Mallorca is much more than beaches and nightlife. The island is packed with historic landmarks, charming mountain villages and spectacular coastal scenery that make it one of the most diverse destinations in the Mediterranean. This guide highlights 10 must-see attractions in Mallorca so you can plan an unforgettable trip and experience the island’s culture, history and nature.
1. Catedral de Mallorca (La Seu): with Skip-the-Line Ticket
The Catedral de Mallorca, also known as La Seu, is the most iconic landmark in Palma and a true Gothic masterpiece. Rising above Parc de la Mar and overlooking the Mediterranean, the cathedral features an impressive rose window, soaring vaults and design elements by Antoni Gaudí. To make the most of your visit and avoid long queues at the entrance, you can book a skip-the-line Palma Cathedral ticket with an exclusive discount through mallorcard.es. This way you save time, secure your spot on busy days and enjoy fast access to one of Mallorca’s most important sights.
2. Cap de Formentor: Dramatic Cliffs and Panoramic Views
Cap de Formentor, often called “the meeting point of the winds”, marks the northernmost tip of Mallorca. The drive along the winding coastal road offers spectacular viewpoints over steep cliffs, turquoise waters and rugged headlands. Stop at the various miradors, such as Mirador Es Colomer, and, if time allows, continue to the lighthouse at the very end of the cape. You can also visit nearby Formentor Beach or join a boat trip from Port de Pollença to admire this dramatic coastline from the sea.
3. Castell de Bellver: Circular Castle Above Palma
Castell de Bellver is one of the few circular castles in Europe and a fantastic place to combine history with panoramic views. This 14th‑century fortress sits on a hill just outside Palma and overlooks the city, the port and the Bay of Palma. Inside, you can explore the courtyard, the ramparts and the small museum that explains the castle’s past. The surrounding pine forest offers walking paths and shaded picnic spots, making Bellver a great half‑day trip from the city centre.
4. Alcúdia Old Town: Medieval Walls and Market Atmosphere
Alcúdia is a beautifully preserved medieval town in the north of Mallorca, enclosed by impressive city walls. Within the walls you will find narrow cobblestone streets, traditional stone houses and inviting squares filled with cafés and restaurants. On market days, the town comes alive with stalls selling local produce, crafts and souvenirs. Just outside the historic centre you can visit the remains of the Roman city of Pollentia, adding another layer of history to this charming destination.
5. Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis: Spectacular Canyon and Hidden Beach
Sa Calobra is one of the most dramatic natural spots in Mallorca. A winding mountain road with sharp bends leads down through the Tramuntana range to a small cove framed by high cliffs. From the small port of Sa Calobra, a short walk through rock tunnels brings you to the mouth of the Torrent de Pareis canyon and its hidden pebble beach. The combination of emerald water, towering rock walls and the narrow gorge makes this a favourite spot for hikers, photographers and nature lovers.
6. Valldemossa and the Royal Carthusian Monastery
Valldemossa is a picture‑perfect village nestled in the Tramuntana mountains, known for its stone houses with green shutters, flower-filled lanes and cool mountain air. Its most famous building is the Royal Carthusian Monastery (Reial Cartoixa), where composer Frédéric Chopin and writer George Sand once spent a winter. Today you can visit the monastery, stroll through quiet courtyards and enjoy views over olive groves and terraced hillsides. Valldemossa is ideal for a half‑day trip from Palma if you want to experience romantic, traditional Mallorca.
7. Cuevas del Drach: Magical Underground World in Porto Cristo
The Cuevas del Drach (Dragon Caves) near Porto Cristo are among Mallorca’s most impressive natural attractions. Inside this underground world you will discover spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, dramatic rock formations and one of the largest underground lakes in the world, Lake Martel. Tours usually include a classical music performance on the water and a short boat ride across the illuminated lake, creating a truly magical atmosphere. It is a great excursion for families, couples and anyone escaping the midday heat.
8. Palma’s Passeig del Born: Elegant Boulevard and City Life
Passeig del Born is one of Palma’s most elegant boulevards and a lively hub of city life. Lined with historical buildings, luxury boutiques and stylish cafés, this tree‑shaded avenue is perfect for shopping, strolling and people‑watching. From here, you can easily reach many of Palma’s main sights, including La Seu, the old town and the waterfront. Stop for a coffee or a glass of wine at one of the terraces and soak up the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Mallorca’s capital.
9. Santuari de Lluc: Spiritual Heart of the Tramuntana
The Santuari de Lluc is a historic monastery and important pilgrimage site located in the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana. Surrounded by mountains and forests, it offers a peaceful atmosphere and a glimpse into Mallorca’s religious traditions. Visitors can explore the basilica, the cloister and the small museum, and may be lucky enough to hear the famous children’s choir, Els Blauets. There are also several hiking trails starting from Lluc, making it a great base for exploring the surrounding nature.
10. Sóller. Vintage Train & Tram Experience with mallorcard
Sóller is a charming town set in a fertile valley filled with orange and lemon groves on Mallorca’s northwest coast. One of the island’s most iconic experiences is the historic wooden train from Palma to Sóller, followed by the vintage tram down to Port de Sóller. If you prefer to enjoy this as part of a full-day round tour of Mallorca, including bus, vintage train, tram and boat, you can book the popular “Mallorca Island Tour” via mallorcard.es and benefit from a discount. This all‑in‑one excursion takes you through the Tramuntana mountains, along the coast to Sa Calobra and through the Sóller valley on the famous vintage train – a perfect, stress-free way to see some of Mallorca’s top highlights in one day.
Conclusion
From Gothic cathedrals and medieval towns to underground caves, mountain monasteries and dramatic coastal viewpoints, Mallorca offers a huge variety of attractions beyond its famous beaches. Whether you are a culture lover, history fan, hiker or casual holidaymaker, these 10 must‑see sights provide the perfect starting point for discovering the island’s many faces. Add a few of them to your itinerary and you will quickly understand why Mallorca continues to captivate visitors year after year.