Mallorca attracts visitors for all sorts of reasons, including its beaches, warm climate, local food, and welcoming atmosphere. But beyond the resorts and restaurant strips, there’s another side of the island worth exploring. Some of the best experiences are found off the beaten track or out at sea, offering a fresh take on what a holiday here can really be.
For families, couples, or solo travellers alike, there’s no shortage of guided activities or self-planned adventures. From exploring hidden coves to visiting cultural landmarks, Mallorca offers a range of options that suit different interests and energy levels. Here are some of the most rewarding excursions to consider during your visit.
Discovering the Serra de Tramuntana
The Tramuntana mountain range stretches along Mallorca’s northwest coast, offering an entirely different feel from the island’s beach resorts. With hiking trails, scenic drives, and quiet villages like Valldemossa and Deià, this UNESCO-listed region is ideal for those who enjoy a slower pace and natural scenery.
Families can opt for shorter trails or take a drive through the winding roads to experience dramatic views without committing to a full day on foot. Spring and autumn are great times to explore this area when temperatures are milder, and the paths are less crowded.
Exploring the Caves of Drach
One of Mallorca’s most impressive natural attractions, the Cuevas del Drach (Dragon Caves) near Porto Cristo, is a favourite for visitors of all ages. A guided tour here takes you through a vast network of underground formations with stalactites and stalagmites around every turn.
What sets these caves apart is Lake Martel, an underground lake where short classical music concerts are held as part of the tour. The gentle boat ride across the lake is especially popular with children, and the cool temperature inside offers a break from the afternoon heat.
Early Morning Marine Adventures
There’s something different about being on the water at first light. One of the most memorable excursions to try is a boat trip focused on spotting marine life. These early morning outings offer a peaceful way to experience Mallorca’s coastline and often include sightings of dolphins swimming freely.
Some tours include extras like time for swimming or breakfast onboard, making it a relaxed and scenic start to the day. A number of providers operate from areas like Alcudia or Cala Ratjada, and it’s easy to book online in advance. Those interested can check out trusted options for dolphin watching tours in Mallorca, which are popular with families and nature-lovers looking for a genuine sea adventure.
A Day Trip to Sóller on the Wooden Train
The historic wooden train that runs from Palma to Sóller is more than just transport. It’s a journey through Mallorca’s countryside, passing citrus groves, mountain tunnels and farmland along the way. The train has been operating since 1912 and still holds its original charm, making it a favourite for families with children.
Once in Sóller, you can stroll through the town square, visit the small but well-kept botanical garden, or take the tram to the Port of Sóller for ice cream by the sea. The whole experience is relaxed and scenic, and children usually enjoy the novelty of the train itself, as much as the destination.
Paddleboarding in Calm Coves
For travellers who like something active but not too intense, stand-up paddleboarding is a great way to see the island’s coastline. Many of the smaller bays around Mallorca have calm, shallow waters that make this activity safe and beginner-friendly. It’s a popular choice for teens and adventurous parents, offering a fun way to spend a couple of hours on the water.
Places like Cala Mondragó and Port de Pollença have rental centres with equipment and short introductory sessions. Morning is the best time to go when the sea tends to be at its calmest, and the beaches are quieter.
Visiting a Traditional Market
No visit to Mallorca feels complete without a stop at a local market. These aren’t tourist traps but genuine community events where locals shop for fruit, veg, cheese, and hand-crafted goods. Markets rotate through towns on different days of the week, and they’re a good way to try local produce or pick up souvenirs that don’t feel mass-produced.
The market in Alcudia, held twice a week, is one of the most popular. It’s surrounded by old stone buildings and narrow pedestrian lanes that give it a timeless feel. For something a little quieter, the smaller markets in towns like Santanyí or Pollença offer a more relaxed pace.
A Boat Trip to Sa Calobra
Sa Calobra is a remote beach framed by tall cliffs and reached either by a dramatic mountain drive or a boat trip. Most people agree the sea route is the more enjoyable option. Boats depart regularly from Port de Sóller and take you along the rugged coast with photo stops along the way.
Once you arrive, a short walk through tunnels carved into the cliffs leads to the pebble beach and the entrance to Torrent de Pareis, a dry riverbed set between sheer rock walls. It’s a stunning setting, and although swimming conditions vary depending on the sea, it’s worth visiting for the scenery alone. Bring walking shoes if you plan to explore beyond the beach.
Exploring Palma’s Historic Centre
If you’re spending time in or near the capital, Palma has plenty to offer. The old town is a maze of streets with hidden courtyards, independent shops, and shaded cafes. The Gothic cathedral, known locally as La Seu, is an obvious highlight, but there’s more to the city than just one landmark.
Families can visit the Arab Baths, explore the Es Baluard modern art museum, or simply walk the city walls for views across the port. It’s easy to spend half a day wandering at your own pace and stopping when something catches your interest.
Plan a Few Extras for a More Memorable Holiday
Adding a few carefully chosen activities can make a big difference to your time in Mallorca. It’s often these experiences, a boat ride at sunrise, a stroll through an old market, or a quiet moment in the mountains, which stay with you long after the trip ends. Families, couples, and solo travellers can all find excursions that match their pace and interests. Try to keep your plans flexible and mix in a few highlights here and there – doing so will help you see more of what the island offers and leave with a richer sense of the place.
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