THE BEST THINGS TO SEE IN MALLORCA: YOUR ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE
THE BEST THINGS TO SEE IN MALLORCA: YOUR ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE

INTRODUCTION: THE BEST THINGS TO SEE IN MALLORCA SPAIN – YOUR ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE
The Island of Mallorca—a Mediterranean paradise brimming with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Did you know Mallorca attracts over 10 million tourists each year? Yes, it’s truly a must-visit destination in Spain! Whether you’re a history lover, outdoor enthusiast, or beachgoer, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s guide you through the best things to see in Mallorca so you can make the most of your trip. Get ready to explore this Balearic gem!
As someone who has lived on the Mediterranean for over a decade and traveled to Mallorca a dozen times over the years, I’m happy to share my inside tips and knowledge to help you make the most of your travels.
(To find out more about the Mediterranean see our related posts, “Mallorca Beaches” and “Best Things To Do In Mallorca” )

What are The Best Things To See in Mallorca?
1. The Island’s Beaches
Any discussion about Mallorca has to start with its incredible beaches, starting with one of the best beaches on the island, Playa de Muro. Located on the northeast coast of the island, Playa de Muro is about 6km long, is wide with white sand, and has shallow crystal clear waters ideal for families. Another popular Mediterranean beach is Cala Agulla which is a little quieter and more out of the way, located on the edge of a regional park and the small town of Cala Agulla. The crystal clear waters of this sheltered beach are ideal for snorkeling and water sports like paddle boarding and kayaking.
On the south coast of the island is the beach “Platja des Trenc” which is also quite long at 7km. The beach is wide, the waters crystal clear and the wide and is bordered by flat dunes making this one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. In total, there are approximately 200 beaches on the island with some being quite small and a few, like Playa de Muro and Es Trenc being quite long.
Regardless of which beach you choose to visit, I recommend showing up early to try and head off the crowds (and guarantee a parking spot if you’re driving). These beaches are popular and they can get crowded during the summer. Below is a list of the top 10 beaches on the island that I recommend you visit. And if these aren’t enough remember there are an additional 190 or so to choose from.

Top 10 Beaches in Mallorca Spain, All on the Mediterranean
- Playa de Muro
A long, sandy beach known for shallow waters, making it ideal for families and leisurely swims. It’s well-equipped with facilities like sun loungers and restaurants. See how Playa de Muro rates as a family friendly beach. - Es Trenc
This beach is famous for its clear waters and natural surroundings. It’s a popular choice for those seeking an open and unspoiled shoreline. - Cala Agulla
Set against a backdrop of pine forests, this beach is perfect for relaxing and enjoying a peaceful atmosphere. It also offers great opportunities for snorkeling. See our post on Cala Agulla to find out more. - Caló des Moro
A small yet picturesque cove with turquoise waters, nestled between rocky cliffs. It’s a favorite for beachgoers looking for a scenic setting. - Cala Mondragó
Located within a natural park, this beach features two bays connected by walking trails. It’s a haven for both nature lovers and swimmers. - Port de Pollença Beach
Known for its wide stretch of sand and calm waters, this beach is great for families, water sports, and taking in mountain views. - Cala Varques
A secluded beach accessible through a trek, offering an unspoiled escape. It’s also popular among kayaking and rock climbing enthusiasts. - Cala Sa Nau
A cozy cove with a serene vibe, perfect for snorkeling and swimming. It’s surrounded by low cliffs and attracts those looking for a quiet getaway. - Formentor Beach
Famous for its pine tree-lined shore and stunning views of the surrounding headland. It’s also a good spot for picnics and walks. - Playa de Palma
One of the most accessible beaches, located near Palma city. It’s a lively spot with plenty of restaurants, bars, and a buzzing promenade.

2. Historic Palma de Mallorca
When vacationing on the island of Mallorca, make sure to visit the city of Palma. One of the major landmarks to see is the main cathedral known as “La Seu” which stands at the edge of the city overlooking the Mediterranean. This is an architectural gem and is a must-see location. Nearby is the Old Town of Palma, with narrow cobblestone streets in a wild maze that leads in all directions.
Here you will find countless shops, restaurants, cafes, historical landmarks, statues, and water fountains around every corner. Also impressive are the Arab Baths which are a remnant of the 300-year-long Moorish occupation of the island. I would recommend budgeting at least half a day when planning a visit to the city, more if you can manage.

3. Charming Villages to Explore
In Mallorca, there are several small villages with their charm, that have turned into must-see tourist destinations. For example, the small town of Deia (population ca. 900), located on the northwest side of the island in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. This small unassuming village has become a magnet for artists, writers, and Hollywood celebrities, who have not only visited this small town but who have bought homes here: celebrities like Michael Douglas, Andrew Lloyd Weber, and Richard Branson, to name a few.
Another charming village is Port de Soller which is located on one of the few sheltered harbors on the north side of the island. This town has a fully operating 1920’s-era street car that shuttles visitors daily between Soller and Port de Soller (a 15-minute vintage commute) and has a popular waterfront promenade with dozens of restaurants and bars overlooking the bay and the surrounding mountains. Another great location is the town of Arta with a hilltop fortress overlooking this historic town and providing a panoramic view of the beautiful landscape and distant mountains.
The Top 10 Most Beautiful Villages on Mallorca Spain:
- Valldemossa: This town is famous for its cobblestone streets and historic monastery. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains, taste local Mallorcan pastries like “coca de patata”, and learn about Frédéric Chopin’s stay here.
- Deià: Nestled in the Tramuntana mountains, Deià attracts artists and writers with its peaceful atmosphere. Its coastal location also offers hiking opportunities and stunning sea views.
- Sóller: Sóller is known for its orange groves and a charming vintage tram that connects it to the port. Visitors can also explore its bustling central square and Modernist architecture.
- Fornalutx: Often called one of the prettiest villages in Spain, Fornalutx boasts traditional stone houses and flower-filled streets. It’s an excellent spot for enjoying mountain views and quiet walks.
- Pollença: Pollença is a culturally rich village with an impressive main square, lined with cafés and shops. The Calvari steps, a staircase with 365 steps, leads to a chapel with spectacular views of the surrounding area.
- Banyalbufar: This coastal village is famous for its terraced vineyards and picturesque sunsets. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to combine wine tasting with seaside charm.
- Esporles: Esporles is a peaceful spot surrounded by nature, offering a glimpse into traditional Mallorcan rural life. Visitors can tour the historic La Granja estate to learn about local craftsmanship and traditions.
- Santanyí: Known for its art galleries and bustling weekly market, Santanyí has a creative vibe. The nearby coastal areas, such as Cala Santanyi, provide easy access to beautiful beaches.
- Artà: Artà is known for its hilltop fortress and nearby natural parks. Its streets are perfect for exploring local craft shops and enjoying a slower pace of life.
- Capdepera: This village is home to one of Mallorca’s most impressive medieval castles. Its historical charm and panoramic views make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.

4. Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures
The northern coast of Mallorca is home to the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range that stretches from the southwest corner of the island up to the northeast corner and has hundreds. Hikers can journey through the mountains on hundreds of trails that wind through the hills and valleys and pass through dozens of small villages and towns and provide panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the rest of the island of Mallorca. The mountain roads also attract thousands of cyclists from across Europe who are looking for a beautiful cycling course in picturesque surroundings.
At Porto Cristo are the caves of Cuevas del Drach which feature stunning stalagmite and stalactite formations and an underground lake. One great way to see the island is by boat tour. Most towns on the island have local tour operators offering various boat tours ranging from a few hours to the whole day. Some tours also incorporate snorkeling and kayaking in their outings. The tour operators will often take visitors to secluded coves, towering cliffs, or rock caves that can only be seen or reached from the water.

5. Local Markets and Food Experiences
Santa Catalina Market is a lively spot where visitors can sample fresh produce and a range of local specialties. Stalls here offer everything from seafood to pastries, providing a glimpse into the island’s food culture. Artisan markets in Andratx and Sineu are great places to discover handmade goods and unique souvenirs.
While visiting the markets make sure to try some of the local traditional treats like sobrasada and ensaimadas which are two Mallorcan delicacies that are quite popular and tasty. For a special treat, there are wine tours and tastings available at various vineyards on the island. Wine tours make a great outing and are a great opportunity to taste wines produced on the island and made from local grapes. Below is a list of five vineyards in Mallorca that offer tours, along with links to their websites.

5 Best Wine Tours in Mallorca Spain
- Mallorca Wine Tours
Offers tailor-made wine tours and tastings across Mallorca’s finest wineries. - Sa Clasta Wine Tours
Provides exclusive and personalized wine tours to showcase Mallorca’s wines and gastronomy. - Bodegas Vi Rei
Located in Llucmajor, offering guided visits, wine tastings, and vineyard tours. - Bodegas Blanca Terra
Situated in Montuiri, known for its passion for wine and offering various wine tourism activities. - Bodegas Celler Tianna Negre
Based in Binissalem, offering a journey through the essence of Mallorca in every bottle.
These vineyards provide a great opportunity to explore Mallorca’s wine culture and enjoy some local flavors.
6. Family-Friendly Attractions
There are a lot of family-friendly activities to do in Mallorca besides going to the beach. In Palma, you can take the whole family to the Palma Aquarium where you can see different exhibits and tanks and learn about different marine species both local and exotic. For outdoor activities, you can go to Jungle Parc near Santa Ponsa where you can enjoy a treetop adventure with ropes and ziplines.
Or you can take the family to one of four waterparks on the island, like Aqualand El Arenal about 10km southeast of Palma, where you will find waterslides, swimming pools, and various family-friendly attractions. For a completely different adventure, you can take the family to the island of Sa Dragonera, a protected reserve, and walk the many trails and see the various wildlife species found on the island.

7. Unique Hidden Gems in Mallorca
It’s tempting to head straight to the biggest and brightest attractions on Mallorca and ignore everything else but there are several hidden gems on the island that are definitely worth visiting during your trip. There are the lesser-known beaches like Cala Pi and Calo des Moro that are off the beaten path but they are absolutely spectacular coves that you don’t want to miss. Another out-of-the-way gem is the Ermiat de la Victoria, a centuries-old chapel located in the mountains just to the northeast of Alcudia both of which we visited recently. The views of the mountains of Cap Formentor in the distance across the bay are spectacular.
It’s a perfect destination for visitors interested in history and quiet reflection. Here on this peninsula and throughout the island are hundreds of hidden trails and coastal coves offering a unique way to discover Mallorca’s landscapes. These areas are ideal for those who want to explore beyond the well-trodden routes.

8. When and How to Visit Mallorca Spain
If you are looking for a strictly beach vacation then summer is hands down the best time to visit the island. However, if you are also interested in truly learning about Mallorca and discovering more of what this island has to offer then the best time to come is in the spring and fall. The weather is still exceptionally nice during the offseason but with the absence of the summer crowds, visiting the various towns, historical landmarks, and other activities is less stressful and can be done at a more leisurely relaxed pace.
For getting around the island, there is an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains, that can shuttle you to many of the main towns and tourist destinations. But if you’re looking to visit the more out-of-the-way sites and hidden locations, I highly recommend you rent a car. I’ve done both during my trips to Mallorca, relying on public transport and renting a car, and it is just simply easier and less of a hassle to get around by car and it allowed us to travel at our own pace and visit smaller, less crowded locations and beaches.
Finally, if you don’t plan on venturing too far from your hotel or apartment but want to be more mobile just the same, renting a bicycle is an excellent option. Bike rentals are available everywhere on the island and there are tons of bike paths and trails to explore.

FINAL THOUGHTS: THE BEST THINGS TO SEE IN MALLORCA SPAIN- YOUR ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE
Mallorca has it all—stunning Mediterranean beaches, historical landmarks, vibrant towns, and serene villages. From sun-soaked adventures to cultural discoveries, this island is waiting to enchant you. Whether it’s your first trip here or a return visit, don’t miss any of these incredible sights. Start planning your trip now, and get ready to fall in love with Mallorca!

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Reg Auge
Reg holds an MBA, is a former Captain in the Canadian military and has worked as a consultant in industry for over 20 years. From his home in Spain, he has spent the last 10 years traveling throughout the Mediterranean, exploring the various countries and regions. He also regularly runs, windsurfs, and kite surfs, maintaining a healthy and active way of life. Captivated by this Mediterranean lifestyle, he began a Blog last year to inspire like-minded souls to learn about and discover this unique region for themselves.