If you want a Mediterranean vacation that’s equal parts relaxing, scenic, and hassle-free, Mallorca is hard to beat. After our recent summer trip, I can confirm: it’s one of the easiest islands to explore, whether you’re a couple, solo traveler, or a family with kids.
This smart travel guide to Mallorca highlights the best places to go, what to eat, how to get around, and where to stay — based on real experience.
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Best Places to Visit in Mallorca
Alcudia (Perfect for Families)
Wide beaches, calm waters, historic charm, and no stress. Alcudia’s old town is great for walking, while Playa d’Alcudia is probably one of the most family-friendly beaches in Europe.
Read: Alcudia Mallorca Family Travel — Honest Review & Tips
Palma de Mallorca (For Culture + Shopping)
Palma is the capital and it’s worth visiting at least for a day. Walk around La Seu Cathedral, explore the old town, or visit the Palma Aquarium if you’re with kids. Tip: Parking can be tricky — use public garages and avoid restricted traffic zones.
Valldemossa (For a Day Trip)
This mountain village is postcard-pretty. Cobbled streets, music history (hello, Chopin), and great mountain views. It’s an easy drive from Palma or Alcudia.
Formentor (Views + Scenic Drive)
Drive to Mirador Es Colomer for amazing views, or go all the way to Cap de Formentor. Just note: after 10 am in peak season, the final stretch to the lighthouse is closed to private cars — you’ll need to take a shuttle from Playa Formentor.
Port de Sóller (For a Scenic Bay and Vintage Tram Ride)
This beautiful port town on Mallorca’s west coast is ideal for a peaceful day by the sea. Take the vintage tram from Sóller, enjoy the view, and grab lunch on the promenade.
Where to Stay in Mallorca
For Families
Alcudia — Quiet, beachside, and full of spacious apartment hotels.
Look around Alcúdia beachfront hotels for family-friendly apartment stays — peaceful, but close to everything.
For Couples or Solo Travelers
Palma — Ideal if you want culture and nightlife
Port de Sóller — Romantic and scenic, great for sunset views
Compare stays in Palma and Port de Sóller to find the best location for culture, nightlife, or romantic views.
What to Eat in Mallorca
Pa amb oli — Bread with tomato, olive oil, and toppings
Tumbet — Layers of vegetables, similar to ratatouille
Sobrassada — Soft cured sausage, local favorite
Grilled fish on the beach (fresh, simple, perfect)
There are also international options everywhere — pizza, burgers, sushi — especially in resort areas.
Getting Around Mallorca
Car Rental
Renting a car is the best way to explore freely. Roads are well maintained, and signage is clear. Avoid restricted zones in Palma — they’re camera-enforced.
Use Booking.com for car rentals or check Mallorca bus and train schedules on Omio for routes across Palma and the island.
Public Transport
You can get around Palma by bus and take intercity buses across the island — but service is limited in some rural or coastal areas.
Fun Things to Do
Local Markets (Alcudia, Sineu) — great for food and souvenirs
Caves of Drach — stunning underground lake and light show
Boat trips — browse Mallorca boat tours from Alcúdia on Viator or Mallorca boat trips on GetYourGuide for dolphin watching, glass-bottom rides, and sunset cruises.
Beach hop — Playa de Muro, Cala Mesquida, or Cala Tuent are less crowded
Quick Tips Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes (especially for kids)
Check restaurant hours — many open only after 1:30–2pm
Supermarkets vary — Lidl and local shops both exist
Don’t stress: Mallorca is developed, safe, and easy to navigate