Travel tips: Things to see and do in Mallorca
Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is known for its capital city, Palma, sandy coastlines, vibrant nightlife, festivals and the breathtaking Serra de Tramuntana mountains.
With over 13 million tourists each year, whether you choose to visit for a family getaway, a romantic couples break or a party with friends, the Island offers something for everyone.
Once you step into the city of Palma, your senses will receive a real treat with the combination of architecture and culture dating back centuries, writes Travel News Blitz’s Bianca Wright.
Explore Palma’s historic landmarks and cultural treasures
The historic Gothic cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria of Palma sits overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and welcomes over a million tourists every year.
The build took centuries to complete, starting in 1229 and ending around 1601, featuring 61 windows and one of the world's largest Gothic rose windows, ‘The Gothic Eye.’
Inside the Historic landmark, you can see 16 chapels, 110 choir stalls, sculptures, within the oldest section, the tombs of King James II and III and the stunning crown-shaped canopy over the main altar redesigned by Antoni Gaudí in the 20th century.
Once you have completed your tour of the cathedral, expand your historical experience by visiting the Royal Palace of La Almudania, La Llotja, Castell de Bellver, finishing off your day with a relaxing experience in the Arabs baths and a variety of local tapas.
Hike, walk or drive the beautiful Serra de Tramuntana mountains
The spectacular mountain runs 90km from the southwest to the northeast of the island, forming the backbone of Mallorca with its highest peak, Puig Major, which stands at 1,445 meters high and is the tallest mountain in the Balearic Islands, the Tomir and the Massanella.
Famous for its beautiful rural landscapes, wildlife, small villages and olive trees, your eyes will never get bored of what’s around you on your journey.
Featuring two lakes, the Gorg Blau, the Cuber reservoirs and local towns and villages, Valldemossa, Soller, Deia and Fornalutx, where you can experience mountain culture and try the slow roast lamb or vegetable stew.
The mountain is easily accessible by car and bike on the Ma10 main highway, and for hikers and walkers, there are various routes available, from routes for beginners to more experienced hiker trails.
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Relax on the beachy stretches or discover the hidden coves along the coast
The 550 km coastline of Mallorca offers over 200 beaches, from sandy white stretches and turquoise seas to picturesque coves and crystal-clear water.
There is something for each person's desires.
Playa del Puerto de Pollensa is considered one of the nicest beaches on the Island, with its beautiful views and quiet surroundings within its bay.
Many artists and poets find this location extremely inspiring, while the Calo Des Marmols is famous for its marble-colored cove and is only accessible via boat or hiking.
The clear waters make snorkelling a fantastic experience, while those seeking adrenaline can take a trip out to sea on a jet ski, hire a speed boat or experience the banana boats.
The party scene on the Island
Millions of tourists go to Mallorca each year for its famous partying.
Whether it's a night out on the strip of Magaluf, where you can find rows of clubs and bars to dance the night away, or have a boat trip that includes a DJ and drinks, you sure will not be bored on the island.
The island’s famous annual festivals and traditions
Mallorca is an Island that, no matter what time of year you visit, there is always something happening, from traditional fairs to religious festivals dating back years to ancient times.
January
The Three Kings Parade - Locally known as ‘Cavalcada dels Reis Mags,’ marking the end of Christmas.
Saint Antoni Festival - Residents come together to hail the Patron Saint of Animals with parades, street parties and domestic animals blessed in local churches.
Saint Sebastian - Locally known as the ‘Festes de Sant Sebastia’ is a celebration of the Patron Saint of Palma, where they have bonfires and concerts in the main squares throughout the city.
Legendary fire runs.
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February
Throughout February, the Island is transformed with almond blossoms.
This is held in the town of Son Servera, where you can see stalls selling all different types of Almonds and arts and crafts.
March
Mallorca’s carnival - Locally known as ‘Sa Rua’, celebrating the start of Lent, with parades of decorated floats and street parties.
April
Easter - Semana Santa - This month has various things happening, from church services where local children perform scenes from the Bible, celebrating Jesus, as well as spring and agricultural fairs further inland.
May
May offers more traditional celebrations relating back to the history of Mallorca.
Sporting events - More than 3,500 athletes compete in one of the biggest sporting events on the Island.
Es Firo Festival - Famous west coast celebration of the Moors vs Christians mock battle, where they reenact one of the biggest attempted Moorish pirate invasions in history. You can expect street parties, fancy dress and firecrackers.
June
Mallorca Tennis Championships, sailing regattas and the Sant Pere festival, where fleets of fishing boats head out to sea.
July
Music concerts and evening markets.
Sant Jaume - A well-known festival in Alcudia and Manacor, where street parties are held, and mock battles fill the streets.
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August
Pollenca’s music festival is a celebration of classical music and arts, mainly in the northern part of the island.
The Festes de la Mare de Deu d’Agost - C’an Picafort is one of the most famous
Chopin Classical Music Festival - The festival dates to the 1930’s and brings music enthusiasts together in the village of Valldemossa.
September
Fiesta d’Es Vermar is a celebration located in the town of Binissalem, notorious for its wine-growing. Here, residents come together for grape treading and the famous grape fighting.
October
Palma’s marathon takes place, and the Tennis Cup Tournament.
November
Sa Pobla’s Autumn Agricultural fair, pumpkin and mushroom fairs, while locals celebrate their home-grown crops.
December
Medley of Christmas markets take place throughout this month for the lead up to Christmas, with Puerto Portals, Port Adriano and Pueblo Español being the most popular.
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