Top things to do in Mallorca

Best Time to Visit Mallorca

While the summer months bring warm seas and long days, spring and early autumn are the best time to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather. If you visit in summer, you’ll have much time to enjoy the best beaches, small coves, and lively coastal towns late into the evening. Keep in mind people have dinner in Spain much later than the US.

Getting Around

While public transport is available, rental cars are the best way to explore at your own pace. Check whether your hotel has a parking lot, as parking in city center areas can be limited.

Cap Rocat: A Must-Visit

One of the most extraordinary places in Mallorca is Cap Rocat, a historic fortress transformed into an exclusive luxury hotel with breathtaking views.

• Sea Club – Perfect for a spectacular seaside lunch.
• La Fortaleza – An unforgettable fine dining experience (book well in advance).

Tip: Reservations here are essential. If there’s no availability, join the waitlist—you might get lucky.

Best Day Trips from Palma de Mallorca

Mallorca is made for exploring. Here are some of the most scenic and memorable day trips:

1. Sóller and Port Sóller

This charming town is famous for citrus fruit groves, narrow streets, and a town square perfect for people-watching under the palm trees.

• Nautilus Restaurant – Incredible food with jaw-dropping views. The access is a bit tricky, but worth every step. Many couples get engaged here at sunset.
• Enjoy lunch by the marina or at one of the beachfront restaurants.
• Ride the historic tram that runs every hour through this charming town.

2. Valldemossa & Deià

Valldemossa is home to the Carthusian Monastery, where French writer George Sand stayed in the 19th century with Chopin. You can visit the George Sand Museum and stroll narrow streets lined with flower pots.

Deià, known for attracting artists like Robert Graves and Paul Klee, offers excellent hiking trails and art galleries.

On your way there, you will see sweeping views of the Tramuntana Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. In Deià, you can enjoy hiking, art galleries, and cafés.

• Cala Deià & C’as Patró March – This seaside restaurant is famous for its fresh seafood and stunning location. Book 10 days ahead or prepare for a 1–2 hour wait.
• La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel – Ideal for an aperitif at the Miró Restaurant or a romantic dinner at El Olivo (hard to book unless you’re a guest).
• For a bohemian vibe, try Hotel Corazón, just 8 minutes away, and dine under the stars.

3. Drach Caves & Pollença

If you have more time, head to the opposite side of the island to explore the Cuevas del Drach and charming Pollença, where designer Carolina Herrera owns a home.

Try Mallorca’s famous ensaimadas

No trip to Mallorca is complete without tasting its most iconic pastry: the ensaimada. This sweet, spiral-shaped bread has been baked on the island since the 17th century and holds a special place in Mallorcan culture. In fact, “Ensaimada de Mallorca” has Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, which means only pastries made on the island can officially carry the name. In Mallorca’s language, Mallorquín, they are called ensaïmades, in case you see that word in the packaging.

The dough is light and fluffy, made with flour, sugar, eggs, yeast, and lard (saim), which gives the ensaimada its unique texture. Once baked, it’s usually sprinkled with powdered sugar, making it irresistible with a morning coffee or afternoon hot chocolate.

You’ll find different variations in bakeries across the island:

• Classic ensaimada – the traditional version, simple yet delicious.
• Cabello de ángel – filled with candied pumpkin jam, one of the most popular local flavors.
• Chocolate or custard cream – rich, sweet options perfect for dessert lovers.
• Sobrasada – a savory-sweet twist using Mallorca’s famous cured sausage.

Ensaimadas are also a popular souvenir—locals and visitors alike buy them in beautiful round boxes to take home to family and friends. If you’re wondering what to bring back from Mallorca, this pastry is at the top of the list of favorite things.

Boat Trip Around Mallorca: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely! If time and budget allow, I highly recommend exploring Mallorca by boat. In summer, long days make it ideal to rent a boat for sunset and visit secluded coves only accessible by sea.

• For Dragonera Island, depart from Andratx.
• We left from Santa Ponça Marina and had a beautiful trip. We visited coves with the most gorgeous blue water.
• You can book through GetYourGuide, Viator, or local charters.

Pro Tip: Pack fruit, cheeses, soft drinks, and wine to make it an unforgettable picnic on the water.