Mallorca, Spain had been on my list for YEARS and after finally visiting this past September with my husband, toddler, and baby, I can officially say I understand the hype. And, I think it is very warranted!
This island really does have a little bit of everything I love about a trip: beautiful beaches, charming little towns, incredible hotels, great food, mountains, Mediterranean views and plenty of opportunities to slow down and actually enjoy where you are.
I was most surprised by how big the island actually is. For reference, Mallorca is about the same size as Rhode Island! I was also worried it would be too touristy and while it was busy, September wasn’t bad and our hotels gave a lot of retreat from that!
You could spend your entire vacation driving around the island trying to see every beach, village and viewpoint. But if you’re planning a luxury or family trip, I don’t think you need to do that. Some of my favorite parts of our trip were simply being at the incredible hotels we picked, swimming with the kids, having a long lunch, spending an afternoon on the boat or sitting down for a really good dinner.
We spent part of our trip at Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor and part at La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel in Deià. They were completely different experiences and I’m actually really glad we did both because it gave me a much better perspective on how to plan a Mallorca trip. Four Seasons felt like a true beach resort vacation, while La Residencia gave us a beautiful mountain village experience.
So if you’re planning your first trip to Mallorca, Spain and aren’t quite sure where to start, I’ve put together everything I’d want to know before going, from where to stay and how to get around to the beaches, restaurants and things I wouldn’t skip in this Mallorca Travel Guide!
And since I plan luxury travel for a living, I’m also sharing the hotels I’d actually consider for a Mallorca trip, not just every five star hotel I can find. I would be glad to help you pick the right hotel for your trip or put together your whole Mallorca itinerary. Reach out me here to chat!
Mallorca, Spain at a Glance
Before we get into the fun stuff, here’s the quick version for those of you skimming!
| Mallorca Key Info | My Recs |
|---|---|
| Top 3 Hotels | • Four Seasons Mallorca at Formentor • Belmond La Residencia • Cap Rocat (adults only) |
| Must Do | • Beach & Cala hop • Private boat day • Spanish Cooking Class • Visit Deià + Valldemossa • Wine Tasting Tour |
| Restaurants | • El Olivo • Caminito • Tramuntana Grill • Ca’s Patró March • Sa Foradada |
| Places to Visit | • Palma • Deià • Valldemossa • Sóller + Port de Sóller |
| Getting Around | • Rental car for exploring • Driver or transfers for a resort focused trip |
| Ideal Length | • 5-7 nights |
| Getting There | • Fly into Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) • Most US travelers connect in Europe |
Want me to plan your Mallorca trip?
You can absolutely use this guide to plan Mallorca on your own, but if you’d rather have someone help you put all the pieces together, I’d love to help.
I can help you choose the right hotels and room types, build out your itinerary, arrange transfers and experiences, and make sure your time on the island actually makes sense for the way you want to travel. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a couples trip or a special celebration, I’ll help you create a Mallorca itinerary that feels thoughtful without being overpacked.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Mallorca?
If you ask me, I would choose the shoulder seasons for Mallorca whenever possible, especially September.
We went in September and had warm, sunny weather, beautiful beach days and fewer crowds than you would typically expect during the middle of summer. The water has had all summer to warm up, which makes September especially nice for swimming and boat days. It is truly my favorite month to travel in Europe and is when we take most of our own trips.
July and August are the busiest months and while I absolutely understand the appeal of a summer Mallorca vacation and sometimes you have to travel on summer break with kids, but you’re going to have more crowds and higher hotel rates.
Spring can also be beautiful if you’re more interested in exploring, hiking and enjoying the villages than having guaranteed beach weather. The weather might not be the warmest in May, but June should start feeling warm!
For a luxury trip, I’d especially look at May, June, September or early October depending on what you want to do.
Where to Stay in Mallorca
Mallorca is the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands and is much bigger than I think some first time visitors realize (myself included!). You have Palma in the southwest, the dramatic Serra de Tramuntana mountains running along the northwest coast, beautiful beaches and calas all around the island, and charming towns scattered throughout.
That means where you stay really matters.
If you want to wake up, walk to restaurants and spend your evenings wandering charming streets, I’d look at Palma or Deià. If you want a true luxury resort vacation where the beach and hotel are a big part of the experience, I’d look at Formentor. And if you want a mix of mountains, a pretty harbor and access to the coast, Sóller and Port de Sóller are worth considering.
Palma
Stay in Palma if you want restaurants, shopping, history and a more walkable city experience.
I would absolutely spend at least some time in Palma, even if your main goal is a beach vacation. There is beautiful architecture, great food, shopping and plenty to do without getting in a car.
It’s also a great place to start or end your trip for a night or two before basing in a different area.
Deià and the Serra de Tramuntana
This is the area I’d choose if you want the romantic, scenic Mallorca you probably have saved on Pinterest!
Think mountains, stone buildings, olive trees, beautiful views and a much slower pace. There are only 300 residents in the town so it’s very small and quaint!
La Residencia is here and staying in Deià gives you a really different experience from staying at a beach resort. One thing I loved was being able to explore the village during the day and then have the hotel as a peaceful place to come back to. Deià can get surprisingly busy with day trippers in the middle of the day, so there is something really special about staying overnight and seeing the village once everyone leaves.
Formentor and Pollenca
If your dream Mallorca trip looks more like mornings at the beach, afternoons by the pool, great dinners and maybe a boat day, I’d look here.
Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor is the obvious luxury choice in this area and is truly a destination resort. The hotel is remote, but that is also part of what makes it special. We did not need to leave during our stay because we had the beach, pools, restaurants, kids club and boat dock all right there.
Sóller and Port de Sóller
This is another great option if you want mountains and the Mediterranean without being quite as removed as Formentor.
You can explore Sóller, spend time around the harbor, take the historic train and use it as a base for exploring the western side of Mallorca.
Southeast Mallorca
If beaches and beautiful calas are your priority, I’d look toward the southeast.
This part of the island is home to some gorgeous swimming spots and a more relaxed coastal feel. It’s also where you’ll find Ikos Porto Petro, which could be a particularly good fit for families looking for an easy luxury resort experience. It is newer and all-inclusive luxury which is very convenient with kids and amore approachable price point.
The Best Luxury Hotels in Mallorca
This is where I would spend a little more time planning, because choosing the right hotel can completely change your Mallorca trip.
And you really need to book early!! We booked our hotels about 10 months in advance. As a travel advisor, I get price tracking alerts and while our rate did drop at La Residencia and I rebooked us at a better rate, Four Seasons only went up during that time!
I’ve personally stayed at both Four Seasons Mallorca and La Residencia with our kids and I would happily do both again. They are very different, though, so I wouldn’t say one is simply “better.” It really depends on the kind of trip you’re planning.
If you know me, you know I love really exceptional hotels so of course I love the hotel scene in Mallorca. There are several other hotels I would love to stay at so I will share those as well and who they are best for!
La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel
Check rates: Expedia | Booking.com
If you want a romantic, character filled hotel in the mountains, La Residencia is hard to beat.
This is a hotel I’d had on my list for years and it absolutely lived up to the picture in my head. It’s tucked into Deià with beautiful views of the mountains and village, and the history and character of the property were probably my favorite part.
We stayed in a Deluxe Suite with our toddler and baby, which gave us a separate living area that was really helpful with little kids. We also loved the food, the gardens and the overall feeling of the hotel. El Olivo was a standout meal for us (and we took the littles!)
La Residencia is not a beachfront hotel. You’ll need to drive to the beaches and calas, so I would choose this hotel because you want the Deià and Tramuntana experience, not because you’re looking for a beach resort.
For couples or a honeymoon, this would be very high on my list. For families, I still really enjoyed our stay, but I found Four Seasons easier with very young kids because of the sandy beach and larger family amenities. However, I do advocate for splitting hotels in Mallorca because the areas really are SO different!
Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor
Check rates: Expedia | Booking.com
Four Seasons Mallorca was one of those hotels where I was already thinking about when we could come back before we had even left!
We stayed for four nights with our two little ones, who were two years old and seven months at the time, and it worked incredibly well for our family while still feeling like a true luxury resort rather than a “family resort.”
The hotel sits directly on Formentor Beach, surrounded by pine trees and mountains. The beach is public, but Four Seasons has its own guest setup and service, and having that beautiful sandy beach right outside the hotel made a huge difference for us. We could go down for an hour, come back to the pool, let the kids nap and then head back out later without turning the beach into a whole production.
The food was also much better than I expected from a resort. Shima was a standout for us and Llum i Sal was exactly what I wanted for a relaxed lunch by the beach!
I also really appreciated how family friendly the hotel was without feeling overly kid focused. There is a family pool, adults only pool, kids club, teen club and plenty of activities, but there are also beautiful spaces for adults to relax.
One thing I would pay close attention to when booking Four Seasons Mallorca is your room type. We stayed in a suite with our two kids and having that extra space made a huge difference. Some of the room categories are much better suited to couples than families, especially if you want a little separation once the kids are asleep. I would absolutely ask about the different room layouts before booking rather than assuming all of the rooms will work the same way. If you reach out to me, I can share more and help you book the right room with VIP perks inside of Four Seasons Preferred Program!
The biggest thing to know is that Four Seasons Mallorca is remote.
You are coming here for the resort experience. If you want to spend every day exploring Palma, Sóller and Deià, I would choose a different base or split your stay between two hotels.
For us that was actually part of the appeal. With a toddler and baby, having a beautiful place where we could stay put for most of the day made the trip so relaxing!
Planning a Mallorca trip? I’d love to help you choose the right hotel and book your stay. I can compare the best options for your dates and preferences and add any available perks at no extra cost to you which includes free breakfast, $100 hotel credit and complimentary upgrades!
Grand Hotel Son Net
See the hotel: Expedia
For a historic finca experience in the Tramuntana, Grand Hotel Son Net is one high on my list. If you like a good design hotel with tons of prints and patterns, you will LOVE this!
This is a very different experience from Four Seasons. Instead of a beach resort, think countryside, mountains, gardens and a more intimate sense of place.
What really draws me to Son Net is the setting and the history. The hotel sits on a private estate dating back to the 17th century in the Tramuntana Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the interiors have this incredible maximalist, historic feel that you just don’t get at a lot of luxury hotels.
Honestly, photos don’t really do this one justice. There is so much detail and character throughout the property, and I feel like you would be pulling out your camera constantly.
The overall atmosphere is quiet and a little more adult focused, but families are welcome too. I’d look at Son Net if you want a beautiful countryside retreat where the hotel itself is a big part of the experience.
Cap Rocat
If you’re looking for a beautiful coastal hotel with a more intimate feel, Cap Rocat is another one I love. This one was really high on my list except it is adults-only! It would be perfect for a couples trip or honeymoon in Mallorca. I love the suites built right into the cliff with private pools.
I’d put this on the list for travelers who want the Mediterranean setting without necessarily wanting a large resort experience.
This would be especially appealing if you’re looking for something romantic and relaxed and want the hotel to feel like a destination in itself.
Es Princep
Check it out: Expedia
For Palma, Es Princep is one of the hotels I’d look at first.
The location is a huge part of the appeal. You’re right in the Old Town, so you can walk to restaurants, shopping and so much of what you want to see in Palma, while also being right along the sea and Palma Bay. It’s also incredibly convenient for the airport so it works well at the beginning or end of a trip!
And then there is the rooftop! The rooftop pool and bar have beautiful views over Palma Bay and the service is attentive with great food. I think this is one of those hotels that makes a lot of sense if you want to spend a few nights in Palma before or after a more resort focused stay.
You get the convenience of being able to walk everywhere, but you still have a beautiful hotel to come back to and a rooftop where you can relax.
Jumeirah Mallorca
View more: Booking.com
Jumeirah Mallorca is perched above Port de Sóller and the views are a huge part of the experience.
The hotel sits high above the water, so you get some STUNNING Mediterranean views from the rooms, restaurants and pools, and the sunsets are a big part of the appeal!
The atmosphere does lean more adult, with things like DJ sunsets and an adults only infinity pool, but I wouldn’t rule it out for families. There is a kids club, a family pool overlooking the sea, a large spa and a shuttle into town, so you can have a little bit of everything.
I would look at Jumeirah if you want a resort where you can enjoy the hotel but also want to be able to get out and explore Port de Sóller and the surrounding area. This is a great options at a better price point that Belmond or FS!
Son Bunyola
Check it out: Expedia
Son Bunyola is another one for travelers who love a beautiful setting and a strong sense of place.
The hotel is part of a stunning UNESCO World Heritage setting in the Tramuntana and feels like a countryside escape!
The hotel has 26 rooms and suites, along with two restaurants, an outdoor pool and spa treatments, and the original estate includes three villas. The villas are really great for families or groups because they offer much more of a home like experience, including private pools.
I could also see Son Bunyola being incredible for a wedding, family celebration or group buyout where having privacy and space really matters.
There are so many beautiful details here, from the stone arches to the historic tower and manicured grounds. If you love hotels that feel connected to their surroundings rather than like they could be anywhere in the world, this is one I’d keep on your list.
Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra
See more on: Expedia
This is one of the newer luxury options I’d have on my radar for Mallorca. Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra opened in 2026 and it is so chic!! It is a particularly good option if you’re planning a trip and want to stay somewhere brand new or just love the brand.
The design is elegant without feeling overly formal, and the rooms are spacious, with some categories offering private plunge pools.
The setting is another big draw, with the hotel positioned along the coast and surrounded by Mediterranean scenery.
For someone who wants a newer luxury resort experience with beautiful design and plenty of space, this might be for you!
Ikos Porto Petro
Check rates: Expedia
If you’re traveling with kids and want an easier vacation where a lot of the logistics are taken care of, I would absolutely consider Ikos Porto Petro.
An elevated all inclusive can make a lot of sense for a family trip, especially when you don’t want to spend every evening figuring out where to eat or how to get everyone packed up and out the door.
I think this is a particularly good option if your idea of a Mallorca vacation is more about slowing down, enjoying the resort and having everything feel easy rather than spending every day driving around the island.
Not sure where you should stay in Mallorca? This is exactly the kind of decision I love helping with. Tell me what you’re looking for, how long you’re going and who you’re traveling with, and I can help you narrow down the best area and hotel for your trip.
And if you decide to book, I can take care of the hotel reservation and look for available perks like free upgrades, hotel credit, and complimentary breakfast! All at no extra cost to you 🙂
Which Mallorca Hotel Is Right for You?
If I were helping you plan your Mallorca trip, here’s what I think each is right for. There’s more to it than this so I would be glad to chat with you to decide and help book your stay with any VIP perks! Inquire here for my free hotel booking club or browse my client portal (just request access and you can use it anytime around the world to book with my perks!)
La Residencia if you want a romantic stay in the mountains with lots of character and easy access to Deià and the Serra de Tramuntana.
Four Seasons Mallorca if the beach and having a true luxury resort experience are the priority. Especially great for little kids.
Grand Hotel Son Net if you love historic properties, beautiful maximalist interiors and somewhere that feels completely tucked away in the mountains.
Es Princep if you want to stay in Palma, walk to restaurants and shops, and still have beautiful views of the bay from the hotel.
Jumeirah Mallorca if you want incredible Mediterranean and mountain views and a hotel that feels a little more adult focused.
Son Bunyola if you want to get away from it all and stay somewhere with a real sense of place, especially if you’re traveling with a group or want the privacy of a villa.
Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra if you want to be one of the first to experience one of Mallorca’s newest luxury hotels.
Ikos Porto Petro if you’re looking for an easy family vacation where a lot of the details are taken care of for you. Beautiful Mediterranean feel across the resort.
Cap Rocat if you’d rather have a smaller, more intimate coastal hotel experience. Perfect for couples and honeymooners!
And if you’re going for a week or longer, I actually really like the idea of splitting your stay between two different parts of the island.
We did Four Seasons and La Residencia and I thought it worked so well because they felt completely different. Four Seasons gave us the beach and resort experience, while La Residencia gave us the mountains, the village of Deià and a much more traditional Mallorca feel. It honestly felt a little like two different vacations in one trip, which I loved!
My main tip is to book your luxury hotels as early as you can to get the best rates and room type options! Hotels book quickly in peak summer especially the smaller ones.
Want help choosing your Mallorca hotel?
Mallorca has so many beautiful hotels, but the right one really depends on how you want to spend your time. I’d love to help you narrow down the options and find the best fit for your trip.
When you book your hotel through me, there’s no extra cost to you, and I can often add extra perks like daily breakfast, hotel credits and potential upgrades when available.
How to Get to Mallorca
For most travelers coming from the US, you’ll fly into Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) which is the island’s main airport and is located just outside Palma.
There are not usually nonstop flights from the US, so you’ll most likely connect somewhere in Europe. We flew Delta (on points!) through Madrid and spent a few nights there before heading to Mallorca! The only direct flights from the US to Mallorca currently are on United from Newark, but that is always changing!
If you’re already traveling through Europe, Mallorca is especially easy to add onto a larger trip. There are frequent flights from cities throughout Spain and Europe, and the flight from Barcelona is very short too.
One thing I really like about Mallorca is that once you arrive, you don’t have a long transfer ahead of you unless you’re staying in one of the more remote parts of the island. Palma is very close to the airport (15 mins), while places like Deià, Sóller and Formentor take longer but are still very manageable. We went straight to Formentor and it took 1.5 hours and then Deia was only 45 minutes on our way back to the airport!
Do You Need a Rental Car in Mallorca?
If you’re planning to explore beyond Palma, I would definitely consider renting a car in Mallorca!
Mallorca is much bigger than it looks on a map and some of the places you’ll probably want to visit are spread all over the island.
That said, I don’t think you need a car for every trip!
If you’re staying in Palma for a few nights, you can easily get around without one. The Old Town is very walkable, and there are restricted driving areas in parts of the historic center, so having a car can actually be more of a hassle. If you’re staying at a resort like Four Seasons Mallorca at Formentor or Jumeirah Mallorca, you may spend a lot of your time at the hotel anyway.
For our trip, having a car made the most sense because we were splitting our stay between different areas and wanted the flexibility to explore. Plus, with kids, it was just easier to have our own car and be able to stop at grocery stores, make spontaneous stops and come and go on our own schedule. Without kids, I might have just had the hotel arrange a driver instead. It really depends on how you want to travel, and if you’re planning a trip and aren’t sure, I can definitely help you figure out what makes the most sense.
Just keep in mind that driving in some parts of Mallorca is not exactly what I’d call relaxing. The mountain roads around the Serra de Tramuntana can be narrow and winding, but the roads were actually very nice and well maintained. Nothing ever felt treacherous to me!
I also wouldn’t choose Enterprise at the Mallorca airport. Their rental location is offsite and requires a shuttle, which I didn’t think was worth the extra step, especially traveling with kids and luggage. I use Discover Cars to compare options and find the best rates/providers.
One other thing to keep in mind is the size of your rental car. Some of the roads through the Serra de Tramuntana and into smaller villages are very narrow, so I would go with something manageable rather than automatically choosing a large SUV!
The Best Things to Do in Mallorca
One of my favorite things about Mallorca is that you really don’t need to pack your days with activities.
If you’re staying at a beautiful hotel, I’d for sure build in some time to enjoy it!
We had days where we went to the beach, came back for a swim at the pool, had a long lunch and basically didn’t do much else. With two little kids, that was especially nice. But there are also plenty of places worth getting out and exploring.
Here are the things I’d put highest on my list for a first trip:
1. Explore Palma Old Town
Even if you’re staying somewhere else on the island, I think Palma is worth at least half a day. We had lunch and explored Palma right after we arrived and it was a great way to do it. We do kind of wish we spent a night here to eat at some of the really amazing restaurants. We were there on a Monday and most places were closed for lunch!
The Old Town is full of beautiful architecture, little streets, shops, restaurants and historic buildings. It’s easy to walk around, and I actually think it’s a great place to just wander.
This is also where I’d combine a few of the things below, including the cathedral, shopping and lunch.
2. Visit Palma Cathedral
The Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma is one of those places that really is worth seeing in person. I could not stop saying WOW! It is so massive and just stunning.
It sits right on the water in the heart of Palma, and the scale of the cathedral is impressive even if you’re not someone who normally seeks out churches when traveling.
I would plan to walk around the surrounding area rather than making this a quick stop just to see the cathedral. There is plenty to explore nearby, and this is one of those parts of Palma where I think wandering is half the fun!
✅ You can get skip the line tickets in advance to avoid the lines once you get there!
3. Go Shopping in Palma
Palma is also where I’d save some room in your suitcase!
There are plenty of independent boutiques, Spanish brands and beautiful home and fashion shops throughout the Old Town. It’s not necessarily a shopping destination in the same way Paris or Milan is, but I found it much more fun to browse than I expected.
I would plan on walking rather than trying to drive from shop to shop. You can easily combine shopping with the cathedral, lunch and a little wandering through the Old Town.
4. Spend Some Time in Deià
Deià was one of my favorite parts of Mallorca. Like please bury me there!
The village is tiny, beautiful and tucked into the Tramuntana Mountains, with stone houses climbing the hillside and incredible views in every direction.
This is one of the reasons I loved staying at La Residencia. Being able to walk into the village and then come back to the hotel and enjoy the gardens and property made the whole experience feel very different from staying at a beach resort.
Even if you aren’t staying at La Residencia, I’d make time for Deià if you’re exploring the northwest part of the island. Don’t miss it!!
5. Visit Valldemossa
Valldemossa is another beautiful mountain village that is easy to combine with Deià. You’ll pass it on your way.
It’s known for its stone buildings, flower filled streets and location in the Serra de Tramuntana. It’s a popular stop, so I’d go earlier in the day if you want a quieter experience.
You don’t need an entire day here. I think a couple hours is plenty, especially if you’re combining it with another village or a long lunch.
6. Explore Sóller and Port de Sóller
Sóller and Port de Sóller are another area I’d consider adding to a Mallorca itinerary.
The historic town of Sóller sits inland in a valley surrounded by mountains, while Port de Sóller is down on the coast.
If you have time, I like the idea of spending part of the day in Sóller before heading down to the port for lunch or an afternoon by the water.
7. Spend a Day at the Beaches and Calas
Mallorca has some truly beautiful beaches, but one thing I learned on our trip is that not all Mallorca beaches are created equal when you’re traveling with young kids.
Some of the most famous calas (coves) require a hike, stairs or a little more effort to reach. Absolutely beautiful. But easy with two small children? Not always.
If you’re traveling with kids, I’d choose at least a couple of beaches where the logistics are easy and more fun for them.
8. Have a Boat Day
If your budget allows for it, I would absolutely consider booking a private boat for at least half a day! The boat day is always my favorite day on any trip!
This was one of my favorite things we did in Mallorca and it was especially nice with the kids because we could set our own schedule.
You can swim, stop at quieter coves, have lunch on board if you wanted and see parts of the coastline that you simply can’t experience from the road.
With little kids, I would pay attention to the actual boat you’re booking. We chose one with taller sides and a stable setup, which made me feel much more comfortable having a baby and toddler on board!
This is also one of those experiences where I think having a travel advisor help can be worthwhile. There are a lot of boats available, but they’re not all the same in terms of size, comfort, crew or what is included.
9. Hike Through the Serra de Tramuntana
The Serra de Tramuntana is one of the biggest reasons I think Mallorca feels so different from other Mediterranean beach destinations.
The mountain range runs along the northwest coast of the island and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can hike through trails, see the mountain villages, stop for lunch, visit viewpoints and see a completely different side of Mallorca from the beaches.
10. Have a Long Lunch
I love a long lunch by the ocean!
I’d plan at least a couple of meals where you don’t have anywhere else you need to be afterward. Order the local specialties, have a glass of wine, sit outside if you can and let lunch take a few hours.
This is also where I think Mallorca works so well for a luxury trip. You can have a beautiful hotel, a great restaurant and a gorgeous setting without feeling like you need to constantly be doing something.
The Best Beaches and Calas in Mallorca
Mallorca has so many beautiful beaches that you could easily spend your entire trip trying to see them all. I wouldn’t recommend doing that, though!
I’d pick a few based on where you’re staying and how much effort you’re willing to put into getting there. Some are easy to access and great for a full beach day, while others are tiny coves that are more about the scenery!
And if you’re traveling with kids, definitely pay attention to the logistics. Some of Mallorca’s most famous calas involve steep walks, stairs or limited parking, which can make them a little less appealing with a stroller and beach gear. Beach/cala hopping here is definitely better suited for families with older kids.
Playa de Formentor
This was one of my favorite beaches because of how easy it was for us with the kids.
We stayed at Four Seasons Mallorca at Formentor, which sits directly on the beach, so we could go back and forth from the hotel whenever we wanted. It’s a beautiful long, sandy beach surrounded by mountains, and for a family trip, having that easy access made a huge difference.
Even if you’re not staying at Four Seasons, Playa de Formentor is one I’d put on your list since it is a public beach. And was quite busy!
Cala Deià
Cala Deià is one of the most famous little coves in Mallorca and is especially beautiful because of its setting between the mountains and rocky coastline.
It’s small and much more rustic, but that’s part of the appeal. I would combine it with a day exploring Deià rather than making the drive just for the beach.
Caló des Moro
If you’ve seen photos of Mallorca on Instagram or Pinterest, you’ve probably seen Caló des Moro.
The water is incredibly clear and the setting is gorgeous, but this is one where I’d look into the current access and parking situation before going. It can require more effort to reach than the photos make it look.
Cala Llombards
Cala Llombards is another beautiful southeast Mallorca beach with clear turquoise water and rocky surroundings.
It’s a good one to combine with other beaches in the area if you’re staying in southeast Mallorca and want to spend a day exploring the coast.
Es Trenc
Es Trenc is a completely different beach experience. It’s a long stretch of sandy beach with clear water and a more open feel than Mallorca’s tiny calas.
If you’re looking for somewhere where you can actually settle in for a few hours rather than hike down to a tiny cove, you will like this one.
Sa Calobra
Sa Calobra is as much about the journey as the beach itself.
The drive through the Serra de Tramuntana is beautiful, with plenty of dramatic mountain scenery along the way. The beach is tucked between huge rocky cliffs and feels completely different from the sandy beaches around Formentor or Es Trenc.
The road is winding, so if you don’t love mountain driving, this may not be one to prioritize. But if you enjoy scenic drives and exploring the Tramuntana, it’s worth it.
Cala Mondragó
Cala Mondragó is another beautiful option in southeast Mallorca and is surrounded by protected natural scenery.
I’d add this one to a southeast Mallorca beach day rather than driving across the island just to visit it
The Best Restaurants in Mallorca
I wouldn’t try to make a massive restaurant list for Mallorca because where you eat will depend a lot on where you’re staying.
These are the restaurants that stood out to me and the ones I’d have on my radar when planning a trip!
El Olivo
Located at La Residencia in Deià, El Olivo was a standout for me. The restaurant is housed in a 500 year old olive press overloking Deia and the mounatins. It’s romantic, breathtaking and the food was just as good as the setting.
The setting is beautiful, the food is special and the whole experience feels like it belongs in Deià. If you’re staying at La Residencia, I would absolutely make a reservation here.
Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, this is one I’d consider if you’re planning a day around Deià. But, you need to plan in advance because this is the hardest reservation to get and hotel guests get first priority.
Shima
Shima at Four Seasons Mallorca was another favorite from our trip.
It’s a Japanese restaurant right at the resort and it was some of the best sushi in such a fun venue!
We ate here with the kids and had a great experience, which is always a win when you’re traveling with little ones. They had such good kids menu items and even kid friendly chopsticks which my toddler loved using.
Tramuntana Grill
Tramuntana Grill is another option to look at if you are in Deia. It’s at La Residencia as well and easier to get into that El Olivo.
It’s a more relaxed choice and a good fit for a casual lunch or dinner when you want something easy rather than a long formal meal.
Ca’s Patró March
If you’re exploring Cala Deià, Ca’s Patró March is one of the restaurants I’d have on your list.
The setting is a big part of the appeal, right on the water at the cove. This is definitely a place that’s instagram famous and it’s hard to get a reservation. And, I do not think you can get one for four people!
I thought we might go on our arrival day into Deia and I’m glad we didn’t. However, I did try to get a reservation when they opened 7 days in advance at midnight local time and I could have gotten a reservation for two people, but not for four. I don’t think they just filled up, I just think they only take tables for 2! You can still go with a group, just be there before they open to put your name down.
Foradada Mar Restaurant
Foradada Mar Restaurant is another very scenic restaurant in the Tramuntana and is especially known for its setting. There are a couple spots, but the one by the water you actually have to hike down towards which is really unique. We opted against that with kids, but would have been right up my alley if we were solo!
La Malvasia
If you’re staying in Palma, La Malvasia is a good one. We went for lunch and had some great fish, greek salad, and sangria. I liked that we could eat outside and soak up Palma since it was a short trip. What sold it for me was that they have a winery and the wine was good!
El Caminito
El Caminito is another Palma restaurant I’d add to your itinerary! I wanted to go here, but they weren’t open on Mondays when we were there. I would avoid Mondays in Palma if you are a foodie because so many places were closed in even in season!
How Many Days Do You Need in Mallorca?
Five to seven nights would be my sweet spot for a first trip to Mallorca. We did 5 nights, because we spent 3 in Madrid, but I wished we had planned for my time. I really didn’t quite understand how big the island was.
You can certainly visit Mallorca for three or four nights, especially if you’re adding it onto another European trip or if you are based in Europe. But if you’re flying all the way from the US, I would stay longer if you can.
There is enough on the island to fill a week without feeling rushed, especially if you split your stay between two areas!
Our 5 Day Mallorca Itinerary
If you’re looking for a starting point for planning a Mallorca trip, this is pretty much exactly how we spent our five days. We split our stay between Four Seasons Mallorca at Formentor and La Residencia in Deià, which gave us a nice combination of beach, resort time, mountains and village exploring.
We were traveling with our toddler and baby, so this itinerary is definitely not designed to be go, go, go. We built in plenty of time to enjoy the hotels, which I think is especially important when you’re staying at properties this nice! The hotels were kind of the destination for us!
Day 1: Palma + Four Seasons Mallorca
We arrived from Madrid around 10am and picked up our rental car at the airport and headed into Palma for lunch at La Malvasia.
After lunch, we walked around the Old Town, window shopped, and visited Palma Cathedral before making our way north to Formentor. It was a nice way to see a little bit of Palma without dedicating an entire day to the city.
Then we checked into Four Seasons Mallorca at Formentor and settled in.
We had dinner at Mel, the main hotel restaurant and it was really good with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. I had the risotto and fried artichokes were so good!
Day 2: Beach + Pool Day
We spent the day doing exactly what I wanted to do at a beach resort: not much!
We enjoyed the beach and pool at Four Seasons, which was especially easy with the kids because everything was right there. We could go from the beach to the pool to our room without making a production out of it.
We had a beachside luncha at Llum i Sal which was incredible right along the beach. We got the seafood paella which was incredible so highly recommend!!
We spent the afternoon at the resort pool and then got ready for dinner which was at Shima. Shima is the hotels Japanese restaurant with incredible sushi rolls and a great kids menu too!
Shima was one of my favorite meals of the trip and it was also nice not having to get back in the car after dinner! We just walked right back to our room after a really great meal.
Day 3: Beach + Boat Day in Mallorca
We had another slow morning at the beach and pool and then had lunch poolside.
In the afternoon, we headed out for a private boat trip. This ended up being one of my favorite parts of the trip because we got to see another side of Mallorca which we wouldn’t have really gotten to do otherwise with a baby and toddler in tow!
We swam, cruised along the coast and just enjoyed being out on the water. Having our own boat also made the day much easier with the kids because we weren’t working around anyone else’s schedule.
After we got back, we kept dinner very easy and stayed at the hotel. We had dinner at the lobby bar and lounge which is in this stunning outdoor terrace with amazing views. We got those fried artichokes again, plus pasta and a few other things to share.
Day 4: Four Seasons to Deià, Mallorca
We had breakfast and enjoyed some more time at Four Seasons before checking out and transferring to Deià. It was about an hour and a half drive and our kids napped thankfully! We drove through Valdemossa on our way which was so picturesque!
Once we arrived, we checked into La Residencia and had lunch at Cafe Miro at the hotel. Then we explored Deia and checked out the cute shops.
The change of scenery was one of my favorite parts of splitting the trip between the two hotels. We went from a beautiful beach resort surrounded by sand and water to a historic mountain hotel surrounded by olive trees and the Tramuntana landscape. It really did feel like two completely different vacations.
We had dinner at the hotel’s Tramuntana Grill which was so good with an incredible sunset view over the town.
Day 5: A Slow Day in Deià and La Residencia
We kept our last day much slower and spent most of it enjoying La Residencia. It is such a special hotel that we didn’t want to leave. I do think we needed another day here because of that!
We took advantage of the kids club in the morning, spent time at the pool and relaxed! With two little kids, having a day where we weren’t trying to get anywhere was very welcome.
For lunch, we considered heading down to Cala Deià for Ca’s Patró March. We didn’t end up making it there on this trip because we didn’t want to leave the hotel on our last day!
In the afternoon, we did some shopping in Deià and relaxed on a suite terrace while our children napped! Then headed back to the poo.
Dinner at El Olivo at La Residencia was truly a highlight of the trip. It is the most romantic restaurant probably anywhere and we took our kids! The staff was so welcoming and our kids did great considering it was a 3 our tasting menu!
What I Loved About Our Mallorca Itinerary
Looking back, I really loved the pace of this trip and hotel picks. We got to see Palma, spend plenty of time at the beach, have a boat day and experience Deià without feeling like we were constantly packing up and moving around.
If you’re traveling without kids, you could easily fit more sightseeing into these five days. But if you’re traveling with young children, I honestly wouldn’t add much. The hotels are a big part of the experience in Mallorca, and I would leave yourself enough time to actually enjoy them!
Mallorca in 7 Days
Honestly, after our five night trip, I really wished we had stayed longer. A full week would have been ideal.
If we had added two more nights, I would have spent one more night in Deià and one night in Palma. That extra night in Deià would have given us more time to actually explore the area instead of feeling like we were squeezing everything into one day. We could have done a hike in the Serra de Tramuntana, taken a day trip to Sóller, had a longer afternoon at the hotel or even just spent a full day at the spa.
Then I would have finished the trip with a night in Palma since we had an 8am flight! I loved what we saw of the city and I think having a full day and night there would have been a nice way to end the trip.
If I were planning the same trip again, I would probably do three or four nights at Four Seasons Mallorca, three nights at La Residencia and one night in Palma.
That would give you plenty of time for the beach and pool, a boat day, the mountains and villages around Deià, some downtime at La Residencia and a little more time to explore Palma without constantly packing up and getting back in the car.
And if you’re flying home from Palma, ending the trip there makes the logistics especially easy.
My Mallorca Travel Tips for First Time Visitors
A few things I wish I had known before our trip:
Don’t underestimate the size of the island. Mallorca may look manageable on a map, but driving between areas takes longer than you might expect.
Don’t try to see everything. Pick a couple of areas and actually enjoy them.
Build in hotel time. Especially if you’re spending the money on a beautiful luxury hotel, don’t feel like you need to leave every morning at 8 AM.
Think carefully about where you stay. This is probably the biggest piece of advice I’d give. Palma, Deià, Formentor and the southeast all give you a very different experience.
Book restaurants ahead. Especially during the busier summer months, I would not wait until you’re on the island to figure out where you’re eating.
Book your car ahead too. If you know you’re going to rent one, I wouldn’t leave it until the last minute. You want to make sure you reserve car seats, get an automatic car if you can’t drive manual, and get a good option.
Bring comfortable shoes. There are plenty of cobblestones, hills and uneven streets, especially in the villages!
Don’t plan every beach day around Instagram. Some of the famous calas are beautiful but not necessarily the easiest or most enjoyable option, especially with little kids. What was right for someone else’s trip may not be for you.
Consider shoulder season. May, June, September and October can be wonderful times to visit if you want warm weather without the absolute peak of summer.
Mallorca FAQs
Is Mallorca worth visiting?
1000% yes! Mallorca has enough variety that you can have a true beach vacation, a mountain getaway, a city break or a combination of all three. That variety is probably what I loved most about it. I can’t wait to go back!
Is Mallorca good for families?
Yes. I was a little curious about how easy Mallorca would be with two very young kids, but we had a great experience. We’d go back!
The key is choosing your hotel carefully. A resort with an easy beach, family pool and kids club is going to feel very different from a small mountain hotel where you’ll need to drive to the beach.
Is Mallorca good for couples and honeymoons?
Definitely. In fact, I think Mallorca is one of those destinations that works especially well for a honeymoon because you can combine beautiful hotels, beaches, great food and charming towns without needing to move around a lot.
For a Mallorca honeymoon, I’d personally look closely at La Residencia, Cap Rocat, Son Bunyola and the other luxury properties in the Tramuntana depending on what kind of experience you’re after. I would be glad to help you book your honeymoon and pick the right hotel.
How long should you spend in Mallorca?
For a first trip, I’d aim for five to seven nights if you can.
If you’re already traveling around Europe, three or four nights can work. But if Mallorca is the main destination or you are traveling overseas, I’d stay longer and split your time between two areas.
Do you need a car in Mallorca?
Not necessarily, but I would want one if you’re planning to explore several different parts of the island. For most people, I would probably recommend it!
You can easily visit Palma without one and some resorts can arrange transfers and excursions. But a car gives you much more flexibility, especially around the Tramuntana and smaller villages.
What is the best area to stay in Mallorca?
There isn’t one answer to this because it really depends on the trip you’re planning.
Stay in Palma if you want restaurants, shopping and a city experience.
Choose Deià or the Serra de Tramuntana for mountains, villages and a romantic escape.
Choose Formentor for a true beach resort vacation.
Choose Sóller or Port de Sóller if you want a village and coastal experience with easy access to the mountains.
Look at southeast Mallorca if beaches and smaller coves are your priority.
Is Mallorca expensive?
It can be, especially during the summer and when you’re staying at the island’s luxury hotels.
But you don’t have to make every part of the trip expensive. There are plenty of beautiful beaches, villages and scenic drives that don’t cost anything, and you can choose where to splurge!
For me, I’d rather spend more on the hotel and a few really good meals then do free things like hikes, beaches, etc.
What to Wear in Mallorca?
I don’t think you need me to tell you what to pack for a Mallorca trip. You’ll want all of your best summer outfits, swimwear and chic coverups for the resorts. But if you want to see what I wore, you can see the round up here of my Mallorca Outfits!
A few more niche things I would want to pack: great shoes for exploring the calas (a sturdy sandal with a strap for climbing rocky terrain, water shoes for kids!), comfortable sneakers for hiking trails, plenty of sun protection (cute has, spf, etc) and appropriate attire if you are visiting the Palma Cathedral!
Here is what I wore in Mallorca, plus a few faves!
The Wrap Up: Mallorca Travel Guide
Mallorca ended up being a trip where I left feeling like I could have stayed another week!
We had beautiful hotel days, long lunches, beach afternoons, a boat day and time to wander around the villages. Traveling with a toddler and a baby definitely meant we moved at a slower pace, but honestly, I think that made us enjoy Mallorca even more!
And if you want help choosing between the hotels or figuring out how to combine Mallorca with the rest of a European trip, that’s exactly the kind of trip planning I love helping with! I can help you narrow down the right hotels, arrange VIP perks and build out the itinerary around what you actually want to do.
Save it for later! | Mallorca Travel Guide for Luxury Travelers
Leave a Reply