What are the best ways to get around Mallorca without renting a car?

Deciding whether to explore the Tramuntana mountains by bus or stick to the coastal towns changes how you’ll get around without a car. The island’s public transport network is well-developed enough to let you visit Palma, Alcudia, and Pollenca with relative ease by the TIB bus system. Frequent services run along the Ma-13 and Ma-19, connecting Palma to northern resorts and inland villages. This is often the most straightforward option for hopping between bigger towns and beaches like Es Trenc or Cala Mondrago.

For a more romantic route, the historic Soller railway offers a scenic alternative to driving through the hills, linking Palma with the charming town of Soller. Within Palma, you can use the metro and local buses to reach shopping districts, markets, and even the port. Cycling is another popular option, especially along flatter stretches near the coast or around Valldemossa and Deia, where bike rentals abound and paths offer stunning views.

Nighttime transport can be trickier, so pre-booked taxis or rideshares help if you're attending a festival like Nit de Foc or enjoying late dinners in town. Water taxis and ferries operate sporadically, mostly connecting Ibiza or Menorca, but in summer, some services run along Mallorca’s coast, offering an attractive way to reach remote coves like Cala Llombards or Formentor. By combining buses, trains, bikes, and occasional taxis, it’s entirely feasible to explore the island’s diverse landscapes and culinary delights—from pa amb oli in Palma to sobrassada tastings inland—without needing a car.