What to do in Mallorca: 30 must-do plans
Here are some of the best things to do in Majorca.
Majorca is the beautiful island of the Mediterranean and one of the top destinations for a complete getaway. The range of activities and things to do and see in Majorca is frankly enormous.
Here are just a few of them.
Ideas for you to prepare your trip.
The largest of the Balearic Islands has an extensive catalogue of beautiful coves and beaches, which will allow you to get away from the cold winter. It also offers wonderful natural spaces nestled in the shelter of the Tramontana and Levante mountain ranges and other lower mountains, where you can enjoy nature in all its splendour.
It can also boast a marvellous monumental heritage, especially in its capital, Palma, where the Cathedral is one of the great architectural treasures.
There are also many caves that perforate the island, such as the caves of Drach and Hams, which take you into the spectacular depths of the earth, charming Mediterranean villages such as Deià, Sóller and Valldemossa, and its gastronomy, in which ensaimada, tumbet, arròs brut and frito mallorquín (fried Mallorcan food) take centre stage.
On the other hand, the island is also very well served in terms of leisure activities. During the day there is a wide range of water parks, maritime activities, sporting activities such as golf or cycling, shopping, etc.
By night, night owls will not be disappointed.
In short, Majorca is a very complete destination that more than satisfies the expectations of travellers in every month of the calendar. If you have planned your trip and are wondering what to see and do in Mallorca, here are some ideas.
1. Visit the Cathedral of Mallorca
Known as La Seu, this Levantine Gothic cathedral is the jewel in the crown of Mallorca's heritage. Its spectacular nature lies not only in its location on the shores of the bay of Palma, facing the Mediterranean and within the walls of the remains of the ancient Roman walls, but also in its architecture.
Its exterior is dominated by a large rose window, which is the largest of all cathedrals of this style in Europe. Inside, the work carried out by Barceló and Gaudí stands out, as well as the great luminosity it offers thanks to the rose windows and its more than 80 large windows, which has earned it the name of "Cathedral of Light".
You can visit it with an organised tour or on your own (the basic ticket costs 8 euros).
2. Enjoy a day of sun, sand and waves at Varques cove
It is located in Manacor, between the coves of Mallorca and Romántica, and is one of the most unspoilt coves in the region. The reason is that it is hidden among a pine forest and rocky shores perforated by underground caves, which are a great attraction for divers and for psicobloc (water climbing).
In addition, its waters are a deep azure blue and its sand a pristine white, which brings to mind the Caribbean. So paying it a visit is one of the most recommended things to do in Mallorca.
3. Discover the charm of Valldemosa
This small town is located some 20 km from Palma, sheltered by the Tramontana mountain range. As sources tell us, it was once an Arab alquería (rural farming community), which explains the steep and narrow character of its narrow streets.
In addition to exuding a very authentic rural atmosphere, they are decorated with houses that boast local architecture and valuable constructions, with the Valldemosa Charterhouse being particularly significant.
This was the former residence of Sancho I of Mallorca, and such distinguished figures as Rubén Darío, Jovellanos and Chopin, who spent a stay here with his partner George Sand, and where he composed the prelude Gota de Agua (Drop of Water), have passed through its rooms.
But this town is also the starting point of the Archduke's Way, a path that culminates in the Puig del Teix mountain, from where the views are incredible.
4. Dive into Muro beach
With more than six kilometres, this beach, located in the town that gives it its name, is the longest of all those that dot the Mallorcan coast. In addition, it is surrounded by a unique landscape as it is part of the S'Albufera Nature Reserve, which stands out for its enormous biodiversity of landscapes and animals.
As well as enjoying a swim or long walks along the beach, you can also enjoy water sports such as kitesurfing and windsurfing. Undoubtedly one of the most recommended things to do in Mallorca.
5. Explore the pretty town of Alcudia
Located in the northeast of the island, it is one of the most beautiful thanks to the beautiful medieval old town it preserves. Its ancient walls can boast of being the only completely preserved ones in Mallorca.
The best way to see its splendour is to walk along the Camí de Ronda, which runs around its diameter. Within the walls there is a good collection of medieval houses, noble and stately mansions with Renaissance elements and some interesting monuments such as the neo-Gothic church of Sant Jaume, the Baroque chapel of Santo Cristo or the Town Hall with its beautiful clock tower.
But Alcudia also has a good number of beaches and coves. For example, the beach of Alcudia is a good beach covered with fine white sand and bathed by the intense blue waters so characteristic of the Balearic Islands.
Here you can enjoy a dip, but also a variety of water sports such as kayaking, surfing, sailing and kitesurfing, among others.
Alcudia is, without a doubt, one of the essential places to see in Mallorca.
6. Excursion to the Drach caves
Located in the town of Porto Cristo, in Manacor, this is a complex of four underground caves - Blanca, Negra, de Lluis Salvador and dels Francesos - connected to each other, which pierce the earth at a depth of 25 metres at their maximum level.
One of the great attractions of these caves is the large inner lake Martel, which is also considered, at 115 metres long and 30 metres wide, to be one of the largest underground lakes in the world. It is so large that boat tours are available.
The ceilings of the various rooms are a real visual spectacle, decorated with an incredible array of stalagmites and stalactites. The walls, for their part, have different shades of colour, the result of the different minerals washed down by the water over time.
In addition, the beauty of the place is enhanced by the very successful lighting. If you like classical music, it won't hurt to know that concerts are sometimes organised in these caves.
7. Visit the Almudaina Palace
It is located right next to Palma Cathedral, and its construction dates back to the time of the Muslim conquest. It served as a court and residence for the last kings of Aragon, Mallorca and the rest of Spain.
In fact, today it is one of the residences of the Spanish royal family, which mainly uses it for state receptions in the summer. Its interior holds centuries of history, anecdotes and events, but also rooms and chambers brimming with art, objects, paintings and sculptures of great value. All of this provides a glimpse into the way of life of royalty over the centuries.
Particularly noteworthy are the Gothic chapel of Santa Anna, the Throne Room and the Queen's Courtyard. Visits are open from Tuesday to Sunday all year round. The entrance fee is 7 euros.
If you are thinking of spending a day getting to know Palma de Mallorca and all its attractions, how about doing it with a free tour? Free tours are becoming popular in all major cities in Europe and beyond. Palma is no exception and you can also book your free tour.
8. Climb the circular castle of Bellver
This fortress, ordered to be built by King James II of Mallorca to guarantee the defence of the capital, is located about 3 km from Palma, on top of a hill more than 100 metres above sea level, so it offers good views of Palma de Mallorca, the sea, the Tramuntana mountain range and the Plà region.
It also holds two honours: it is one of the few round-shaped buildings in Europe, and it is the oldest. Inside it houses the Municipal History Museum, whose collections provide a journey through the history of the island from the first Talayotic settlements to the 20th century.
9. Taste the best local flavours at the Mercat de l'Olivar
Savouring local products and specialities is, without a doubt, one of the things to do in Mallorca. A good place to do so is this traditional market, which is located in the centre of Palma.
In the numerous stalls that open their doors you will find everything from ensaimadas and sobrasadas to Mallorcan cheeses and camallot. There are also several gastrobars and seafood stalls where you can have a bite to eat or take home some of the island's typical products.
10. Journey into the depths of the earth in the caves of Artà
They are in the town of Capdepera and, although they are less popular than the Drach caves, a visit to them is one of the things to see in Mallorca that are worth considering. If you have limited time, visit the Drach caves, but if you have days to spare, include these caves in your itinerary because you will love this visit.
Located in the interior of a steep cliff that rises above the sea, its interior is punctuated by different rooms with the most disconcerting names, such as the Hall of Columns, Hell, Purgatory, Hall of Flags, the Theatre and the Hall of Bells.
All of them are most impressive, as they are decorated with a succession of stalactites and stalagmites in the most amazing shapes created by nature over the years.
11. Enjoy nature in the Mondragó Natural Park
It occupies the southeastern part of the island and is one of the most visited natural areas because of its beauty. The Mondragó Natural Park is a Natural Area of Special Interest and a Site of Community Interest.
It is made up of holm oak, wild olive and pine forests, fields of crops, natural ponds and junipers until reaching the coastal area, which treasures incredible coves such as Mondragó and beaches such as S'Amarador.
It has also been declared a Special Protection Area for Birds, as it is home to more than seventy species. You can discover it by walking or cycling along one of the many routes, such as Font de n'Alis or s'Amarador.
Take note of which beaches you should not miss: The best coves and beaches in Mallorca.
12. Cross to Ibiza by ferry
Taking a ferry trip to Ibiza is one of the things to do in Majorca that is not to be missed if you want to get to know the most bohemian and lively part of the Balearic archipelago.
The island of Ibiza is brimming with charm everywhere, with its beautiful beaches and Mediterranean coves, its nightlife, its hippy markets and the wonderful old town or Dalt Vila of its capital.
It is surrounded by the old medieval walls and has some architectural treasures such as the cathedral of the Virgen de las Nieves, the church of Santo Domingo or the beautiful Town Hall building.
In addition, Ibiza town is decorated with a beautiful and lively seaport full of bars, restaurants and some famous nightclubs such as Pacha.
13. Travel to ancient Rome in Pollentia
Alcúdia has, in addition to a wonderful old town, the remains of an ancient Roman city, a visit to which is one of the essential things to see in Mallorca for those who want to delve into the island's past.
It is the most important Roman site on the island and the best preserved, which will allow you to fully immerse yourself in Roman culture, organisation and idiosyncrasy. It was founded by Quintus Caecilius Metellus in 123 BC. It preserves the remains of the domus, the layout of the roads, the forum and the theatre.
14. Journey on a 1913 train from Palma to Sóller
Since 1913, this ancient wooden railway has been linking the capital, Palma, with Sóller, overcoming the natural obstacles of the great mountains of the Tramuntana range and the rugged, rocky landscapes that surround it.
The journey takes about an hour and is well worth the effort to enjoy the breathtaking and breathtaking scenery. You can buy your ticket at the station in Palma.
Another option is to hire a tour that includes a boat trip to Sa Calobra in addition to the train.
15. Visit Palma's Jewish quarter
Also known as Call (in Mallorcan), this is one of the best legacies of the Jewish community in Spain. The Jewish community in Mallorca was (and still is) called the xuetes. So much so that many guidebooks define it as one of the most important in the Mediterranean.
It occupies the northwest of the city and is made up of a network of narrow streets that exude a great deal of charm and also conserve some vestiges that are worth visiting, such as the Muslim aljama, the old market and the Jewish gate.
16. Stroll around Puerto de Andratx
This small town, located in the west of Mallorca, less than half an hour from Palma and sheltered by the Tramuntana mountains, has become the summer destination of numerous celebrities such as Orlando Bloom and Michael Douglas.
Not only does it have an interesting architectural heritage, whose main representatives are the church of Santa Maria and the Son Mas castle, but also a cultural heritage thanks to the Cultural Centre, which houses works of modern and contemporary art.
However, its real attraction lies in its port (as well as Sóller, which is separate from the town), where there are luxurious villas and mansions and where impressive boats dock.
17. Taste the local flavours at Santa Catalina market.
Located in its namesake neighbourhood, it holds the honour of being Palma's oldest market. As well as preserving the local atmosphere and charm of a neighbourhood market, it has 50 stalls of all kinds where, as in the Mercat de l'Olivar, you have the double pleasure of buying local products and tasting them.
18. Take an excursion to the island of Dragonera
This tiny islet, just four kilometres wide and one kilometre long, is located near Andratx, separated from Sant Elm (from where the boats that reach this corner of the island depart) by a narrow channel. Organised excursions are among the most popular in Mallorca.
It has been declared a Natural Park thanks to its enormous animal biodiversity, with the sargantan lizards being especially outstanding for their extensive presence, and its botanical treasures.
The best starting point for exploring the park is the interpretation centre, as this is the best way to become aware of its richness and value. It also has several lighthouses, from where the views are marvellous, and a network of four hiking routes: Na Miranda, Cala Lladó-Far de Llebeig, Cala Lladó-Far de Tramuntana and Cala Lladó-na Pòpia.
19. Visit Es Baluard
This museum is one of the things to see in Mallorca for lovers of modern and contemporary art. It houses a collection of more than 700 works of art by both local and international artists who have left their mark from the 19th century to the present day. There are works by Joaquín Sorolla, Picasso, Miró and many others.
20. Get to know Palma's seafaring side in the Santa Catalina neighbourhood
Bordered by Son Españolet and Son Armadans, it is one of the most authentic areas of the Mallorcan capital. Formerly a fishermen's quarter, today it is a lively neighbourhood.
It is full of shops and art galleries, traditional shops, bohemian cafés, restaurants offering a wide gastronomic scene, as well as some pubs and live music venues, which have earned it the nickname of the "Balearic Soho".
When night falls, it transforms into a very interesting area for going out for drinks. A visit here is one of the things to do in Mallorca if you want to enjoy the more festive side of the city.
21. Relax in Cala del Moro cove
This beautiful cove located in Santanyí, in the south of Mallorca, is surrounded by rocky walls that make it a very photogenic spot. Although it is small, it is one of the most unspoilt and best-preserved coves on the island.
You will enjoy fantastic transparent turquoise waters. That is, if the people allow you to do so. As you can imagine, it gets very crowded in the summer months. The best thing to do is to go early in the morning and enjoy it when the rest of the visitors have not yet arrived.
22. Visit the Joan Miró Foundation
This space contains almost 6,000 works by the Catalan painter Joan Miró, which offer the opportunity to learn a little more about his concept and the techniques of abstract art, of which he is the leading representative in our country.
23. Discover Deià, one of the prettiest villages in Mallorca
This small town is one of the most charming in Mallorca due to its location perched on the slopes of the mountains that make up the Tramuntana mountain range and facing the Mediterranean.
However, its beautiful coves, especially Sa Foradada and Deià, viewpoints such as San Marroig and monuments such as the church of San Juan Bautista also contribute to its charm.
A most evocative setting that captivated the English poet Robert Graves, who chose it as his place of residence for several years.
Another great attraction of this enclave is its tranquillity and rural atmosphere. So if you want to disconnect and relax during your getaway, it is a good idea to include a visit to this town on your list of things to see in Mallorca.
24. Walk around the bay of Palma
It stretches for 16 km along the coast of Palma, Calvià and Llucmajor. A good way to enjoy it is by bicycle. Although if you are not much of a cyclist, you can also discover it from the water, on one of the numerous excursions that leave from the port.
25. Savour typical Mallorcan dishes
Mallorcan gastronomy is rich and varied and combines the influences of the coastal regions, the Tramuntana mountains and Levante. The result is a recipe book with a large number of delicious dishes and typical products, especially the ensaimada, sobrassada, arròs brut, bread with oil, cocas, tumbet, snails and fried Mallorcan food.
26. Delve into the most unspoilt part of Mallorca in Cabrera
This archipelago is located to the south of Mallorca, half an hour away by boat. It is one of the most beautiful and valuable archipelagos, boasting the best-preserved coastal landscape on the Iberian Peninsula and a great deal of biodiversity.
It is no coincidence that its waters, covered with posidonia oceanica meadows, are home to more than 900 marine animals and almost 500 species of plants. A unique enclave, which Félix Rodríguez de la Fuente described as "Ulysses' Mediterranean".
It also has an aquarium with more than 5,000 specimens and a viewpoint, from where you can enjoy marvellous views of the archipelago.
Once on the island, it is worth wandering around until you reach the castle, which stands 72 metres above sea level, offering the possibility of enjoying a very beautiful panoramic view.
Another option is to take the route to the Ensiola lighthouse, which runs along the western side, or to Miranda hill. Diving enthusiasts can enjoy their favourite discipline in all its splendour at the Blue Cave or Punta Galiota; snorkellers can enjoy snorkelling at Sa Platgeta and S'Espalmador. For a swim, the beach of S'Espalmador.
27. See the best sunset at Cape Formentor
This cape, which dominates the northern tip of the island, is made up of enormous cliffs, some of which reach a height of 300 metres. The cape is home to its famous lighthouse, from where the views are particularly beautiful, especially when the sun goes down.
But the access road, which is taken at the port of Pollença, runs winding and serpentine through the Tramuntana mountains, crossing cliffs and ravines that overlook beautiful coves and the sea. All very scenic.
So if you want to bid farewell to the sun in the most evocative way possible, you should include this enclave among the things to see in Mallorca.
28. Discover the wonders of Es Trenc beach
This beach, located less than 7 km from the colony of Sant Jordi, in the town of Campos, is one of the most unspoilt beaches on the Mallorcan coastline, as it is one of the few that has not been invaded by bricks.
Along its 2.5 km length, all you can see are the small dunes of fine white sand that form it, some machine-gun nests (bunkers erected during the Second World War to confront enemy landings, which have subsequently been converted into works of art by various artists), the turquoise waters that bathe it and the island of Cabrera on the horizon.
As an added attraction, it is bordered by the Salobrar de Campos wetlands, which are a stopping point for numerous migratory birds, especially flamingos, and, therefore, a highly recommended place to see in Mallorca if you are an ornithology lover.
Another nearby point of interest is the salt flats, where you can see the process of extraction and elaboration of the flor de sal, one of the most highly valued varieties of salt.
29. Swim with sharks at Palma Aquarium
If you are a lover of the animal kingdom, a visit to the aquarium is one of the most interesting things to do in Mallorca. It has more than twenty aquariums that are home to an infinite number of species such as rays, groupers, seahorses, moray eels, octopus...
Although the big attraction is the shark aquarium or Big Blue, which holds the honour of being the deepest on the European continent. Not only can you see them up close, but you can also swim with them, as it offers immersion programmes.
Also of great interest is the medusarium, which has more than 4,000 species of these relatives of corals, and the Giants of the Ocean room, which takes visitors into the curious world of humpback whales.
30. Visit Pueblo Español
This open-air museum, located in the Son Españolet neighbourhood of Palma, is one of the most recommended visits to make in Mallorca with children.
It has more than twenty life-size reproductions of the most important architectural constructions in Spain, including the Alhambra in Granada, the Christ of the Lanterns in Cordoba and the Torre del Oro (Golden Tower) in Seville.
Without a doubt, an opportunity to get to know or contemplate once again the architectural icons of our country.