Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands and for many European tourists the perfect destination for a relaxing holiday in the sun. Most travelers stay in the south of Mallorca in the popular beach resorts such as El Arenal, Playa de Mallorca, and Playa de Palma. But besides the beautiful beaches, Mallorca has so much more to offer!
I flew last week for a city trip to Palma de Mallorca and sought out the best sights for you. One thing the Balearic islands all have in common is the weather. Most of the time it is good with plenty of sunshine. Whether you are making a cultural visit to the town of Palma, discover the beautiful scenery on the north coast or just book a relaxing beach holiday, you find it all on Mallorca.
Sierra de Tramontana mountains
Mallorca’s north west coast is home to some artistic and picturesque villages surrounded by breathtaking scenery, dominated by the Sierra de Tramontana mountains. This beautiful area is home to a variety of hiking trails, offering stunning panoramas of the impressive mountains and the endless blue Mediterranean sea.
Northern tip of Mallorca: Cap de Formentor
The coastal road that goes from the capital Palma to the north tip of Mallorca, Cap de Formentor, is an experience in itself. Along the way, high cliffs and secluded coves with crystal clear turquoise water alternate picturesque villages like Deia.
You will also pass the famous historical towns Sóller and Valldemossa. The ‘La Cartuja’ monastery, dating back to the 14th-century, is one of the main attractions of Valldemossa, being the place where the famous Polish composer Frederic Chopin lived. The monastery still honors him every August with a Chopin festival.
The picturesque town of Sóller is famous for its old tram, the “Tren de Sóller“. The route that the tram follows goes through the Tramuntana Mountains and green landscapes full of orange, lemon, fig and almond trees. Some people believe that this 27 km long journey from Palma to Sóller is one of the most beautiful train rides in Europe. So highly recommended!
De capital Palma de Mallorca
While staying in Mallorca, you can’t miss the capital, Palma. Here you can wander for hours in the small streets of this beautiful old town. Palma is a bustling city with quaint shops and lively squares such as the Plaza Mayor, where you can take a seat outside one of the many restaurants and taste delicious local dishes (tapas).
Downtown culture lovers can enjoy several beautiful churches as well as the art museum, “Museum de Mallorca”, which is housed in a monastery of the royal palace “Almudaina”.
Today the Almudaina Palace still serves as the royal residence. You can visit the palace, and from the balcony, you can see Castle Bellver in the distance. It is the only round castle in Europe. From the castle, you have wonderful vistas of the city and the elongated marina of Palma de Mallorca.
However, Palma’s main attraction is the majestic and immense Cathedral La Seu. Thanks to its length of 120 meters and its strategic location, this cathedral is the focal point of Palma and worth a visit.
Design Hotel Nakar
If you want to stay in the capital Palma, I can recommend the modern design hotel Nakar. Nakar sits on the edge of the historic old town, at the Avinguda Jaume III. Just right on one of the most visited shopping streets of Palma and close to many bars and restaurants. The bustling shopping streets La Rambla, Passeig del Born, Sant Nicolau and the trendy district Santa Catalina can be easily reached by foot.
The hotel is hip and trendy with clear Majorcan influences. Not only the architect comes from Mallorca, but also the owner and chef-cook originate from the island. Many locally produced materials have been used for the interior of the hotel, and at Bar Restaurant CUIT an authentic Mallorcan cuisine is served. Especially on weekends the restaurant is very popular and visited by many locals.
Nakar Hotel -part of the Design Hotel Group- has a minimalist design. The 57 spacious and bright rooms feature neutral colors and materials such as oak and stone and are equipped with all technological comforts from USB ports to Smart TV.
Nakar hotel offers different types of rooms, all equipped with twin beds or one king bed. Additionally, you can opt for a jacuzzi (in the deluxe rooms), or a suite with freestanding bath, balcony or private patio.
When you return from a day shopping or sightseeing in Palma, you can chill at the rooftop pool while listening to relaxing lounge music. Here you are always protected from the wind and can even in March (when I was there) sunbathing in your bikini. If the weather happens not to be good, then head out to the Spa of the hotel. As a guest, you have free access to the hammam, sauna and indoor heated pool.
In restaurant CUIT, located on the eighth floor of the hotel, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant is run by famous chef cook Miguel Calent that combines local and organic ingredients in the preparation of its dishes. He gives a new perspective on the traditional Mallorcan cuisine.
The panoramic and spectacular views over the bay of Palma complete the uniqueness of this restaurant, which for a good reason is always full for lunch and dinner. I’ve been in Palma for four days, and I really enjoyed it here. I would, therefore, recommend anyone who likes to book a holiday or city trip to Palma to stay at the Nakar hotel.
Whether you want to experience culture in Palma, discover the beautiful nature on the north coast or book a relaxing beach holiday, Mallorca has it all.