Compare Majorca holidays

What to do in Majorca

Long touted as a sun, sea and sand destination, Majorca has a lot more up its sleeve. Yes, its gorgeous beaches and gentle waters make it a firm favourite with sun-worshippers, but away from the resorts a quiet and more traditional way of life prevails.

Es Trenc beach

Located on Majorca's southeast coast, Es Trenc is part of a protected natural park with a fabulous stretch of white-sand and turquoise waters.

It’s more than 2km (1 mile) long, meaning there's plenty of room for families, couples and nudists to bag their favourite spot (the nudist part is in the centre, in case you're wondering). The beach gets busy in peak season, so be sure to arrive early.

Tramuntana Mountains

Enjoy staggering sea views, ribbon-like mountain roads and dense pine forests on a scenic drive through the Tramuntana Mountains. Stop at the beautiful Lluc Monastery, look out for black vultures soaring above the reservoirs and visit the villages of Sóller, Deia (a secret celebrity hideaway) and Valldemossa (where the composer Frédéric Chopin once spent a winter).

Alternatively, strap on your walking boots and trek the many mountain pathways, which range from easy walks to challenging hikes.

Palma

Majorca's capital city is a gem. The beautiful cathedral looms over the long waterfront, and behind it, a maze of lanes and narrow cobbled streets weave into the heart of the old city. Cafes and bars line the boulevards, trendy shopping streets squeeze amid the grand architecture, and the art scene is flourishing.

Being small and easily navigable, this hip city is perfect for a day trip but has more than enough going on to fill an entire holiday.

Alcúdia old town

Charming Alcúdia is Majorca’s historic walled town, with cafes, boutique shops and honey-coloured buildings to discover among the winding streets. Part of the medieval walls are open to walk around, where you can take in fantastic views across the town and beyond.

Be sure to visit the Pollentia Monographic Museum before heading to the Roman remains of Pollentia just outside the city. These are the real deal in archaeological terms, with a well-preserved theatre and residential area from more than 2,000 years ago.

Vintage train to Sóller

Embark on a journey on one of Europe's oldest continuously running trains (it made its first journey in 1912). Chugging out of Palma, the little wooden train trundles through flat valleys, where in spring the scent of orange blossom fills the carriages.

Continuing up into the mountains, it finally terminates in the bustling square of Sóller. Once there, browse art galleries and take in the exceptional mountain views before enjoying your scenic return journey.

Where to stay in Majorca

For food and drink

Palma is a foodie paradise. Expect to find gourmet dining, Michelin-star restaurants and romantic tapas bars set among the maze of medieval avenues. The San Juan gastronomic market has food stalls serving fresh fish, tasting platters and fideua (an alternative take on paella made with noodles).

Sóller, Port de Sóller and Deia are also home to some of the island’s top restaurants, in spectacular settings. Wherever you stay, hiring a car to explore the interior and remote coastal eateries is a good way to experience the best of Majorca’s traditional cuisine.

For nightlife

There’s every type of nightlife in Majorca, from boisterous parties in Magaluf to relaxed seaside cocktails in Cala d’Or. Palma’s stylish rooftop bars along the seafront are open year-round, and Port Portals has exclusive beach bars and restaurants to cater to the summer luxury yacht crowd.

Holiday resorts such as El Arenal in the south-west or Port d’Alcudia in the north-east have an eclectic nightlife scene, with something for everyone. Family-friendly restaurants, live music, karaoke bars and nightclubs ensure holidaymakers of all ages have a great time.

For culture

Palma is the obvious choice for culture in Majorca. It’s home to a striking gothic cathedral, the 14th-century Bellver Castle and numerous art galleries and museums. Alcúdia also has its fair share of culture amid its medieval walls, as well as Roman ruins of Pollentia just outside.

For something a little different, Sóller is a lovely base to explore more of the north, surrounded by orange groves and overlooked by the Tramuntana Mountains. Stay either in the town itself or Port de Sóller on the coast and hire a car to make the most of the area. The Alfabia Gardens and 13th-century house are a 15-minute drive away, and a visit to the Alaro Castle offers incredible views.