What to See in Mallorca: 51 Beautiful Places Across the Island

Last Updated on 8.7.2026 by Vojta

Mallorca is one of Spain’s most popular destinations — and it works beautifully all year round. It’s the largest of the Balearic Islands, covering just 3,648 km², yet it packs in so much that it never stops surprising us. And if you want to experience the island at its most genuine, skip the peak-season crowds and go outside the high summer months. So how do you plan a trip here? This is our guide to what to see in Mallorca — 51 places right across the island that are well worth your time.

What to See in Mallorca at a Glance

Before we dive in and take you through all the best places to see in Mallorca, here’s a quick overview for anyone who doesn’t have time to read the whole article.

Towns and History

Among the prettiest historic towns and villages in Mallorca are:

• Palma de Mallorca – the old town, tapas bars and the island’s main hub.
  
• Valldemossa – a stone village in the Tramuntana with its famous Carthusian monastery.
  
• Deià – a picturesque artists’ village on the west coast.
  
• Sóller – a town in a valley of orange groves (and a great base for the Tramuntana).
  
• Port de Sóller – Sóller’s harbour district, with a promenade and a beach.
  
• Banyalbufar – a terraced village above the sea with gorgeous views.
  
• Alcúdia (old town) – a walled historic centre in the north of the island.
  
• Pollença – an ancient town full of lanes, cafés and markets.
  
• Santanyí – the “authentic south”, with markets, galleries and stone architecture.
  
• Magaluf – the lively (party) resort in the south-west.
  
• Palmanova – a calmer resort right next to Magaluf.
  
• El Arenal (S’Arenal) – a large, easy-to-reach resort near the airport.
  
• Peguera (Paguera) – a quieter resort that makes a good base in the south-west.
  
• Santa Ponsa (Santa Ponça) – a bay and an easy-going resort in a rugged landscape.
  
• Capdepera – a small town crowned by a fortress, with views all around.
  

Landmarks, Castles and Must-See Spots 

Most of the island’s landmarks are in the capital, Palma.

• La Seu Cathedral – an iconic Gothic cathedral right by the sea.
  
• Almudaina Palace – the royal palace beside the cathedral (with Moorish and Gothic traces).
  
• Bellver Castle – a circular castle with the best views over Palma.
  
• Pueblo Español – “Spain in miniature” (an open-air architecture museum).
  
• Mercat de l’Olivar – Palma’s big food market (local life and great food).
  
• Celler Sa Premsa – a traditional Palma restaurant serving local cuisine.
  

Mallorca’s Best Beaches 

Here are some of the most popular beaches, coves and coastal spots:

• Es Trenc – a long, wild beach with a Caribbean look.
  
• Platja de Muro – a huge sandy beach with a gentle, shallow entry (great for families).
  
• Cala Formentor – a beautiful beach in the north by the Formentor peninsula.
  
• Cala s’Amarador – a sandy cove in the Mondragó nature park.
  
• Es Caló des Moro – a small, dramatic cove that looks straight out of a postcard.
  
• Cala Llombards – a narrow cove with calm water (often good for snorkelling too).
  
• Cala Mesquida – a big beach backed by dunes in a more remote part of the east.
  
• Cala Pi – a long, narrow cove in the south of the island.
  
• Sa Coma – a clean beach and an easy-going resort in the east.
  
• Cala Millor – a big beach plus a busier resort on the east coast.
  
• Portixol – a coastal neighbourhood near Palma with a promenade and marina.
  
• Cales de Mallorca (cove country) – a stretch of coast full of cales between Porto Cristo and Cala d’Or.
  
• Porto Cristo – a harbour town in the east (the gateway to the caves).
  
• Cala d’Or – a well-known resort and cove area in the south-east.
  
• Cala Gat (Cala Ratjada) – a small postcard-perfect beach in a popular resort.
  
• Cala Ratjada Lighthouse – a viewpoint above the coast (especially at sunset).
  

Nature, Mountains and Viewpoints

Do you love the outdoors as much as we do? Mallorca is crossed by the popular GR221 long-distance trail, and it’s dotted with beautiful little corners.

• Cap de Formentor – a dramatic cape and the “end” of Mallorca.
  
• Mirador es Colomer – the most famous Formentor panorama.
  
• Torrent de Pareis – a famous gorge (a more demanding trek).
  
• Sa Calobra – a coastal spot at the mouth of the gorge (with the iconic road down to it).
  
• Mondragó Nature Park – protected nature, trails, cliffs and beaches.
  
• S’Albufera Nature Park – wetlands and a paradise for birdwatching.
  
• Cúber Reservoir – a mountain lake in the Tramuntana (views and walks).
  
• Gorg Blau Reservoir – a second reservoir just a short way from Cúber.
  
• Sa Dragonera – an uninhabited island nature reserve off the south-west coast.
  
• Orient – a tiny historic village that feels frozen in time, up in the mountains.
  

Caves and Fortresses

• Drach Caves (Coves del Drac) – a large cave system on the east coast.
  
• Castell d’Alaró – a ruined castle on a mountain above the town of Alaró (superb views).
  
• Santuari de Lluc Monastery – the spiritual heart of the island, in the Tramuntana.

Smaller but Iconic Spots Within the Towns

• Plaça de la Constitució (Sóller) – Sóller’s main square (the heart of the town).
  
• Pont Romà (Pollença) – a Roman stone bridge.
  
• Calvari Steps (Pollença) – 365 steps up to a chapel with a view.

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Where to Stay in Mallorca

Mallorca is an incredibly varied island, and a lot comes down to the kind of holiday you’re after. A couple looking for peace and nature will enjoy it very differently from a family with kids, or from those chasing beaches and nightlife. As a rule, the south-west and south are the most popular, while the north and the interior feel more authentic and laid-back. If you really want to get to know Mallorca, we’d recommend hiring a car, because so many of the loveliest places sit well away from the main resorts.

We usually book our accommodation through Booking. We stayed in the Palmanova area, which we loved — it put us within easy reach of most of the places we wanted to see. 

• Palma de Mallorca: If you’re a city person, Palma is a safe bet. You’ll find a beautiful historic centre, narrow lanes, the cathedral and plenty of great restaurants and bars. We recommend Puro Grand Hotel – a hotel right in the centre – and the Protur Naisa Palma Hotel – a modern hotel with a spa.
• Palmanova and Magaluf: Two neighbouring spots, each with its own character. Palmanova is quieter and family-friendly, while Magaluf is best known for its nightlife and party scene. Both share lovely beaches and good facilities. We stayed in Palmanova HERE and it was one of the best places we’ve stayed.
• Playa de Palma / Can Pastilla: This is your classic beach holiday. A long sandy beach, a promenade lined with restaurants, cafés and bars, everything close by and just minutes from the airport.
  We recommend the Hipotels Playa de Palma Palace & Spa.
• Alcúdia / Platja de Muro: One of the most popular areas, especially for families. The beaches here are wide, with fine sand and a gentle, shallow entry — ideal for children. Iberostar Selection Playa de Muro Village and the Astoria Playa – a popular adults-only hotel – are both great choices.
• Cala d’Or: A small, pretty resort in the south-east. Instead of long beaches, you’ll find smaller coves with turquoise water that are perfect for swimming. The Inturotel Cala Esmeralda is a lovely option.
• Port de Sóller: If you’re after peace, beautiful scenery and a slightly different side of Mallorca, Port de Sóller is ideal. Try the Hotel Esplendido.

What’s the Sea Like in Mallorca?

The sea around Mallorca is some of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean, and it’s one of the main reasons the island is so loved. The best known are the south and south-east, where you’ll find white sandy beaches and turquoise water, such as Es Trenc or Cala Pi. These areas do get busier in high season, though.

Along the east coast you’ll find Mallorca’s famous cales — smaller coves, often sheltered by rocks and ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The north and north-west offer a more dramatic coastline, a mix of mountains and sea and mostly pebbly or smaller beaches, though the water here is often exceptionally clear. Every part of the island has its own character, which is one of Mallorca’s real strengths.

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Weather in Mallorca and When to Go

Mallorca has a classic Mediterranean climate, so you’ll get plenty of sunshine for most of the year. If you’re mainly coming to swim, the summer months are best, but expect high temperatures and bigger crowds. Personally, we’d recommend May, June, September and October, when the weather is still lovely, the sea is warm and there are far fewer people about.

Spring and autumn are also ideal for hiking, day trips and exploring the towns. Even in winter the island is a pleasant place to be – temperatures rarely drop below 12–15 °C – making it a brilliant escape from a grey winter back home.

TIP: We even visited Mallorca in January. What is Mallorca like in January, and what should you prepare for?

Sea temperature in Mallorca (°C)

• January: 14–15
  
• February: 14–15
  
• March: 15–16
  
• April: 16–17
  
• May: 18–20
  
• June: 21–23
  
• July: 24–26
  
• August: 25–27
  
• September: 24–25
  
• October: 22–23
  
• November: 19–20
  
• December: 16–17
  

Air temperature in Mallorca (°C)

• January: 12–16
  
• February: 13–17
  
• March: 15–19
  
• April: 17–22
  
• May: 20–25
  
• June: 24–29
  
• July: 28–33
  
• August: 29–34
  
• September: 25–30
  
• October: 21–26
  
• November: 17–21
  
• December: 14–18

What to See in Mallorca: 51 Beautiful Places Across the Island

If some of these places are already on your list and you’d like to know a little more, here’s a slightly longer read. So, what should you see in Mallorca?

Palma de Mallorca (City)

A wander through Palma’s old town is one of those experiences you simply can’t skip. Narrow lanes give way to squares that buzz from morning until night, and the atmosphere feels wonderfully genuine. From the airport you can hop on the A1 bus into the centre for €5 one way, which makes Palma an easy city to enjoy even without a car. Plaça d’Espanya serves as the main transport hub and a handy landmark for setting off on foot. One practical note: the tap water isn’t great to drink, so it’s worth buying bottled.

La Seu Cathedral (the Cathedral of Light)

Palma’s landmark stands right on the seafront and ranks among the most striking Gothic cathedrals in the Mediterranean. It impresses from the outside with its sheer size and setting, and from within with its monumental space and light. A remarkable light effect occurs on 2 February and 11 November at 8 a.m., when the rose window casts a perfect figure of eight of coloured light. Standard admission is €10, but attending morning Mass gets you in for free. It’s worth a visit for the sense of calm alone, right in the middle of a busy city.

TIP: You can easily book your cathedral tickets online for just a few euros and buy them in advance on GetYourGuide, skipping all the queues.

Valldemossa

One of the island’s most photographed villages sits in the Serra de Tramuntana and charms you at first sight. Stone houses, flower-draped façades and narrow lanes create a wonderfully romantic feel. The biggest draw is the Carthusian monastery, where Frédéric Chopin stayed in 1838. Do bear in mind it gets very busy, especially in high season, so it pays to arrive early in the morning or off-peak.

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Sóller

Sóller is a lively town set in a valley full of orange groves that give it a real character of its own. Its most famous experience is the historic wooden train — nicknamed the “Red Arrow” — which runs here from Palma through 13 tunnels. The town itself has a gentle pace and is perfect for sitting back and watching local life go by. Plaça de la Constitució is its natural centre, where tourists and locals mingle. Sóller also makes a great starting point for heading down to the sea at Port de Sóller.

Cap de Formentor (Cape)

Cap de Formentor is widely considered the most dramatic spot on the island, and it rightly ranks among Mallorca’s absolute icons. The road out here is one of the most beautiful anywhere on the island, with near-constant views over the cliffs and the sea. Be ready for strong wind — locals call this the “meeting place of the winds”. On a clear day you can see all the way to Menorca. The lighthouse at the tip feels like a symbolic end of the island.

Mirador es Colomer

One of Mallorca’s best-known viewpoints, forever appearing on postcards and in brochures. It sits high above the sea and offers a panoramic view over the northern coast. The lookout is safely fenced, yet it still feels wonderfully airy and dramatic. It gets very busy in season, so it’s worth coming early in the morning. Photographers will be in their element here whatever the weather.

Drach Caves (Coves del Drac)

One of the island’s most visited natural attractions lies near Porto Cristo. The caves have been known since the 14th century and were thoroughly explored by E. A. Martel in 1896. The system is made up of four connected caves full of stalactites and stalagmites. The highlight is Lake Martel, often described as one of the largest underground lakes in Europe. The tour ends with a live classical music concert that creates a genuinely magical atmosphere.

You can buy tickets on the spot, but it’s often full, so don’t leave it to chance — reserve your place online with GetYourGuide and you’ll be sorted.

TIP: The Drach Caves are an absolute must on Mallorca. How to get there and what to expect?

Alcúdia (Old Town)

A historic town in the north of the island, surrounded by well-preserved medieval walls. A walk along the ramparts offers lovely views of the town and the countryside around it. It’s at its liveliest during the markets, held on Tuesdays and Sundays. Inside the walls you’ll find narrow lanes, cafés and little shops. The atmosphere is a world away from the modern seaside resorts.

Cala Millor

The largest resort on the east coast is lively and full of energy. By day it draws you in with a long sandy beach; by night it turns into a hub of entertainment. A big plus is the wide choice of restaurants, bars and shops. It’s popular with families too, thanks to its good facilities. If you want a mix of beach and town life, Cala Millor works very well.

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Magaluf

Magaluf is a byword for nightlife and the party scene in Mallorca. The clubs and bars run into the small hours and draw a mostly younger crowd. By day, though, it also offers a broad sandy beach where you can happily relax. The resort is part of a larger built-up stretch along with Torrenova and Palmanova. It’s not the place for a quiet holiday, but you’ll never have to go looking for fun.

Palmanova

Palmanova sits just a few hundred metres from Magaluf, yet the atmosphere is noticeably calmer. It has a wide, well-kept beach and more greenery around it. It suits families and couples looking for a more relaxed base, while Magaluf’s party scene is right on the doorstep. A good balance between peace and quiet and plenty to do.

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El Arenal (S’Arenal)

Mallorca’s largest resort sits very close to the airport, which makes it an easy destination to reach. It’s popular for its lower prices and complete range of tourist services. The beach is long and well equipped, but it gets very busy in season. El Arenal feels practical and straightforward. It suits an easy-going beach holiday.

Platja de Muro

The island’s largest continuous sandy beach lies in the north. It’s famous for its extremely gentle, shallow entry into the sea, which makes it ideal for families with children. The beach holds a Blue Flag for cleanliness. Along the sand you’ll find plenty of sun loungers, umbrellas and beach bars. A very comfortable place to spend the whole day.

Es Trenc Beach

One of Mallorca’s most famous wild beaches, with a nearly three-kilometre strip of white sand. The water has that classic turquoise colour that recalls the Caribbean. The beach is part of a nature reserve, so there’s little in the way of facilities here. There are no showers or loungers, and you’ll need to bring your own water. But that’s exactly why the place has kept its natural feel.

Almudaina Palace

The historic palace right beside the cathedral shows how Palma evolved from Moorish times to the present day. Once the seat of viziers, later of kings, today it’s the official royal residence. Part of the palace is closed when the royal family is in residence. The interiors feel majestic and cool. The Throne Room is the standout of the whole visit.

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Bellver Castle

A Gothic castle with a unique circular ground plan stands on a hill above Palma. It offers one of the best views over the city and the bay. It has served as both a royal residence and a prison. Admission is €4, but entry is free every Sunday. An ideal outing if you want to see the city from above.

Port de Sóller

Sóller’s harbour district, reached by a historic tram. It has its own beach and a lovely atmosphere. It’s perfect for an afternoon swim and dinner with a view of the boats. Compared with Palma, it feels calmer and more intimate. An ideal way to round off a day in the mountains.

Santanyí

An authentic little town in the south of the island with a strong stone character. Its narrow lanes are full of galleries, cafés and craft shops. The Saturday morning market is one of the loveliest on Mallorca. It’s worth trying the local almonds. The atmosphere is calm and very local.

Pollença

A historic town in the north with a rich past. A stroll through the old centre reveals a lovely square, cafés and an unhurried pace. One highlight is the Roman bridge, Pont Romà. The Sunday markets are among the most sought-after in the area. The town has a strong cultural feel.

TIP: Not sure what to pack for your trip? We’ve put together the best holiday packing list — wherever you’re headed.

Cala Formentor (Beach)

One of the most beautiful beaches in the north of the island. Fine sand, crystal-clear water and shady pines make for an ideal combination. It’s a popular spot, so it does get busier, especially in summer. Loungers and umbrellas are available to hire. A great place for swimming and relaxing alike.

Peguera (Paguera)

A quieter resort with good access from Palma (around 30 km). It offers everything you need, but without the intense nightlife. It’s popular with couples and families. Peguera makes a good base for exploring the south-west, combining comfort with peace and quiet.

Santa Ponsa (Santa Ponça)

A resort set in a sheltered bay with a photogenic coastline. The atmosphere is relaxed and less hectic than in the main entertainment centres. It’s family-friendly too. The protected bay makes for good swimming, and the surrounding landscape is very pretty.

Mercat de l’Olivar

Palma’s main food market, where the locals come to shop. You’ll find fresh fish, seafood, fruit and meat. Many stalls serve tapas to eat on the spot. It’s the perfect place to get a feel for the everyday rhythm of the city — and handy for stocking up if you’re self-catering in an apartment.

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La Ruta Martiana (a Traveller’s Trick)

Every Tuesday evening, Palma’s historic centre turns into a tapas trail. The participating bars offer a beer or wine plus tapas for €2–2.50. The atmosphere is lively and friendly. It’s a great chance to meet locals and fellow travellers alike — one of the best ways to enjoy an evening cheaply and authentically.

Festes de Sant Sebastià / Correfoc

The January celebrations of Palma’s patron saint are among the most intense events of the year. The Correfoc is a procession full of fire, sparks and loud music. People dressed as devils run through the streets, creating a powerful atmosphere. It’s a good idea to wear long sleeves and sturdy shoes. An experience that’s hard to forget.

Pueblo Español

An open-air architecture museum in the western part of Palma. It features scaled-down copies of notable Spanish buildings and squares. It’s a good spot if you want a quick overview of architectural styles. Exhibitions and cultural events are often held here. More of a supplementary stop than a main destination.

Portixol

A former fishing village that’s now a favourite among locals. It lies just a short way from Palma, reached by a long seafront promenade. It’s ideal for a walk, a run or a cycle. The waterside restaurants are very pleasant. A great spot for lunch or an evening drink.

Sa Coma

A resort in the east known for its clean, wide beach. The water is clear and suitable even for less confident swimmers. It’s popular mainly with families. The facilities are modern and well maintained. A good choice for an easy-going holiday.

Cala s’Amarador

A smaller beach in the Mondragó nature park, surrounded by pines. It feels calm and natural. The water is very clean and great for swimming. Thanks to its protected setting, there’s no dense development here. Ideal for a quiet day by the sea.

Mondragó Nature Park

A protected area combining beaches, cliffs and woodland trails. It allows for gentle walking as well as swimming in natural coves. Here you’ll find traditional dry-stone walls. The park feels unspoilt and peaceful. Great even for a half-day outing.

S’Albufera Nature Park

Extensive wetlands in the north of the island, protected since 1985. The area is important for migratory birds and its biodiversity. It offers flat trails that are perfect for easy walks. Ideal for nature lovers — and a completely different face of Mallorca.

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Cales de Mallorca (the Coves)

The island’s east coast is dotted with dozens of small coves. The stretch between Porto Cristo and Cala d’Or is perfect for exploring by car. Many of the coves are small, quiet and good for snorkelling. Each has a slightly different character. Great for anyone who loves to explore.

Cala Llombards Beach

A beautiful cove near Santanyí with calm water. The entry into the sea is gentle and suitable for children too. Thanks to the rocks on either side, it’s ideal for snorkelling. The beach isn’t very long, but it’s wonderfully photogenic. The atmosphere is peaceful.

Cala Mesquida Beach

A beach surrounded by nature in the east of the island. It stands out for its clean water and open space. Even in season it tends to be less crowded than the better-known beaches. The entry into the sea is fairly gentle. It all feels very natural.

Cala Pi Beach

A narrow, long cove in the south of the island, well sheltered from the wind. It regularly appears in rankings of the most beautiful beaches. The water tends to be calm and clean. Easy to reach by car. Ideal for a peaceful swim.

Es Caló des Moro

A small, remote beach with no facilities whatsoever. The descent to the beach is a little demanding, but manageable. The water is exceptionally clear and ideal for snorkelling. You’ll need to bring your own supplies. Very popular with more seasoned travellers.

Banyalbufar

A quiet village between the sea and the Tramuntana. It’s known for its historic irrigation system dating back to the Islamic era. It offers beautiful views over the coast. The atmosphere is very calm and local. A good place to slow down.

Castell d’Alaró

The ruins of a castle high above the town of Alaró. The climb is moderately demanding, but the views make it well worth it. Its history reaches back to Moorish times, with the surviving sections mostly from the 15th century. The site is tied to a local legend about two knights. A powerful experience for history lovers.

Deià

A small village in the west of the island, long associated with an artistic community. Honey-coloured houses and lush green surroundings create a wonderfully aesthetic setting. Thanks to strict building controls, it has kept its authentic look. It feels calm and refined — better suited to slow exploration than a quick visit.

Alfàbia Gardens

These Arab-style gardens lie on the road from Palma to Sóller. Water is the main theme here, giving the place a unique atmosphere. The biggest draw is the pergola with its 24 water jets. The grounds also include a historic manor house. A pleasant stop along the way.

Calvari Steps

An iconic climb in Pollença up 365 stone steps. The way is lined with cypress trees and crosses. At the top stands a small chapel. The view over the town and the surrounding hills is your reward for the climb. It’s best to go outside the midday heat.

What to Eat in Mallorca

Now you know what to see in Mallorca. But what should you actually eat while you’re there? You certainly won’t miss out on classic Spanish cooking. 

• Coca de patata: You have to try this sweet potato bun in Valldemossa. It goes beautifully with tea or coffee and makes a great energy boost for the road ahead.
• Pa amb oli: Pa amb oli (pronounced “pamboli”) is a brilliant Mallorcan speciality you’ll fall for. It’s slices of bread with olive oil and tomato, served with toppings such as ham or cheese. It’s the best fuel for an active day and a light but satisfying dinner.
• Ensaïmada: This one’s a must! The ensaïmada is an iconic sweet coiled pastry you won’t find anywhere else. Traditionally it comes plain, but you can also buy it filled with cream or chocolate. It’s the perfect start to the day and an ideal souvenir — the bakery will box it up for you to take home.
• Sangria: A refreshing, light alcoholic drink typical of the Iberian Peninsula. It’s made from red wine, fruit, brandy and a little sweetener, and it’s a great match for tapas.
• Paella: The famous rice dish that originated in Valencia. The base is rice, which isn’t rinsed and is cooked with various ingredients such as seafood, chicken or vegetables. You have to try it in Mallorca, though most restaurants serve it for a minimum of two people.
• Jamón: Besides its sweets and wine, Spain is famous for its cured ham, jamón. You can buy it in supermarkets or at markets, and it’s great as a topping for pa amb oli or alongside a glass of wine.
• Sobrassada: A traditional Mallorcan sausage that’s soft and spreadable, often with a distinctive paprika flavour. It’s superb on bread and a classic local product to take home with you.
• Almonds (Mallorcan): Almond trees grow around Santanyí and in the island’s valleys, and they blossom beautifully in February. Mallorcan almonds are a delicate local speciality, well worth picking up at the markets.
• Salt (Flor de Sal d’Es Trenc): This flavoured sea salt from Flor de Sal d’Es Trenc is hand-harvested from the nearby salt flats. It makes a great gourmet souvenir, especially the versions flavoured with olives or hibiscus.

Mallorca: Package Holiday or on Your Own?

Mallorca is an ideal destination for independent travel. The roads are good, getting around is easy and hiring a car is very straightforward. That way you can reach lesser-known spots, hidden beaches and inland villages that package tours simply don’t go to.

Of course, there are also plenty of package holidays, mostly to the big resorts, which can suit people who want comfort without any planning. But if you want to get to know Mallorca in depth, your own pace and a car give you far more freedom. The island is safe, easy to navigate and well suited even to less experienced travellers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)