Between beaches, mountains and cliffs, Mallorca also has a rich architectural offer.
In this article, you can find the best towns in Mallorca, as well as the most beautiful Mallorca villages.
This guide includes map, tips and photos.
Note: this is more an article about visiting those towns and villages.
If you are wondering where to stay in Mallorca, check out this other article.
Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Mallorca:
My favorite platform to rent a car in Mallorca: DiscoverCars
The unmissable boat tour: dolphin watching from Alcudia
My favorite excursion from Palma: Port de Soller and Valldemossa
My favorite places to stay:
- Palma de Mallorca: see best rated hotels – e.g. Hotel Posada Terra Santa
- Port d’Alcudia: see best rated hotels – e.g. Bonavida apartments
- Cala d’or: see best rated hotels – e.g. Casa Ceiba Maria
- In a Finca in the heart of the island – I suggest Finca Cas Sant
#1 – Fornalutx – most beautiful village in Mallorca
Fornalutx was once called ‘Spain’s Prettiest Village’. And, in my opinion, is the best village in Mallorca.
It offers beautifully preserved with stone houses, staircases and narrow alleys at the foot of rocky mountains.
You can enjoy the charm of the cafés with views of the Tramuntana mountains, including Puig Major, the highest peak in Mallorca.
Best things to do in Fornalutx
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- The many stone houses that are well maintained
- The views of Puig Major (1447m)
- The church Nativitat de la Mare de Deu (built 1230 to 1639)
- The Can Carbona from the 16th century with its defensive square tower from the 17th.
- The many charming alleys
Visit tips
- Crowds – Very popular, not far from Port de Soller
- How long to plan – Plan 1 hours to explore or plan around lunch
- Ease of visiting – Some steep streets
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Fornatlux
How to get to Fornalutx
- Palma de Mallorca to Fornatlux = 40min drive
- Alcudia to Fornatlux = 1h10 drive
- You need a car to visit the village, or you can take a cab from Soller
- You first need to go to Soller and then enjoy a short mountain drive up to the village.
Parking
There are only a couple of small carparks. So parking is extremely difficult as the village is very popular.
#2 – Alcudia – best old town in Mallorca
When people talk about Alcudia in Mallorca, they often to Port d’Alcudia the large resort town where many travelers stay.
However, Alcudia is actually the Roman settlement inland from the harbor.
Founded around 70 BC by the Romans, the old town of Alcudia has a lot of character. The maze of narrow alleys is surrounded by walls and impressive gates on which you can walk.
It is home to many architectural wonders from various eras including old Roman ruins.
Not to be missed on your Mallorca itinerary.
Best things to do in Alcudia
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- The medieval walls – you can walk on them!
- The various gates (the best are Porta del Moll and Porta de Vila Roja)
- The narrow streets full of charm
- The church with its typical Mallorcan style
- The Roman ruins of Pollentia – see official website
- …
Learn more on my article.
Visit tips
- Crowds – One of the most popular town with lots of restaurants
- How long to plan – Plan half a day to enjoy all it has to offer and maybe a meal
- Ease of visiting – Very flat to explore the old center, easy to walk around – just a few stairs to go on the walls
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Alcudia
How to get to Alcudia
- Palma de Mallorca to Alcudia = 45min drive
- Soller to Alcudia = 1h drive
- Very easy to access via the fast road between Palma de Mallorca and Alcudia
- And if you don’t want to drive, you can book a guided excursion – see options
Parking
Alcudia is one of the rare places in Mallorca where it is easy to park.
All around the fortification walls, there are large carparks.
Need to rent a car in Mallorca?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Don’t choose a car too large, since some roads are very narrow
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
#3 – Palma de Mallorca – capital city
Main city on the island, and capital of the Balearic Islands, Palma is recognized for its iconic cathedral.
But there is much more to see in the town than just the cathedral with palace, castle, arab baths, art-deco builtins, delicious restaurants…
Best things to do in Palma de Mallorca
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- Admire the cathedral and palace from the waterfront
- Visit the cathedral
- Visit the Royal Palace of Amunadia
- Visit one of the museums (art, sacred art, military, maritime…)
- Discover the ancient Arab Baths
- Enjoy the unique circular castle: Castell de Bellver
- …
- See more in my Palma de Mallorca article
Visit tips
- Crowds – Palma is very popular. I recommend visiting in the morning to enjoy a little more peace.
- How long to plan – A full day to see all the main buildings
- Ease of visiting – The town has many stairs and slopes
- Avoid Mondays (most sites closed) and Sundays (cathedral closed)
- Start by booking your visit to the cathedral and organize around it.
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Palma de Mallorca – or learn more in my article about where to stay in Palma.
How to get to Palma de Mallorca
- Alcudia to Palma de Mallorca = 45min
- Soller to Palma de Mallorca = 40min
- Being the capital, many roads lead to Palma de Mallorca
- However, on the main roads around the town is where you will find the most difficult traffic
Parking
Along the waterfront, you can find several large carparks which are practical to visit the old town.
Some are underground, others are outside.
All my favorite locations are included (with GPS coordinates, maps and tips) in my travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your Mallorca road trip:
Plan your dream trip in Mallorca thanks to my guide
- 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 140+ pre-selected locations
- GPS + tips to make the most of your time
- Planning tips
- 270+ original photos to help you choose
#4 – Sineu – heart of Mallorca
In the heart of Mallorca (geographically in the center), Sineu is one of the most beautiful towns on the island.
The streets of the old center are lined up with stone houses and interesting architecture.
The church and its traditional Mallorcan architecture stands out at the top of the hill.
Best things to do in Sineu
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- The Typical Mallorcan church (Santa Maria) with side arches and a separate bell tower (and 7 bells).
- The charming main square by the church
- The town hall located in a 17th century convent with a beautiful cloister
- The narrow street with stone houses and green shutters
- The convent de la Concepcio and Palace of the kings
Visit tips
- Crowds – Less crowded than the tramuntana villages
- How long to plan – Plan 2 hours to explore the old center
- Ease of visiting – If you can park at the top, it is quite easy to walk around. Otherwise some slopes to climb.
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Sineu
How to get to Sineu
- Palma de Mallorca to Sineu = 35min drive
- Alcudia to Sineu = 35min drive
- As it is located in the center of the island, it is quite easy to reach from various directions
- However, you need a car to come visit Sineu
Parking
Street parking and small carparks in town.
#5 – Valldemossa
The mountain village of Valldemossa became famous in 1839 when George Sand and Frederic Chopin stayed for a winter. The famous composer stated that it is ‘The Most Beautiful Place in the World’.
At an altitude of 400m (1312ft), the village is full of charming streets with old stone houses. Locals decorate with lots of vegetation, highlighting the character.
In this village, it feels like traveling back in time.
Best things to do in Valldemossa
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- The main square & the garden King Juan Carlos behind
- The Royal Charterhouse (Carthusian monastery) – origin in 1399 and the King Sancho Palace — see website
- Chopin Museum – see website
- Explore the alleys in the village to find some beautiful gems
- Note – opening hours are not always applied as written
Visit tips
- Crowds – One of the most popular villages in Mallorca – crowded
- How long to plan – Plan 1h just to walk around the town, half a day to a day if you want to visit palace and museums on top
- Ease of visiting – Not too much slope or stairs, flatter than other villages
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Valldemossa
How to get to Valldemossa
- Palma de Mallorca to Valldemossa = 30min drive
- Alcudia to Valldemossa = 1h drive
- Close to Ma-10, the main road through the Tramuntana mountains
Parking
2 large carparks near the town center.
However, as it is a very popular place, they fill up quickly.Visit before 10am.
#6 – Port de Soller – famous coastal town in Mallorca
Natural harbour isolated at the foot of the Tramuntana mountains, Port de Soller is very picturesque.
Before the tunnel, it was really isolated, so it was somewhat preserved from the overdevelopment.
The bay is bordered by sandy beaches.
However, the entire seafront area is now only touristic with restaurants, bars and souvenir shops.
And it is famous for its vintage wooden tram, linking it to the old town of Soller.
Best things to do in Port de Soller
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- The almost enclosed bay
- The marina
- The surrounding mountain peaks
- The old trolley
- And don’t miss the views from the lighthouse Far des Cap Gros
Just soak up the ambience.
Learn more
Visit tips
- Crowds – One of the most crowded places on the island
- How long to plan – Half a day
- Ease of visiting – Flat town, very easy to explore
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Puerto de Soller
How to get to Port de Soller
- Palma de Mallorca to Port de Soller = 40min drive
- Alcudia to Port de Soller = 1h
- Easy drive from the main motorway – through a tunnel
- Toll has been removed
- If you don’t want to drive, you can visit by boat, train or day tours – see options
Parking
Many large carparks, underground or not, around town.
However, despite the large number of parking places, it can still be a nightmare to find parking (even out of Summer).
Visit before lunchtime to find a spot.
Where to stay in Mallorca?
My favorites:
- Choice of restaurants + main town: see best-rated options in Palma
- Beach + practical location to explore: see best-rated options in Port d’Alcudia
- Party area – see best-rated options in S’Arenal
- Quiet in the mountains – see best-rated options in Valldemossa
- Quiet, charming seaside place – see best-rated options in Canyamel
- Access to the best calas – see best-rated options in Cala d’or
- Families – see best-rated options in Cala Millor or in Colonia Sant Jordi
#7 – Cala Figuera – most charming fishing village
Cala Figuera is a small fishermen village that has kept its charm.
It is located on a narrow arm of water, along cliffside and lush vegetation.
It can be enjoyed at water level, discovering the traditional houses with green accent and the boat houses.
And it can be enjoyed from the top of the cliffs with mesmerizing views of turquoise waters and nature’s carving work.
Best things to do in Cala Figuera
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- The viewpoint with the cliffs and narrow calas cut by the water
- The charming harbor with colorful houses over the water and small boats in a narrow cove
- The Faro de la Torre d’en Beu
Visit tips
- Crowds – A popular place to stay, but remains quiet as there are no beaches
- How long to plan – 1h to just appreciate the village, longer to soak it the relaxation
- Ease of visiting – Steep roads
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Cala Figuera
How to get to Cala Figuera
- Palma de Mallorca to Cala Figuera = 55min drive
- Alcudia to Cala Figuera = 1h15 drive
- You need a car to visit this village
Parking
Some parking spaces at the top of the village.
#8 – Pollença
Pollenca (Pollença / Pollensa) has been settled since Prehistoric times.
The town is full of history and splendid views. It is now attracting many artists.
From the main large square you can explore narrow alleys and find interesting buildings.
But the main attraction is the staircase to the Calvari, a sanctuary on top of a hill with beautiful views of the region.
And you can also walk on an old Roman Bridge!
Best things to do in Pollença
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- Climb the staircase to El Calvari – take your time & enjoy the views towards the city and towards the sea
- Enjoy one of the terraces at the main square
- Visit the church Santa Maria dels Angels
- Get lost in the narrow streets. Visit the museum de Pollença
- Walk around Torre Desbrull
- Walk outside the city center to reach the Roman Bridge (Pont Roma)
Visit tips
- Crowds – Less crowded that Alcudia and Palma. However, it is mixed with the new towns, so there are a lot of locals.
- How long to plan – Plan half a day to visit the entire town
- Ease of visiting – The center is flat. But there are many stairs to reach the Calvari.
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Pollença
How to get to Pollença
- Palma de Mallorca to Pollença = 50min drive
- Alcudia to Pollença = 20min drive
- Easy drive from the main motorway through the island
- Best to have a car to react Pollença
Parking
Several large carparks on the more modern side of town
I don’t drink coffee 
But I also like other drinks and sweets!
Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…
#9 – Deia
Deia is a charming village in the Tramuntana that has attracted many artists.
On one side you can enjoy sea views and on the other, mountain views.
Typical stone houses built on a hill and along a ravine. It has been inhabited since prehistoric times.
It was already called ‘ad Daia’ i.e. ‘the village’ during the 8th century.
It was a favorite place of poet and author Robert Graves
Best things to do in Deia
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- Take time to explore the little alleys up and down the hill.
- The tiny stone bridges
- The old washing area, water reserve and spring
- The Mirador des Canons at the top
- The Sant Joan Baptista church from 1497 – with the bell tower inside an old defense tower.
Visit tips
- Crowds – Very popular, extremely crowded
- How long to plan – Plan 1h to 2h to explore the village
- Ease of visiting – Slopes and stairs
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Deia
How to get to Deia
- Palma de Mallorca to Deia = 45min drive
- Alcudia to Deia = 1h10
- Deia is located along the main road through the Tramuntana mountains
- A few guided tours, include a stop at Deia – see some options
Parking
Parking is a nightmare.
There are several small carparks along the main road, they only have a few spaces and get full fast. Plus, turning around and looking for a space is very complex as you are in the mountains.
I recommend arriving veery early to find a spot.
#10 – Capdepera
The town is mostly famous for its castle.
Located on top a hill, the Castell of Capdepera and its strategic location has a long history.
First built during the 14th century, it protected the inhabitants from pirates’ attacks. In the 16th century, there were 125 houses inside the walls.
And in the 18th century it was used as a military complex.
It is a fascinating structure with great views.
Best things to do in Capdepera
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- The fortification walls and gate
- The views over the town of Capdepera and towards the sea
- The Governor’s house and the displays inside
- The church and its terrace above it – don’t forget to ring the bell!
- The square and circular defense tower in the center of the structure that dates back to the 12th century.
- Find out more
Visit tips
- Crowds – popular but far less crowded than the other
- How long to plan – 2 hours to explore the town center and visit the castle, longer to also enjoy the lighthouse and the coast
- Ease of visiting – stairs and slopes
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Capdepera
How to get to Capdepera
- Palma de Mallorca to Capdepera = 1h05 drive
- Alcudia to Capdepera = 50min drive
- You need to rent a car to visit Capdepera
- Easy drive and access
Parking
The carparks are not very big. As it is less touristic, you can more easily find a space, but around lunch time in Summer it can become difficult.
Plan your trip to Mallorca:
#11 – Portocolom
The traditional fishing village of Portocolom (also written Porto Colom) has retained most of its charm.
The road all around the seafront offers views of traditional houses and boats, beaches and a photogenic lighthouse.
Portocolom was named after Christopher Columbus who was (allegedly) born here.
It has not been taken over by tourism overbuilding, and offers a more peaceful ald laid-backexperience.
Best things to do in Portocolom
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- The colorful houses along the seafront
- The traditional boats in the harbor
- The quiet bay
- The striped lighthouse Far de Portocolom
- The S’Arenal Portocolom beach with views of the lighthouse
Visit tips
- Crowds – Peaceful
- How long to plan – 1h to explore, longer to relax at the beach ad enjoy the peace
- Ease of visiting – Flat area
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Portocolom
How to get to Portocolom
- Palma de Mallorca to Portocolom = 55min drive
- Alcudia to Portocolom = 1h10
- You need a car to reach Portocolom. The road is easy.
Parking
No issues – street parking and carparks.
#12 – Banyalbufar
Surrounded by the sea on one side and the Tramuntana mountains on the other, the hillside village of Banyalbufar is a nice stop on Ma-10.
Founded in the 10th century, it is home to vineyards and Olive groves.
Stones houses, hidden passageways… this is another village where you can explore and get lost admiring the charming alleys.
Best things to do in Banyalbufar
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- The charming main square and church
- The Torre Baronia, hidden down a staircase near hotel Sa Baronia
- Terraced agriculture all around (best seen when driving in from the East
- Vineyards on the surrounding hills
Visit tips
- Crowds – Less crowded that the other Tramuntana villages
- How long to plan – Quick stop to see the main buildings, or longer if you want to visit a vineyard
- Ease of visiting – Steep streets
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Banyalbufar
How to get to Banyalbufar
- Palma de Mallorca to Banyalbufar = 35min drive
- Alcudia to Banyalbufar = 1h10 drive
- You need to rent a car to visit Banyalbufar
Parking
Several small parking areas.
Can be difficult to stop.
#13 – Andratx
The most famous part of Andratx is actually its harbor, the twin town of Port d’Andratx (next section).
But this quiet town where you will find mostly locals is worth a stop.
It dates back to the 2nd century BC, built inland to protect from Pirate attacks.
This traditional town is surrounded by mountains, sea and orange groves.
Best things to do in Andratx
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- The small but charming garden around to town hall
- The Castell de Son Mas (which is now the town hall). Do not miss the West side with the inner courtyard.
- The church of Santa Maria de Andratx (may be closed)
Visit tips
- Crowds – no crowds
- How long to plan – 1h
- Ease of visiting – relatively easy
- Stays are at Port d’Andratx
How to get to Andratx
- Palma de Mallorca to Andratx = 30min drive
- Alcudia to Andratx = 1h drive
- You need to rent a car to visit Andratx
Parking
Street parking. Easy.
#14 – Port d’Andratx
Coastal town with Marina and nice seafront promenade, surrounded by mountains.
It has an exclusive vibe.
Best things to do in Port d’Andratx
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- Walk around the harbor
Visit tips
- Crowds – Peaceful
- How long to plan – 1h
- Ease of visiting – Flat area
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Puerto de Andratx
How to get to Port d’Andratx
- Palma de Mallorca to Port d’Andratx = 30min
- Alcudia to Port d’Andratx = 1h
- You need a car to visit
Parking
Several carparks around the harbour. It can be packed around meals, as the town is home to great restaurants.
Need to rent a car in Mallorca?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Don’t choose a car too large, since some roads are very narrow
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
#15 – Arta
Arta is a historical town, a lesser known traditional town.
Located on top a 182m (597ft) high hill, the Arta Sanctuary is mostly interesting for the 360° views of the region.
The well-restored walls surround an oval area with the sanctuary, a house and the cistern from the 17th century.
The current church dates back to 1832 as the 13th century one was burnt down following the bubonic plague.
Best things to do in Arta
If you decide to visit, the top things not to miss are:
- Visit the Sanctuary at the top of thill
- Visit the Talayot ruins of Ses Paisses
- Enjoy the old vibe of the town
Visit tips
- Crowds – The Sanctuary is popular, but this region is less touristic
- How long to plan – 1h just for the Sanctuary, half a day to enjoy the town and archaeological site as well
- Ease of visiting – it depends where you park…
- Hotels – If you want to overnight here, check out the best rated accommodations in Arta
How to get to Arta
- Palma de Mallorca to Arta = 1h
- Alcudia to Arta = 40min drive
- You need to rent a car
- Easy drive
Parking
There is a small carpark at the top of the hill to visit the sanctuary and a couple of very large carparks around the town (which require climbing to visit the sanctuary).
Best towns and villages in Mallorca – Map
Map
Below is a map with the location of my top 10 towns and villages:
All my favorite locations are included (with GPS coordinates, maps and tips) in my travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your Mallorca road trip:
Plan your dream trip in Mallorca thanks to my guide
- 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 140+ pre-selected locations
- GPS + tips to make the most of your time
- Planning tips
- 270+ original photos to help you choose
Need to rent a car in Mallorca? My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Choose your car and company (prefer a smaller car for the narrow roads)
- Consider their full coverage option (I recommend it because of the narrow roads)
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
See my 36 tips about renting a car in Mallorca
#16 to 21 – 6 Best beach towns in Mallorca
In this article, I have focused on the most beautiful villages and tows to visit in Mallorca.
But by “Best towns” you may mean the most practical for enjoying the beach and the island.
In that case, my top 5 are:
#16 – Port d’Alcudia
Alcudia Bay is a large area with a long sandy beach all along.
It is cut into 3 main “towns”:
- Port d’Alcudia (West side) – more town than resort, with the beautiful end of the lagoon and the port
- Platja de Muro (middle) – many accommodations feet on the beach
- Can Picafort (East) – wide choice of accommodations and restaurants
The advantages are a wide range of accommodations, easy access to the beach, easy access to main roads to explore the island and close to the most famous places such as Formentor and Sa Calobra.
#17 – Colonia Sant Jordi
Colonia is a coastal resort town with a great atmosphere.
It offers a lot with promenades, beaches, great restaurants, easy access to beautiful coves…
The area has been settled since the Bronze age. Salt and fishing made it a prosperous village.
Despite a few modern buildings, a lot of the town has been able to keep its charm with stone houses.
Some nightlife, but rather quiet.
See best rated accommodations in Colonia Sant Jordi
#18 – Cala d’Or
Cala d’Or, the “Golden Bay”, is a very popular area on the South-East Coast.
It is the gateway to many of the most beautiful coves (calas) in Mallorca.
The town is characterized by the many small coves (rather than a long beach and bay). Therefore, there are many scenic places to enjoy.
It is a resort town with all you could need for a holiday – beaches, shopping, nature reserves, nightlife…
The most famous calas in Cala d’Or is Cala Esmeralda.
See best rated accommodations in Cala d’Or
#19 – Cala Millor
Cala Millor is a holiday resort.
No charm of ancient houses, but everything you or your family could want:
Lots of seafront accommodations, plenty of fun activities, shopping, restaurants…
It is one of the best place to stay with families as adults and kids of every age will find something to do.
See best rated accommodations in Cala Millor
#20 – Port de Pollenca
Port de Pollensa is a wonderful area for those looking for a scenic, beachy destination.
It is the gate town to the Formentor peninsula.
The town center has higher building but the rest of the bay has mostly low-level buildings and little nightlife.
It offers a quiet beach experience with stunning views.
See best rated accommodations in Port de Pollença
#21 – El Arenal, if you want to party
El Arenal is the ideal place for those looking for a long sandy beach mixed with active nightlife.
Its 6km long beach ends with a large choice of accommodations and a large amount of bars and clubs.
Also written S’Arenal or simply Arenal.
See best rated accommodations in El Arenal
Want to see more of Mallorca?
- 40 most beautiful landscapes in Mallorca (with pictures) – read article
- 7 Best Mallorca caves – read article
- 10 best calas in Mallorca (coves) – read article
- 12 Mallorca hidden gems, off the beaten path – read article
- 21 most beautiful views in Mallorca – read article
- Mallorca travel tips – read article
- Driving in Mallorca – read article
- 21 Most beautiful towns and villages in Mallorca – read article
- The unique Sa Calobra – road, beach, tips – read article
- Cap de Formentor (road, beach, lighthouse…) – read article
Planning a trip to Mallorca?
Check out my travel guide to help you plan:
Plan your dream trip in Mallorca thanks to my guide
- 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 140+ pre-selected locations
- GPS + tips to make the most of your time
- Planning tips
- 270+ original photos to help you choose
And keep track of your own trip!
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