Mallorca in winter conjures up beautiful scenes of dreamy beaches and coves blessed with mild weather. The landscape seamlessly blends with inviting destinations, including sun-kissed artistic retreats and Mediterranean forests surrounding storybook-like villages. Intimate hotels radiate warmth to combat the winter chill, while family-friendly locales beckon exploration of an alternative facet of the island. Here, Christmas markets, vintage train journeys, and soulful book havens carve out their niche. As an increasing number of travelers opt for visits beyond the traditional spring and summer seasons, we present original suggestions for things to do in Mallorca in winter. Are you ready to discover the island's unique winter allure?
Historical sites to visit in Mallorca in winter
The Cathedral of Palma
Exploring Mallorca in winter? Begin your journey with a visit to one of its iconic landmarks. La Seu, also known as the Cathedral of Palma, stands as a pinnacle of Gothic architecture on the island. A masterpiece of diverse styles, it seamlessly weaves together Gothic, Renaissance, Modernist, Mid-century, and Surrealist influences. Constructed in 1229 by King James I in honor of Santa Maria, the cathedral narrates his survival following a vow made during a shipwreck. Notably, its principal portal reached completion in 1601 during the Late Renaissance period.
Bellver Castle
Winter in Mallorca unfolds tales of mystery and intrigue, and one such legend surrounds Bellver Castle, commissioned by James II, the successor to James I. The castle's enigmatic secret passage, believed by some to be an escape route during times of siege, adds to its mystique. Exploring this underground tunnel feels like stepping into a medieval adventure. Dating back to the 14th century, Bellver Castle stands as a unique circular fortress in Europe, making a significant mark in both political and art history. Exhibiting the Catalan Gothic style, it provides panoramic views of Palma and its bay, surrounded by a three-kilometer forest, ascending 112 meters above sea level.
La Llotja
Adding to your list of things to do in Mallorca in winter, explore the architectural marvel of La Llotja, also known as La Lonja de Palma de Mallorca. Even if you take a short getaway and don't have too much time, you'll be able to explore Palma in just one day through this and other small stops of immeasurable beauty and value. Dating from 1420 to 1452, this Gothic civil building is credited to sculptor and architect Guillem Sagrera. Inside, a spacious and luminous area unfolds, where white light dances with stone, featuring six pillars reminiscent of palm trees. During medieval times, marketplaces like La Llotja served as meeting points for merchants and centers for commerce and banking. In later years, La Llotja even assumed the role of the island's governmental headquarters.
Talaiots of Son Fornès
For a unique winter experience in Mallorca, venture beyond the usual attractions to the archaeological site of Son Fornès, situated near Montuiri. This site holds the memory of the prehistoric era on the island, featuring various remains, including two talaiots—circular structures constructed using the cyclopean technique, known for their defensive purposes. Talaiots, reaching heights of up to seven meters, are distinctive to Mallorca and Menorca, representing the unique Talaiotic culture.
Roman City of Pollentia
Explore the historical roots of urban life in Mallorca by visiting the Roman City of Pollentia, situated in present-day Alcúdia to the north of the island. Established by Consul Quintus Caecilius Metellus in 123 B.C., Pollentia served as the capital of the empire in the Balearic Islands. The archaeological site encompasses a theater, a forum, a residential zone named Portella, and several adjoining areas. Enhancing the experience, a dedicated museum showcases excavated artifacts, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the city's ancient inhabitants.
Towns in Mallorca to visit in winter
Fornalutx
Discovering the towns of Mallorca in winter, and immersing yourself in their art, culture, and gastronomy, provides a unique perspective. Fornalutx, repeatedly crowned the most beautiful village in Spain, resides in the heart of the Sierra de Tramuntana. Its ancient streets, aged over a millennium, carry the scent of orange and lemon trees. Traditional stone houses, adorned with green-framed windows, stand in contrast to the vivid hues of bougainvillea in pink and red—an authentic burst of color set against the canvas of sky and mountains.
Deià
Looking for more things to do in Mallorca in winter? Embrace the tranquility of its unique villages, don your warmest attire, and head to Deià. A haven for artists and free spirits, Deià captures the essence of the lush Sierra de Tramuntana and the embrace of the Mediterranean Sea. Here, the verdant and the maritime converge, creating an experience both nurturing and rooted in the profound depths of the Earth. Whether you're sipping drinks in its charming bars, relishing Balearic delights along Archduke Luis Salvador Street, exploring museums, or witnessing one of the world’s most breathtaking sunsets at Sa Foradada, Mallorca's winter has myriad wonders to offer.
Banyalbufar
Mallorca's winter charm unfolds in a distinctly Mediterranean way in spots like Banyalbufar, an ocean-facing village celebrated for its terraced gardens cascading down the mountainside. Dominated by tomato and grape cultivation for wine-making, the village beckons both food enthusiasts and hikers. Whether you're drawn to culinary explorations or scenic hiking trails, Banyalbufar promises an added layer of excitement to your winter escapades.
Sóller
Wrapping up this concise guide of towns to visit in Mallorca in winter, let's spotlight Sóller. Named after the Arabic term "suliar," translating to golden bowl, possibly inspired by the valley of orange groves, Sóller basks in Mediterranean sunlight. Key historical sites such as Constitution Square, the Church of San Bartolomé, the venerable Banco de Sóller, and the picturesque Sa Lluna Street are all essential stops. Embark on a leisurely walk and uncover the captivating beauty of this enchanting enclave on foot.
What to do in Mallorca in winter with children
Excursion to S'Albufera de Mallorca Natural Park
Curious about things to do with kids in Mallorca during winter? Begin by exploring natural settings where children can enjoy and learn about animals and plants. S'Albufera Natural Park offers captivating encounters with birds, butterflies, and small amphibians in enchanting marshlands. This ecosystem, home to protected wildlife and endangered plant species like the Prat orchid, calls for responsible exploration to preserve its inhabitants. Playa de Muro, in close proximity, ensures cherished winter memories by the sea. The Iberostar Selection Albufera Park hotel, situated on the beachfront near the natural park, is an ideal choice for family vacations.
Afternoon at the Christmas Market
Wondering how to embrace the Christmas spirit in Mallorca as the holiday season approaches? Christmas markets add a festive touch during the Advent weeks. In Mallorca, the Puerto Portals Christmas Market stands out as one of Europe's most visited. Taking place from December 14 to January 6, it provides an ideal setting for a Christmas family vacation, set amidst vibrant stalls in the marina. Iberostar Waves Cristina, a family-friendly hotel open year-round, is conveniently located just a fifteen-minute drive from Puerto Portals.
Literary tour of Palma's most beautiful bookstores
In winter, Mallorca unfolds its cultural charm, and the island's bookstores become havens of knowledge. Drac Màgic, nestled in the historic center, stands as one of Palma's oldest bookstores. With a dedicated area for children's and youth literature, along with a versatile space for events and exhibitions suitable for all ages, it immerses visitors in a world of literary exploration. Baobab, a specialized children's bookstore, seamlessly intertwines play and literature, making the process of choosing a new book an enchanting experience for children. La Salina, situated in the Santa Catalina neighborhood, offers a curated collection of books in Spanish, Catalan, English, and French, providing reading spaces, workshop programs, and a universe with a focus on feminism and ecology.
Travel back in time on the Sóller railway
Mallorca's winter is a canvas for historical adventures that bring the island's past to life. Embarking on the Sóller Railway, a beautifully preserved wooden museum train since 1920, is a delightful journey through time. Winding through the Sierra Norte and Puerto de Sóller, this train from the 1920s traverses coastal and inland landscapes, offering a nostalgic ride that culminates at Palma's Train Station, an architectural gem of the Art Nouveau era.
Romantic things to do in Mallorca in winter
Enjoy a couples' spa session
In the heart of winter, Iberostar Waves Cala Millor stands as a haven for romance—an adults-oriented retreat open in Mallorca's quieter season. This intimate setting is one of the island's most romantic spa hotels. Whether woven into a vacation blending golf, gastronomy, and well-being or enjoyed as a standalone indulgence, the Spa Sensations at Iberostar Cala Millor promises an array of beauty treatments, massages, and thermal circuit facilities to elevate your winter escapes.
Dine by the sea at one of the best restaurants on the island
Extend the romance after a revitalizing spa experience at one of Mallorca's premier spas with a seaside dinner at one of the most romantic restaurants in Mallorca. Guethary opened its doors in the summer of 2023, nestled within the Iberostar Selection Playa de Palma hotel, a year-round haven for visitors. Curated under the guidance of Michelin-starred chef Aitor Arregi from Elkano restaurant in Getaria, Guethary specializes in Mediterranean delights—fresh fish and seafood—and locally sourced grilled meats, all embracing the bounty of the season. It's a gastronomic journey featuring some of Chef Arregi's renowned culinary creations.
Try the Typical "Tardeo"
Experience the unique "tardeo" culture in Palma, where afternoons on weekends or holidays are spent leisurely sipping drinks, immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of the neighborhoods and bars. The plan unfolds at a relaxed pace, allowing you to wander through charming streets and savor the lively ambiance. Commencing around 1:00 PM and concluding around dinner, the heart of this social affair is the Santa Catalina neighborhood. Should you decide to embrace it, you'll discover that, day and night, winter in Mallorca offers everything needed to transform a romantic getaway into an unforgettable journey for a lifetime.
