It’s time to arrange a captivating journey through the landscapes and cultural gems of Spain’s best kept secret, Mallorca. Mallorca is a stunning island in Spain and it is a must add to your bucket-list of paradises to visit! We’ll dive into a detailed exploration of my four-day trip to Mallorca. From airport transfers to navigating the streets, each day was a new adventure. Join me on a voyage through S’Hort del Rei’s stunning gardens, the mesmerizing Drach Caves, the charming town of Soller, and the trails of Valldemossa. This can serve as your guide, offering insights, tips, and the essence of Mallorca’s allure!
Pre-Planning
Before heading to Mallorca, my personal goal was to relax. Every day my life is structured and I am running from one place to the next. I knew Mallorca was the perfect relax destination even if it was December. With this trip, I pre-researched a ton to ensure I experienced the “must-do’s” while also not following a strict schedule. Each day, I set a goal and I achieved each goal during my trip. Day 1 was to explore Palma, Day 2 was to see Caves, Day 3 was to go to Soller, and Day 4 was to go on a hike. Setting up my itinerary this way allowed me ample flexibility and relaxation, while still allowing me to see the whole island! Come along with me to learn about the perfect 4-day trip to Mallorca, Spain and to help you plan for your own dream vacation!
Day 1: Arriving in Palma, Mallorca
Navigating from the Airport to Palma
Mallorca’s airport was easy to navigate with signs everywhere. If you are planning to use public transportation to get to Palma, the A1 bus is easy to find. Use Google Maps to help you know which bus to take. For me, the bus did not accept credit cards so the ride was 5 euros cash. Make sure to have cash easily accessible. From there, follow Google Maps to your accommodation. If you want the bus, metro, or public transportation options, you just click the little bus/metro icon on the app that is between driving and walking. It was honestly effortless to navigate the journey to Palma.
The Best Affordable Accommodation
I stayed at El Josemari Youth Hostel which was truly amazing. The staff was very friendly and it was easy to check-in. If you arrive a little early, they have a storage closet where you can put your backpack. Note that this is a closet with everyone’s bags. If you are concerned about theft, you do have an option to purchase a locker during your time there or you can put a personal lock on your bag. They had a common area with a piano, some board games, books, and a little kitchen area. I never once saw this area empty as many people hung out here. Regarding my personal space, the bedroom cubby area was the best I have ever experienced. The cubby had a whole organization area with four hangers, three shelves, and a mini safety box for your passport and any essential documents or money. Within the pod, there was a top light and a reading light too. They provided sheets, a pillow, pillowcase, and a towel. The people were friendly and I enjoyed the atmosphere, but I will note that there were no pre-arranged social events. The location was phenomenal and made it easy to walk to many different parts of Palma. It’s also next to a 4 star hotel and 5 star hotel which really shows how incredible the location is. If I go back to Palma, I will be sure to stay here again!
Exploring Palma
Once my backpack was in the hostel, I decided to wander. Walking around Mallorca is filled with excitement. First, I ended up at S’Hort del Rei. This stunning garden whisked me away! “S’Hort del Rei” translates to “The King’s Garden” in English. This garden is near the Palma Cathedral and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina. S’Hort del Rei has beautiful landscaping, featuring a combination of greenery, flowers, and pathways. Anyone can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the garden while admiring the views of the historic surroundings. This is definitely the spot if you want a quiet place to go.
As I continued to wander around Palma, I ended up at the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, also known as Palacio Real de La Almudaina. This palace has served various purposes over the centuries. The palace’s history dates back to the Islamic period when it was originally a fortress. After the Christian conquest of Mallorca, it underwent various modifications and became a royal residence. The architecture of La Almudaina reflects a blend of different styles, including Islamic, Gothic, and Renaissance influences. The structure has evolved over time, with contributions from different ruling cultures. While the Royal Palace of La Almudaina has historical roots, it is still used for official ceremonies and events. It serves as the official residence of the Spanish monarch during their visits to Mallorca. The palace is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its interior and learn about its history.
Since my hostel was so close to the biggest attractions in Palma, my next stop was the Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca, commonly known as La Seu. This Gothic-style cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks on the island of Mallorca and a significant religious and architectural site. One of the most famous features of La Seu is its enormous rose window, known as “the Gothic eye.” This rose window is located on the main facade and is a stunning example of Gothic tracery. Notable works of art, sculptures, and religious artifacts can be found within. The Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, also known as the Royal Chapel, is a part of the cathedral complex. It houses the tombs of King James II of Mallorca and his family. The Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca is not only a religious site but also a cultural and historical treasure that attracts tourists and pilgrims alike. Its importance makes it a must-visit landmark in Palma de Mallorca.
Another popular spot was The Palau March Museum which is a cultural institution that houses an extensive collection of art, sculpture, and artifacts. One of the unique features of the Palau March Museum is its sculpture garden. The outdoor space showcases a variety of sculptures in a beautiful setting, providing an artful and serene environment for visitors.
As I was getting hungry, I ended up at Cappuccino Palau March. This was right next to S’Hort del Rei. It was super cozy with heaters on the outside patio and Christmas decorations that made it irresistible. It was a calm place with a luxury feel. I would say the prices were reasonable for Mallorca and the aesthetic and location made it a perfect spot to stop. I originally walked past it as I was exploring, but decided to look around more before eating. I had a fantastic cappuccino as well as the avocado and eggs.
As I strolled back to my hostel, I encountered a place called Can Vivot and noticed tourists exploring the courtyard, though I was unaware of its historical importance at the time. Later, I discovered that Can Vivot is a privately owned residence with a heritage dating back to the 15th century, making it one of the most significant and distinct civil architectural structures in Palma. Its roots trace back even further to the 14th century. If you’re interested in visiting, they do offer tours of the property here.
Palma in December
Although I was visiting in December, the weather was around 62 degrees Fahrenheit or 16 degrees Celcius. The weather was not warm, but it was nice enough to stroll to the beach and sit and read for a bit. I went to Platja de Can Pere Antoni which was very close to the hostel. This beach is situated along the waterfront of Palma Bay and offers a sandy stretch with views of the Mediterranean Sea. The beach is conveniently located close to the city center of Palma de Mallorca, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. Once it started getting chilly, I walked along Parc de la Mar and saw stunning views of the cathedral across from the water. 
Since I cannot resist a well-Christmas-decorated restaurant, I ended up at Lennox The Pub. If you’ve never been to Spain, note that most restaurants do not service food until 6pm at the earliest. Many restaurants start serving food at 7 pm or 8 pm. I got there around 5 pm and enjoyed a glass of wine and continued to read my book. I did not end up eating there as it got busy, but I definitely recommend eating or drinking at Lennox The Pub. The vibes were immaculate.
Christmas Markets
I walked to Poble Espanyol de Mallorca for a Christmas market. It was a little far, but a beautiful walk as the streets were all lit up. Poble Espanyol, which translates to “Spanish Village,” is a concept that typically refers to an architectural museum. This exhibition space showcasing replicas of buildings and architecture representing different regions of Spain. Poble Espanyol de Mallorca was hosting a Christmas market featuring stalls selling seasonal crafts, gifts, decorations, live music, and food. It was 10 Euros to enter, but was truly beautiful!
My next Christmas lights spot was Plaça de les Tortugues. This was filled with stunning gold lights everywhere on the street. The plaza is close to Corte Ingles which features various departments and floors dedicated to different categories of products. It is a popular destination for shopping with tons of options.
Ajuntament de Palma is the City Hall or Municipality of Palma, which is the local government body responsible for governing the city of Palma de Mallorca. “Ajuntament” translates to “City Council” or “Municipality” in Catalan, which is one of the official languages of the Balearic Islands. This area was well lit up with occasional street musicians. It was fun to walk around and see the lights, but I would say it is not a ‘must-see’ spot. It’s likely that if you are exploring Palma, you will see this square, especially if you are staying at El Josemari Youth Hostel.
Day 2: Cave Exploration
Drach Caves
I started the day off with some breakfast at El Grano de Cafe. The asethetic was calm and soothing and it was a great place to stop! I spent about 40 minutes there as I was waiting to go to the bus station. It’s close to the Intermodal Station which is the main station for buses and trains. Every time I left Palma, I went here. It was a 13-minute walk from the hostel. Finding the Intermodal Station was simple, but be sure to note that you go down an escalator as some people did appear to be slightly lost. Once you are down there, you can follow all of the signs for buses. There’s a sign similar to the airport that tells you where each bus is and its destination. I advise you get to the bus 10 to 15 minutes before its departure because the buses were quite full. Again, I used Google Maps to navigate my way to the Drach Caves. The bus was 401 and the destination was Cala Millor. For this, it was simple to use a credit card and just tap it to get on and off.
Note that the Drach Caves are on the opposite side of Palma. The ride is a little less than 2 hours, but personally, I read on the bus and was able to see what the whole Island looked like.
The bus drops you off in Porto Cristo which is a cute little town. I walked straight to the Drach Caves so I could buy a ticket there in person. You can buy tickets in advance, but I did not know when I was going so I waited to go in person. You can learn more about the Drach Caves and the experience HERE. Inside the awe-inspiring Drach Caves, I was amazed by its beauty. I will note that the experience was somewhat marred by the crowds. Despite this, I highly recommend you go if you’re in Mallorca!
Cala Murta
Cala Murta is a hidden beautiful, secluded area that is near the Drach Caves. This tranquil spot is known for its clear turquoise waters and scenic surroundings. Access to Cala Murta involves a little hike, but nothing too strenuous. I would say it is definitely worth going!
After my cave experience, I decided to wander around Porto Cristo. It was a chilly day so there were less people out, but it was nice to just walk around. I ended up sitting at the beach and reading before heading back to Palma. I took the 401 bus toward Palma. Note that there will be a 401 bus that is going East and another one going West. The bus was extremely crowded. There were a lot of people standing and the driver had to turn people away.
I was in Mallorca in the middle of December and it was not during the high tourist season. If possible, I advise you to rent a car as it is much easier.
After exploring, I was craving pasta when I got back to Palma. I had a phenomenal meal at Manto Negro Tapas Bar for dinner. The shrimp pasta was wonderful and the atmosphere was fantastic. There were street performers outside and it was located in a very lively area. I would highly recommend eating here and then walking around Palma afterward.
Day 3: Seeing Soller's Charm
Back to the Bus
The scenic bus ride to Soller provided breathtaking views. The bus ride was much longer than I anticipated and made me very carsick. I realized that afterwards that there are two bus options to Soller. One goes through Valldemossa while the other one goes on the highway to Soller. If you are going to Soller, do NOT go on the one that stops in Valldemossa. It was honestly a scary ride and I was the only person on the bus for the second half. The proper bus is much quicker and takes you on the highway. Choosing the right bus, especially if traveling to Valldemossa, became a valuable note. Make sure you are aware of this!
The center of Soller, Plaça de la Constitució, was extremely lively when I arrived. The bustling square hosted a vibrant market where locals showcased their wares, and the air was filled with infectious energy as people danced to the rhythm of the Mediterranean and live music played.
Before you take the train ride to Port de Soller, the Soller train station itself is a hidden gem for art enthusiasts. Housing a remarkable art gallery, the station showcases an impressive collection of Picasso ceramics and a captivating Miró exhibition. It’s unique blend of history and culture adds an artistic touch to the Sóller experience.
Ferrocarril de Sóller
One of the highlights of Soller is the Ferrocarril de Sóller, a nostalgic and scenic journey aboard a century-old tram. Still active today, it shuttles between the old town and the enchanting Port de Sóller. As the tram meandered through orange groves and peaceful gardens, I couldn’t help but marvel at the picturesque landscapes. If you are prone to motion sickness, secure a forward-facing seat as there are many turns. The popularity of this historic tram was evident, with some passengers opting to stand during the delightful ride. The one-way ticket was 8€. It can be conveniently purchased in advance or onboard. As you ride the commute, I advise you to embrace the views of the Tramuntana mountains. Sóller presents a panoramic backdrop that truly takes your breath away. The towering peaks create a dramatic setting, encapsulating the town in natural beauty.
Port de Sóller
By the time I arrived in Port de Soller, I was ready for a good meal. There were numerous outdoor restaurants along the waterfront. It was a captivating view, and the bustling crowd added to the lively atmosphere. I ended up eating at Bar Albatros, which not only impressed with its culinary creations but also stood out in its ambiance. I ended up eating the Salmon which was the BEST Salmon I have ever had. To say I was impressed is an understatement. I couldn’t help but notice the tempting paella dishes on the menu as well. A note for future diners: the paella requires a minimum of two people, making it a perfect choice for a shared culinary adventure. As you explore the waterfront dining options, take your time to find the perfect spot that resonates with your culinary desires in this Balearic paradise.
Pg. del Born: Mallorca's Bustling Street
After walking around Port de Soller, I decided I was ready to go back to Palma. The evening unfolded on Pg. del Born, adorned with Christmas lights and live performances. There were numerous street artists that were very entertaining and fun to watch. There were a lot of restaurant options in that area, but I ended up getting a snack at a restaurant that was quieter and closer to my hostel. L’Ambigu, a hidden gem, provided a quiet respite, complemented by a cozy atmosphere and fantastic menu. I met two people from my hostel at the restaurant whom I ended up going to a live jazz show with after we ate. 
Nightcap Serenade: The Jazz Lounge by Florencio Cruz
I concluded the day with an intimate jazz session at The Jazz Lounge by Florencio Cruz. The space was fairly small, but the music was phenomenal. I would highly recommend anyone that likes jazz music to check out this cozy place. I even was able to have an espresso martini which is not easy to find in Bilbao.
Day 4: Valldemossa Hike in Mallorca
Day four began with a sweet treat at Santagloria Coffee & Bakery. My goal was to have a quick breakfast, near the intermodal station, before hopping on a bus to Valldemossa. This charming bakery was a perfect spot to plan my day and arrange where I was going.
My goal on this day was find a hike. I truly lucked out by finding the Valldemossa – Es Caragolí – Cova sérmitá Guittem hike. Having AllTrails for the hike made it seamless, stress-free, and beyond enjoyable! The hike was about 3.5 hours and was filled with a variety of terrains. It truly showcased the natural beauty of Mallorca. I would advise that you have the map easily accessible as there are parts where it is a field of rocks and it is easy to get lost. Regardless, this is a must do experience! One of the locals I ran into on the trail claimed it was the best hike on the island! 
After hiking, I had lunch at Insieme in Valldemossa. It was a perfect spot for some fish and chips and a tinto de verano (a classic Spanish drink with red wine and soda, generally lemonade.) I was able to truly reflect on my trip and appreciate how wonderful Mallorca is!
Returning to Palma was seamless on the bus. Having a rental car is easier in Mallorca, but public transportation is not too difficult. If you have a group of 2 people or more, a car will help make getting around the island much simpler. I truly ended the trip on a high note and so will you!!
With El Josemari Youth Hostel‘s 24/7 hour desk. It’s easy to check out and walk to the bus stop. From there, the return journey to the airport via the A1 bus, is simple. Note that they required 5 euros in cash. Google Maps once again proved invaluable for a trouble-free trip back.
Your Perfect Guide to Mallorca, Spain!
Experience the richness of Mallorca through this detailed 4-day adventure, offering insights, tips, and memorable moments that define the essence of the island. From cultural wonders to culinary delights and nature’s embrace, this blog serves as your comprehensive guide to a truly unforgettable journey. Enjoy your trip to Spain’s hidden secret!
Want to learn more about my trip? Watch my vlog about my four-day trip to Mallorca!
Not all those who wander are lost – TTT
