What is the best way to get around and explore different parts of Mallorca like a local?

Exploring Mallorca often means blending a few modes of transport to match the island's varied landscapes and charming towns. The TIB bus network covers many routes, linking Palma with spots like Alcudia on the north coast and the Tramuntana villages of Valldemossa and Deià. For a more scenic and leisurely journey, the vintage Soller railway carves a beautiful path through the mountains from Palma to Soller, offering a glimpse of the island’s countryside and coastline.

Walking is indispensable in towns such as Pollença or the old quarter of Palma, where narrow streets and local markets invite deep discovery away from the bustle. Those who venture along the Ma-10 road through the Serra de Tramuntana will find walking trails and viewpoints that reveal dramatic scenery and peaceful coves like Cala Llombards. Coastal roads, including the Ma-13, provide access to stunning beaches like Es Trenc and Formentor, often best reached by car or bike.

Cycling enthusiasts enjoy riding between olive groves and almond orchards in the Binissalem wine region or along quieter lanes near Manacor. While taxis and rideshares are available around Palma, rural areas rely mostly on private vehicles or buses. Locals might stop for a break with a coffee and pa amb oli in a village café or raise a glass of Hierbas herbal liqueur or Palo on a terrace, soaking in the slower pace of island life. Combining walking with public transit, or the leisurely pace of the Soller train, makes for an authentic way to absorb Mallorca’s culture and landscapes.