Mallorca
Travel, through a family lens: picturesque sun-soaked coasts and cobbled villages.
Mallorca surprised me in the best possible way. I expected incredible beaches (and we definitely got them), but what stayed with me were the slow breakfasts of fresh-squeezed Sóller orange juice, cured meats, cheese, and eggs; winding drives through the mountains spotting wild goats; and the charm of the old-town villages.
Each beach felt like a new adventure — from the calm, shallow waters in the north and south to the wilder, cliff-lined coves in the east. One of my favorite memories was spending a day on a boat, seeing the island from the water, diving in for swims, and letting the sun force us to truly slow down. My son was in heaven snorkeling at every stop — finding fish, crabs, jellyfish, shrimp, even an octopus — and we ate fresh sea urchin straight from the shell.
We traveled with three families (a baby, a toddler, and an eight-year-old in tow) and loved how family-friendly the island felt. Long lunches of grilled seafood and local wine, cobblestone streets lined with ceramic shops, daily gelato stops — every day held a small discovery.
Mallorca is the kind of place you could return to again and again, always finding something new.
-Kristin, Cofounder
Family Travel Journal
Quick insights before you dive into planning…
Perfect for: Travelers seeking a mix of Mediterranean beaches, charming villages, scenic drives, and a laid-back island vibe. Ideal for those who love combining relaxation with a bit of exploration.
Ages: All. Mallorca is extremely family-friendly, with calm beaches, car-free old towns, and plenty of outdoor space, but it’s also perfect for couples’ getaways and friend trips.
When to Visit: Late spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October) offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Peak summer (July and August) is busy tourist season and come with higher rates and busier roads.
Trip Length: 4 night minimum to 7+ nights to explore the island’s highlights without rushing — from Palma’s culture and nightlife to the Serra de Tramuntana’s mountain villages and coves to the beaches surrounding the island.
Combine with: Barcelona, Ibiza, or mainland Spain road trips.
Destination Fit
At a glance
Mallorca (sometimes spelled Majorca) is the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, set in the sparkling Mediterranean just off the country’s east coast. It’s surprisingly easy to reach. Most travelers fly into Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), which has direct connections to major European hubs like Barcelona, Madrid, London, and Paris. If you’re already in Spain, a scenic ferry ride from Barcelona or Valencia is also an option.
While Mallorca may be known for its nightlife in certain pockets, the island is far more than a party destination. Much of it is quiet, sophisticated, and deeply family-friendly. You can easily avoid the nightlife-heavy areas and instead spend your days exploring charming stone villages like Deià and Valldemossa, cycling through the dramatic Serra de Tramuntana mountains (a UNESCO World Heritage site), hiking coastal trails with cliffside views, or relaxing on one of Mallorca’s 200+ beaches, from bustling resort strips to hidden coves only reachable by boat.
Mallorca’s geography is part of its magic, and each corner of the island offers something different:
North: Rugged cliffs and spectacular coastal scenery, home to Cap de Formentor, Alcúdia’s old town, and family-friendly beaches with shallow waters.
West: The stunning Serra de Tramuntana mountains, with dramatic drives, hiking trails, and postcard-perfect villages like Sóller and Deià.
South: Long sandy beaches and lively resort towns, including some nightlife hubs — great if you want buzz and energy.
East: Quiet coves (calas), caves, and slower-paced towns — perfect for a more low-key, nature-centered stay.
Palma (Center/Southwest): The island’s capital blends Gothic architecture, boutique shopping, and a thriving food scene, making it a great base if you want a mix of city culture and beach access.
Mallorca is also a fantastic place for casual explorers: rent a car to drive the island’s winding coastal roads, discover weekly markets, enjoy local food and wine, and spend slow afternoons lingering at outdoor cafés. Whether you want an active adventure, a lazy beach escape, or a mix of both, Mallorca delivers.
Our Favorite Things
Traveled, loved, and chosen for you through our family lens.
-
Mallorca offers a wide range of accommodations - from boutique hotels and agroturismos, luxury villas that Mallorca is known for, to big and small city hotels in bustling Palma. A few we liked for our family:
Perfect small escape in the city: Concepcio - a beautiful hotel with terrace, pool, and delicious breakfast nestled between ancient walls of Palma.
Charming historic family home turned B&B: Agroturismo Son Viscos- “Agroturismo” properties are rural farm stays where kids can roam gardens, see animals, and enjoy a more immersive, quiet experience.
Quiet port town charm and beach stay: Hotel Espléndido - Port de Sóller Boutique laid-back coastal vibe yet stylish stay. Family rooms with separate bedrooms for a relaxed home base. Great for families who want to be steps from the beach, can stroll the charming port town, have a boat day or take the vintage train to Palma for the day.
A unique mountain hotel stay and creative hub: Hotel Corazon - renovated historic finca (farm), restaurant, art space, and shop. Between Deià and Sóller.
-
Mallorca’s cuisine is rustic, seasonal, and deeply Mediterranean — think fresh seafood, olive oil, almonds, and just-picked produce. You’ll find everything from casual tapas bars to stylish restaurants serving modern spins on traditional dishes. A few of our favorites that the whole family enjoyed:
Bar La Sang (Palma) - Large selection of natural wines and delicious seasonal sharing plates, the best way to order one of everything!
Casa Manolo -Bodega Barahona (Santanyi) - this seafood restaurant has been open for generations in Mallorca. Some of our favorite dishes are the fried artichoke, salt encursted baked fish, the squid prepared table side, and their clams. Everything was delicious!
Ses Coves, Coves de Campanet (Serra de Tramuntana) - family run restaurant focused on sustainable food and cooked over fire. A long, slow meal overlooking beautiful vineyards.
Mister McCoy's Island Ices (Soller) - Traditional Gelateria, natural wine shop and bar.
-
Mallorca isn’t just about lying on the beach, it’s an island bursting with adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Each region has its own personality and landscape, from long stretches of soft white sand and calm turquoise waters to pebbly coves framed by dramatic cliffs (perfect for a little cliff jumping if you’re feeling brave!). Whether you’re here for sun-soaked relaxation, outdoor adventures, or charming village explorations, Mallorca delivers for the whole family:
Village Hopping and catching the sunrise or sunset - Spend a day driving through mountain villages like Deià, Valldemossa, and Fornalutx. Stop for coffee, pastries, and photos of cobblestone streets and stone-framed flower boxes. And shop at the many beautiful artisan craft stores and galleries along the way. Or drive along the dramatic Cap de Formentor for panoramic views at sunrise or sunset.
Boat Trips & Water Adventures - Charter a boat for a day of swimming in hidden coves, jumping off cliffs, or try kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling. Kite surfing or eFoiling off the beach is also popular amongst locals and tourists alike.
Culture & History - Explore Palma’s Gothic Cathedral La Seu, wander its historic old town, visit the Arab Baths, and shop at boutiques and markets. Across Mallorca, the old town villages hold weekly markets with local produce and crafts. Marcat Semanal in Santanyi and Pollensa Market in Pollensa Old Town and Calvari Steps (170 steps) for panoramic views to name a couple outside of Palma. Book a wine tasting at a countryside bodega. Or a favorite amongst art lovers is a visit to Fundació Miró Mallorca, a cultural center built around the studios that Joan Miró lived and worked in for over 30 years. Visit some of his preserved studios as he left them.
Hiking & Cycling - Take advantage of the UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountains with trails for all levels, from stroller-friendly walks to challenging summit hikes. Cyclists love the island’s winding roads and coastal routes and you’ll see them all over the island.
-
Accidente con Flores - Ethically and slow made on Mallorca supporting local artisans - clothing, ceramics, rugs, straw goods. In Palma.
Cortana - Local brand made with natural fabrics in Palma.
De Haan Gallery Studio - Art gallery and ceramic studio in Deia.
Obsolete Mallorca - Jewelry, dresses and selection of home goods in Deia.
Sonmo - an estate with experiences and workshops on land and sea. Their beautiful shops sell local produce, their olive oils, jams, Mallorcan wool blankets, soaps and accessories.
Flor de Sal d’Es Trenc - artisanal local salt shop.
There's so much more to explore. For a comprehensive list of our favorite spots (including more hidden gems we discovered), reach out for a custom itinerary.
Tips
Language surprises to anticipate
Spanish (Castellano) is widely spoken, but you’ll also see and hear Catalan, specifically the Mallorquí dialect used in signage and menus. Don’t be surprised if towns have two names (e.g., Sóller / Soller). Most people in the tourism industry speak English so you’ll have no trouble communicating and getting around.
Whether to stay in town
If your trip is short (4–5 days), base yourself in one area (like Alcúdia for beach time or Palma for a city-meets-beach vibe) and do day trips to explore. With more time, consider splitting your stay between two regions — for example, a few days near the beach and a few days in the mountains for hiking and village life. We’re happy to help you craft an itinerary that makes sense for your family.
How to book an agriturismo
Mallorca has a wealth of rural fincas (farmhouses) converted into guesthouses, perfect for families who want space and a quiet setting. Many are on booking platforms, but some of the best finds are smaller, family-run spots that require booking directly by email or their website. Book well in advance for summer because these properties fill quickly.
Getting Around
Renting a car is almost essential for families, as it gives you freedom to explore beaches, markets, and small towns on your own schedule (and avoid crowded buses).
Meal planning
Meals follow the relaxed Mediterranean rhythm: late lunches (often 1–3 PM) and late dinners (8 PM onward). Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner service, so plan snacks or a siesta during that time. Grocery stores are excellent for stocking up on fresh bread, cheese, fruit, and picnic supplies which are perfect for beach or hiking days.
How to pack for summer
Summer is hot, especially July and August — think light, breathable clothing, swimsuits, sun hats, and strong sunscreen. A light sweater is handy for breezy nights or boat trips, and sturdy sandals or sneakers are a must if you’ll be hiking or exploring cobblestone towns. Water shoes are recommended for both hiking the rocky cliffs and allowing you to get your feet wet when you hike to your beach destination.
Preparing for peak summer travel
Mallorca is busiest in July and August, so plan ahead, or if you can, visit in shoulder season (May–June or September–October) for fewer crowds and better prices. If summer is your only option, expect higher rates (especially for beachfront properties) and book hotels, rental cars, and popular activities well in advance.
Once there, start your days early to claim a spot at the most popular calas, and save village visits for the morning or late afternoon when crowds thin. With nearly 300 beaches, you’ll find everything from wide, family-friendly stretches perfect for a full day with snack shacks, lounger and umbrella rentals available to hidden coves that require a hike but reward you with stunning views once you reach the shore. We suggest one beach per day: arrive early, settle in, and enjoy.
Trusted Family Voices…
-
![Tik Tok Logo]()
Watch on Tik Tok
“..too much hassle- especially with a baby...turns out the Dolomites are for families- especially the kind that finds joy in the simple, the slow, the wild."
-
![KJ]()
Kristin's friend,
“i want to write something cooool”
-
![]()
Watch on Instagram
"The Dolomites are wonderful not only for adults, but also for traveling with children or people who doesn’t like to go hike!"
-
![]()
Penny, age 10
From Annie’s daughter’s travel blog:
“Best food: Four-course meal at Furschermule
Fun fact: Even though the Dolomites are in Italy, it was mostly German, like the food and language.
How 2 pronounce: doll-ah-mights (or E doll-ah-meet-E in Italian)”
-
![]()
Watch on Instagram
“Our 5 amazing days with locations in the Dolomites, Italy.”
-
![]()
Watch on Tik Tok
“If you’re planning a summer family trip to the Dolomites, it can feel overwhelming- the area is huge, stunning, and full of things to do.”
Ready to make this trip yours?
Our curated destination guides are a great start to make extraordinary trips doable. Upgrade to our Customized Itinerary to turn inspiration into a trip designed just for your family, without the planning hassle, time, or stress.