Quick answer

Mallorca (Majorca) is a popular Balearic Island with beautiful beaches, dramatic coastline, charming towns, and lively culture. Plan around peak season, check Schengen entry rules, and expect good infrastructure, seasonal crowds, and local dining hours.

Visa & entry requirements

• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: no visa needed; bring ID card or passport.
• Most non-EU visitors: Schengen visa rules apply. Short stays (up to 90 days in 180) for many nationalities are visa-free—check Spain/Schengen requirements for your nationality before travel.
• Passport validity: generally at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen; many airlines recommend 6 months—verify with your carrier.
• COVID/health: no routine testing or quarantine requirements currently, but check latest rules before travel.

Best time to visit

• Shoulder seasons (May–June, September–October): best combination of good weather, fewer crowds, and better prices.
• High season (July–August): hottest, busiest, best nightlife and beach conditions; expect higher prices and full booking for accommodation and restaurants.
• Winter (Nov–Feb): mild and quiet; many businesses and restaurants in smaller towns close or reduce hours.

Safety tips

• Mallorca is generally safe for tourists. Common precautions:
  • Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas, markets, and public transport.
  • Be cautious on scooters/mopeds—rentals have accident risk; wear helmets and inspect insurance.
  • In summer, strong sun and sea currents: use sunscreen, stay hydrated, swim at lifeguarded beaches, and heed warning flags.
  • Nightlife: keep an eye on drinks and belongings; avoid isolated areas late at night.

Local customs & etiquette

• Language: Spanish and Catalan (Mallorquí) are official; many service workers also speak English and German. Learning a few phrases (hola, gracias, por favor) is appreciated.
• Dining: lunches are late (1:30–3:30pm), dinners often start after 8:30pm. Tapas culture is common; restaurants may have seasonal hours.
• Dress: casual beachwear is fine on the coast; cover up when entering churches or religious sites (shoulders/knees covered).
• Tipping: not obligatory; 5–10% for good service in restaurants is appreciated. Round up or leave small change for taxis.

Currency & payments

• Currency: Euro (EUR).
• Cards widely accepted in cities, resorts, and larger restaurants. Carry some cash for small purchases, markets, rural shops, and tips.
• ATMs plentiful but use bank ATMs to minimize fees. Inform your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.

Transportation

• Airports: Palma de Mallorca (PMI) is the main airport with good connections.
• Car rental: ideal for exploring the interior and coves; book in advance during high season. Watch narrow mountain roads in Serra de Tramuntana.
• Public transport: buses connect Palma with major towns and beaches; trains run Palma–Inca–Sa Pobla and Palma–Manacor. Intercity connections less frequent in rural areas.
• Taxis and ride-hailing: available in towns; fares higher at night. Consider shared transfers for airport–hotel trips to save money.
• Ferries: connect to other Balearic islands and mainland Spain (e.g., Barcelona); convenient for island hopping or car ferry.
• Biking & scooters: popular but be mindful of hills and traffic; rent from reputable shops and ensure insurance.

Must-know tips & local insights

• Serra de Tramuntana: UNESCO site—drive or hike early to avoid heat and crowds; book popular viewpoints and restaurants ahead.
• Beaches & coves (calas): some are small and crowded; research tide/parking info and arrive early. For secluded coves, be prepared for a short hike.
• Palma city: visit La Seu Cathedral, Bellver Castle, and the old town; dinner and nightlife are concentrated here.
• Markets: local markets (e.g., Sineu, Inca) are great for crafts, food, and leather goods.
• Festivals: check local fiestas (Sant Joan, Sant Antoni, and village patron saint days) for authentic experiences—but expect closures during major events.
• Environment: Mallorca has water restrictions in dry seasons—avoid wasteful water use. Respect protected areas and follow marked trails.
• Reservations: book accommodation, car rentals, and popular restaurants well before July–August.

Practical packing suggestions

• Lightweight clothing, sun protection, swimwear, and comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets and hikes.
• A light jacket for evenings, especially outside summer months.
• Power adapter (Spain uses Type C/E, 230V).

Enjoy Mallorca: plan for the season you prefer (calmer shoulder months are ideal), respect local customs, and book key logistics early to make the most of the island.