Discover the best areas to base yourself for an unforgettable trip.
Take it from me: I’ve explored every Balearic island and nothing compares to Majorca’s dramatic landscapes—which says a lot considering this Spanish archipelago has some of the most idyllic scenery in the Mediterranean. Wherever you go in Majorca, you’ll find verdant olive groves, fragrant fruit orchards (look for lemons, figs, and oranges), and the sharp Serra de Tramuntana mountain range that stretches 50 miles along the island’s northeast shore. Though each town is charming in its own right, there are a few special spots around the island that make for the perfect home base. Here are my four favorites.
For history and architecture: Palma
I’ll admit it—Palma is one of the dreamiest cities I have ever seen. Beyond the glitzy marina, there’s a historic center with a fairytale church (seriously, you need to admire the architecture) and galleries filled with Joan Miró artwork. Suffice it to say, a day in Palma is simply not enough. Lucky for you, every flight and ferry arrives in Palma first, so you’ll land here no matter what other part of Majorca you plan on visiting. Start by learning more about the island’s history—spanning the Romans to the Moors—at La Seu Cathedral. This golden church is one of Majorca’s most ancient landmarks (and the most famous site in Palma). Its construction began almost 1,000 years ago, in the 14th century. Continue your tour in the grand halls and lush gardens of Almudaina Palace. Palma’s city center is full of boutique shops, cafés, bars, and restaurants in two main areas: the historic heart of La Lonja and the trendy Santa Catalina, home to a fantastic food market. You can find a little bit of everything downtown, including under-the-radar spots like Mistral, a specialty café, and Canela, a chic winery that pours an array of Majorcan vintages. Hotel pick: Couples craving a romantic getaway should look no further than Palma Riad. The intimate property nods to the island’s Moorish roots, from its mosaic-tiled courtyard to the hamman-style soaking tubs in each room.
For art galleries and fine dining: Deià
Deià is a hidden gem in the Tramuntana mountains. This picturesque town has cobblestone streets lined by charming homes with olive shutters and bright bougainvillea. It’s so pretty, I can’t help but snap a photo at every corner. The town sits at the northwest edge of the island, making it a little removed from the tourist path. But because it’s so popular among a bohemian creative set—artists, painters, actors—it’s become quite the sensation. When I go, one of my first stops is at Ca’s Patró March. The rustic yet posh chiringuito (beach bar) offers a menu full of fresh catch—buttery lobster, shrimp, and razor clams—that tastes even better thanks to the view of the rocky turquoise cove of Cala Deià. Afternoons can be spent at Café Miró located at La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel. I love its fresh small plates but the real star is its collection of over 30 original Joan Miró paintings. For a romantic date night, make a reservation (in advance) for El Olivo, a candlelight restaurant inside a medieval olive mill. I recommend adding the cheese-tasting menu to your dinner experience—it’s worth the splurge! Save time to shop, too. I always pop into the ceramics studio Gres Gallery and Datura Studio Isla, a concept store known for its slow-fashion items like swimsuits, jewelry, and sandals. Hotel pick: To do Deià right, book a night (or two, or three) at La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel. The glamorous estate—surrounded by olive and citrus groves—has a ton of on-site amenities, such as tennis courts, swimming pools, and four restaurants. But the best part? La Residencia hosts sculpture and painting classes led by local artists.
For unique shops and vintage charm: Sóller
Just next door to Deià is Sóller, a charming village with Art Nouveau buildings. It was once only accessible by boat, but a tunnel and road were built in the late 1990s, opening up this enclave to more travelers. Today, the best way to visit is aboard the Sóller Train, a historic railway that dates back to the early 1900s. From Palma, you’ll ride in a quaint wooden trolley car right up to the steps of the cathedral in the heart of Sóller’s square. Hop off here and cross the plaza to Café Sóller for an espresso. Once you’re fueled up, wander down the main street and check out stores full of bespoke jewelry and traditional raffia bags. Perhaps one of the top boutiques is Alameda Shop, tucked along a quiet side street. Here, you can browse homeware, perfume, and stationery made by Spanish artists—all while enjoying a cappuccino with a slice of orange and almond cake. If you’d prefer a full meal, walk to Port Sóller, where you have your pick of waterfront restaurants. A few of my favorite seafood-focused spots: Suculenta (try the hearty shrimp paella) and La Sal, where I always order the sea bass tartare or fish burgers. Hotel pick: The hip new Hotel Corazón is set between Deià and Sóller. As an ode to the area's artistic community, owners Kate Bellm and Edgar Lopez renovated this 16th-century farmhouse, turning it into a countryside retreat for creatives. Each of the 15 rooms is unique and adorned with furniture made by local craftspeople.
For farmers’ markets and stunning sunsets: Santanyí
Sure, Majorca has some cute mountain towns—but you won’t get postcard sunsets, crystalline water, and untouched nature quite like in Santanyí, on the southeast shore. As a photographer, I was drawn by the light, which sets the sandstone buildings aglow. (In this seaside town, every hour is golden hour.) Plus, you can’t beat the beaches; my go-tos are Cala Santanyi and Cala Figuera, where sailboat tours embark on sunset cruises. If you prefer to stay on land, hike around Península de Llevant park—the trails have sweeping, bird’s-eye views of the coastline. Santanyí also attracts food-lovers with its fresh produce market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. There’s fruit, vegetables, cheese, meat, flowers, and even handmade souvenirs for sale. Still hungry? The town is full of chic, laid-back restaurants. I suggest the plant-based plates at Cal Reiet's Table, the fresh squeezed juice at Retroway, and the classic Spanish tapas at Es Cantonet. Hotel pick: In need of some R&R? Bliss out at the ultra-luxe Can Ferrereta, a restored 17th-century mansion with a serene spa and robust wellness program. The real masterpiece is the 80-foot, mosaic-tiled pool, surrounded by striped lounge chairs and colorful bougainvillea. Porcelain tubs and sleek four-poster beds make a night in feel even more regal.
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