Known as the largest island in the Balearic archipelago off the coast of Spain, Mallorca is a hotspot for tourists seeking an unforgettable Mediterranean vacation. This naturally beautiful island has been ruled by various kingdoms over its centuries-long history but is now a major destination for European tourists looking to enjoy the sun and sand. Mallorca is divided into three sections with the west coast dominated by the Serra de Tramuntana mountain chain, the east coast marked by the Serra de Llevant mountains, and the island’s center described as “es plas,” or the plain. But most tourists who travel to Mallorca spend their time far and away from the island’s center, enjoying its more than 340 miles of coastline and the many sun-kissed beaches that along it. Once the sun sets, visitors usually head inland to enjoy wonderful restaurants and wine bars or dance the evening away at any one of the Mallorca’s many nightclubs. Whether you choose to party or relax (or some combination of the two), Mallorca travel won’t disappoint. But in case you’re seeking a bit of direction, let Travel + Leisure’s Mallorca travel guide lead the way.
Things Not to Miss in Mallorca
• Hike parts of the Serra de Tramuntana, a major mountain range that runs along Mallorca’s western coast
• Make day trips to the national parks on the neighboring islands of Cabrera and Dragonera
• Tour the gothic Palma Cathedral, located in the island capital of the same name
• Visit the History Museum at Bellver Castle, a former military prison and one of only a few circular castles in Europe
• Spend the day exploring village of Valldemossa, a former home to famed artists Frédéric Chopin and George Sand
• Bike your way through the bucolic village of Sa Calobra
• Take in the annual Jazz Festival at Cala d’Or
• Shop at the popular Wednesday market in the town of Sineu
• Spend the day sunning yourself on Magaluf Beach
• Explore the famed Dragon Caves formed thousands of years ago by the ebb and flow of Mediterranean tides
When To Go to Mallorca
Mallorca experiences a Mediterranean climate, which means cool, mild winters with temperatures peaking in the mid-50s and bright, sunny summers where daily temperatures rarely exceed 80 degrees, and rainfall is at its lowest. Those looking to get the most out of their Mallorca travel should then visit between May and September when the days are warm, and the evenings are just warm enough to make nighttime adventures easy and comfortable.
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