Top Things to See and Do in Mallorca
The island of Mallorca has a special power that we’re about to reveal: it never fails to surprise anyone who chooses this wonderful place as their holiday destination. A corner of the Mediterranean Sea where nature, crystal-clear waters, art, heritage, gastronomy, and a wide range of leisure and services make this Balearic island one of those places you’ll always want to return to. And that’s something all kinds of travelers have in common—from couples and groups of friends to families with children. Here’s what you can’t miss when it comes to what to see and do in Mallorca.
The Best Beaches in Mallorca
Forget the idea that you need to drive for hours to reach incredible beaches and be amazed by shores that look like they’ve been taken straight out of paradise, with wild underwater landscapes. Near the capital, Palma de Mallorca, there’s a wide variety of both beaches and coves that are well worth a visit during your holiday on the Balearic island.
Wherever you go, you’ll find unmatched beauty. Take Cala Fornells, for example, where you can relax and discover marine life beneath its turquoise waters; Playa del Mago, in the southwest of the island, set in a natural environment with crystal-clear waters; Cala Comtessa, just a few kilometers from Palma, surrounded by rocks and pine trees; Illetas, famous for its golden sand; or Playa El Toro, with its reddish sands that create a stunning visual spectacle.
All of them are perfect for a beach day—swimming until sunset and enjoying all kinds of water activities and nautical sports for those who find lounging on a sunbed just not enough.
Explore the Picturesque Villages of Mallorca
After soaking up the sun—or on a day when the temperatures are a bit milder—a perfect plan for things to see and do in Mallorca is to explore the island’s most charming towns and villages. This destination is much more than just sunshine and beautiful beaches. There’s nothing like discovering streets full of heritage, culture, and gastronomy, all set in the heart of nature.
No essential route through Mallorca’s most beautiful villages would be complete without names full of cobbled streets, lighthouses, and cozy, traditional architecture. Take note: Banyalbufar, a gem perched above the sea with breathtaking views; the dreamlike village of Valldemossa, with its stone houses, flowers, and steep streets; Deià, nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Tramuntana Mountains; Sóller, best discovered aboard its legendary wooden train; or Capdepera, with its famous fortified castle gifted to the town by King Jaume II
Exploring the Tramuntana Mountains
This natural and mountainous enclave is one of the most visited tourist attractions, so if you're in Mallorca, you simply can't miss this wonder—one that will make you forget about lounging on a beautiful beach for a few hours or even a whole day.
The Tramuntana Mountains offer a wide range of activities and routes suited to all ages and interests, including hiking trails, nature walks, charming villages, outdoor adventures, and scenic viewpoints where the beauty is truly breathtaking. It’s no surprise that this natural setting has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it perfectly blends culture, heritage, and nature.
For those who love picturesque villages, the mountains are home to gems like Sóller, Fornalutx, Deià, Valldemossa, Banyalbufar, Estellencs, Sant Elm, and Galilea, among others. And for hiking enthusiasts, the most popular routes include the Dry Stone Route, the climb to Puig del Teix, and the Archduke’s Trail.
But if hiking isn’t your thing, you can hop on the beautiful Sóller train (in operation for over 100 years), enjoy a wine tasting to learn more about the region’s wines, or go cycling through the mountains.
Discover the Cultural Richness of Palma de Mallorca
A tour of Mallorca’s historical monuments will allow you to discover the cultural and historical heritage of an island that—if you didn’t already know—has been home to various civilizations, each leaving behind a rich legacy.
Among its most notable monuments and historical sites are the Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic beauty; the Llotja de Palma, a merchant building constructed in the mid-15th century; the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, which holds great sentimental and architectural value for the island’s locals; and Bellver Castle, offering incredible views of the city, the port, and the mountains. Outside the capital (where you also shouldn’t miss a stroll through the old town), it’s well worth visiting the Valldemossa Charterhouse, the Roman city of Pollentia, or the Lluc Sanctuary.
And since there’s always time for art, Palma de Mallorca also offers a generous selection of museums and galleries, such as the Pilar and Joan Miró Foundation, the Juan March Foundation, the Es Baluard Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Mallorca Museum.
Gastronomic Experiences in Mallorca
Mallorcan cuisine will surprise you with its unique blend that brings to life dishes that are a true reflection of the island’s history, land, and character. Only with this combination can the finest seafood dishes be created, along with recipes where vegetables are essential, rice takes center stage, and cheeses and meats compete as the perfect complements to a memorable feast.
With that in mind, the hardest part is choosing from the wide variety of restaurants catering to all tastes, both in the capital and across the island. Some offer spectacular views that make the food taste even better; others are must-visits if you want to try traditional dishes like the famous Mallorcan soups; and there are even dreamlike spots recognized with Repsol Suns or Michelin Stars.
And if you’d rather be the chef yourself, don’t miss a visit to local markets like the organic one held in Palma de Mallorca, the well-known Mercat de l’Olivar, or the weekly market in Pollensa.
Family Activities in Mallorca
Mallorca isn’t just a paradise for enjoying a few days with friends or a dreamy romantic getaway. The island is also a perfect destination for families with children, offering not only vast beaches but also a wide range of theme parks and kid-friendly activities. Among the top options are Katmandu Park with its attractions, Jungle Parc Mallorca for those who love adventure, and Hidropark Alcudia, where you can spend the whole day in the water.
Speaking of water, Mallorca also boasts some of the best family-friendly beaches, complete with services, facilities, and total peace of mind thanks to miles of fine sand and safe, shallow waters. Safety and comfort are key when traveling with kids—and Mallorca delivers. With the right clothing for the season and all the essentials packed, a trip to the island becomes the perfect family holiday.
Shopping in Mallorca: From Local Products to Fashion Outlets
A few days of vacation can go a long way and allow you to make the most of your time. After an early morning bike ride through natural landscapes, some sunbathing on one of Mallorca’s beautiful beaches, and a delicious meal full of local flavors, it’s time to do a little shopping.
Whether you're picking up souvenirs crafted from the island’s finest local materials—like ceramics, leather, or glass—or treating yourself to something special from high-end brands, Mallorca has it all. And thanks to great discounts, even luxury shopping becomes more accessible. One of the best places for this is the Mallorca Fashion Outlet, where you’ll find premium brands offering clothing at up to 70% off. Can you imagine a better way to wrap up your holiday? Located just outside Palma and surrounded by nature, this shopping destination lets you combine tourism with fashion during your stay.
Villages, monuments, beaches, mountains, gastronomy, shopping—Mallorca and its capital, Palma, have everything on the must-see list for discovering and enjoying this quintessential holiday destination. It’s a journey where you won’t want to miss a thing, full of unforgettable experiences for all ages, dreamlike settings, and sunsets from the island’s most breathtaking natural viewpoints. That’s Mallorca—and that’s how it deserves to be discovered.