The Mediterranean jewel of Mallorca captivates visitors with its stunning coastline, rich history, and dramatic mountain landscapes. From the Gothic grandeur of Palma to hidden coves with crystal-clear waters, this Balearic island offers an enchanting mix of experiences. A 6-day journey allows you to savor Mallorca's diverse attractions while maintaining a comfortable pace.
Let's craft the perfect itinerary that balances must-see landmarks with secret spots that most tourists miss, ensuring you experience the authentic soul of this remarkable island.
Success in Mallorca starts with strategic planning. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer ideal conditions with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer brings perfect beach weather, but expect higher prices and busy attractions.
Base yourself in Palma for the first two nights, then consider splitting your stay between Port de Pollença and Porto Cristo. This arrangement minimizes travel time and lets you experience different aspects of island life. For those seeking exotic vacations, Mallorca offers a blend of stunning beaches, historic charm, and breathtaking landscapes, making it a top choice for travelers craving both adventure and relaxation. Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring, though the public bus network is reliable for major routes. Book your car in advance during peak season, and opt for a smaller vehicle as many village streets are narrow.
Start your Mallorcan adventure in the capital's historic center. Begin early at La Seu (Palma Cathedral), whose golden sandstone walls glow in the morning light. This architectural masterpiece showcases various styles, from Gothic foundations to modernist touches by Antoni Gaudí. Arrive before 10 AM to avoid crowds and capture stunning photos.
After the cathedral, walk to the adjacent Royal Palace of La Almudaina. This former Islamic fort transformed into a royal residence reflects Mallorca's layered history. The palace gardens offer breathtaking views of the bay and marina.
Break for lunch at the historic Bar Bosch, famous for its traditional llonguets (Mallorcan sandwiches). The outdoor terrace provides excellent people-watching opportunities.
Spend your afternoon wandering through the Jewish Quarter's labyrinthine streets. Stop at Can Joan de S'Aigo, Palma's oldest ice cream parlor, for their signature almond ice cream.
End your day in Santa Catalina, Palma's trendy neighborhood. The Mercado de Santa Catalina buzzes with local life until early evening. Dine at El Camino for exceptional Spanish tapas; their seafood dishes showcase the day's catch.
The UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountain range reveals Mallorca's dramatic natural beauty. Leave Palma early for Valldemossa, a beautiful village where Chopin spent a winter composing in the Royal Carthusian Monastery. Tour the monastery's historic cells and enjoy the panoramic mountain views from its gardens.
Drive the scenic route to Deià, an artistic haven perched above the sea. Visit Robert Graves' house-museum to understand why this village attracted countless creative souls. For lunch, book a table at Restaurant Sebastian, known for its Mediterranean fusion cuisine.
Afternoon brings you to Sóller, accessible via a thrilling mountain road with hairpin turns. Take the historic wooden tram from Sóller to Port de Sóller, a journey that winds through orange groves. Time your arrival for sunset at the port's lighthouse, followed by dinner at Nautilus, where fresh seafood meets spectacular views. Mallorca's east coast boasts some of the Mediterranean's most beautiful beaches. Begin in Cala d'Or, a sophisticated resort town with five distinct coves. Cala Gran offers the best morning swimming conditions and convenient facilities. May is also a great time to visit, as the weather is warm but not too hot, and the best beaches in Mayare less crowded, allowing for a more relaxing experience. Mid-morning, drive to Caló des Moro, arguably the island's most photogenic beach. The 15-minute walk from the parking area deters crowds, rewarding visitors with turquoise waters framed by dramatic cliffs. Pack water and snacks as there are no facilities here.
Late afternoon, head to Porto Cristo to explore the fishing village's authentic charm. Book ahead for a table at La Magrana, where local chef Tomeu creates innovative dishes with island ingredients. Their lobster rice draws visitors from across Mallorca.
Northern Mallorca combines rugged coastal beauty with historic towns. Start early at Cap de Formentor, driving the spectacular lighthouse road before tourist buses arrive. The viewpoint at Es Colomer offers jaw-dropping vistas of cliffs plunging into the Mediterranean. For those who appreciate sustainable tourism, Mallorca is also gaining recognition as one of the eco-friendly travel destinations, with efforts to preserve its natural beauty and promote responsible travel. Visit Pollença by midmorning. Climb the 365 Calvari Steps for panoramic views, then explore the Sunday market if your timing aligns. Cool off with lunch at Il Giardino, tucked away in a converted monastery garden.
Dedicate your afternoon to Alcúdia's perfectly preserved medieval walls and Roman ruins. Walk the complete circuit of ramparts before exploring the narrow streets within. End your day with dinner at Jardín, sampling their innovative tasting menu that combines Mallorcan traditions with modern techniques.
Artà's hilltop fortress, Sant Salvador Sanctuary, provides a magnificent morning destination. The walk up offers increasingly beautiful views of the countryside. Time your visit for the Tuesday market to experience local life at its most vibrant.
Reserve afternoon tickets for the Drach Caves, an underground wonderland of stalactites and stalagmites. The classical music concert performed on an illuminated underground lake creates an unforgettable experience.
Evening presents the perfect opportunity for authentic Mallorcan experiences. Book a cooking class at Deborah's in Porto Cristo, where you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes like sopas mallorquinas and tumbet.
Start your final day at Mercat de l'Olivar in Palma, watching locals select premium seafood and produce. Join the breakfast crowd for ensaïmadas at Ca'n Joan de s'Aigo's original location.
Discover Cala Varques, a lesser-known beach reached by a 20-minute walk through pine forests. This unspoiled cove offers excellent snorkeling and shade under natural rock formations.
Conclude your Mallorcan adventure at Marc Fosh, the island's most celebrated restaurant. Their tasting menu showcases local ingredients through a contemporary lens, providing a fitting finale to your gastronomic journey. - Book popular restaurants and activities at least a month ahead during peak season
- Learn basic Catalan phrases; locals appreciate the effort
- Many shops close for siesta (2-5 PM) except in tourist areas
- Carry cash for small villages and local markets
- Purchase travel insurance that covers adventure activities
- Consider public transportation on market days when parking becomes challenging
This itinerary covers the most wonderful places that you can find in Mallorca and to see them all, you will need at least a week. If you have less time, I would suggest you stay a day in Palma and then either pick a nice Finca close to Valldemossa to explore the Serra de Tramuntana or one that is closer to Santanyí or Felanitxt o to explore the Southern half of Mallorca.
If there is one thing you don’t want to do when traveling to Mallorca for the very first time, is to visit it during the peak season (June, July, and August). During these months, the island will be flooded with tourists from all over the world who seek to do the very same thing as you go on vacation.
What to pack for a trip to Mallorca heavily depends on when you are going to Mallorca. Of course, during summer, Mallorca is the ideal place to wear all your beautiful sustainable dreamy dresses. During the autumn and winter months, the weather can vary a bit. During the day and in the sun it might get warm enough for you to wear a T-shirt but my advice is to always carry a cardigan or sweater with you in case you get cold.
While Mallorca has public transport, the easiest way to get around is to rent a car. However, if you come during the summer months, certain places on this itinerary will be harder to access because they have risen in popularity, and in the summer the narrow streets in the Serra de Tramuntana can be challenging for a good driver.
Mallorca rewards travelers who venture beyond the obvious attractions. This 6-day itinerary balances iconic sights with authentic experiences, active adventures with cultural discoveries. The island's diverse landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality create memories that last long after your tan fades.
Remember to enjoy the relaxed pace of island life; sometimes the unexpected moments become the highlights of your journey. Each village, cove, and mountain trail offers a piece of Mallorca's narrative, allowing you to write your own in this Mediterranean paradise.