Are you planning an amazing vacation to Mallorca? I have the perfect perfect Mallorca itinerary to wander the beautiful Spanish island of Mallorca. With enticing coastal villages, spectacular mountain trails, captivating history, and mouthwatering cuisine, Mallorca casts an irresistible spell on you. But with limited time how do you ensure you see the very best bits?

Mallorca Itinerary for First-Timers: All the Highlights

This detailed 5 day Mallorca itinerary takes you on an ideal Mallorca highlights tour. Discover Mallorca’s vibrant capital Palma, the stunning, charming hill towns like Valldemossa and Deià, sensational turquoise coves, and even a world-class winery. From sunrise to sunset, you’ll be have an amazing vacation by this glorious island paradise.

how many days in mallorca island

I recommend you spend at least 5-7 days exploring Mallorca to make the most of your visit. Here is an overview of recommended lengths of stay:

• 3-4 days – Enough to see highlights like Palma, a few key villages, and popular beaches. Best for a short getaway.
• 5-7 days – Gives time to discover multiple areas like the Tramuntana Mountains, north and east coasts, inland towns, and capital Palma without rushing. Recommended for a first visit.
• 8-10 days – Allows a more comprehensive exploration at an easy pace including day trips and wide range of experiences like boating, markets, museums, hiking, festivals etc. Ideal for an immersive island vacation.
• 10-14 days – Provides opportunity to spend multiple nights in different regions with day trips from each base. Best for travelers who want to fully embrace island living and hidden gems away from main tourist centers.

Ultimately how long you should spend depends on your interests, pace of travel, and if it’s your first or repeat visit. Most essential highlights can be seen in 5-7 days but additional time lets you delve deeper into Mallorca’s incredible cultural, scenic and culinary offerings at a relaxed speed.

It’s a large island with endless beauties to uncover so maximize your holiday duration if possible. Many visitors find a week is barely enough before they start planning their next trip to Mallorca!

how to get to mallorca

The most common and convenient way to get to Mallorca is by flying directly from major Spanish airports like Barcelona. The flight is short at just 1 hour and 15 minutes and there are many daily nonstop options available.

Some airlines offering direct Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca flights include:

• Vueling
• Iberia
• Air Europa
• Ryanair
• EasyJet

Vueling and Iberia have the most daily nonstop flights between Barcelona and Palma, with up to 15 and 14 flights respectively each way. Flight duration is around 1 hour 15 mins and prices start from €45 one-way.

So if traveling from Barcelona, I’d recommend searching for flights on Vueling or Iberia for the best schedules and reliability. The airports in Barcelona offer both domestic and intercontinental connections to access travelers from across Spain, Europe and beyond.

The convenience and affordability of flights makes it the preferred and most efficient means for getting to Mallorca for short breaks and holidays. With so many carriers and daily options available year-round, booking travel between Barcelona and Palma is very straightforward.

Here are The most convenient transportation options for getting to Mallorca:

Fly to Mollarco 

• Mallorca has an international airport (PMI) with many direct flight options available from major European hubs like London, Paris, Frankfurt, etc.
• Search flights on sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights to find the best fares and options.
• During summer peak season, flights fill up fast so book early.

Take the Ferry to mollarco

• Regular car and passenger ferries run from mainland Spain ports like Barcelona and Valencia to Mallorca’s capital Palma.
• The journey takes 4-9 hours depending on the route and vessel.
• Ferry companies to check for routes/schedules include Trasmediterránea and Balearia.

I recommend booking flights directly to Palma Airport if your schedule allows as it’s faster and offers more flexibility. Ferries give you the option to take a car but require an overnight journey. Cruises let you visit Mallorca as part of a wider trip but time on land is limited.

How To Get Around in Mallorca Island

While Mallorca looks small, it covers over 1,400 square miles so having a car allows you to pack more in. Rental cars book up fast so reserve yours well in advance. Automatic vehicles cost more and are limited.

Navigating narrow roads and tight parking does take practice but provides the freedom to create your adventure. Alternatively use tours, buses or taxis to supplement, especially if nervous about driving switchback cliff routes.

Here are your best Mallorca transportation options:

• Rental Car – Convenient for exploring independently at your own pace
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus – Flexible way to see top attractions across Mallorca without driving
• Public Buses – Cheapest option linking main destinations but routes/schedules are limited
• Tours – Relax while knowledgeable guides show you hidden gems

The perfect mallorca travel itinerary

 Day  01–  Explore Palma de Mallorca History & Culture 

As Mallorca’s vibrant capital, you could easily spend weeks in Palma alone. But even with limited time, visiting this historic port city kickstarts an unforgettable island getaway.

From world-class art galleries and breathtaking Gothic architecture to sophisticated shopping and dining, culture vultures will adore Palma. Here are the essential things to see and do:

Morning in Palma Itinerary

Fuel up on ensaimadas pastries, café con leche and fresh OJ from Mallorca’s best bakery, Forn de la Soca in downtown Palma. Their signature item is the fluffy spiral ensaimada pastry dusted with powdered sugar. Treat yourself to a few to enjoy as morning snacks over your trip!

Walk off breakfast exploring the maze of atmospheric lanes that is Es Borne neighborhood. Once home to medieval merchants and craftspeople, trendy boutiques and eateries now fill these narrow winding streets.

Pop into hidden local favorite, Ca’n Joan de S’Aigo for horchata almond milk and iconic ice cream flavors like almond and sweet pumpkin. Dating from 1700, it’s Mallorca’s oldest cafe so oozes history and charm.

Head south towards the sea to the striking exterior of Mallorca’s crown jewel, the Catedral-Basílica de Santa María. This monumental sandstone Gothic cathedral looks more fortress than church. Step inside to admire soaring columns, intricate stone tracery and the world’s largest rose window.

Wander west through pretty Plaça de la Reina then dive into Palma’s trendiest neighborhood – Santa Catalina. Once an industrial area, its cool eateries, art galleries and boutiques embody Palma’s arty soul.

Stop for Instagrammable brunches and smoothie bowls at places like Ohana Café before browsing independent fashion and homeware stores.

Afternoon By The Sea Majorca Itinerary

Walk 15 minutes south to reach the cosmopolitan harborfront and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Admire playful sculpture Jai Suchet’s Cubes beside the marina. These giant multi-color blocks epitomize Palma’s vibrant energy and creativity.

Stroll down the palm-lined Passeig Marítim promenade to the historic quarter of Es Jonquet. Once an island only accessible by bridge, fishermen and sailors lived in these charming narrow lanes.

Soak up azure sea views and sunshine while devouring bocadillos (sandwiches) stuffed with Serrano ham, Manchego cheese and roasted veggies from beloved local deli Casa Quelcuti.

Linger beachfront at achingly hip Puro Beach club. Ibiza vibes meet Bali style at this open-air terrace serving crafty cocktails and Mediterranean fusion bites. Their infinity pool is perfect for swimming while listening to chill music as the sun sets.

Evening in Palma De Mallorca 

Mallorca grows some seriously good produce, which local chefs transform into magic. For your first night in Palma, indulge in sophisticated fine dining at restaurants like:

• Marc Fosh near the marina – inventive 5-course tasting menus change seasonally, combining influences from Japan to the Med
• Ada Parellada in sought-after boutique hotel Can Alomar – creative Catalan sharing plates and world-class gin cocktails
• Bardoria 34 downtown – Michelin-starred Chef Andreu Genestra gives Mallorcan cuisine and regional wines a masterful modern twist

Whichever you choose, conclude your first day in Palma replete and undoubtedly already enchanted by Mallorca’s cuisine and culture!

Day 02  – Wander Mallorca Hilltop towns: Valldemossa, Deia & Soller

Trading the vibrant capital for sleepy hill towns and cute fishing villages showcases a slower side of Mallorcan life. Base yourself up the stunning northwest coast to uncover charming hamlets beloved by creatives, spectacular sea views that leave you speechless, and heavenly gastronomic discoveries.

Morning Explore The quaint hilltop town in Mallorca Valldemossa 

The 20-minute drive from Palma winds uphill revealing vineyards carpeting valleys between olive-clad hillsides. As beautiful Valldemossa comes into view, pull over to inhale pine-scented mountain air at the famous coastal lookout. Instagram the iconic postcard perspective over terracotta rooftops to the glistening Mediterranean. This overview stop location is a popular viewpoint you don’t want to miss.

In town, wander dusky backstreets while nibbling on just-baked treats from Forn i Pastisseria Ca’n Molinas bakery. Their croissant-like coca de patata, an orange-scented ensaïmada dusted with icing sugar or fig jam and creamy cabell d’àngel pastry make perfect walking fuel.

explore the monumental courtyard, church, and cloisters of Valldemossa’s grand 14th century Royal Carthusian Monastery. Imagine winter life here when 19th century composer Frédéric Chopin and French novelist George Sand called this peaceful sanctuary home.

Afternoon Wander The Cute town of Deia Mallorca

Grab Lunch at one of the convivial restaurant in the equally charming village Deià. There are restaurants with sunny courtyard terrace shaded by vines and olive trees sets the stage for unproblematic Mediterranean cuisine starring local fish, veggies, and wines.

Afterwards meander downhill 20 minutes to the idyllic bay Cala Deià. Spread your towel on smooth rocks beside aquamarine waters at this petite cove backed by Orangerie tree-clad slopes.

Sunbathe, paddleboard or kayak before drinks and dinner at cliffside seafood restaurant Ca’s Patró March. Their breezy terrace Peppered with parasols serves up prime views overlooking Deià Bay through golden hour’s warm sidelighting.

If budget allows, splash out on an unforgettable feast at acclaimed El Olivo  or their sister restaurant within opulent hotel Belmond La Residencia. Dine by candlelight on Mediterranean delicacies with French influences against an idyllic backdrop of sea and mountains. Make sure to make reservations 4+ months in advance.

Evening Catch Dinner and Sunset at  Sa Foradada 

 Sa Foradada is a gorgous spot to catch sunset before you head to dinner. You should get here an hour before the sunset. You can also opt to get dinner at the cute cliffside restaurants before you head back to Deias.

Stay overnight up the coast to fully embrace Mallorca’s laidback charm and magic hour’s soft light. Here are top options for coastal beauty hotels:

• Belmond La Residencia – Depicting paradise found, rooms in this sublime 16th century manor house frame epic vistas. Wake to birdsong or waves lapping Deià’s pristine shores.
• Hotel Es Molí – Charming hideaway in landmark olive mill oozing rural romance with just 20 rooms and a pretty garden terrace.
• Hotel Ca’l Bisbe – Boutique bolthole in the heart of Sóller with plush interiors, magical courtyard and one of the island’s top restaurants.

Wherever you rest your happy head, Mallorca’s natural beauty both sea and starrise will likely inspire sweet dreams under the Spanish moon.

Day 03 – Hit The Road: Serra de Tramuntana Scenic Drives

This UNESCO World Heritage Site sprawling across Mallorca’s northwestern corner protects the island’s highest peaks, thickest forests, and the very oldest olive trees. Get behind the wheel hitting panoramic viewpoints before descending to adorable fishing villages for fresh seafood feasts.

Morning Vistas & Vista Points

Grab takeaway coffee and ensaimadas at the delicious and not to be missed x Panadería S’ Estació heading out from Daeis towards the interior Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. Stop along the Ma-10 highway to photograph precipitous sea cliffs and seemingly never-ending emerald ridges sweeping to the azure horizon.

In Deià, seek out the famous roadside lookout beside century-old restaurant Ca’s Patro March. Gaze spellbound at red roof tops strewn like glittering rubies towards the glistening Mediterranean far below. Marvel at how this seaside-seeming village clings impossibly to near-vertical slopes.

Midday in Cala Deia Mallorca island

Descend 20 minutes to Deià’s idyllic rocky cove Cala Deià separating beach time from sightseeing. Sunbathe, paddleboard or kayak before lingering over long lunches at laidback restaurants  serving tapas, paellas and sangria on their terrace tucked behind tamarisk trees.

Mid-afternoon meander onwards through hills quilted with olive trees and ancient stone-walled fincas (farms). Stop to capture Unesco-listed engineering marvels like 14th century aqueduct Pont à queda des Solleric channeling mountain spring water to Sóller and tramontane windmills dotting ridges above Biniaraix.

Evening at Soller 

Descend to Port de Sóller late afternoon, wandering the elegant harbor admiring sleek yachts bobbing on glittering waters. Pause for golden hour cocktails on the pool patio at Hotel Esplendido overlooking both sea and valley before dinner along the beachfront paseo.

Seafood temples Olas Restaurante and Pizzeria Port de Sóller both excel at stellar Mediterranean fare starring the day’s catch from local boats – choose grilled sardines, stuffed calamari or shellfish rice. Watch ferries navigating the narrow channel between Mallorca and Sa Dragonera islet as lingering crimson light fades to indigo above the Tramuntana peaks.

Day 4 – Head to Mallorca’s Beaches at Southern Shores

Famed for pristine swathes of powdery sand lapped by crystalline coves in every shade of blue, Mallorca’s southeast coastline dazzles. Whether you seek secluded rocky bays or vibrant beach clubs, this sun-drenched corner flaunts some of Europe’s dreamiest aquatic playgrounds.

Morning head to Santanyì

Check into the hotel at this small town that neighbors some of Mallorca’s best beaches. and linger over coffee on sun-drenched terraces before heading to mallorca beautiful beaches and calas.

Insider’s Tip: Many diminutive coves fill fast in peak seasons. Arriving mid-morning risks no available parking or space to lay your towel. Plan ahead using sites like Beach-Inspector detailing crowd levels, availability and amenities then set your alarm clock accordingly.

Midday check out some of the beautiful cala 

Visit The beautiful town of Santa iconic southeast coves:

Calò des Moro

• Located: East coast, in the municipality of Manacor
• Highlights: Striking turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, small beach size
• Arrive early, around 9 AM to beat crowds as the tiny beach fills fast
• Access is by stairs leading down to the cove from the trailhead parking area
• No amenities but stunning setting between tall cliffs – arrive prepared!

Cala s’Almunia

• Located: East coast, south of Calò des Moro near Santanyi
• Highlights: Peaceful scenic cove, great swimming and snorkeling
• Park at nearby Calò des Moro then take a short walk to reach it
• Pack a picnic and gear to relax for hours on the rocks by the water

Cala Llombards

• Located: Southeast coast near Santanyi
• Highlights: Beautiful sandy beach, fun swimming area with rocks to jump from
• Busy in peak season but long beach means finding space is easier
• Has parking, beach club, restaurant and other amenities

Torrent de Cala Pi

• Located: Southwest of Palma near Andratx
• Highlights: Gorgeous cove fed by running spring waterfalls
• Access from Cala Pi then follow signed path downstream 500m to reach it
• No crowds or amenities but extremely scenic for doing an hour hike
• Located: East coast, south of Calò des Moro near Santanyi
• Highlights: Peaceful scenic cove, great swimming and snorkeling
• Park at nearby Calò des Moro then take a short walk to reach it
• Pack a picnic and gear to relax for hours on the rocks by the water

Cala Llombards

• Located: Southeast coast near Santanyi
• Highlights: Beautiful sandy beach, fun swimming area with rocks to jump from
• Busy in peak season but long beach means finding space is easier
• Has parking, beach club, restaurant and other amenities

Torrent de Cala Pi

• Located: Southwest of Palma near Andratx
• Highlights: Gorgeous cove fed by running spring waterfalls
• Access from Cala Pi then follow signed path downstream 500m to reach it
• No crowds or amenities but extremely scenic for doing an hour hike
• Es Trenc – Over 2 miles long, Mallorca’s most popular beach seduces with fine powdery sand and rolling dunes. Its vast size means finding a peaceful spot is easy even at peak times.

Pro Tip: Pack beach essentials like hats, sunscreen, bug spray, snacks and lots of water in your car allowing spontaneous stops when driving between destinations along this stunning shoreline. Scouting lesser-known rocky coves and mini bays adds adventure to beach-hopping explorations.

Evening at Mallorca

Watch the sunset from swish clifftop restaurant Cassai Beach Club in spectacular Cala Galiota. Their balcony terrace pairs coastal vistas with Mallorcan gin cocktails, grilled local fish and just-picked salads.

Nearby, Can Ferrereta luxury hotel on a 17th century estate rests amidst citrus groves. After dinner, sink into their jet pool on the romantic candlelit terrace facing the countryside or book a couple’s bathing ritual inside the glass-walled spa sanctuary.

Day 5 –  Farewell

Mallorca’s cosmopolitan capital offers endless possibilities for a final day appreciating the island’s vibrant culture, architecture and cuisine. Get your city fix before reluctantly departing already planning your return!

Morning in Palma

Stroll back in time along atmospheric lanes like Carrer de Sant Feliu dotted with boutiques, galleries and cafés occupying elegant centuries-old sandstone townhouses. Duck inside the lovely2222 Gothic courtyard within Can Oms Palace to admire intricate carvings along the stone staircase and coffered wooden ceiling.

Seek out Instagram hotspot Plaça Federico García Lorca ringed by pastel buildings with 20 arches reflected in the puddled courtyard below. Admire colorful glazed tiles gracing noble houses nearby in Plaça de la Reina then join stylish locals for mid-morning vermouth on the terrace at historic bar Cafè Central.

Afternoon Culture Fix

Wander through the, Es Baluard contemporary art museum cleverly integrated into Palma’s 16th century Renaissance-era fortified walls. Their permanent collection concentrates on 20th and 21st century Mediterranean artists like Picasso, Miró and Barceló while temporary exhibitions highlight the latest global talent and local rising stars.

Stretch your legs in the sculpture garden beside Banys Àrabs bathhouse, the only surviving relic of Medina Mayurqa, as Palma was known under Moorish rule back in the 10th century. Hear tales of former resident Caliph Al-Azraq who united Mallorca’s disparate Arab tribes into a powerful kingdom ruling the western Mediterranean.

Duck behind the 18th century sandstone facades fronting La Rambla to discover hidden gems like the Museu de Mallorca. This absorbing museum traces Mallorca’s history across four floors of a 16th century aristocrat’s mansion from Talayotic, Roman and Moorish times to the present.

Wander south through Santa Catalina’s paintbox-bright buildings towards sprawling art gallery Hauser & Wirth Mallorca. Their thoughtfully curated rotating exhibits aim to promote cultural understanding through art. If visiting between spring and fall, don’t miss rotating displays within their gallery erected on in a former naval repair yard on s’Escorxador Island.

Farewell Feasts

Indulge in a final fabulous meal before bidding this magical isla good bye.  Mallorcan chefs elevate humble local ingredients like oranges, almonds, olives and seafood into edible masterpieces at restaurants like:

• Fera Palma – Sleek space on hipster Santa Catalina serving creative sharing plates fusing Nordic and Japanese influences
• Tast Club near the Born – Their 10-course surprise tasting menu provides a masterful gastronomic tour de force through traditional Mallorcan flavors
• Mar de Vins in Santa Catalina – Sophisticated sommelier-owned spot with a wine list spanning 500+ Spanish drops expertly paired with each dish

Wherever you choose, prepare for intense food envy scrolling back through photos reliving your memorable Mallorca trip for years to come! With turquoise coves, sensational sunsets, captivating culture and exquisite cuisine, this Balearic beauty offers the ultimate Spanish escape.

Over just 5 short days you will uncover incredible highlights certain to inspire repeat visits to keep exploring new facets of this glorious island. But for now it’s time to bid Mallorca and the Mediterranean adios until your next adventure on Spain’s shores!