Palma de Mallorca, Port de Soller6 daysUpdated June 27, 2026
Mallorca in Six Days: Palma's Old Town to the Tramuntana Coast
A relaxed but full week splitting time between Palma's golden cathedral and old town and the mountain-and-sea calm of Port de Soller, with vineyard villages, sea caves, and the island's best beaches in between.
Mallorca, the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands, has been prized since the Romans landed in 123 BC, and its layers show everywhere: Moorish baths and street names, a Gothic cathedral begun in 1229 after the Christian conquest, and grand Modernista townhouses from the early 1900s citrus boom. The capital, Palma, anchors the south; the jagged Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape, walls off the dramatic northwest coast.
Beyond the beaches that built its reputation, the island rewards curiosity: terraced olive groves climbing into the mountains, Chopin's winter retreat at Valldemossa, sea caves with underground lakes near the east coast, and a food culture of sobrassada sausage, ensaimada pastries, and just-landed seafood. The vintage wooden train from Palma to Soller, running since 1912, is a destination in itself.
Practically, late June means warm, dry days (typically 28-31C), busy beaches, and lively evenings, so book key restaurants and the cathedral ahead. A rental car is the most flexible way to reach mountain villages and quiet coves, though Palma is best on foot and the Soller train and tram cover that corridor without driving. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, the euro is the currency, and the island is compact: nowhere is more than about 90 minutes' drive from Palma.
Palma de Mallorca
Palma is one of the Mediterranean's most underrated city breaks: a honey-colored old town of shaded lanes and hidden patios, crowned by La Seu, the soaring seafront cathedral that catches fire with light at dawn. Tapas bars, independent boutiques, a buzzing marina, and a string of city beaches sit within walking distance, while the mountains and best coves are a short drive away. Four nights here let you settle in and use the capital as a launchpad for day trips.
Getting there by planeFly into Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), about 8 km east of the center. A taxi to the old town is roughly 20-25 minutes and around 20-25 euros; the EMT bus A1 runs to the center in about 25 minutes for under 5 euros.View on Kiwi.com
Day 1
Arrival in Palma: La Seu Cathedral and the Old Town at Golden Hour
Drop your bags and walk straight into the heart of the old town. Palma's best introduction is its skyline-defining cathedral and the maze of lanes around it, both made for an unhurried first afternoon.
Catedral de Mallorca (La Seu) Google
4.7 · 65,504 reviews · Casc Antic
Closed Sundays
Palma's vast seafront Gothic cathedral, begun in 1229, with a rose window among the largest in the world and a sanctuary reworked by Gaudi. Admission is around 10 euros and it is open to visitors Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings, but closed to tourists on Sundays, so time your visit accordingly. The light through the stained glass is at its most dramatic in the morning, but the exterior and adjacent Parc de la Mar are glorious in late-afternoon sun.
One of the few surviving traces of Moorish Madina Mayurqa, a small 10th-12th century bathhouse with a domed, star-pierced ceiling set in a quiet garden. Entry is only a few euros and it makes a peaceful, shaded stop a short walk from the cathedral.
Ease into island time with a wander through the old town's patios and a drink as the stone walls glow.
Passeig del Born and Placa Major
Casc Antic
Stroll the leafy Born boulevard and the arcaded Placa Major, the old town's social spine, lined with cafe terraces and street musicians. It is the easiest way to get your bearings and feel Palma's evening rhythm.
Gibson Bar Google
4.6 · 6,832 reviews · La Llotja
A characterful spot on Placa de la Llotja for a vermouth or gin and tonic before dinner, with tables spilling onto the square by the old merchants' exchange. Good for people-watching and a relaxed first toast.
Mallorca's tapas culture is the perfect welcome meal. Start with classic island bites in the atmospheric lanes near the Llotja.
Bar Espana Google
4.6 · 5,821 reviews · Casc Antic
Closed Sundays
A beloved, no-frills tapas institution near the Born, famous for generous, well-priced plates of patatas bravas, croquetas, and grilled prawns. Expect a buzz and possibly a short wait; it is a local favorite for good reason.
A lively, tile-walled tapas bar by the Llotja serving Spanish classics like jamon, tortilla, and seafood, with a sister terrace nearby. Arrive early or book, as it fills with locals and visitors alike.
Good to know · La Seu cathedral sells timed tickets online and is closed to tourist visits on Sundays; buying ahead skips the queue in summer. (book a few days ahead)View on Viator
Day 2
Old Palma Deep Dive: Markets, Bellver Castle, and Modernista Mansions
Begin like a local with strong coffee and an ensaimada, the coiled, sugar-dusted pastry that is Mallorca's signature.
Forn des Teatre
Casc Antic
An ornate Modernista bakery on Placa Weyler with a famous painted facade, beloved for its ensaimadas and cocas. Grab one warm with a cafe con leche and admire the woodwork.
Ca'n Joan de s'Aigo
Casc Antic
A historic chocolateria dating to 1700, serving thick hot chocolate, ensaimadas, and almond ice cream beneath chandeliers. A genuinely old-world Palma ritual.
Morning
Dive into the old town's living heart: a bustling produce market and the hidden courtyards that define Palma's architecture.
Mercat de l'Olivar Google
4.5 · 28,717 reviews · Casc Antic
Closed Sundays
Palma's main covered market, a riot of Iberian ham, island cheeses, olives, and a seafood hall where you can have your pick cooked on the spot. Go mid-morning to browse, snack, and watch the city shop.
Palma is famous for its grand private courtyards (patis), glimpsed through wrought-iron gates along Carrer de Can Savella and Carrer de la Portella. A self-guided wander past Can Vivot and others reveals the city's aristocratic past for free.
Lunch
Refuel near the market with hearty Mallorcan plates before heading uphill.
Casa Maruka Google
4.6 · 1,920 reviews · Pere Garau
Closed Sundays
A warm, family-run restaurant prized by locals for traditional island cooking like arroz brut and slow-cooked meats at fair prices. Worth the short walk out of the tourist core.
Trade the lanes for sweeping views at Mallorca's most unusual castle, then cool off by the sea.
Castell de Bellver Google
4.5 · 26,243 reviews · Bellver
Closed Mondays
A rare circular 14th-century Gothic castle on a pine-clad hill above the city, with a courtyard ringed by arcades and panoramic views over Palma Bay. Admission is around 4 euros; reach it by a uphill walk, taxi, or bus 50. Allow about 90 minutes including the views.
A modern and contemporary art museum built into Palma's Renaissance sea walls, with terraces overlooking the marina. A cool, cultural alternative to the castle if you prefer art and shade.
Cross into Santa Catalina, Palma's most characterful neighborhood, for golden-hour drinks.
Santa Catalina sundowners
Santa Catalina
The old fishermen's quarter is now a grid of buzzing plazas and bars centered on its market. Grab a terrace table on Placa de la Navegacio for a glass of local wine as the area comes alive.
Dinner
Santa Catalina is Palma's dining hotspot, ranging from market-driven small plates to elevated Mallorcan cooking.
Patron Lunares Google
4.2 · 1,556 reviews · Santa Catalina
A stylish, always-busy spot with a fishing-shack vibe, serving creative Mediterranean sharing plates and seafood. Book ahead; it is one of Santa Catalina's most popular tables.
A long-running Galician restaurant known for octopus, seafood, and Albarino wine, a comforting and generous choice. Reliable quality and a loyal local following.
Fuel up early for the drive east; you will want to beat the midday crowds at the caves.
Rosevelvet Bakery
Casc Antic
A bright cafe near the center with excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and proper breakfast plates. A good grab-and-go or sit-down start before hitting the road.
Mistral Coffee
Santa Catalina
A specialty roaster pouring some of Palma's best espresso and filter coffee for serious caffeine seekers. Small, friendly, and focused on quality beans.
Morning
Drive about an hour to Porto Cristo to explore one of Spain's most famous cave systems, ending at a vast underground lake.
Coves del Drac (Drach Caves) Google
4.3 · 68,248 reviews · Porto Cristo
A spectacular network of illuminated caverns ending at Lake Martel, one of the largest underground lakes in the world, where a short live classical music concert is performed on boats. Tickets are around 16 euros and timed; book online, as slots sell out in summer. Allow about an hour for the guided route.
A quieter alternative cave system nearby, known for its tree-like rock formations and its own underground lake with a small concert. A good choice if Drach is fully booked.
Eat by the water in Porto Cristo's harbor before an afternoon swim.
Restaurante Roma Google
4.5 · 1,290 reviews · Porto Cristo
Closed Sundays
A long-standing harborside restaurant in Porto Cristo serving fresh fish, paella, and Mediterranean classics with marina views. Relaxed and family-friendly.
Spend the hottest hours at one of the east coast's beautiful coves, then drive back toward Palma.
Cala Varques
Manacor coast
An unspoiled, undeveloped cove of turquoise water reached by a 20-25 minute walk through pine and farmland, which keeps the crowds thinner. Bring water, shade, and your own snacks; there are no facilities. The walk is worth it for the wild beauty.
Cala Romantica
Manacor coast
An easy-access sandy cove with calm water, sunbeds, and beach bars, ideal if you want amenities and a simple swim. Family-friendly and just a short drive from the caves.
Dinner
Back in Palma, head to the Llotja or old town for a relaxed evening meal.
Toque de Queda
Casc Antic
An atmospheric old-town restaurant with a pretty courtyard, serving updated Mediterranean dishes and good wine. A lovely setting after a day on the road.
Ombu Mediterranean Kitchen Google
4.5 · 845 reviews · Santa Catalina
A stylish, market-led spot in Santa Catalina with confident Mediterranean plates and a buzzy crowd. Reserve ahead on weekends.
Good to know · Coves del Drac entry is timed and very popular; reserve online to secure a slot and a seat for the boat concert. (book a few days to a week ahead)View on Viator · Renting a car for the east-coast and mountain day trips is far easier than public transport; reserve in advance for late June as cars sell out. (book 2-4 weeks ahead)
Grab a quick coffee in Palma before the scenic 30-minute drive up into the mountains.
Cappuccino Grand Cafe (Born)
Casc Antic
A dependable, elegant cafe chain born in Palma, good for a fast, quality coffee and pastry before departure. Tables on the Born make for a pleasant start.
Morning
Climb into the Serra de Tramuntana to Valldemossa, a postcard village of stone houses and the monastery where Chopin and George Sand wintered in 1838-39.
Real Cartuja de Valldemossa Google
4.4 · 4,580 reviews · Valldemossa
Closed Sundays
The former Carthusian monastery where composer Frederic Chopin and writer George Sand spent a famous winter, now housing his piano, manuscripts, and pharmacy. Combined-ticket entry is around 10-12 euros, and short piano recitals run through the day. The cobbled village around it is made for slow wandering.
Valldemossa's signature potato bun is best fresh and warm here, paired with hot chocolate. A delicious mid-morning village ritual.
Lunch
Drive the cliff-hugging road to Deia, the artists' village clinging to the mountainside, for lunch with a view.
Cafe Sa Fonda Google
4.2 · 1,130 reviews · Deia
Closed Wednesdays & Thursdays
A relaxed, long-loved Deia institution for tapas, sandwiches, and drinks with a bohemian crowd. Easygoing and reasonably priced for this upscale village.
Spend the afternoon between Deia's lanes and a swim at its dramatic rocky cove.
Cala Deia
Deia
A small pebble-and-rock cove at the foot of a steep walk or short drive from the village, with clear water and two rustic beach restaurants. The setting beneath the cliffs is unforgettable; arrive early as parking is limited.
Son Marroig Google
4.4 · 3,191 reviews · Deia
Closed Sundays
A clifftop former estate of Archduke Ludwig Salvator with gardens, a marble belvedere, and views over the Na Foradada rock peninsula. A short, scenic stop on the road back toward Valldemossa.
Return to Palma and toast your mountain day on the seafront.
Paseo Maritimo waterfront
Paseo Maritimo
Palma's harborfront promenade is ideal for an evening walk past yachts and palm trees, with the cathedral lit up behind you. Several terraces make easy stops for a sundowner.
Dinner
For your last Palma dinner, choose between refined Mallorcan cooking and lively waterfront seafood.
Marc Fosh Google
4.6 · 1,267 reviews · Casc Antic
Closed Mondays & Sundays
Palma's Michelin-starred flagship from chef Marc Fosh, serving inventive Mediterranean tasting menus in a serene former convent. A special-occasion meal; reserve well ahead.
Good to know · Parking in Valldemossa and Deia is limited and fills by late morning in summer; arrive early and use the village edge car parks. (go early in the day)
Where to Stay
Base yourself in the old town (Casc Antic) or the adjacent Santa Catalina district. The old town puts you steps from the cathedral, museums, and the best tapas lanes, while Santa Catalina is the foodie and nightlife quarter, full of restaurants and a beloved produce market. Both are walkable to the seafront Paseo Maritimo.
Hotel Santa Clara Urban Hotel & Spa
midrange Google
4.5 · 270 reviews
A polished boutique hotel inside a restored old-town mansion, a few minutes' walk from La Seu, with a small rooftop terrace and spa. Excellent location for exploring on foot.
A reliable, great-value city hotel on the edge of the old town with two pools, including a rooftop one with cathedral views. Walkable to Santa Catalina and the seafront.
A friendly, leafy budget guesthouse with a garden bar near Santa Catalina, popular for its value and relaxed feel. A short walk to the market and restaurants.
Self-catering apartments in the historic center give families and groups more space, a kitchen, and a base near the cathedral and markets. Good for longer stays.
A 19th-century mansion turned design hotel on a quiet old-town square, with a rooftop pool and acclaimed dining. The splurge pick if you want iconic Palma elegance.
Port de Soller wraps a near-perfect horseshoe bay in the Serra de Tramuntana, backed by orange groves and reached by one of Europe's most charming journeys: the 1912 wooden train from Palma over the mountains, then an open-sided tram down to the sea. After Palma's bustle, this is the island at half speed, all promenade strolls, swims off the curving beach, and seafood at the water's edge, with the soaring Tramuntana ridges right above town.
Getting there by trainTake the historic Ferrocarril de Soller, a vintage wooden train from Palma's Placa d'Espanya through the mountains to Soller (about 1 hour, around 18-25 euros each way), then ride the open tram down to Port de Soller. If you have a rental car, the drive via the Soller tunnel takes about 35-40 minutes.View on Omio
Day 5
Vintage Train to Soller and the Bay of Port de Soller
Have an early coffee near Palma's Placa d'Espanya so you can catch a morning train and enjoy the journey unhurried.
Cafe near Estacio de Soller
Placa d'Espanya
Grab a quick cafe con leche and pastry at one of the cafes around Placa d'Espanya before boarding. The vintage station itself is worth a few minutes' look.
Morning
Ride the historic train through tunnels and over viaducts into the Soller valley, then explore the elegant little town before heading to the coast.
Ferrocarril de Soller (vintage train)
Soller
The 1912 narrow-gauge railway climbs through 13 tunnels and across the Tramuntana with orchard and mountain views, terminating in Soller after about an hour. It is a destination in itself; sit on the right side leaving Palma for the best valley views. Single tickets run roughly 18-25 euros.
Placa de la Constitucio, Soller Google
Soller
Soller's main square is anchored by the Modernista church of Sant Bartomeu, designed by a Gaudi disciple, with cafe terraces beneath plane trees. The vintage wooden tram rattles right through it on its way to the port.
The town's small market and surrounding cafes offer local cheeses, tapas, and fresh orange juice from the valley's famous groves. Casual and good value.
Take the open-sided tram down to Port de Soller and spend the afternoon on the bay.
Tram to Port de Soller
Port de Soller
The historic orange tram trundles about 3 km from Soller town to the seafront in roughly 15-20 minutes, passing gardens and orchards. It drops you right at the promenade and beach.
Platja d'en Repic
Port de Soller
The port's best swimming beach, a sandy stretch on the quieter southwest side of the bay with calm water and a lineup of beach bars. Ideal for an afternoon swim and sunbathe.
Evening
Climb to the old lighthouse for one of Mallorca's finest sunsets over the bay.
Far del Cap Gros / Torre Picada walk
Port de Soller
A short, scenic walk or drive up to the headland lighthouse rewards you with sweeping views back over the horseshoe bay as the sun drops. Bring decent shoes for the path. There is a bar near the Faro for a sunset drink.
Dinner
Dine on the catch of the day right beside the water.
Restaurante Es Faro Google
4.6 · 2,384 reviews · Port de Soller
Perched on the cliff by the lighthouse with panoramic bay views, this seafood-focused restaurant is the romantic sunset choice. Book a terrace table ahead.
A long-established family seafood restaurant on the Platja d'en Repic promenade, known for fresh fish and rice dishes. A reliable, well-loved local table.
Good to know · The Ferrocarril de Soller vintage train is hugely popular in summer; buy tickets in advance and aim for a morning departure to avoid the busiest runs. (book 1-3 days ahead)View on Viator
Take a final unhurried breakfast looking out over the water before you pack up.
Cafes on the Port de Soller promenade
Port de Soller
Several seafront cafes serve coffee, fresh juice, and pastries with a full view of the bay and bobbing boats. The perfect spot to linger over your last island morning.
Randemar
Port de Soller
A relaxed waterfront restaurant and bar good for a leisurely breakfast or brunch right on the promenade. Comfortable seating and a pretty setting.
Morning
Squeeze in one last swim or a gentle stroll before transferring back toward Palma and the airport.
Bay promenade and final swim
Port de Soller
Walk the curving seafront one more time and take a last dip off Platja d'en Repic, where the water is calm in the morning. A fitting, low-key farewell to the island.
Jardins d'Alfabia (en route) Google
4.5 · 7,047 reviews · Soller
If driving back to the airport with time to spare, these Moorish-rooted gardens just outside Soller offer shaded terraces, fountains, and citrus groves. A peaceful last stop before the road south.
Have an early, easy lunch before heading to the airport; allow about 40-50 minutes by car from Soller to PMI plus check-in time.
Light bite on the promenade Google
4.8 · 1,014 reviews · Port de Soller
Keep it simple with a salad, bocadillo, or grilled fish at a seafront terrace before your transfer. Time your meal so you reach Palma Airport at least two hours before your flight.
Good to know · Allow about 40-50 minutes by car (or longer by train and connecting transfer) from the Soller area to Palma Airport, plus standard check-in time; plan departures with buffer. (plan on departure day)
Where to Stay
Stay along the bay in Port de Soller itself for beachfront ease and sunset views, or up in the historic town of Soller, a few minutes away by tram, for a quieter, more local base among the citrus orchards. The seafront is best for swimmers and first-timers; the old town suits those who want village atmosphere.
Hotel Esplendido
midrange Google
4.7 · 661 reviews
A retro-cool seafront hotel right on the bay with a pool, spa, and restaurant, steps from the tram stop. One of the most appealing mid-range bases in the port.
A simple, friendly hotel on the seafront promenade with bay-view rooms and good value for the location. Ideal if you want to be by the water without the splurge.
Self-catering villas and houses set among the orange groves around Soller offer space, kitchens, and often a private pool. A relaxed, scenic option for families and groups.
In six days you will have tasted the best of Mallorca: Palma's golden cathedral and tapas lanes, the sea caves and quiet coves of the east, the storybook mountain villages of Valldemossa and Deia, and the slow, sunlit calm of Port de Soller reached by vintage train. It is an island that rewards both energy and idleness, and this route balances the two. Come hungry, pack good walking shoes, and leave time to simply sit by the water.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Mallorca?
Five to seven days is ideal for a first visit, enough to enjoy Palma, take a couple of day trips into the Serra de Tramuntana and to the coast, and still have beach time. Six days lets you split your stay between the capital and a quieter coastal base like Port de Soller without feeling rushed.
What is the best area to stay in Palma for first-time visitors?
The old town (Casc Antic) is best for first-timers, putting you within walking distance of La Seu cathedral, markets, museums, and tapas bars. The adjacent Santa Catalina district is a great alternative for food and nightlife, with its produce market and a dense cluster of restaurants.
Do you need a car in Mallorca?
A rental car is the easiest way to reach mountain villages, sea caves, and the best hidden coves, especially on day trips from Palma. However, Palma itself is best explored on foot, and the historic Soller train and tram cover that corridor without driving, so you could rent a car only for the touring days.
What is the best time to visit Mallorca?
May, June, and September offer warm weather, swimmable seas, and fewer crowds than the July-August peak. Late June, the timing of this itinerary, brings reliably hot, dry days around 28-31C, busy beaches, and long evenings, so book key restaurants, the cathedral, and the Soller train ahead.
Is the Soller train worth it?
Yes. The 1912 vintage wooden train from Palma to Soller is a scenic experience in itself, climbing through 13 tunnels and across viaducts with orchard and mountain views in about an hour. Pairing it with the open-sided tram down to Port de Soller makes for one of the island's most memorable journeys.
Is Mallorca expensive?
Mallorca spans all budgets: you can eat well at market stalls and tapas bars for modest prices, while seafront restaurants and design hotels cost considerably more. Visiting in late June means peak-season prices for accommodation and car rental, so booking early helps keep costs down.
