The ultimate car itinerary (with parking, best times, and daily routes)
Mallorca is best explored with freedom. At AutosMallorca, we make the start of your trip easy: express pick-up 5 minutes from the airport, online check-in, fully comprehensive insurance with no excess, no card block, and a full-to-full fuel policy so you can head straight for the road. This friction-free start makes all the difference: all that’s left is deciding on the lighting, the order of stops, and where to park without driving around in circles.
Before You Start: How to Pick up Your Car and Get Going
Express Pick-up 5 Minutes from the Airport and Heading to Palma
On arrival, the practical choice is to start with Palma. We recommend leaving the car in a central parking lot and exploring the Cathedral, Almudaina, and Lonja on foot, perhaps with a nearby coffee. An automatic compact car simplifies underground parking and avoids wasting time on maneuvers. Afterward, pick up the cool car and drive up to Bellver to enjoy the bay view from above.
Driving and Parking Tips on the Island
The first hour of the day and sunset are your allies. In the Tramuntana villages (Valldemossa, Deià), we advise following the signs to official entrance car parks; for small coves, waking up early saves you driving around. With free additional drivers, curvy stretches are easier by taking turns at the wheel.
Day 1 — Palma and Castell de Bellver, No Rush
Old Town and Cathedral: Walking Tour with a Single Parking Spot
Palma rewards calmness. The ideal approach is to park once, walk everywhere, and only return to the car for the next hop. If it’s very sunny, alternate between interiors (Cathedral/cloister) and shade in the Parc de la Mar. Eating nearby and rejoining the route is easy when the car is waiting 10 minutes away.
Bellver at Sunset: The Perfect Panorama
The drive up to Bellver shines when the sky begins to change. Its circular layout calls for a panoramic view; with unlimited mileage, you can add an intermediate stop for bay photos. Return to your accommodation with that feeling of “we are officially on the island.”
Day 2 — West Coast: Valldemossa, Deià, and Sóller
Where to Park and the Best Time for Each Stop
Arrive early in Valldemossa, use the main parking, and take a leisurely walk. Next, Deià, where a coffee with a view is almost mandatory. In the afternoon, Sóller and its port: park in authorized areas and let the stroll set the pace.
Detour to Sa Foradada if the Sky Looks Promising
If the sunset looks good, it’s worth the detour to Sa Foradada. The viewpoint gets crowded; arrive early to save stress. With free cancellation up to 24 hours, it’s easy to move your schedule if the forecast changes.
Day 3 — Iconic North: Pollença, Port de Pollença, and Formentor
Es Colomer Viewpoint and Talaia d’Albercutx at Dusk
Cap de Formentor is best enjoyed first thing in the morning or at sunset. Suggestion: Pollença in the morning, peek into Port de Pollença, and save Es Colomer and Albercutx for the end. It’s a winding road, but taking your time and having another driver to switch with makes it a pleasure.
Family Alternative: Quiet Coves in the Bay
With children, you can swap the lighthouse for the bay beach. Towels in the minivan trunk and you’re all set: return without sand scattered everywhere inside.
Day 4 — Southeast Coves: Mondragó, s’Almunia, and Caló des Moro
Foot Access, Where to Leave the Car, and What to Bring
These coves require getting up early and a bit of walking. We recommend using authorized parking areas and taking just the essentials: water, a hat, and comfortable shoes. The sea changes with the wind; if it blows strongly, you’ll notice it at the shore, and it’s best to decide on the fly.
Plan B if it’s Windy: Caves and Villages
If the southeast isn’t cooperating, we suggest moving the day to the Coves del Drach or an inland village. With unlimited mileage, improvising doesn’t hurt: the goal is to enjoy, not just complete a checklist.
Day 5 — Beachy Northeast: Cala Ratjada and Cala Mesquida
Panoramic Stops and Seaside Cafés
Here, the blue reigns supreme. Alternating Cala Ratjada with Mesquida and a short scenic stop between them works very well. The day calls for a slow pace: park, stroll, swim, coffee while watching the waves. Return in golden light for easy photos.
Adjustments with 24h Cancellation if the Weather Changes
If the forecast changes, reorder: perhaps Artà or return to Palma for courtyards and shopping. Having 24-hour cancellation removes the fear of rearranging things.
Extend to 7 Days: Caves, Markets, and Peaceful Villages
Coves del Drach at Midday
The Coves del Drach are perfect for the central hours: stable temperature and a break from the sun. Exit and light lunch before the next stop.
Markets and Courtyards in Palma to Finish
The last day is dedicated to courtyards, museums, and markets. Park once and walk the center. Simple return: nearby gas station, full-to-full, quick check and the airport. Zero surprises, which is how a road trip should end.
The Ideal Car for Your Mallorca Route
Automatic Compact in the City; Convertible/Minivan on the Road
In the city, an automatic compact brings peace to parking. On panoramic roads, a convertible turns the journey into an experience. For family or friends, a minivan organizes the trunk and backpacks.
Added Benefits: No Excess, No Card Blocks, Unlimited Mileage
The difference between a tense trip and a smooth one is in the fine print. With AutosMallorca you travel with fully comprehensive insurance with no excess, no card block, unlimited mileage, free additional drivers, free cancellation up to 24 hours, and quick pick-up/drop-off. With that sorted, the island takes care of the rest.
Curves, Coves, and Views: A Perfect Trip
A Mallorca road trip is all about rhythm: Palma to warm up, Tramuntana for excitement, the north for panoramas, and the southeast for clear water. With logistics solved from minute one —5-minute pick-up, transparent rules, and a car that fits you— every curve is enjoyed and every stop matters.
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