Compare Majorca holidays

Fancy getting away from it all? Majorca’s interior is the land of rural simplicity. Converted farmhouses and manor houses are becoming sought-after holiday retreats, and remote estates offer irresistible local wine and olive oil tastings. Mountain towns, like Valldemossa, offer a glimpse into the island’s traditional side, while the village of Deia is a peaceful haven that has long attracted artists, writers and celebs in search of peace and quiet.

Then there's the beautiful capital, Palma, with its gourmet food scene and upmarket nightlife. Here, award-winning chefs whip up creative takes on Majorcan cuisine – from seafood paella to roast suckling pig – using local produce to perfect the flavours. Pair your meal with a sunset cocktail along the seafront for a night out to remember.

Winter breaks to Majorca are also becoming increasingly popular, although it’s best to avoid January when most Majorcans shut up shop for the month.

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.

On the south west coast, Palma Nova is close to both Western Water Park and Katmandu Park, and has several fun activities like mini golf, play parks and watersports. Head north to Port d’Alcudia for its 7km-long (4 mile) sandy beach, welcoming restaurants and its proximity to the medieval town of Alcúdia.

For travellers on a budget

There are lots of bargains to be had in Majorca, especially if you book a package holiday in advance. The purpose-built beach resorts in the south-east – Sa Coma, Cala Millor and Cala d’Or – often have cheap deals on straightforward accommodation or self-catering options that are within walking distance of the beach.

Closer to the capital, El Arenal is also a good bet for cheap and cheerful hotels by the coast. Aqualand waterpark makes it a popular choice for families on a budget too.

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.