Majorca: when to go and where to stay

Majorca (Mallorca in Spanish) is the largest of the Balearic Islands and a short flight from the UK. It suits almost every kind of holiday: beaches and families, walking and cycling, city breaks in Palma and quiet villages in the mountains.

Getting there

Flights land at Palma de Mallorca airport (PMI), a short drive from Palma and the main resorts. From the UK the flight takes around two to two and a half hours. Majorca is one hour ahead of the UK.

When to go

• May and June: warm, long days, greener landscapes and fewer crowds than high summer. Often the best balance of weather and price outside half-term.
• July and August: hot and busy, with the highest prices, especially during UK school holidays. Book early if you need these dates.
• September and early October: the sea is at its warmest and the crowds thin out once the schools go back. Prices usually drop after the summer holidays.
• November to March: mild but cooler, with more rain. Many beach-resort hotels close for the winter, but Palma and the mountains are good for city breaks, walking and cycling.
• April: spring, popular with cyclists and walkers; beach weather is not guaranteed.

Where to stay

• Palma: the island's capital, with the cathedral, old town, shopping and restaurants; ideal for a city break or a mix of city and beach.
• Alcúdia and Port de Pollença (north): long sandy beaches and shallow water, popular with families.
• Cala d'Or and the east coast: smaller coves and a quieter pace.
• Sóller and the Tramuntana mountains: scenic villages, walking and the historic train from Palma.
• Magaluf and Palmanova (south-west): busy resorts with lots of nightlife; Palmanova is quieter than Magaluf.

Practical tips

• The currency is the euro.
• The Balearic Islands charge a tourist tax per person per night, usually paid at the hotel. Check the current rate when you book.
• Hiring a car is the easiest way to explore beyond your resort; mountain roads are narrow and winding.

Getting a good deal

The cheapest weeks are usually in May, June before the school holidays and late September to October. If you must travel in August, compare total prices across several departure airports and check that luggage and transfers are included. See how to spot a real holiday deal for a quick checklist.