Sightseeing in Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is the island's atmospheric capital. The city is full of historical sights. The most famous are La Seu Cathedral and Almudaina Palace (Palacio de la Almudaina). They are among the capital's most imposing showpieces. Both the inside and the outside are majestic structures. Especially when you consider that both structures date back to the 13th century.

The capital is also a great place for shopping enthusiasts. Passeig del Born is the island's most famous shopping street. It is also called the heart of Palma de Mallorca. But in the centre you will also find many other long shopping streets full of Spanish boutiques and authentic shops. As well as the bigger chains, such as Mango, Zara and Bershka. Cheaper, by the way, than in the Netherlands (yay!).

Furthermore, the old city centre is exactly what you expect from a Spanish city. It exudes authentic cosiness. Full of narrow alleys with characteristic Spanish tapas bars, colourful cafés and lively squares. Palma de Mallorca is about 8 kilometres from the airport, so a visit to the capital should not be missed!

Should you get tired of azure waters and pearly white beaches (you never know), renting a car is a very good idea. Indeed, the island boasts a stunning hinterland. A rocky landscape where green valleys and amazing mountains alternate. And what could be better than exploring an island at your own leisure?

Another option is to explore the island by scooter. Then you will experience the surroundings in a completely different way. Because you can determine your own route and ride on smaller paths than by car, you are very likely to encounter hidden places. And with the Spanish sun rays on your shoulders, renting a scooter is highly recommended (don't forget to apply sunscreen frequently!).

For the sporty among us: you can of course do a tour by bike. There are many bike rental shops all over the island. Mallorca is not known as the cycling island for nothing. The favourable climate, good infrastructure and excellent roads make the island extremely popular among cycling enthusiasts.

It even organises an annual cycle tour: Mallorca 312. During this tour, (advanced) cyclists cycle a lap of no less than 312 kilometres with an impressive 5,050 altitude metres. Of course, that's pretty enthusiastic, but there are also shorter beautiful routes along the coast or through the interior. Note: uphill cycling is tough. But absolutely worth it, as you will continuously observe the most breathtaking views.

A good idea for a tour is to drive towards Felanitx. Felanitx is a sightseeing town in the south-east near Cala d'Or. About 5 kilometres away, you'll find one of Mallorca's most impressive sights: Sant Salvador. This is a mountain with a route that leads you to the imposing Santuari De Sant Salvador monastery from the 14th century. At 509 metres above sea level, you have breathtaking panoramic views here. A must-see as far as we are concerned.

A half-hour drive from the Sant Salavor you will find another sight not to be missed. The caves of Drach. Or: Cuevas del Drach. Whereas on the Sant Salvador you are at quite a height above sea level, in the Cuevas del Drach you can reach a depth of no less than 25 metres below ground. Here you emerge into one of the largest underground lakes in the world, with water of mesmerising blue. On a guided tour, you will cross that lake by boat. The special lighting makes it pre-eminently one of Mallorca's most magical sights.

Besides the sizzling nature and vibrant cities, there are also many lovely villages that belong on your to-do list. Valldemossa is one such village. It lies in a green valley some 40 minutes' drive from the capital Palma. Besides the fact that the picturesque village is a sight in itself, it is also home to the Carthusian monastery. This monastery dates back to the 14th century and was inhabited by monks until the 19th century.

The list of sights should include a visit to the town of Sóller. The atmospheric state is packed with conviviality. Walking through the old town centre with picturesque narrow alleys is definitely a must. Furthermore, you can enjoy the sun on cosy terraces of colourful squares here. Extra fun: an authentic wooden train takes you from Palma to Sóller in about an hour. With a breathtaking route through the mountains, this in itself is a to-do not to be missed.