How widely accepted is the Maestro card on the island compared to Visa or MasterCard?

In recent years, digital payments and contactless cards have become far more common across the island, especially in Palma and other tourist hubs like Alcudia and Soller. While Visa and MasterCard remain the dominant choices for most shops, restaurants, and hotels, the Maestro card is accepted at many places linked to local banks, particularly in smaller towns such as Pollenca or Manacor. However, it’s still far less widespread than the international options, especially outside urban centers.

If you plan to explore rural corners like the Serra de Tramuntana or the more secluded beaches of Cala Mondrago and Cala Llombards, carrying cash is advisable, as some family-run establishments and markets prefer it or have limited card-reading facilities. The TIB bus network and smaller vendors on the Ma-13 and Ma-19 roads rarely accept cards other than Visa and MasterCard. Always check with your card issuer regarding fees for transactions in euros to avoid surprises.

For convenience, many locals and tourists rely on Visa or MasterCard, which are accepted almost everywhere on the island, from nightlife hotspots in Palma during Sant Sebastià to wineries in Binissalem. Keeping a Mastercard or Visa as your primary card and a small supply of euros for cash payments will best cover you during your stay, particularly in less touristy villages like Valldemossa or Deia.