Mallorca Travel Guide - Free Web & App

Your ultimate guide to Mallorca. Discover top landmarks, proposed trips, and local tips. Free on the web or via the Evendo companion app.

Mallorca, Spain, combines Tramuntana peaks, secluded coves, historic villages, Roman remains, island cuisine and Mediterranean walking, cycling and sailing.

Island Landscapes

Mallorca is the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, a Mediterranean island whose character changes markedly between mountain, plain, coast and city. The Serra de Tramuntana forms a rugged backbone along the north-west, rising above terraced valleys, olive groves and villages such as Sóller, Deià, Valldemossa and Pollença. To the east and south, the landscape opens into quieter coves, limestone headlands, beaches and low agricultural country, while the central Es Pla is shaped by fields, orchards and traditional rural settlements.
Read more about Mallorca

History and Island Culture

Palma, the island capital, brings together a Gothic cathedral, an Almudaina palace, medieval lanes and remains of Mallorca’s Roman, Islamic and Christian past. Beyond the city, dry-stone walls, watchtowers, hilltop sanctuaries and historic estates reveal centuries of farming, maritime trade and defence. The Serra de Tramuntana’s terraces and water systems are recognised by UNESCO as a cultural landscape, reflecting the long interaction between people and difficult mountain terrain.

Exploring Mallorca

Visitors can walk mountain paths, cycle through inland villages, explore caves and archaeological sites, sail along the coast or swim from beaches where access and conditions permit. Protected areas such as Mondragó Natural Park, s’Albufera de Mallorca and the Cabrera Archipelago National Park extend the island’s environmental range, although Cabrera lies offshore and requires separate boat access. Mallorcan food draws on seafood, almonds, citrus, vegetables, olive oil and pork, with traditional dishes including tumbet, pa amb oli and ensaïmada. The island rewards a regional approach: Palma suits history and culture, the Tramuntana offers mountain scenery, and the eastern and northern coasts provide a different rhythm of coves, villages and maritime landscapes.

When is the best time to visit Mallorca?

Best: April–May, October · 21–26°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January1535
February1630
March1825
April (best)2120
May (best)2615
June3010
July3210
August3310
September3115
October (best)2620
November2125
December1730

Getting to and around Mallorca

How to get there

Most international visitors arrive through Palma de Mallorca Airport, on the eastern edge of Palma and the island’s principal air gateway. Seasonal and year-round flights connect Mallorca with many Spanish and European cities, while Palma’s port receives ferries from mainland Spain and links to other Balearic Islands. Ferry services to Mallorca commonly operate from Barcelona, Valencia and Dénia, although routes and schedules vary. Palma is also served by intercity buses and rail connections to towns such as Inca, Sa Pobla and Manacor. Visitors heading to the Serra de Tramuntana, the north coast or the east should allow for onward travel from the airport or port rather than assuming these areas are directly connected by rail.

Transportation

A hire car offers the greatest flexibility for reaching inland villages, remote beaches and mountain viewpoints, although roads in the Serra de Tramuntana can be narrow, steep and busy in high season. Mallorca’s public transport network is centred on Palma: EMT buses serve the capital, while regional buses connect many towns and resorts, and trains and trams run from Palma towards Sóller, Inca and Sa Pobla. Services are less comprehensive in rural coastal areas, so check routes before setting out. Cycling is popular on both quiet inland roads and mountain routes, but riders should plan carefully around traffic, gradients and heat. Ferries and excursion boats provide access to some coastal locations and Cabrera.

Best attractions in Mallorca

Mallorca’s attractions range from Palma’s historic centre and cathedral to landscapes that demand slower exploration. In the Serra de Tramuntana, the road between Sóller and Pollença passes through mountain scenery, while Valldemossa, Deià and Fornalutx provide distinct village settings among terraces and olive groves. Alcúdia’s old town and the nearby Roman remains of Pollentia connect present-day Mallorca with antiquity, and the wetlands of s’Albufera de Mallorca offer important bird habitat near the north coast. Mondragó Natural Park in the south-east combines pine woodland, scrub, farmland and sandy coves, while the Artà peninsula leads to coastal scenery around Cala Torta and Cala Mesquida. The Cuevas del Drach near Porto Cristo are among the island’s best-known cave attractions, with large chambers and underground lakes. Offshore, Cabrera Archipelago National Park protects a separate island environment reached by boat, subject to access arrangements and marine conservation rules.

Best landmarks in Mallorca

Palma Cathedral, known as La Seu, is Mallorca’s defining architectural landmark, standing beside the Almudaina Palace and the remains of the old city walls. Above Palma, the circular Castell de Bellver is notable for its unusual form and long connection with the city’s defence and political history. In the north, the Roman theatre and forum of Pollentia near Alcúdia are among the island’s most important classical remains, while prehistoric sites such as Ses Païsses near Artà reveal a much earlier society. The Serra de Tramuntana is itself a cultural landmark, where dry-stone walls, terraces, water channels and mountain villages express centuries of agricultural adaptation. At the coast, Cap de Formentor, the cliffs around Sa Calobra and the coves of Mondragó provide powerful natural reference points, though access, weather and seasonal restrictions can affect how they are experienced.

Explore Mallorca on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants and hotels are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Mallorca

Mallorca’s food reflects its agricultural interior, Mediterranean coastline and long trading history. Traditional cooking includes tumbet, a layered dish of vegetables; pa amb oli, bread with olive oil and toppings; arròs brut, a richly seasoned rice dish; and sobrasada, a soft cured pork sausage. Ensaïmada is the island’s best-known pastry, while almonds, citrus, olives, local wines and seasonal produce appear widely in markets and restaurant kitchens. Palma offers the broadest choice, from traditional cellers and bakeries to contemporary dining, while Sóller, Alcúdia, Pollença, Artà and other established towns provide restaurants, cafés and village establishments. In rural areas and small coastal settlements, options may be limited outside the main season, and visitors should not assume that a remote beach or mountain trail has food facilities nearby. Farm shops, weekly markets and local bakeries are useful for assembling picnics and discovering regional products.

Best bars in Mallorca

Evening life in Mallorca varies sharply by area. Palma has the island’s widest concentration of wine bars, traditional taverns, cocktail venues, live-music spaces and late-night entertainment, particularly around the historic centre, Santa Catalina and the waterfront, although the atmosphere changes from one street to another. Larger resorts such as Magaluf, s’Arenal and parts of Alcúdia have a more commercial nightlife scene, while Port de Sóller, Pollença, Artà and inland villages tend towards restaurants, hotel bars, cafés and traditional pubs rather than large clubs. In the Tramuntana and quieter rural areas, evenings are centred on village squares, local festivals when scheduled, or the hospitality of a country inn. Venue opening patterns and seasonal activity vary considerably, so visitors should check locally rather than expect nightlife in every settlement.

Best nightclubs in Mallorca

Evening life in Mallorca varies sharply by area. Palma has the island’s widest concentration of wine bars, traditional taverns, cocktail venues, live-music spaces and late-night entertainment, particularly around the historic centre, Santa Catalina and the waterfront, although the atmosphere changes from one street to another. Larger resorts such as Magaluf, s’Arenal and parts of Alcúdia have a more commercial nightlife scene, while Port de Sóller, Pollença, Artà and inland villages tend towards restaurants, hotel bars, cafés and traditional pubs rather than large clubs. In the Tramuntana and quieter rural areas, evenings are centred on village squares, local festivals when scheduled, or the hospitality of a country inn. Venue opening patterns and seasonal activity vary considerably, so visitors should check locally rather than expect nightlife in every settlement.

Best shops in Mallorca

Shopping in Mallorca is strongest in Palma and the larger towns, with independent food shops, bakeries, galleries, markets and retailers carrying island-made goods. Local products include ceramics, leather goods associated particularly with Inca, woven textiles, olive oil, wine, almonds, pottery and traditional food specialities such as sobrasada and ensaïmada. Palma’s markets and central streets offer the broadest choice, while weekly markets in towns including Sineu, Pollença, Alcúdia and Artà are useful places to encounter produce and small-scale goods, although the character and selection vary by day and season. Inca is historically associated with footwear and leather manufacturing, and Sóller is known for products linked to its citrus-growing valley. Remote coves, mountain villages and protected natural areas have few shopping facilities, so supplies should be bought in a larger settlement before travelling into the countryside.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Mallorca, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from attractions and restaurants to essentials and local phrases, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Mallorca essentials

Currency and Payment
Mallorca uses the euro (€), Spain’s national currency. Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in hotels, supermarkets, restaurants, transport hubs and established attractions, although smaller cafés, market stalls, rural businesses and some beach services may prefer cash or have minimum-card policies. Cash machines are readily available in Palma, resort towns and larger villages, but visitors exploring remote parts of the Tramuntana or quieter inland areas should not rely on finding one immediately. It is sensible to carry a modest amount of euros for parking, refreshments, local buses and small purchases, while checking whether a card provider applies foreign-exchange or cash-withdrawal charges.
Safety
Mallorca is generally straightforward to explore, but outdoor conditions require care. Summer heat and strong sun can make exposed walks, cycle routes and hill paths strenuous, while mountain weather may change quickly outside the hottest months. Wear suitable footwear on uneven terrain and take particular care near cliffs, rocky coves and unguarded water. Swimming and boating conditions can be affected by wind, waves and currents; follow local warnings and use beaches with appropriate supervision where available. Rural roads and the hairpin bends of the Tramuntana require patient driving. Protect valuables in crowded tourist areas, on beaches and around transport hubs, and do not leave belongings visible in a parked vehicle.
Emergency Situations
Call 112 in any emergency in Mallorca for police, fire or medical assistance; operators can coordinate the appropriate service, and language support may be available. Give the name of the municipality, road, beach, trail, cove or landmark, and share a precise map location when possible. In mountain or coastal areas, avoid moving an injured person unless remaining in place creates further danger, and conserve phone battery while waiting for instructions. Non-urgent medical care can be sought through local health centres or hospitals, but visitors should confirm the nearest facility for their chosen base. Carry travel insurance details and relevant medication information, particularly when travelling into remote areas.
Do's and Don'ts
Respect private property, cultivated land, livestock and marked access routes, especially in the Tramuntana where paths may cross working farms and historic terraces. Keep to established trails, take litter away, avoid disturbing wildlife and never remove stones, plants or archaeological material. Use water thoughtfully during dry periods and follow fire-prevention rules, as Mediterranean vegetation can burn readily. At beaches and natural parks, observe local signs concerning parking, anchoring, swimming and protected habitats. Dress respectfully when entering churches and monasteries, keep noise down in residential villages, and ask before photographing people or private homes. Follow restaurant and café customs rather than assuming that every small establishment accepts cards or late dining.
Local Tips
Palma, Sóller, Alcúdia, Pollença and Artà make useful bases for different parts of Mallorca, but the island is large enough that changing accommodation can reduce long daily drives. The north-west is best approached with time for mountain roads, villages and viewpoints, while the south-east is more suited to exploring coves and protected coastal landscapes. Visit markets early for a fuller selection and a cooler atmosphere, and check beach access before setting out in peak summer. Spring and autumn are often particularly comfortable for walking and cycling, whereas the hottest months favour early starts, shaded cultural visits and time near the sea. Seasonal bus and boat arrangements should always be checked locally.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHola[oh-lah]
GoodbyeAdiós[ah-dee-ohs]
YesSí[see]
NoNo[no]
Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada[por fah-bor/deh nah-dah]
Thank youGracias[grah-thyas]
Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento[pair-dohn/loh syen-toh]
How are you?¿Cómo estás?[koh-moh ehs-tahs]
Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?[byen. ee too]
Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?[ah-blahs een-glays]
I don't understandNo entiendo[noh ehn-tyen-doh]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver la carta, por favor[meh goos-tah-ree-ah bair lah kahr-tah, por fah-bor]
I don't eat meatNo como carne[noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
Cheers!¡Salud![sah-lood]
I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor[meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gar, por fah-bor]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!¡Ayuda![ah-yoo-dah]
Go away!¡Vete![veh-teh]
Call the Police!¡Llama a la Policía![yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-thee-ah]
Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico![yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
I'm lostEstoy perdido/a[ehs-toy pair-dee-doh/pair-dee-dah]
I'm illEstoy enfermo/a[ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh/ehn-fehr-mah]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...[meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prar]
I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando[soh-loh ehs-toy meer-ahn-doh]
How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?[kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
That's too expensiveEs demasiado caro[ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?[pweh-dehs bah-har ehl pree-syoh]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?¿Qué hora es?[keh oh-rah ehs]
It's one o'clockEs la una en punto[ehs lah oo-nah ehn poon-toh]
Half past (10)Y media[ee meh-dee-ah]
MorningMañana[mah-nyah-nah]
AfternoonTarde[tahr-deh]
EveningNoche[noh-cheh]
YesterdayAyer[ah-yehr]
TodayHoy[oy]
TomorrowMañana[mah-nyah-nah]
1Uno[oo-noh]
2Dos[dohs]
3Tres[trehs]
4Cuatro[kwa-troh]
5Cinco[theen-koh]
6Seis[says]
7Siete[syeh-teh]
8Ocho[oh-choh]
9Nueve[nweh-veh]
10Diez[dyehth]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está el/la...?[dohn-deh ehs-tah ehl/lah]
What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?[kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syon]
Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes enseñarme (en el mapa)?[pweh-dehs ehn-seh-nyar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?[kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
A ticket (to ....)Un billete (a ....)[oon bee-yeh-teh (ah)]

History of Mallorca

Prehistoric Talayotic Communities

Mallorca was inhabited long before written records, and its prehistoric landscape includes settlements and ritual structures associated with the Talayotic culture of the late Bronze and Iron Ages. The most recognisable remains are talaiots, large stone-built towers or monuments, together with fortified settlements and burial sites. Ses Païsses near Artà is among the island’s best-known archaeological sites, while Capocorb Vell near Llucmajor preserves another substantial prehistoric settlement. These sites show organised communities adapting to Mallorca’s agricultural resources and strategic terrain before the island entered the orbit of the ancient Mediterranean powers.

Phoenician, Roman and Late Antique Mallorca

Mallorca occupied a useful position in western Mediterranean trade. Roman forces conquered the Balearic Islands in 123 BC, and the settlements of Pollentia, near present-day Alcúdia, and Palma became important centres of Roman administration and commerce. Pollentia’s theatre, forum and residential remains provide the clearest archaeological expression of this period. After the Roman era, the island passed through Vandals and Byzantine influence before becoming part of the Visigothic and other early medieval political worlds. Agriculture, maritime connections and the strategic value of the island remained central to its development.

Islamic Medina and Christian Conquest

Muslim rule began in the tenth century, when Mallorca became part of al-Andalus and Madina Mayurqa developed on the site of modern Palma. Islamic irrigation, gardens and agricultural practices influenced the island’s productive landscapes, while the Serra de Tramuntana retained communities and terraced cultivation that would continue through later periods. In 1229, James I of Aragon conquered Mallorca, after which the island was incorporated into the Crown of Aragon and its population and institutions were reshaped. Palma’s Almudaina, surviving urban fabric and water systems preserve aspects of this layered medieval history.

Trade, Privateering and Island Fortification

Medieval and early modern Mallorca prospered through maritime trade, craft production and agricultural exchange, but its exposed position also brought raids and privateering. Coastal watchtowers and fortified churches formed part of a defensive network, while Palma’s walls and the circular Castell de Bellver reflect the island’s political and military importance. In the nineteenth century, commercial links expanded, and Sóller developed particularly strong connections with France through emigrant and trading networks. Citrus cultivation in the Sóller valley became closely associated with these connections, helping shape the valley’s architecture, commerce and cultural identity.

Tourism, Heritage and Conservation

Mallorca’s modern tourism industry expanded rapidly from the mid-twentieth century, especially around Palma Bay and the east and north coast, transforming parts of the shoreline and creating extensive visitor infrastructure. At the same time, inland villages, agricultural land and mountain landscapes retained distinctive cultural traditions. The Serra de Tramuntana was designated a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape in 2011 for its terraced fields, dry-stone construction and historic water-management systems. Other areas, including s’Albufera, Mondragó and Cabrera, have received protection that reflects growing attention to wetlands, coastal habitats, island biodiversity and the pressures created by intensive development.

Mallorca in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

Cities in Mallorca

The towns and cities of Mallorca, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Neighbouring destination travel guides

The closest destinations to Mallorca, if you have time for more than one.

Explore more

Balearic Islands
More of the region

Explore more of Balearic Islands

Discover the enchanting Balearic Islands of Spain, where natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture create the perfect Mediterranean getaway.

Explore Balearic Islands
Spain
More of the country

Explore more of Spain

Discover Spain: A vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes, where every city offers a unique adventure and unforgettable experiences.

Explore Spain
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Mallorca

Free Travel Guide to Mallorca. Discover attractions, landmarks, restaurants, hotels, tours, and activities with detailed information, tips, and maps. No cost, forever free.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, and restaurants
  • Rich set of information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Discover the beauty of Mallorca with Evendo, the 100% free travel guide app. Explore top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more, all at your fingertips.

  • History of Mallorca and travel essentials
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • Easy navigation through the app and the city
  • ‘Near me’ feature to discover nearby attractions
  • 100% free, no in-app purchases or additional costs
  • Global coverage of over 7,000 destinations

Welcome to Evendo, your ultimate travel guide to the breathtaking island of Mallorca, Spain! Planning your trip has never been easier. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Evendo provides you with all the tools you need to explore Mallorca like a local. From the stunning beaches of Cala Millor to the historic landmarks of Palma, our app offers detailed information on the best attractions, landmarks, and restaurants the island has to offer.

Imagine wandering through the charming streets of Palma, discovering hidden gems like the majestic Palma Cathedral and the historic Bellver Castle. Craving a culinary adventure? Let Evendo guide you to the finest restaurants, such as the renowned Ca'n Joan de S'aigo, where you can indulge in traditional Mallorcan pastries. Looking for nightlife? Our app lists the best bars and nightclubs, ensuring you never miss out on the vibrant local scene.

But that's not all. Evendo makes it easy to book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app. No more endless searching or missing out on must-see attractions. With a rich set of information, including images, descriptions, local tips, and maps, you'll have everything you need to plan and organize your trip seamlessly.

With features like detailed history of Mallorca, travel essentials, curated local tips, and easy navigation, you'll feel like a local in no time. And the best part? Evendo is 100% free, with no in-app purchases or hidden costs. Plus, our global coverage means you can explore over 7,000 other destinations worldwide. Download Evendo today and unlock the world!

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.