Car Rental Palma de Mallorca Airport

From the sun-kissed coastline to the stunning mountains, Mallorca is an island with a vast and varied landscape. The main roads here have been built to a high standard and most are relatively quiet, though in and around the capital city there can be more activity, depending on the time of day and the season.

Driving through the island’s awe-inspiring Tramuntana Mountains can take longer than you’d expect as the roads wind and there are a number of hairpin bends. For this reason, it’s advisable to give yourself extra time when planning your journey in these areas. If you’re wanting to head here straight from the airport, take the MA-11 northbound to reach the base. It should take around half an hour to get here.

The Via Cintura is Palma de Mallorca’s motorway ring road. From this road, it’s possible to access the north (Alcúdia) and the east (Manacor), as well as Palma itself. The speed limit is typically 120kph (74mph) on major highways and on main rural roads it is often 100kph (62mph), while towns, villages and cities usually have limits of 50kph (30mph) or less. Always keep an eye on signs, as these can vary. 

While driving in and around Palma de Mallorca, be aware of cyclists who frequent the island at certain times of the year. Thanks to its stunning landscape, generally well-maintained highways, and low traffic volume, driving on Mallorca is most often an absolute pleasure.

Those planning a visit to Mallorca’s beautiful capital city should expect to see a cultured place, gorgeous seaside destinations and a host of fabulous things to see and do.

Hit the beach

Palma de Mallorca’s most easy-to-reach beach is Ca’n Pere Antoni, a compact stretch of pale sand that begins right by the city’s famous cathedral. 

Elsewhere, you can drive out to Port d'Alcudia on the island’s northeast coast for still waters and great diving. Make it Es Trenc for the purest of white sand and enjoy lunch in the pretty village of Campos, some 30 minutes’ drive away.

Or, if you’re looking to take the kids snorkeling, make it Cala Mondragó in the southeast - this untouched beach boasts both sand for the sunbathers and rocky coves for the nature lovers.

Take in the sights

Perhaps the most famous symbol of Palma and Mallorca itself is the Cathedral of Palma de Mallorca, also known as La Seu. This striking Gothic landmark stands tall and majestic overlooking the bustling harbor below in the city’s Old Town.

Its twin significant monument is the Castell de Bellver or Castle of the Beautiful View. Built in the 14th century, this exceptionally well-preserved fortress is a round structure with three impressive towers and a central courtyard. Visiting makes you feel you’ve stepped back in time 700 years and the castle’s Gothic arches and other architectural detailing give the place an otherworldly ambiance.

If you’re lucky enough to visit Palma de Mallorca when there is a performance or event taking place at the castle, be sure to go along.

Get back to nature

A trip to explore S’Albufera nature reserve is always worthwhile whether you’re a walker or a birdwatcher. Sprawling across a massive 4,200 acres, the wetlands are a great place to spot kestrels, purple herons, and falcons.

S’Albufera is located on Mallorca’s northeast coast. For a more polished experience of the natural world, go to the Alfàbia Gardens. Expertly designed and tended to, and taking influence from British, Italian and Islamic horticulturalists, the gardens were originally created in the 1950s, although the enchanting property they belong to dates back to the 13th century.

Head out to sea

With all that sparklingly blue sea twinkling at you invitingly, it would be hard to resist a boat trip. Thankfully, there are plenty to choose from setting out from Palma de Mallorca. As well as group tours lasting a day with stop-offs for lunch and swimming, there are more intimate journeys to go on.

Navigate the coast from the sweeping Bay of Palma on a catamaran, taking in the island’s beauty from afar. Some trips offer passengers the chance to dive, while others give you the opportunity to try your hand at fishing and cook what you catch. If you’re romantically inclined, a sunset boat trip could be the perfect type of sailing for you.

With car rental at Palma de Mallorca airport, all this and more is at your fingertips.