The Top 9 Things to Do in Mallorca

Mallorca, one of Spain’s four Balearic Islands, is a top holiday destination in Europe. But, beyond its sandy shores and rocky coastline, is an island rich in culture with plenty of beautiful villages to explore. From the cosmopolitan streets of Palma de Mallorca to hiking in the Tramuntana Mountains, Mallorca is so much more than just its iconic beaches (although you should definitely visit them too).

Here are the best things to do in Mallorca to make the most of everything this extraordinary island has to offer.

Top Things to Do in Mallorca

#1. Explore Palma de Mallorca

Palma is one of the best beach towns in Spain and is worth visiting even just for a weekend. You can arrive in the city via boat from mainland Spain or there’s also an international airport. There are several things worth doing in Palma, including:

Visit the Cathedral. You can’t miss Palma Cathedral, a stunning and imposing Gothic masterpiece that overlooks the port and ocean. It’s worth going in to look at the stained glass and ornate decoration but it’s just as good from outside!

Walk around El Casco Antiguo (The Old Town). The Old Town is where most of the tourist attractions are in Palma, including the Cathedral, the Royal Palace of Almudaina, and Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum. It’s also the perfect place to wander around, get lost in the winding cobbled streets, and enjoy the boutique shops.

Visit Bellver Castle. This unique, Gothic-style, circular castle is just a short bus ride from the center of Palma. The views from the top of the castle are amazing – you can see over the rooftops of the city and out to the Mediterranean.

#2. Go Hiking in The Tramuntana Mountains

This mountain range, in the northwest of the island, is not to be missed. It’s really popular amongst hikers and cyclers and there are plenty of varied routes that everyone can enjoy. If you’re feeling up to it, you could even hike Puig Major – Mallorca’s highest peak

#3. Visit Deià and Valldemossa

These are two of the most beautiful villages in Mallorca, located in the Tramuntana Mountains and close to Sóller. The hilltop towns are idyllic and are surrounded by almond groves and vineyards. They show you a completely different side to the beach-famous version of Mallorca. It’s great to wander around them, stumble upon a cafe, and marvel at the amazing scenery.

If you do go to Deià, you should also go to Cala Deià, a beautiful beach nearby. It’s close to part of the Camí dels Pintors, a hiking route along the coast.

#4. Try Local Dishes

Spain is known for its amazing food, so it’s hardly a surprise that one of the best things to do in Mallorca is eat! Several famous dishes originate on the island, including:

Sobrasada. This is a paprika-spiced sausage/pâté that’s found all over Mallorca. It’s often eaten on bread or as a sandwich but can also be used in cooked dishes.

Tumbet. Tumbet is a delicious vegetable stew made from eggplant, potatoes, and peppers, all slowly cooked with tomatoes and garlic. Spain isn’t always super veggie-friendly, but this is one of the best dishes that is!

Ensaimada. These sweet pastries covered in icing sugar are a favorite breakfast treat for Mallorcans and tourists alike. You can get serval different types, often stuffed with chocolate or cream, but they’re always served with strong coffee.

Quesos de Mallorca. There are several local cheeses on the island, usually made from sheep’s milk. It’s worth going to a local farm shop to try the very best. 

Mallorcan Wine. OK, not exactly a local dish, but something you can pair with one nicely. There are lots of delicious and affordable wine varieties in Mallorca. Head to the Binissalem area in the center of the island for the best vineyards and tastings.

#5. Go to The Beach

Of course, even though it’s not the only thing to do, it’s still one of the best things to do in Mallorca. There are so many incredible beaches in Mallorca, you’re almost spoilt for choice. On the south of the island, you can visit Platja des Trenc, Cala Pi, Caló del Moro, and Cala Figuera.

On the east and northeast of the island, you can also find Cala d’Or, Cala Ferrera, Cala Torta, and Platja de Formentor. 

If you’re looking for beaches close to Palma, you can head to Cala Major, Ses Illetes, or even the Platja de Palma.

 

#6. Take a Boat Trip

One of the best ways to see the island is from the water. There are loads of great boat trips to enjoy in Mallorca, but one of the best has to be at sunset. They take you to various beaches where you can moor up, jump in, and enjoy the private experience of swimming alone in the Mediterranean.

#7. Visit Mallorca’s Famous Caves

There are several stunning caves dotted around the island and anyone visiting should add them to their list. The most famous caves are Cuevas del Drach in Porto Cristo. There’s an underground lake and some seriously impressive stalactites and stalagmites. You can also visit Cuevas de Artà near Canyamel. The view from these caves is incredible, as are the unique rock formations.

#8. Visit Pollença

Pollença, in the northeast of the island, is a beautiful village surrounded by rolling hills, almond groves, and beautiful stone houses. When it comes to what to do in Mallorca, I’d definitely recommend heading to the central square in Pollença for a drink and to do some people-watching. The walks around the village are beautiful too. You can then head to Platja de Formentor which is just a short drive away.

There’s also a lively market every Sunday where you can buy local produce and souvenirs.

#9. Try outdoor Activities and Sports

There are so many fun activities for the whole family to enjoy in Mallorca. You can try everything from rock climbing and paragliding to horseback riding and paddle surfing. You can even combine outdoor activities and book a kayaking, cave-jumping, and snorkeling tour. 

You can rent equipment, such as SUPs and kayaks, from stalls on some of the bigger beaches. The rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters are the perfect way to experience something new and have fun while doing it!

Things to Do in Mallorca – Conclusion

Whatever kind of holiday you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Mallorca. From outdoor adventures to cultural exhibitions, it’s a diverse island that’s worth visiting all year round. Of course, the beaches are incredible and a main draw for many, but there are plenty of other incredible things to do in Mallorca if you don’t want to just lie on the beach!