can be patchy outside of major towns. For both taxis and ride-shares, it’s worth checking wait times in advance, and don’t expect them to be your go-to in rural or beachside areas.

By Bus: Mallorca has a decent public bus network that connects most major towns and tourist areas. It’s a budget-friendly option, but services can be limited in rural areas and on weekends. Plus, reaching beaches or remote spots often requires multiple transfers.

By Car: I HIGHLY recommend renting a car! Mallorca is a big island with lots to see, and many of the best beaches and villages are best reached by car. I’d also suggest opting for a small car as the roads can be pretty narrow, and make sure to book well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during summer!

Travel Tip

Mallorca is bigger than most people expect. It takes a few hours to drive from one end to the other. To make the most of your trip, plan your itinerary around one or two regions at a time (like the northwest coast and the southeast beaches) rather than trying to cover the whole island in a few days.

Where to Stay in Mallorca

Mallorca has so many beautiful pockets, and where you stay can totally shape your trip. If you’re planning to explore different parts of the island, consider splitting your stay between two (or three max) areas. Trust me, it’s worth the hotel shuffle. For a laid-back, luxury vibe with unreal mountain views, Deià is an absolute dream — think boutique stays, cliffside sunsets, and romantic dinners in stone-walled restaurants. Down south, Ses Salines or nearby Santanyí is perfect if you’re chasing beautiful beaches and a more local, slow-living kind of escape. And then there’s Palma, Mallorca’s capital and the perfect base if you want easy access to the airport, cafes, shopping, and nightlife.

Here are the best boutique properties and hotels in Mallorca, and for a full list, check out The Best Hotels to Stay at in Mallorca.

Belmond La Residencia

If you’re looking to treat yourself, Belmond La Residencia is the place. Tucked into the hills of Deià, this five-star stunner nails that laid-back luxury vibe. Think dreamy views, peaceful gardens, amazing dining, and a dose of Mallorcan charm around every corner. It’s definitely a splurge, but if you’re going to do it, this is the spot.

Check Prices

Deià

Luxury

$$$$

Finca Hotel Rural Es Turó

Few places capture Mallorca’s countryside charm quite like this hotel. Tucked away just ten minutes from the coast, this hideaway feels like the ultimate escape. With its infinity pool overlooking the rolling hills, sunset views that stop you in your tracks, and cozy cabanas perfect for unwinding, it’s a dreamy stay. Check out my full review here.

Check Prices

Ses Salines

Mid-Range

S’Hotelet de Santanyi

We absolutely loved our stay at S’Hotelet de Santanyí, a gorgeous little boutique hotel right in the heart of Santanyi. The rooms were stylish and cozy, and the whole place had this peaceful, tucked-away feel. Plus there’s a cool outdoor pool perfect for a dip after visiting the beach. Parking’s a bit tricky in the center, but there are public lots nearby that make it totally doable.

Check Prices

Santanyi

Mid-Range

Cap Rocat

If you want to explore Palma without staying right in the middle of the city, check out Cap Rocat. Set in a former military fortress overlooking the Bay of Palma, this luxury adults-only retreat feels totally secluded, yet it’s only about 20 minutes from the city. With private terraces, sea views, and direct beach access, it’s the perfect base for dipping into Palma by day and unwinding in style by night.

Check Prices

Palma

Luxury

$$$

Ikos Porto Petro in Mallorca

If you’re after a luxe, all-inclusive stay on Mallorca’s southeast coast, this spot ticks all the boxes. Set between two dreamy coves near the quiet town of Porto Petro, the resort is equal parts polished and peaceful. Think endless craft cocktails, Michelin-star-level dining (included!), and even a complimentary Tesla for day trips. Read more about my stay here.

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Porto Petro

Luxury

$$$

Hostal Villa Verde

I’ve stayed at Hostal Villa Verde and honestly paid more than you’d think for such a simple stay — but it was one of the last rooms left, so we rolled with it. No air con and pretty basic, but the view totally made up for it. Sometimes it’s all about location!

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Deià

Budget

Where to Eat in Mallorca

Mallorca’s food scene is seriously underrated. Think rustic Mediterranean flavors, fresh seafood, and of course, delicious tapas paired with a vino tinto (aka red wine). From traditional bites such as Ensaïmada, pa amb oli, and Sobrassada to farm-to-table feasts and chic coastal dining, this Spanish island serves up something for every craving and budget.

I’ve pulled together a list of the best places to eat in Mallorca, from cute village cafés to amazing beachside spots, so you can dig into the island’s deliciously diverse dining scene.

El Olivo or Cafe Miro

Mediterranean

If you’re planning to dine at either of these gems at the gorgeous Belmond La Residencia, book early, we’re talking before you even land in Mallorca. El Olivo is a fine dining restaurant known for its romantic ambiance and seasonal Mediterranean-tasting menu. Café Miró, its more relaxed sibling, serves up light bites and cocktails with those same mountain views you’ve probably seen all over Instagram.

Pro-tip: Request a table about 30 minutes before sunset to get amazing golden hour views and photos.

Ca's Patro March

Mediterranean

Perched above Cala Deià, this rustic seaside spot is as much about the view as it is about the seafood. Ca’s Patro March serves up fresh catch-of-the-day with a side of beach views—and yes, it’s that famous restaurant from The Night Manager. Tables are limited, so reservations are essential.

Forn i Pastisseria Ca’n Molinas

Bakery

When in Valldemossa, you have to stop by Ca’n Molinas, it’s practically a rite of passage. This traditional bakery has been around since 1920, serving up iconic Balearic pastries in a garden courtyard. Try the coca de patata (a sweet, fluffy bun made with potato), a freshly baked ensaimada, or a slice of cabell d’àngel, filled with a cinnamon-spiced pumpkin jam. Grab a pastry and a café con leche and soak it all in.

Fornet de la Soca

Bakery

Fornet de la Soca is a dream for pastry lovers and a must-stop in Palma. Their beautifully rustic bakery focuses on preserving traditional Mallorcan recipes, and yes, the ensaimadas here are everything. Perfect for a quick takeaway or a sweet souvenir, but be warned: you’ll probably want to go back the next day.

Cassai Gran Cafe & Restaurant

Mediterranean

Set in the sleepy town of Ses Salines, Cassai Gran Café is a total vibe. From the romantic lighting to the leafy courtyard and live music nights, it’s one of those places that makes you want to cancel your next plans and just stay a little longer. Check their music schedule before you go, and plan for dinner that turns into drinks and dancing.

Cassai Beach House

Mediterranean

Cassai Beach House nails that rustic-meets-modern vibe, set in a converted fisherman’s house right on the water in Colònia de Sant Jordi. Grab a table on the terrace, order an Aperol and seafood paella, and take in the views of turquoise water and Cabrera island. Perfect for a long lunch or sunset dinner.

Mercat de l’Olivar

Food Market

Not a restaurant per se, but if you’re in Palma add this to your list. This indoor market is perfect for grazing—grab some jamón, fresh oysters, tapas, and a glass of cava, all in one go. It’s where locals shop and snack, and the seafood stalls are some of the best on the island.

What to Do in Mallorca

Mallorca is one of those places that truly has it all. Gorgeous beaches, storybook villages, scenic hikes, and food that’ll have you asking for seconds (and thirds). Whether you’re here to wander cobblestone streets, dive into hidden coves, or sip sangria with a sea view, there’s no shortage of dreamy things to do. Here are must-see spots to help you plan the ultimate Mallorca getaway.

Beach hop

With over 200 beaches to choose from, you could easily spend your whole trip chasing the perfect cove. Some are easy to access, like Es Trenc or Cala Llombards, while others, like Caló des Moro and Cala S’Almonia, involve a bit of a hike.
Rent a car so you can explore at your own pace, and if you want a full breakdown of the best beaches, check out my full guide here.

Discover Deià

Deià is a total dream. Artists, writers, and celebs have been escaping here for years, and once you see it, you’ll get why. The town is tiny, charming, and set in the hills with jaw-dropping views at every turn. Don’t skip Cala Deià, a tucked-away cove at the bottom of the hill that’s perfect for a swim and a seaside bite.

Explore Valldemossa

Tucked into the Tramuntana mountains, Valldemossa is all cobblestone streets, blooming window boxes, and golden stone buildings that glow at golden hour. Spend the afternoon popping into cute boutiques, snapping photos of the alleys, and enjoying a long lunch at one of the cozy cafés with mountain views.

Cala Figuera

One of Mallorca’s most photogenic fishing villages, Cala Figuera feels like stepping back in time. There’s no sandy beach here, but the working port, bright green shutters, and cliffside paths more than makeup for it. Go for a slow stroll, then grab seafood at one of the waterside restaurants (like Pura Vida). It’s low-key, local, and ridiculously pretty.

Cuevas del Drach

These massive underground caves are one of the island’s most unique attractions. Inside, you’ll walk past towering stalactites and cross one of Europe’s largest underground lakes, Lake Martel, where a short classical concert is performed on boats (yes, really). It’s about an hour-long tour and is best booked in advance, especially in summer. Bring a light layer, it’s cooler underground!

Sóller & Port de Sóller

Hop aboard the historic wooden train from Palma to Sóller, it’s a scenic one-hour ride through olive groves, citrus fields, and mountain tunnels. Once you arrive, explore the town’s cafés, shops, and galleries. Grab a drink in Plaza de la Constitución, the main square, and watch the vintage red tram roll past with the cathedral as your backdrop. From there, you can hop on the tram down to Port de Sóller, a relaxed coastal spot.

Palma de Mallorca

Mallorca’s capital city deserves more than just a layover. Spend a day exploring the Palma Cathedral (La Seu), walking the old town, and checking out galleries like Es Baluard. There are also incredible boutiques, wine bars, and rooftops with harbor views, so carve out time to enjoy the city vibes before heading back to the beach.

Hike the Tramuntana Mountains

If you’re an avid hiker, this one’s for you. The Serra de Tramuntana is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed mountain range with trails for all levels. The route from Deià to Sóller is a favorite, about 3 hours with stunning coastal and mountain views along the way.

Know Before You Go

Getting There

The Airport: Most travelers arrive via Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), the island’s main international hub, located about 15 minutes from Palma city and around 30–60 minutes from many of the island’s popular towns and beach areas.

Getting to Your Hotel from the Airport

Taxi: Taxis are easy to find just outside the arrivals terminal and cost around €20–€30 to Palma city centre. Fares to more distant towns like Sóller or Deià range from €50–€80 depending on location. Uber is also an option.

Hotel Transfer: Many hotels and resorts, especially in more remote or resort-heavy areas, offer shuttle transfers for guests who book in advance. Check with your accommodation to see if this is included or available at an extra cost.

Bus: Staying in Palma? The airport is well-connected to the city by the bus (Line 1), which runs around 4 times per hour between 6am and 2am. The bus is directly outside the terminal, costs €2, and takes you to Plaça d’Espanya in the heart of Palma’s Old Town.

Car Rental: If you're planning to explore different parts of the island, especially hidden beaches or mountain towns, renting a car is one of the best ways to get around. Rental desks are located at the airport, and booking in advance is a must.