Mallorca Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, See, & Eat

Written By Ashley Eggersdorfer

If you're dreaming of turquoise waters, sun drenched beaches, charming villages, and Mediterranean cuisine, then Mallorca should be at the top of your travel list. As the largest island of Spain, Balearic Islands, Mallorca is a paradise, that blends, natural beauty, rich, culture, and unforgettable experiences. This Mallorca travel guide will help you discover the best things to do in Mallorca, where to stay, and what not to miss.

Charming villages in Mallorca

While most visitors flock to the coast, Mallorca’s, villages and towns offer authentic charm.

  • Palma - The capital and largest city of the Balearic Islands, offering a mix of historic charm, gothic architecture, and a bustling marina.

  • Fornalutx - a picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana, surrounded by orange and lemon groves.

  • Deia - An artists’ haven with breathtaking mountain views

  • Soller - Known for its citrus grove and vintage tram that runs to Port de Soller, its neighbor on the coast.

  • Ses Salines - A small town in the Mallorcan countryside. Only 20 minutes from the airport and turquoise coastline.

Where to Stay

Whether you are looking to stay in a bustling city or quiet mountain village, you have endless choices in Mallorca. These are my favorites.

  • Palma

    • Sant Francesc Hotel Singular - luxury hotel with charming courtyard, rooftop terrace pool, original rooms with floor to ceiling windows, and a fine dining restaurant located in Palma’s old town.

    • El Llorenc Parc de la Mar - An adults-only boutique hotel with a modern version of the Arab baths. It is located steps away from the Palma Cathedral and facing the Mediterranean Sea. Sip on a cocktail at the rooftop pool, relax in tranquility at the spa, enjoy a gastronomic journey at a Michelin Star restaurant.

    • Can Cera Mallorcan Luxury House - An adults-only hotel hidden in the heart of Palma. Stay at a 17th century palacete transformed into luxury hotel and eat at a Michelin star restaurant.

  • Fornalutx

    • Airbnb - support a local and stay in a home instead of a hotel. We stayed with Neil and Julie who had 2 beautiful spaces available. Check it out here

    • Sa Tanqueta de Fornalutx - This stunning hotel overlooks the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range and surrounded by stone wall terraces and citrus groves.

    • Fornalutx Petit Hotel - Centrally located near the central square and restaurants, this unique hotel is the place to be. Each room is beautifully decorated and enjoy overlooking the mountains from the pool.

  • Ses Salines

    • Finca Serena - Adults-only five star hotel located in the Mallorcan countryside is a hidden gem. With only 25 rooms, this is the perfect place to stay for some peace and quiet.

    • Finca Hotel Rural Es Turo - Boutique hotel with beautiful views of the countryside and mediterranean gardens. Great location near some of Mallorca’s best beaches.

  • Cala Blava

    • Cap Rocat -Located in a fortress on the Bay of Palma, the stunning and private resort. Eat at one of their three restaurants or close your eyes and enjoy a journey of the senses at their state of the art spa.

  • Deia

    • La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel - Make your way through the mountains and stay at this mountainside escape. Surround yourself with nature and relax at the pool surrounded by palm trees.

Places to Eat and drink

  • Palma

    • La Rosa Vermuteria and Colmado - local eatery serving authentic Majorcan tapas and house made vermouth.

    • El Camino - Located in the centre of the city, sit at the bar and watch the chefs prepare your tapas fresh. Be sure to book your reservation as seating is limited.

    • Restaurant Botanic - Voted as one of the 40 most beautiful restaurants of the world, this plant forward restaurant is vibrant and sexy.

    • Bar Abaco - From the moment you open the doors, you take a step back in history. The front room is filled with fresh fruits and don’t forget to visit the beautiful courtyard.

    • Tast Club - Enjoy a vermouth or cocktail at an underground bar that looks like a wine cellar.

  • Fornalutx

    • Restaurant Es Turo- sit on their patio overlooking the mountains and enjoy a glass of wine with authentic Majorcan cuisine. Be sure order the freshly made paella to share

    • Restaurant Calzone - Sit down at a table covered in red and white cloth, sip on a glass of wine, and order a pizza. Sometimes you just need a casual meal and pizza is always a good idea.

    • Ritma Mallorca - Enjoy a fine dining experience in the heart of Fornalutx and let your palate take you on a journey.

  • Ses Salines

    • Xesquet - Authentic Spanish bakery. Every pastry was delicious

    • Cassai Gran - Mediterranean dining in a 300 year old house with stone walls and a plant filled courtyard.

Best Beaches in Mallorca

When it comes to beaches, Mallorca is world class. From bustling stretches with beach clubs to hidden coves surrounded by cliffs, there's something for everyone.

  • Cala d’Or - perfect for families with calm waters

  • Playa de Muro - A long sandy beach ideal for relaxation and watersports

  • Cala Varques - a secluded paradise for travelers seeking peace and quiet

  • Es Trenc - Often compared to the Caribbean for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters

    Tip: Visit beaches early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds

Things to do

  • Drach Caves - Located on the southeast coast of Mallorca, the cave conceals one of the largest underground lakes, Lake Martel. Book a tour and explore the depths and natural art.

  • Winery tour and tastings

    • Bodegas Marcia Batle - Vineyard producing wine since 1856 specializing in aging and white wine. Admire the art by local artists that are featured on the special edition bottles.

    • Jose L. Ferrer - built in 1931, wine was originally aged in concrete tanks which are still used today. The winery still remains run by the family after 4 generations.

    • Bodega Angel - Located in the heart of Mallorca’s wine region, where the coastal breeze and warm summers help grow flavorful grapes and create fantastic wine.

  • Book a food tour with a local - This is the best way to explore a new city, learn some history, try local cuisine, and eat at hidden gems.

Must Try Cuisine

  • Ensaïmada - a spiral shaped sweet pastry dusted with powder sugar

  • Lechona Asada - Crispy, succulent roast of suckling pig

  • Tapas - variety of small Spanish dishes meant for sharing

  • Tortilla espanola - Spanish egg and potato omlette

  • Ibérico ham - This dried pork is shaved paper thin and melts in your mouth. Made from pigs raised on the island with a diet of acorns.

Final thoughts:

Mallorca is more than just a beach destination. It's an island that offers relaxation, adventure, culture, and cuisine all in one. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family holiday, or a solo adventure Mallorca’s charm and Mediterranean lifestyle will make you want to return again and again. Best time to visit is August, September, and October when the summer crowds leave.

Ashley Eggersdorfer