What are the best ways to get around Mallorca during a holiday?

Many visitors arrive picturing Mallorca as a place best explored by car, but getting around doesn’t always require renting a vehicle. For trips within the island’s towns, the extensive TIB bus network offers a reliable and budget-friendly option, connecting Palma with destinations like Alcudia, Pollenca, and Manacor. The buses are especially convenient during festivals such as Sant Sebastià in Palma or the Festa de l’Ametler in Soller, where parking can be challenging.

If you want a more scenic journey, the historic Soller railway runs from Palma through the Tramuntana foothills, offering a charming alternative to driving the winding Ma-11 road. It’s perfect for reaching the orange groves of Soller or heading onward to Port de Soller’s seafront. Around Palma itself, the metro and city buses make urban exploration easy, whether you’re visiting the cathedral or sampling sobrassada in the markets.

For more freedom, renting a car remains popular, especially for accessing coves like Cala Llombards and Formentor or exploring the Serra de Tramuntana at your own pace. Cyclists can enjoy dedicated routes and beautiful roads such as the Ma-19 along the east coast. Taxis and occasional ride-sharing services provide flexible options for late arrivals or when carrying luggage.

Choosing transport depends on your itinerary and appetite for adventure. Whether it’s the relaxed pace of a train, the reach of the bus system, or the independence of a car, the island offers diverse ways to discover its diverse landscapes and traditions.