Travel Guide: 48 Hours in Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca’s relaxed lifestyle and abundant sea views have long made it a popular summer holiday destination. It is a paradise for those seeking warmth from the sun thanks to the scorching summers tempered by the sea breeze.

As one of Spain’s Balearic Islands, you may already know it for its beautiful coastlines and sandy beaches, but what about the hiking opportunities in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains or the historical monuments sculpted by artists like Antoni Gaudí?

Here’s what you shouldn’t miss if you spend a few days on this beautiful island.

Discover the historic center of Palma

Some visitors head straight to Cala Mondrago or Formentor for the beach, but Palma is a perfect starting point and a place to understand the island’s historical and cultural development. Famous tourist resort and capital of the Balearic Islands. This bustling western Mediterranean metropolis offers an insight into the Moorish and Roman communities and the Catholics who lived here from 123 BC. to 123 BC have lived.

Explore Santa Maria; Castell de Bellver, the royal palace of La Almudaina; and discover the Mercat de l’Olivar, where you can taste wine and tapas in a bright historic space.

Discover the Passeig des Born

In the tree-lined main street you can get lost in the labyrinth of alleys and come across boutiques and restaurants. Passeig des Born’s grid layout is home to numerous art galleries, such as Berlin’s Kewenig space, home to countless emerging artists.

Admire the colorful Mallorcan ceramics at Terra Cuita. Admire the architecture of the modernist buildings and stop for contemporary tapas in Ombú. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at De Tokio in Lima with White Sangria before exploring the vibrant Santa Catalina district.

Cocktail bar before and after dinner

End the day like the Spaniards do and head to the Clandestino Cocktail Club for a nightcap gin and tonic. Combining a relaxed vibe with lounge vibes, this spot advertises itself as a cozy jazz spot with a secret speakeasy menu.

The sophisticated atmosphere of the big city extends to the bar, which is a treasure trove of premium alcoholic beverages. In addition to the G&T, the classic Negroni (€15) is also well worth a try, made with gin, Campari and vermouth and served with crushed ice and orange zest. Really Spanish? Maybe not, but a highly recommended place to relax after a busy day of travelling.

Fill up on churros at El Rocío Santa Ponsa

Be sure to eat a hearty Spanish breakfast before heading to Magaluf Beach for an exhausting day in the sun. Sit down at El Rocío Santa Ponsa in a quiet corner in the Santa Ponsa district.

Here the order is a churro with a deliciously thick hot chocolate, a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice and delicious patatas bravas – a dish of native spiced potatoes fried and covered in hot sauce (€7.50). Or take a different route at Le Cafe Flora, a specialty breakfast restaurant and bakery just around the corner from Magaluf.

Immerse yourself in the white sands of Magaluf

Late morning is the best time to reach Magaluf beach before it gets too hot and the promenade – about a thousand meters long – fills up with local bathers.

If you want some peace and quiet, walk north to Palmanova beach. Under the same soothing blue sky, there are miles and miles of relatively sparsely populated sand. The white sand is perfect for sunbathing, while you can swim in the deep water for a refreshing dip. If the nearby Spanish food scene intrigues you, Bondi Beach Magaluf serves delicious, well-presented paella with an impressive cocktail menu.

Set off on the dry route of the Serra de Tramuntana

On your second day in Mallorca, head north from Palma to the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans the entire northwest coast.

The rugged mountain range at Valldemossa is a perfect panoramic sight. Pick up a route map that will lead you to the charming historic town and villages lined with olive groves, vineyards and almond groves.

You can also book a tour of the long-distance dry stone trail that takes you from Port d’Antratx to Pollença.

The trails take three to eight hours and some trails are only recommended for experienced hikers. You need good walking shoes and plenty of water.

Go to La Lonja for the last dance

Some of the best things to do on this island happen after dark. After dark, head to the La Lonja area. You’ll find intimate bars like the Jazz Voyeur Club, where you can sample plenty of Spanish cognac alongside a classic à la carte menu. Or book a seat at the Blue Jazz club near the bay of Palma. So make sure you book.

There are plenty of late-night taverns, bustling caves and tourist bars that keep the party going long after dark. You can be sure that some of the best coffee in the Mediterranean is waiting for you in the morning to cure your hangover.

Where to stay

Located in the Canyamel Valley, the luxurious 5-star Cap Vermell Grand Hotel is richly decorated and features a Michelin-starred restaurant. The hotel is also close to the famous Cala Agulla beach and the caves of Artà by the sea.

On the way to Mallorca

There are daily flights to Palma de Mallorca Airport from major European cities, including London and Manchester. From the airport, local buses go directly to the center of Palma. You can also arrive by ferry from the ports of Barcelona and Valencia.