Mallorca
The Ultimate mallorca Travel Guide: for the honeymoon or luxury trip of a lifetime
Following our wedding in Italy this past September, my husband and I spent a week basking in the Mallorcan sun, visiting Santanyi, Deià, and Palma. We treated this trip as a mini-moon—a peaceful way to wind down before our Maldives honeymoon in February—and it was the perfect "euro-summer" finale. Whether you’re planning your own honeymoon or just seeking a high-end island retreat, this guide captures the best of Mallorca’s luxury.
Welcome to Mallorca
Arrival: All international journeys to the island begin at Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI). Being that Mallorca is one large island, this makes navigation much simpler than some of its island-hopping neighbors. Your choice of transportation, following your arrival, will likely play a major role in your overall experience.
Private Chauffeur or Taxi: Perfect if your goal is pure relaxation at the hotel. Just keep in mind that there is so much to see beyond the resort gates! If you go this route, I’d suggest booking a multi-stop itinerary—staying in a few different areas throughout your trip—so you don't miss out on the island's variety.
Car Rental (How we chose to see Mallorca): If you want the freedom to discover those tucked-away "secret" beaches, renting a car is a must. There is nothing quite like the flexibility of driving through the Serra de Tramuntana mountains at your own pace or spontaneously stopping at a roadside fruit stall before heading to a hidden Cala for a dip.
Tip: Car rentals in Mallorca are often manual/stick-shift, so if you need an automatic, you should book well in advance.
The Layout: Mallorca has surged in popularity recently, and for good reason. The landscape is incredibly diverse, pairing dramatic mountain vistas with the most inviting turquoise waters. Unlike the secluded "one island, one resort" setup of the Maldives, Mallorca encourages exploration between its quaint mountain villages, like Valldemossa and Deià, and stunning seaside gems like Cala Figuera. To help you plan, think of the island in three parts:
Serra de Tramuntana: The UNESCO-listed mountain range offering rugged luxury and cliffside views.
The South & Southeast Coast: Home to those postcard-perfect, white-sand coves and turquoise "Calas."
The Interior & Palma: The interior offers authentic, rustic vineyard charm, while the capital city of Palma provides a sophisticated, historic "city-break" feel.
Where we Stayed
Can Ferrereta, Santanyi:Tucked away in the historic heart of Santanyí, Can Ferrereta is the perfect start to your Mallorcan holiday. This boutique adults-only stay feels less like a hotel and more like a private, sophisticated estate, featuring a sprawling courtyard and a stunning pool area that serves as the property's focal point. The modern aesthetic of the interiors blend effortlessly with authentic rustic exterior, creating a serene atmosphere for those who gravitate toward quiet luxury and a refined atmosphere.
La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel, Deià: This was the absolute pinnacle of our trip and the stay we built our entire mini-moon around. Tucked deep into the Tramuntana mountains and built right into the cliffside, La Residencia is a jaw droppingly beautiful property. What we loved most is how the resort manages to feel both prestigious and incredibly intimate at the same time. It’s also home to the world-famous El Olivo, which is a must for anyone who appreciates a truly lavish dining experience.
Nobis Design Hotel, Palma: This is the ideal base for anyone who wants to be right in the middle of Palma’s energy while having a moody, quiet retreat to head back to. The architects kept the best parts of the original building—like the massive stone arches—but updated them with sleek, modern touches that make the space feel like a sophisticated architectural gem. Nobis is easily one of the most chic spots in the Old Town.
santanyi details
Where we stayed: Can Ferrereta
Number of nights: 3 nights (Originally slated for 4 nights, however, our flight in Florence got canceled)
Room Type: Privilege
Room Description: The Privilege Room was a total highlight for us—the layout is incredibly well-thought-out, but the real showstopper is the giant soaking tub. We also loved having our own private patio that walks directly out to the pool area; it manages to feel tucked away and private while still being right at the heart of the hotel’s energy. It’s the perfect setup if you want easy pool access without sacrificing your own personal sanctuary.
A minor note: We originally checked into the Duplex Suite, but ended up asking to move. We didn't realize the room was split over two levels, and the constant stairs—combined with trying to organize all our wedding bags—made the layout feel a bit tricky. It also didn't have a tub, which is a vacation must-have for me. Fortunately, the staff were incredibly accommodating and pivoted us into the Privilege Room, which we absolutely loved.
The Spa: The spa is easily one of the best amenities at Can Ferrereta. Since the indoor pool, sauna, and steam room are open to all guests throughout their stay, you get that "spa day" feeling whenever you want, even without booking a treatment. That said, the actual treatments are second to none. We opted for one of their special packages, and it was the perfect way to let all the residual wedding weekend tension wash away.
Food: Our dining experiences in Santanyí were all top-tier. From the impressive complimentary breakfast at Can Ferrereta to sipping cocktails and snacking on Ibérico ham by the pool, everything was a hit. We even found a small hidden gem in town for dinner that truly blew us away.
The Standout Spots:
Sea Club, Cap Rocat: This is a must-do, in my opinion. While difficult to get a reservation, the grandeur of this resort and the seaside location of this restaurant are worth it. I was in awe from the second we arrived through the entire meal. It’s about an hour from Santanyí back toward Palma, so it’s a bit of a drive, but we visited at the very beginning of our trip and it truly set the tone for the rest of the week. I would not miss this.
Ocre: Ocre is Can Ferrereta’s main restaurant, and it’s easy to see why it has a Michelin rating. We had a delicious dinner here, but the real standouts were the appetizers—specifically the tuna crispy rice and the slow-roasted aubergine with a honey and pistachio topping. It was easily one of our favorite meals of the trip.
Manique: A friend recommended this hidden gem tucked away in the alleys of Santanyí, and I’m so glad we listened. Between the ornate interior and the unique menu, it was a total standout. We’re still dreaming about the truffle butter with handmade flatbread, the pumpkin curry, and that flambéed banana with cacao nibs. It’s a must-visit.
Lunch in Cala Figuera: After a day at the beach, we drove over to Cala Figuera, a charming old fishing village, for lunch. It’s easily the most picturesque backdrop for a relaxed seafood meal after a morning spent swimming in the local Calas.
Experiences: The main draw of Santanyí is how close you are to the local Calas and the famous street market, which happens every Wednesday and Saturday.
Calas we visited: We chose to visit Cala S’Amarador and Cala Llombards since they’re close enough that you can actually walk from one to the other. The water was breathtaking, though a bit chillier than I expected! There is a little beach shack that sells beverages, snacks and fresh fruit, however I would hold out for the tiktok famous “fruit man” if you see him - the mango and pineapple were some of the best I’ve ever had
Tip: There are a limited number of rentable lounge chairs and umbrellas (I think it was around 20 euros per chair), so if you want to snag one, I’d definitely suggest arriving before 10 am.
Santanyi Market:This local artisan market only happens on Wednesdays and Saturdays, so definitely plan your stay around those days if you want to catch it. We picked up some fresh fruit for the beach and one of the best pastries I’ve ever had from one of the local bakeries—it was a sort of pistachio cinnamon roll that we devoured instantly.
What surprised us most: The landscape here is incredibly rustic, with a relaxed aura that really defines this part of Mallorca. Santanyí is a place for slowing down and losing track of time—whether you're at the beach, over a long lunch, or back at Can Ferrereta’s sprawling pool. One thing to keep in mind: the streets are very narrow and tight, which makes them great for walking but a bit of a squeeze for driving. That said, having a car was a lifesaver for exploring the beaches and eventually making our way over to Deià and Palma.
Deià details
Where we stayed: La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel
Number of nights: 2 nights
Room Type: Superior Junior Suite
Room Description: Our room was situated on the second floor of the primary building, just above the reception. Upon entering, we were greeted by exposed beam ceilings, authentic tiled floors, and wooden shutters that complemented the modern finishes of the furniture and bathroom beautifully. We loved how the space felt deeply rooted in its surroundings while maintaining an undeniable sense of opulence.The most breathtaking feature, however, was the direct view of the Tramuntana Mountains; watching the sun illuminate the peaks each morning was truly unforgettable.
A quick tip: We originally booked a Classic Double Room but were graciously upgraded to a Superior Junior Suite upon arrival. If you are visiting for a special occasion, it is always worth emailing the concierge in advance. In my experience, the staff is eager to go above and beyond to make your stay extra special whenever possible.
The Resort Grounds: Belmond La Residencia is quite literally built into the mountainside, characterized by a charming maze of cobblestone stairways that connect the resort's various levels. While it is easy to take a wrong turn, you are almost certain to stumble upon something beautiful— whether it be the onsite organic garden, the Poet’s Path, or the serene adults-only pool. We loved how seamlessly the property flows with its natural surroundings. Lounging by their iconic pool while taking in the mountain views was easily a highlight of our stay.
Food: Our culinary experiences in Deià were consistently excellent. From the world-class, Michelin-rated El Olivo to sharing casual tapas in the heart of town, every meal was nothing short of extraordinary.
The Standout Spots:
El Olivo, La Residencia: World-renowned for its candlelit ambiance and coveted location, dining at El Olivo was a high priority during our stay. We were fortunate to secure a table during the first seating, which granted us front-row seats to a spectacular sunset. While they offer both 6 and 10-course menus, we opted for the 10-course experience. Be prepared: this is a three-and-a-half-hour journey. For the more "conservative" eater, I’ll offer a gentle caution: the menu is incredibly diverse in both ingredients and flavor profiles. Personally, I found the volume and complexity a bit overwhelming. If I were to return, I would likely choose the vegetarian menu; though I'm not a vegetarian, some of the meat and seafood cuts weren't to my taste.
The Verdict: Is it worth it? Absolutely, for the ambiance alone. However, 10 courses is a lot—we would have been perfectly content with six. If you aren't an adventurous eater, the vegetarian menu is likely your best bet.
Restaurant Miro: Also located at La Residencia, Miró offers a more approachable menu than its sister restaurant, El Olivo. We were lucky enough to dine here with a couple who had just attended our wedding and were also honeymooning at the resort! Because we were a larger group, we were able to sample much of the menu, and each dish truly outdid the last.The seafood appetizers were all excellent, but the standout for me was the lamb shoulder. As a Greek girl who grew up eating lamb, I don’t say this lightly: it was some of the best I’ve ever had. To finish the evening, our server went out of his way to pour us a local regional liqueur. It was reminiscent of Ouzo, with a lovely, subtle licorice finish.
Xileni: While resort dining is convenient, we always like to sample the local cuisine when we travel as well. Just a short walk into town, we stumbled upon Xelini, a historic gem famous for its extensive tapas menu and charming terrace. We opted for a spread of gambas in garlic chili oil, Ibérico ham, local olives, and their delicious garlic spread. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely, authentic lunch that offers a high-end feel without the luxury price tag.
Experiences: To be completely transparent, staying at La Residencia was the experience for us. This resort is a true bucket-list destination, and with 48 hours to explore, we chose to kept our itinerary light to fully enjoy the world-class culinary offerings, the sheer beauty of the grounds, and ensure we made the most of the investment.
That said, there was one stand out experience, which took us by surprise, on our way to Deià…
Valldemossa:On the drive to Deià, you’ll pass through Valldemossa, a quaint mountain town that feels like a hidden gem. I highly recommend stopping to wander the cobblestone streets and enjoy a drink or a light lunch before continuing your journey. This town is stunningly beautiful—it’s those unexpected discoveries that often stay with me the most, especially since I hadn't initially planned on stopping here.
Tip: Walk over to De Tokio a Lima for a beverage. The views of the town nestled into the cliffside are absolutely unparalleled.
What surprised us most: The drive to Deià is, quite simply, one of the most breathtaking routes I have ever experienced. We found ourselves slowing down at every turn to take in the vast coastal vistas and the sheer grandness of the mountains. Upon arriving at La Residencia, I was also surprised by how intimate the hotel felt. It appears much larger in photos, but in reality, it has a boutique, quaint atmosphere that we much prefer. Deià itself is also charmingly small. While we stayed for only two days - largely due to the resort's premium price point - I felt it was the perfect amount of time to immerse ourselves in the area before moving on to the next leg of our journey.
palma details
Where we stayed: Nobis Hotel
Number of nights: 1
Room Type: Superior Room
Room Description: While our room was efficient and modern, the layout was a bit intimate. Since we were traveling for two weeks following our wedding in Italy, we had quite a few bags that occupied much of the floor space. However, for a one-night stay, it suited us perfectly—the stunning grounds more than made up for the limited square footage of the bedroom.
The Resort Grounds: I am often drawn to design-forward hotels, and Nobis Palma delivered on every front. Converted from a historic monastery, the entrance greets you with imposing arches, a dramatic velvet curtain, and a central water sculpture adorned with floating rose petals—providing a striking contrast to the original architecture. This aesthetic carries through to the dining terrace, where sweeping overhead tapestries lend the space a subtle North African and Moroccan flair.
Tip: Reaching the hotel by car can be a bit of a challenge, as it’s tucked away down a narrow alleyway accessible only from one specific direction. I highly recommend emailing the concierge in advance for explicit driving instructions; navigating the Old Town’s restricted zones and one-way streets is much easier with their guidance.
Food: By the time we reached Palma, we were nearing the end of our two-week European journey and feeling the exhaustion. However, that didn't stop us from seeking out a few final "good eats" to perfectly wrap up our Mallorcan holiday.
The Standout Spots:
NOI: Located onsite at Nobis, we enjoyed lunch here so much that we actually canceled our dinner reservations in town to return for a second meal. While travel exhaustion played a part in that decision, the excellence of the menu at NOI made it an easy choice. Our lunch featured more Ibérico ham (which quickly became a staple for us in Mallorca), creamy burrata, and fresh hamachi crudo. For dinner, I opted for the roasted lamb while my husband enjoyed the filet—both were prepared to perfection.
Rivareno: We may not have ventured far during our time in Palma, but we did make it to RivaReno for gelato—and I’ll go as far as to say this was the best we had during our entire European journey (yes, even including Italy). The unique flavor combinations, the incredibly creamy texture, and the fresh-pressed cones were unparalleled. If you find yourself in Palma, this is an absolute must.
Experiences: Unfortunately, we were not in Palma long enough, nor did we have enough energy, to do much exploring. However, even on our short walks, we could feel the city's energy. It’s a lively metropolitan center that manages to feel authentically Spanish. From the endless tapas restaurants to the incredible shopping and rich culture, Palma is a place where you’ll never run out of things to discover.
What surprised us most: Transitioning from the quiet charm of Santanyí and Deià to the fast pace of Palma was quite a change! It’s a vibrant city with a great "hustle," amazing shopping, and streets that stay alive late into the night. While it was logistically practical to end here for our flight departure, I think on a future visit I would start with a night in Palma and then "retreat" to the more relaxed parts of the island once the travel exhaustion sets in.
When to Visit mallorca
Best Time: If you want the luxury experience without the "peak season" stress, book for late May or September. You’ll get the best of Mallorca—warm sunny days, cool breezy nights, and plenty of space to breathe at the resort.
July & August: Peak season. It’s hot, vibrant, and expensive. Great for beach clubs, but expect crowds.
How long to visit: For a first-time visit, 5 to 8 nights is ideal, though you should scale this based on your travel distance and personal preferences. I am a firm believer in the “8 day vacation” so for us, the "sweet spot" would have been splitting our time as we did with perhaps another 2 days to visit Sóller, which was on my list but we did not have time for.
The 8-Day Vacation Phenomenon: I’m a firm believer in the "eight-day vacation," which I learned about several years back. Studies have shown that vacation happiness peaks on day eight of a trip - it’s just enough time to fully decompress from work, but short enough to leave before the novelty starts to wear off. For us, those eight days are the "sweet spot" to ensure we return home feeling truly restored rather than just ready to get back to routine.
things I wish I knew in advance
Vacation vs Trip: I’ve always categorized travel into two distinct buckets: "trips" and "vacations." Both serve a purpose, but they require different mindsets. Mallorca, in my experience, is firmly a trip. Because the island is so diverse, the real magic lies in exploring different towns, driving to hidden calas, and moving between boutique hotels. This requires a bit more "work"—unpacking, navigating, and staying on the move—compared to a traditional vacation where the resort is the sole destination. While there is certainly time to lounge by the pool, Mallorca is an island that rewards those who are willing to do a bit more “traveling” rather than just relaxing.
Calas: Be prepared for a bit of a trek to reach the island's most beautiful calas. Many of these hidden coves are accessible only by foot, often requiring a half-mile hike down dirt trails and uneven terrain. I highly recommend wearing sneakers or sturdy walking sandals for the journey and pack flip-flops for when you reach the beach.
Rent the small car: I said this before and I’ll say it again… having a rental car was truly a must for us and I would highly recommend. That said, I’d opt for the smallest car that will fit your luggage. Many streets are narrow and parking can be limited. The smaller the car, the easier it will be for you to navigate.
Is mallorca worth it?
We truly fell in love with Mallorca, and it’s easy to see why it has become such a sought-after destination. Between the pristine beaches, the incredible food, and the world-class resorts, it definitely deserves a spot on your summer bucket list.
That said, if you’re planning a visit, my best advice is to embrace the "trip" mindset: come prepared to explore, drive, and discover a new side of the island every day. A smooth Mallorcan holiday requires a bit of intentional planning to ensure you’re savoring the best spots without feeling rushed, and I hope these insights help you craft your own perfect itinerary.
