First-time Visitor Tips

15 things I wish I had known before my first trip to Mallorca:

1. A rental car is almost a must. Without a car, you'll only see Palma and your beach resort. The most beautiful places (Tramuntana villages, hidden calas, island center) are hardly or only awkwardly accessible by bus. Book early — in high season rental cars become absurdly expensive.
2. Parking is Mallorca's biggest problem. In Palma, Valldemossa, Deia, and Soller, parking in summer is a nightmare. In Palma: Use the parking garage under Plaça Major or at Parc de la Mar. In Deia: Park outside and walk. Valldemossa: Arrive early (before 10 am) or use the large parking lot at the entrance to the village.
3. Mallorca also speaks German. In tourist areas, you can get by with German without any problems. But: A few words of Spanish or even Catalan (Bon dia! Gràcies!) open doors and hearts.
4. The island is smaller than you think. It's only 60 km (50 min.) from Palma to Alcudia, 30 km (30 min.) to Soller, 65 km (55 min.) to Cala d'Or. You could theoretically circle Mallorca in a day — but take your time!
5. Mallorca has two faces. The coast is touristy, sometimes too much. But 10 km inland begins a completely different Mallorca: quiet villages, almond groves, sheep flocks, country inns (Cellers). The real Mallorca is found off the road.
6. Many things are closed on Sundays. Outside the tourist centers, shops and many restaurants are closed on Sundays. Supermarkets close by 2 pm at the latest. Plan ahead!
7. Reserve restaurants — especially in the evening. Good restaurants in Palma, Deia, and on the coast are fully booked in the evenings, especially on Fridays/Saturdays. In high season, book 2–3 days in advance (or via TheFork/El Tenedor with discounts).
8. Tap water tastes awful. It is technically drinkable, but the high lime content and strong chlorination make it unpalatable. Buy 5-liter canisters in the supermarket (0.80–1.20 euros) or use a water bottle with a filter.
9. Don't underestimate sun protection. UV radiation is more intense than in Germany, even in spring. SPF 50 is a must, especially for children. On the water (boat tours, snorkeling), you can burn in 20 minutes.
10. The Tramuntana roads are not for the faint-hearted. Narrow hairpin bends, tour buses, cyclists, and cliffs without guardrails. Drive slowly, honk before blind curves, and avoid the Palma–Soller route over the pass (take the tunnel for 3.80 euros).
11. Bring water shoes! Many beaches and calas have rocky entries or pebbles. Sea urchins are found along the entire rocky coast. Aqua shoes are not optional — they are a must.
12. The Menu del Dia is your best friend. At lunchtime, almost all restaurants offer a daily dish with 3 courses, bread, drink, and sometimes dessert for 12–18 euros. It's often better and larger than dinner — and half the price.
13. Mallorca is also brilliant in winter. Almond blossom (late January to March), hiking in the Tramuntana at 15°C, empty beaches, Palma without crowds. Hotels from 40 euros/night. The island breathes — and so do you.
14. Beware of "tourist traps". Restaurants directly on the Paseo Maritimo in Palma, around the cathedral, and in the port of Port de Soller are often overpriced with mediocre quality. Two streets away, it's half the price and twice as good. Ask locals!
15. The Ecotasa (tourist tax) is added to the hotel bill. Since 2016, all overnight guests pay a tourist tax: 1–4 euros per person/night depending on hotel category and season (children under 16 free). In the off-season (Nov–Apr), it's half. The money goes to environmental protection and infrastructure.