Things to Do in Mallorca Beyond the Resort
Last Updated on July 6, 2022
There is SO much to Mallorca beyond the all-inclusive resorts and party towns — get out and explore with this comprehensive list of things to do in Mallorca.
Before you shrug off Mallorca as another touristy island — hear me out. Like many of you, I always thought of Mallorca as a touristy and over-commercialized island full where holiday-makers flock to.
But as I learned from my trips to Mallorca, the island IS touristy, but there are still lots of quaint Spanish, secret coves and pristine bays where tourists are few and far between. Even among the tourist swarms of mid-August, you can find pockets of silence while driving along the beautiful coastal highways and hiking up to hilltop monasteries.
Having lived in Spain for 7 years, I’ve learned a thing or two about finding secret spots and locals’ favorite haunts in Mallorca. So if you’re planning to visit Mallorca as part of your Spain itinerary, here is my Mallorca guide and some of the best things to do in Mallorca beyond the resorts.
Table of Contents
Things to Do in Mallorca
How to Get to Mallorca
By Plane
Palma de Mallorca Airport is the main gateway to Mallorca. Its international airport of Son Sant Joan is just 5 miles (8 km) from the city. The airport is easily accessible by direct flight from major cities in Europe on budget airlines like easyJet, Ryanair, and Vueling. You can get flights as cheap as $50 return from London, Madrid, Amsterdam or Paris.
If you’re flying from the US, most flights from New York to Palma cost around $500 return with a stopover in a European city. Flights from Los Angeles to Palma cost much more, at around $900 return.
Search for Cheap Flights to Mallorca
By Boat
Another way to travel to Mallorca is by ferry. There are regular ferry lines from several Spanish cities including Barcelona, Valencia and Denia to Mallorca. The ferries usually cost around the same as flights and sometimes more. Click here to see ferry schedule and prices.
How to Get Around Mallorca
Renting a car is definitely the best way to explore Mallorca. There are public buses connecting the main towns, but they won’t get you to the scenic coastal roads, small villages and secret beaches.
Having your own wheels lets you travel independently, at your own pace. Besides renting cars in Mallorca is really affordable and roads are excellent. It’s easy to find your way around even if you don’t understand Spanish.
We booked our car rental on Discover Cars and paid around US$160 for one week rental of an economical car. The car hire company had excellent services and provided transfers in/out to the airport. It’s usually half the price during low season.
Day Tours in Mallorca
Mallorca is super easy to travel around, especially if you’re planning to rent a car.
But if you don’t drive, I recommend traveling independently and booking day tours or interesting experiences along the way. GetYourGuide is a good place to book day tours around the island. Day tours usually cost around US$50-100 per person.
For instance, we booked a Mallorca catamaran cruise and a visit to the Cave of Drach through their site and had a great experience. There are also plenty of exciting outdoor adventures available, such as a sea caving adventure or rock climbing experiences.
Best Time to Visit Mallorca
The best time to visit Mallorca is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September – October). I would avoid summer as it gets very busy around the island.
During spring and autumn, there are around 10 hours of sunshine each day and temperatures are up to 75°F (24°C). It’s warm enough to swim in the sea and the island is less crowded.
October is the rainiest season but rainfall is typically concentrated in heavy showers rather than persistent drizzle. Palma’s Nit de l’Art event takes place every September and sees the city’s museums and galleries fling open their doors for free.
Where to Stay in Mallorca
Best Hotels for Couples
Hotel Astoria Playa – Voted the top adults-only hotel in Mallorca by TripAdvisor users, this hotel is definitely a good option for those looking for some romance. There are two swimming pools and several jacuzzis. You can also choose from several packages to add the likes of sparkling wines, chocolates, and even ‘sensual sets’ for your stay. Check the rates.
Son Brull Hotel and Spa – This is easily our favorite hotel in Mallorca (pictured). Housed in a restored 18th-century jesuit monastery, this charming hotel tastefully combines historic architecture with edgy 21st-century design. The rural setting is also pretty special nestled among vineyards, lavender and lemon orchards in the foothills of the Tramontana sierra. Check the rates here.
Formentor, a Royal Hideaway Hotel – This vintage five-star hotel in Pollenca has been a favorite with couples since Grace Kelly and the Prince of Monaco honeymooned here in 1956. The hotel is set in the picturesque peninsular of Formentor, surrounded by scented pine forests and overlooking one of Mallorca’s prettiest beaches. Check the rates here.
Best Hotels for Families
Hotel VIVA Cala Mesquida – We loved our stay here and highly recommend it for families who want easy access to the beach and spacious family suites/apartments (pictured). They also have a massive kids pool area. The views from the resort are amazing, and the restaurants offer excellent food with nice views. Check the rates here.
Iberostar Selection Playa de Palma – This new and contemporary hotel has an excellent beachfront location just 15 minutes away from Palma. They have family rooms (up to 4 people) with balconies or terraces. Kids can use the indoor pool, playground and kids’ club at the Iberostar Cristina hotel next door. Check the rates here.
Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa – Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Port Soller bay, this elegant hotel has spacious 2 bedroom suites, with hot tubs and fireplaces. The hotel has two pools, kids’ club and playground. Check the rates here.
Best Hotels for Budget Travelers
Hotel Born – In the heart of Palma, this well-priced historic hotel occupies a former palace just walking distance from the Cathedral and other attractions. I love the regal, traditional Spanish interior. Plus a complimentary breakfast buffet is provided. Check the rates here.
Sanctuari de Lluc – Set in the Tramuntana Mountains on the property of a 13th-century sanctuary, this historic hotel features simple rooms and apartments with full kitchens, all with private bathrooms. The hotel also has an outdoor pool, its own museum, several restaurants and shops, and parking for a fee. Check the rates here.
Hotel Citric Sóller – You really don’t have to spend alot of money in Mallorca to enjoy sea views (pictured). Close to the heart of Port de Sóller, this waterfront hotel is steps to the beach and features a bar and restaurant, a large terrace overlooking the sea, and minimalist decor. Check the rates here.
Things to Do in Mallorca: For Culture Vultures
Explore Capital of Palm de Mallorca
The capital, Palma de Mallorca, is a richly studded historical city, almost as beautiful and impressive as other Spanish cities like Granada and Seville. First head to Calle San Miguel and across Plaza Mayor. There you will find a number of different street musicians, mime artists, hawkers, and jugglers as well as many great shops.
The historical heart of Palma lies in La Seu Cathedral, a magnificent work of art. Get skip-the-line tickets to Palma Cathedral, and gain free access to the Diocese museum. Wander in any direction from the Palma Cathedral and you’ll find narrow medieval streets lined with old mansions, looming baroque churches, vibrant bohemian neighborhoods and markets.
Alternatively, sign up for a guided bike tour of Palma and you’ll get to see everything and taste some tapas along the way.
Take the Train to Soller
For locomotive fans, I recommend catching the vintage train to the town of Soller for a time-travel experience.
Since 1912, the old narrow-gauge wooden train has been linking Soller with Palma de Mallorca. It used to transport fruit to Palma, but these days, it only serves as a tourist train.
The 28 km railway journey runs through 13 tunnels and spectacular mountain scenery. The train leaves from Plaza de España and five times a day, all year round. You can also combine this with the historic tram to Port de Soller for a full day trip.
Wander around the Mountain Town of Soller
Even if you’re not taking the train, a visit to Soller is still recommended for those seeking to explore beyond their resorts.
The town is home to many Art Nouveau buildings that have been restored and converted into museums like Can Prunera and the Balearic Museum of Natural Sciences.
The main square – Plaza de la Constitución – is Soller’s beating heart, dominated by the distinctive valley landmark, Sant Bartomeu church. The tram linking town and port clunks its way regularly through this splendid square.
The market in Sóller held every Saturday is a lively event, where shoppers and traders create a real buzz.
Visit the Art Museum of Alcudia
In the gorgeous coastal town of Alcúdia, Museu Sa Bassa Blanca is a museum beautifully integrated with nature. It contains contemporary galleries and exhibition halls, plus a sculpture garden.
There’s also a medieval-walled area containing more than one hundred varieties of old and English roses, and a curious observatory installation, offering a superb vantage point across the entire bay.
As access to the observatory is limited, only adults experienced in hiking are permitted – and prior reservation must be made.
Stroll around Deia Village
Possibly the most charming village on Mallorca, Deia is perched in the Tramuntana Mountains and dotted with honeycombed stone houses and cobbled streets.
Deià was once a second home to writers, actors and musicians, the best known of whom was the English poet Robert Graves.
The hamlet is flanked by terraced gardens, almond and olive trees and the occasional vineyard – all set against the mountain backdrop of the Puig des Teix (1062m).
Explore the Capdepera Castle
Nestled atop a hill, the Capdepera Fortress was founded in 1300 to protect local residents from residents. The walled town became known Capdepera Castle, one of the largest castles on the island.
In the 16th century, there were 125 houses inside its walls, but 200 years later it became a military outpost and most of the population lived outside. It was abandoned in 1856 and in 1983 it became municipal property.
The short walk to the castle is a bit steep but well worth it.
Things to Do in Mallorca: For Nature Lovers
Visit the Caves of Drach
Around an hour’s drive from Palma de Mallorca is the famous Caves of Drach in the town of Manacor. These caves were formed millions of years ago by the water pressure of the Mediterranean sea. There are actually four separate caves connected to each other, measuring a total length of 2.5 miles (4km)!
The stalagmites and stalactites are really impressive, but the most interesting attraction of these caves is their underwater lake, known as Lake Martel. We booked this guided visit to Caves of Drach and highly recommend it as the guide was very knowledgable.
Continue your day with a visit to the Caves del Hams, famous for its fish-hook shaped stalactites and stalagmites – the cause of their unique shape is still unknown!
Book Your Day Trip to Caves of Drach:
Drive or Bike Mallorca’s Most Scenic Road
This is my favorite thing to do in Mallorca: Weaving around the Tramuntana Mountains on a 12km serpentine road riddled with hairpin bends that leads to Sa Calobra and Cala Tuent. Constructed in the 1930’s by Italian engineer Antonio Parietti, the road features twists and turns inspired by tying a tie, some say.
The ravine views are spectacular and the thrill of weaving through narrow ridges is exciting. Driving or biking it is one of the best experiences in Mallorca and highly recommended for adventure seekers.
But be warned: it’s not for the nauseous or faint hearted. We don’t get carsick easily, so definitely loved driving this route!
Visit the Cap de Formentor Lighthouse
If you’re driving the Tramuntana Road, be sure to make a stop at the rugged and remote Cap de Formentor cape.
The lighthouse perched at the top of the cliffs is the highest in the Balearic Islands and offers the best views on the island.
You’ll get to feast on views of Menorca in the east, Cala Fiquera in the west, and Alcudia with its sandy beach in the south.
However, the view of the cliffs below is not for those with vertigo as sea roars 300m below and the winds on the headland can be vicious. It was so crazy windy when we visited my hat flew off.
Get Lost in the Charming Valldemossa Village
Since you’re driving in the Tramuntana Road, I recommend taking some time to explore the village of Valldemossa. It’s steeped in old-world charm, and sprawls across an idyllic valley in the midst of the Tramuntana mountains.
Its ancient blonde stone houses contrast vividly against the surrounding green forests of olive, oak and almond trees, and the blue sky above. Valldemossa’s quiet and picturesque streets are sprinkled with shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants.
The natural beauty of the countryside makes Valldemossa a popular place for hikers and nature lovers to base themselves. There is a myriad of trails that wind their way up through the wooded hillsides before reaching the summits where hikers are rewarded with panoramic views over Mallorca and the Mediterranean.
Take A Hot Air Balloon Ride
Looking for to see Mallorca from a different perspective? Catch a hot air balloon flight above the Tramuntana Mountains and get a bird’s eye view of Mallorca. Most rides start at dawn, so be prepared to rise early.
Help with the preparations and then glide serenely up into the air and learn more about the areas you fly over as you sip a glass of sparkling champagne.
Float back to ground and get a souvenir flight certificate of your experience before returning to the meeting point by 4WD vehicle.
Book Your Hot Air Balloon here:
Things to Do in Mallorca: For Beach Bums
Relax on Cala Mesquida Beach
Cala Mesquida is definitely one of the most kid-friendly beaches on Mallorca, with its calm and shallow water. What I love most about the beach is that it’s set among pine trees and sand dunes. The area surrounding Cala Mesquida was specially designated an “area of special interest” by the Balearic government to protect some of its wild beauty.
We’ve stayed at Hotel VIVA Cala Mesquida once, and highly recommend it for families who want easy access to the beach. The views from the resort were amazing, and I remember dining right by the sea every night. Bliss!
Find the Secret Beach of Es Calo des Moro
If Cala Mesquida is too crowded, there are plenty of quiet beaches that only locals know about. My favorite beach on Mallorca is Es Calo des Moro, a small cove that you’ll need to climb over boulders to get to.
You won’t find any hotels or beach bars here as it’s privately owned. It can get crowded in summer, but go early or visit in low season to have it all to yourself.
Head to the Remote Mondrago Natural Park
The Mondragó Natural Park is one of our favorite places on Mallorca. It is situated in the south, close to Santanyí, down tiny winding lanes lined with immaculate stone walls.
The park is famous for its fine white sand beaches and the unbelievable turquoise blue sea. Its remoteness does not stop it from being very popular, so prepare for some crowds especially if you’re going in summer.
There are a number of very beautiful beaches within the park: check out Cala Mondrago and S’Aramador Beach. Stunning cliffs reach down to crystal clear waters and the wetlands Ses Fonts de n’Alis with its migratory birds complete this nature reserve and beauty spot.
Visit the Arch Es Pontàs
Technically not a beach, this natural stone bridge is an iconic landmark that’s easily accessible by car. Es Ponta served as an inspiration for many artists who wanted to portray it in their works. One of them was the Argentine Francisco Bernareggi who did not hesitate to illustrate this hollow rock in one of his paintings.
To get there, drive to Cala Sanyantí and follow the signs that indicate the road to Es Pontás. Follow the hiking trail for 5 minutes and you will arrive at the viewpoint of the cliff.
If you are looking for an even better perspective, you can rent a boat or hire an excursion from Cala D’Or or Cala Santanyí.
Things to Do in Mallorca for Water Babies
Go Sea Caving in Cova des Coloms
For the adventure seekers out there, you’ve got to try this thrilling sea caving adventure in the Cova des Coloms caves. What makes this limestone cave so special are the natural pools inside. There are tons of caves dotted all around Mallorca, but this is the only cave system where you can swim in.
It’s quite a big cave system, so those with claustrophobia should be fine in there. All the necessary equipment will be provided, including protective helmets and a wetsuit. After a coastal walk of about 40 minutes, you’ll swim out to the cave (a distance of about 300 meters).
No prior experience in sea caving is required and you don’t have to go under the water. These vertical cave systems are a great introduction to caving, and the conditions make this the perfect adventure for beginners and families.
Book Your Sea Caving Adventure:
Go Dolphin Watching by Boat
Another great activity to do in Mallorca with kids is a dolphin watching boat trip. It’s amazing to watch these playful animals dive, frolic and play.
Best of all, it’s almost always guaranteed to spot dolphins, even though they are wild. The company we went with even had a policy where a free ticket would be given to come back anytime if we didn’t see a dolphin. But we did spot lots of them!
These trips usually start at sunrise, when the dolphins are most active. They run only from June to October. Kids under 3 go for free. Check out these dolphin watching tours.
Take a Catamaran Cruise
One of the best things to do in Mallorca for those who are looking to relax is a catamaran cruise. It’s an excellent way to explore the bay and caves, while letting your hair back and relax.
My husband and I sailed with this company before we had our daughter and had an excellent time onboard. We sailed from Palma to a beautiful cave in the south of the Palma Bay called La Cueva Verde.
From there, we continued on to the Cala Vella idyllic beaches with crystal clear waters where we swam and went kayaking. The cold cuts, wine and barbecue onboard were excellent.
Book Your Catamaran Cruise here:
Things to Do in Mallorca for Food and Wine Lovers
Try Mallorcan Food at the Market Hall
If you’re a foodie, make sure to pay a visit to the Centro Cultural S’Escorxador just outside the city centre of Palma. On the site of a former slaughterhouse is this market hall with 15 small kiosks serving everything from sushi to steak, Asian food to oysters. Portions are small and tapas-size, so you can easily choose a little of anything you fancy.
There are tons of local dishes that you need to try in Mallorca: Sobrassada is possibly the most well-known Mallorquin dish. It’s a cured sausage made of minced pork, paprika and other spices. Locals eat sobrassada in all kinds of ways, whether it’s a sobrassada baguette or even used to cook.
Another dish you must try is the Frito Mallorquin, which dates all the way back to the14th century and appears to have Jewish roots. The dish is a combination of meat (usually pork or lamb), intestine, liver, potato, tomato, onion and peppers fried with olive oil and garlic. Frito may not sound very appealing when described, but I assure you that it is absolutely delicious!
Do a Tapas Tour in Palma’s Old Town
If you’re looking for locals’ favorite haunts and secret hideouts, then you’ll have to join a tapas tour. Check out thisPalma tapas tour that will bring you to three different bars and let you taste the best the Old Town has to offer.
You’ll begin the tour at the imposing Palma Cathedral and learn all about this icon of the city. Then follow the guide through the city to see the Almudaina Palace, La Lonja and the Consolat de Mar, the governmental seat of the Balearics. Sample 3 delicious pinchos at the local bars in the old town to regain your strength, then continue on your way.
Visit the historic Es Baluard Fortress then stroll the beautiful Passeig del Born to the Plaça Mercat and the Grand Hotel. Stop into a typical tapas bar and taste a selection of warm tapas; then head to the historic town hall and the Neo-Gothic Consell Insular before indulging in a few sweet treats at the third and final bar.
Visit a Winery in Mallorca
Learn all about the history of wine growing in Majorca and enjoy breathtaking views over beautiful vineyards and the vast landscape in the center of the island. We did this Mallorca winery tour, which was absolutely worth the money as we visited three vineyards and had three different wine-tasting sessions with amazing food. By the end of it, we were thoroughly satisfied, happy and drunk.
First, you’ll visit the traditional La Raixa Estate and its amazing gardens. After that, follow the picturesque country roads from La Raixa through the wineyards of the island’s interior towards Santa Maria. Visit a quality producer and learn all about the methods of winemaking. Savor some fine wines along with regional specialties.
Then, make your way to one of Majorca’s most exclusive wine producers. Take part in a guided tour through the wine cellar and taste a selection of exquisite wines and snacks. Discover one of the most beautiful valleys of the island and admire the impressive rock formations along the way.
Book Your Winery Tour here:
I hope this detailed list of things to do in Mallorca will help you plan an exciting and fun-filled trip. Like many other parts of Spain, Mallorca has no shortage of charming villages, secret coves and rugged mountains. You just need to know where to find them!
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