16 Towns & Villages outside of Palma
Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is a treasure trove of charming towns and picturesque villages. From the cobbled streets of ancient settlements to bustling coastal hubs, Mallorca offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveler. This guide takes you through the top 16 must-visit towns and villages on this stunning island.
Deià
Nestled in the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, Deià is a picturesque village known for its artistic and literary heritage.
- Location and Access: Located on the northwest coast, it's about a 40-minute drive from Palma. Public buses also connect it to nearby towns.
- Unique Charm: Its stone houses and lush landscapes have drawn artists for decades, including famed English poet Robert Graves.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Insider Tips: Visit the Robert Graves Museum and hike to Cala Deià, a beautiful secluded cove.
Valldemossa
Valldemossa captivates with its cobblestone streets and historical charm, famously associated with composer Frédéric Chopin.
- Location and Access: Situated 17 km from Palma, it is easily accessible by car or bus.
- Unique Charm: The Royal Charterhouse where Chopin spent a winter is a must-see.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though summer hosts several cultural festivals.
- Insider Tips: Try the local pastry, coca de patata, with a hot chocolate.
Sóller
Sóller combines stunning mountain vistas with a vibrant town square, making it a favorite among visitors.
- Location and Access: Accessible via a historic wooden train from Palma or by road.
- Unique Charm: The tram ride from Sóller to Port de Sóller offers breathtaking views.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring, when the orange trees are in bloom.
- Insider Tips: Explore the local art galleries and take a boat trip to Sa Calobra.
Pollença
Known for its historic architecture and cultural festivals, Pollença is a charming town in the island's north.
- Location and Access: A 50-minute drive from Palma; buses are available.
- Unique Charm: The 365 Calvari Steps lead to a stunning panoramic view.
- Best Time to Visit: During the annual Wine Fair in April or the Patronal Festival in July.
- Insider Tips: Visit the Sunday market for local crafts and produce.
Alcúdia
Alcúdia is renowned for its well-preserved medieval old town and Roman ruins.
- Location and Access: Located 54 km from Palma, accessible by car or bus.
- Unique Charm: The ancient town walls and the Roman theater are highlights.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather.
- Insider Tips: Enjoy a leisurely walk around the city walls for fantastic views.
Fornalutx
Often regarded as one of Spain's most beautiful villages, Fornalutx offers postcard-perfect scenes.
- Location and Access: Near Sóller, reachable by car or a scenic hike.
- Unique Charm: Its narrow, steep streets and stone houses are quintessentially Mallorcan.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn.
- Insider Tips: Don't miss the orange and lemon groves surrounding the village.
Port d'Andratx
A luxurious harbor town, Port d'Andratx is known for its upscale vibe and scenic beauty.
- Location and Access: 30 km southwest of Palma, accessible by car or bus.
- Unique Charm: The marina is filled with yachts and surrounded by chic boutiques and cafes.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for vibrant nightlife and water activities.
- Insider Tips: Take a sunset cruise to see the coastline from the sea.
Artà
Artà is a town that boasts a rich history and stunning natural landscapes.
- Location and Access: Situated in the northeast, about an hour's drive from Palma.
- Unique Charm: The historic Santuari de Sant Salvador hilltop fortress offers panoramic views.
- Best Time to Visit: May for the Artà Spring Fair.
- Insider Tips: Explore the nearby Llevant Natural Park for hiking.
Capdepera
Capdepera is a historic town known for its impressive medieval castle.
- Location and Access: Located in the northeast, accessible by car from Palma.
- Unique Charm: The castle offers insights into Mallorca's medieval past and fantastic views.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to enjoy the Capdepera Medieval Fair.
- Insider Tips: Walk the narrow streets and visit the local artisans' shops.
Santanyí
Santanyí is a charming village known for its vibrant art scene and beautiful coastline.
- Location and Access: Located in the southeastern part of Mallorca, reachable by car.
- Unique Charm: The weekly market is a bustling affair with local crafts and foods.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities; autumn for a quieter experience.
- Insider Tips: Explore the nearby Mondragó Natural Park for stunning beaches and hikes.
Llucmajor
Llucmajor is the largest municipality in terms of area, offering historical and natural attractions.
- Location and Access: 25 km southeast of Palma, accessible by car or bus.
- Unique Charm: Known for its shoe-making industry and traditional markets.
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn for the Llucmajor Fair.
- Insider Tips: Visit the nearby beaches of Cala Pi and S'Arenal.
Esporles
A quaint village in the Tramuntana mountains, Esporles offers a peaceful retreat.
- Location and Access: 15 km from Palma, accessible by road.
- Unique Charm: Known for its traditional Mallorcan architecture and the La Granja estate.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather.
- Insider Tips: Walk through the village and enjoy a meal at a local café.
Binissalem
Famed for its vineyards, Binissalem is the heart of Mallorca's wine country.
- Location and Access: 22 km from Palma, accessible by train or car.
- Unique Charm: The grape harvest festival in September is a highlight.
- Best Time to Visit: September for the wine festival.
- Insider Tips: Tour local wineries and enjoy wine tasting sessions.
Campos
Campos is known for its agricultural heritage and proximity to stunning beaches.
- Location and Access: 40 km southeast of Palma, accessible by car or bus.
- Unique Charm: The nearby Es Trenc beach is one of Mallorca's most beautiful.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities.
- Insider Tips: Visit the thermal baths of Sant Joan de la Font Santa.
Petra
Birthplace of the missionary Junípero Serra, Petra is steeped in history.
- Location and Access: Located in the island's heart, reachable by car or train.
- Unique Charm: The Junípero Serra Museum and Monastery are a must-visit.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather.
- Insider Tips: Explore the traditional Mallorcan countryside around Petra.
Sineu
Sineu is famous for its weekly market, one of the oldest in Mallorca.
- Location and Access: Centrally located, accessible by train or car from Palma.
- Unique Charm: The market held every Wednesday offers a glimpse into local life.
- Best Time to Visit: Wednesday for the market.
- Insider Tips: Visit the Santa Maria Church and the ancient windmills.
Here's the full list!
| Municipality | Uniqueness |
|---|---|
| Alaró | Charming village with a historic castle hike |
| Alcúdia | Walled old town and family-friendly beaches |
| Algaida | Traditional inland town known for glassblowing |
| Andratx | Port town with luxury vibes and mountain views |
| Ariany | Tiny rural village with peaceful surroundings |
| Artà | Rustic charm and nature in the Llevant hills |
| Banyalbufar | Cliffside terraces and dramatic sea views |
| Binissalem | Heart of Mallorca’s wine country |
| Búger | Smallest town with authentic local flavor |
| Bunyola | Gateway to Serra de Tramuntana hiking |
| Calvià | Resort-packed coast near Palma |
| Campanet | Known for caves and traditional Mallorcan life |
| Campos | Home to Es Trenc, a pristine beach |
| Capdepera | Medieval castle and links to Cala Ratjada |
| Consell | Wine cellars and local artisan markets |
| Costitx | Astronomical observatory and countryside |
| Deià | Artist village with dramatic cliff trails |
| Escorca | Remote mountains, Sa Calobra and Lluc Monastery |
| Esporles | Charming village with forest trails |
| Estellencs | Remote cliffside village with sunset views |
| Felanitx | Historic town near Sant Salvador Sanctuary |
| Fornalutx | Picturesque stone village in the mountains |
| Inca | Known for leather goods and weekly markets |
| Lloseta | Small town with cultural and culinary flair |
| Llubí | Rural town famous for capers and honey |
| Llucmajor | Largest municipality by area, near beaches |
| Manacor | Second largest town, home of Rafa Nadal |
| Mancor de la Vall | Quiet valley village near Tramuntana |
| Maria de la Salut | Serene countryside town |
| Montuïri | Hilltop town with windmills and history |
| Muro | Old town and nearby Playa de Muro |
| Palma | Capital city with cathedral, shopping, and beaches |
| Petra | Birthplace of missionary Junípero Serra |
| Pollença | Historic town near beaches and Cap de Formentor |
| Porreres | Traditional town with local charm |
| Puigpunyent | Nestled in nature with eco-resorts |
| Sant Joan | Peaceful town with rural festivals |
| Sant Llorenç des Cardassar | Close to beaches and nature |
| Santanyí | Chic market town near Caló des Moro |
| Santa Eugènia | Wine-producing inland town |
| Santa Margalida | Gateway to Can Picafort and Playa de Muro |
| Santa Maria del Camí | Weekend market and wine culture |
| Sant Josep | Agricultural village off the beaten path |
| Selva | Tranquil mountain foothill village |
| Sencelles | Wine country with traditional flair |
| Sineu | Home to Mallorca’s oldest market |
| Sóller | Valley town with vintage train and orange groves |
| Son Servera | Town near popular beaches and golf |
| Valldemossa | Chopin’s retreat with cobbled streets |
| Vilafranca de Bonany | Known for melons and quiet charm |
Each town and village in Mallorca offers its own unique slice of island life, from historical sites and cultural festivals to natural beauty and local gastronomy. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Mallorca's towns and villages promise unforgettable experiences. Happy travels!
Mentioned in This Guide
Explore all the locations mentioned in this guide on the map below.
Sóller
07100 Sóller, Balearic Islands, Spain
Pollença
07460 Pollença, Balearic Islands, Spain
Deià
07179 Deià, Balearic Islands, Spain
Fornalutx
07109 Fornalutx, Balearic Islands, Spain
Llucmajor
Llucmajor, Balearic Islands, Spain
Alcúdia
07400 Alcúdia, Balearic Islands, Spain
Santanyí
07650 Santanyí, Balearic Islands, Spain
Capdepera
07580 Capdepera, Balearic Islands, Spain
Valldemossa
07170 Valldemossa, Balearic Islands, Spain
Port d'Andratx
07157 Port d'Andratx, Illes Balears, Spain
Artà
07570 Artà, Balearic Islands, Spain
Esporles
07190 Esporles, Balearic Islands, Spain
Binissalem
07350 Binissalem, Balearic Islands, Spain
Campos
07630 Campos, Balearic Islands, Spain
Petra
07520 Petra, Balearic Islands, Spain
Sineu
07510 Sineu, Balearic Islands, Spain
