Mallorca, Spain - Travel Guide

Mallorca is the crown jewel of the Balearics - far more than a package beach destination. The UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountains offer world-class cycling and hiking, while Palma's Gothic cathedral dominates one of the Mediterranean's most beautiful cities. Hidden coves with turquoise water, charming mountain villages, and the historic Soller train complete the picture.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days

Budget$70/day

Mid-range$150/day

Luxury$400/day

Known For

mallorcamajorcaspainbalearic_islandspalmaserra_de_tramuntanaunescobeachescyclingmediterraneancathedralsollerdeiavalldemossacaveshikingcovesturquoise_waterhistoric_trainluxury_resorts

🇪🇸 Country Information: Spain

CapitalMadrid

CurrencyEuro (€)

Language Spanish , Catalan, Galician, Basque, Valencian

Phone Code+34

Electricity230V (Type C, F)

Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

Tipping is generally not obligatory but appreciated for good service; 5
10% in restaurants is common for good service, rounding up taxi fares, small change for baristas

Money & Payments

ATMs are widely available, especially in urban areas
Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and tourist areas, but smaller establishments might prefer cash
It's good to have some cash for small purchases and less urban areas
There is no black market for cash

Cultural Norms

Meal times are typically later than in many other countries, with dinner often starting at 9 PM or later
Siesta is less common in major cities but still observed in smaller towns
Personal space can be closer than in some other cultures
Dress codes are generally casual but respectful, especially when visiting religious sites

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Spain is very LGBTQ+ friendly with comprehensive anti-discrimination laws and legal same-sex marriage since 2005. There is strong societal acceptance.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

Legal drinking age is 18
Drug laws are complex: private use and cultivation of cannabis are decriminalized, but public consumption and trafficking are illegal and carry severe penalties

Special Laws

It is illegal to drink alcohol in public spaces outside of designated areas
Smoking is prohibited in many public indoor spaces
Nudity and topless sunbathing are allowed on some beaches but can be restricted in others

Common Phrases

HelloHola (OH-lah) Hola

PleasePor favor (por fah-VOR) Por favor

Excuse mePerdón (per-DOHN) Perdón

Thank youGracias (GRAH-see-ahs) Gracias

Climate

Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers (25-32°C) and mild winters (10-15°C). Over 300 sunny days per year. Sea temperature peaks at 26°C in August. Serra de Tramuntana cooler. Occasional winter rain. Almond blossoms in January-February.

Best Time to Visit

Peak Beach Season: June
September
Best for Cycling/Hiking: April
May, September
October
Almond Blossoms: January
February
Avoid: August (too hot and crowded)

Getting There

Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) is Spain's third
busiest, with direct flights from over 100 European destinations
Very well connected to UK, Germany, and mainland Spain
Some seasonal routes from North America via connections
Airport is 8km from Palma city center
Ferries from Barcelona (7
8 hours) and Valencia

Getting Around

Rental car essential for exploring the island, especially the Tramuntana
Historic Soller train is a must
do experience
Bus network connects major towns
Palma has good public transport and walkable center
Taxis available
Uber not available
Cycling very popular
dedicated routes

Health & Vaccinations

No special vaccinations required
European health standards
EHIC/GHIC card for EU citizens
Excellent medical facilities
Hospital in Palma

Staying Connected

Spanish carriers excellent coverage
4G/5G throughout island
eSIM works perfectly
EU roaming applies
WiFi widely available

Local Cuisine

Pa amb Oli must_try

Simple but perfect: crusty bread rubbed with ripe tomato, drizzled with olive oil, and topped with jamón or cheese. The essence of Mallorcan cuisine.

Ensaïmada must_try

Iconic spiral pastry made with lard (saïm), light and fluffy. Eaten plain for breakfast or filled with cream or cabello de ángel. A Mallorcan institut

Tumbet must_try

Layers of fried potatoes, eggplant, and peppers with tomato sauce. The Mallorcan ratatouille. Comfort food often served as a side or vegetarian main.

Sobrassada must_try

Spreadable cured sausage with distinctive red-orange color from paprika. Try it on bread or with honey. PDO protected product unique to the Balearics.

Frito Mallorquín local_favorite

Hearty fried dish of lamb or pork offal with potatoes, peppers, and fennel. Traditional comfort food, not for the squeamish but beloved by locals.

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Summer Hotels (July-August) Accommodation

Book 2-6 months in advance for summer

Peak summer season extremely popular. Best hotels and villas book up months ahead.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Sóller Train tour_or_activity

Book 3-14 days in advance

Historic train with limited capacity. Peak season can sell out.

Top Restaurants Dining

Book 1-4 weeks in advance

Fine dining restaurants especially in Palma and Tramuntana book up.

Fun Facts

1. Mallorca's Serra de Tramuntana mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Landscape.
2. The island has been a famous artists' retreat - Chopin, George Sand, and Joan Miró all lived and worked here.
3. Palma Cathedral contains one of the world's largest rose windows, designed with light that aligns perfectly twice a year.
4. Mallorca has over 300 beaches and 300 days of sunshine annually.

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