Which interesting places should I consider visiting when driving around Mallorca?

Locals rarely rush straight to their destination, and for good reason—there’s so much to see just off the main roads. If you’re driving along the Ma-10 through the Tramuntana mountains, a stop in Valldemossa is almost mandatory. The village’s cobbled streets and centuries-old monasteries offer a peaceful break, alongside cafés serving local specialties like ensaimada. Not far from there, the coastal town of Deià is a haven for art lovers and a great spot to sample Hierbas or Palo at a traditional bar.

For beach lovers, taking a detour off the Ma-13 toward the southeast rewards you with gorgeous coves such as Cala Llombards or the more remote Es Trenc, famous for its crystalline waters and natural dunes. A visit to the S’Albufera nature reserve near Alcúdia presents another kind of beauty—wetlands teeming with birds, perfect for a slower, nature-filled stop. On the north coast, the romantic village of Pollença and its nearby Formentor peninsula invite leisurely exploration, and the views from Cap de Formentor are worth the extra time.

If your route includes the Ma-19 approaching Palma, pauses in the town of Manacor can be interesting beyond its sea caves: try some sobrassada in a local market or visit a workshop making the famous Mallorca pearl jewelry. Throughout your drive, keep an eye out for signposts to local festivals, such as the lively Festa de l'Ametler in early spring or the flames of Nit de Foc in Palma’s old town, which can turn a simple journey into a memorable cultural experience.