Mallorca in winter: Discover the island at your own pace and with all its charm!

14 min reading time

a large stone building with towers and towers on top of a city
a woman smiling for a selfie

By Elena Palacios

Passionate about marketing, creative and curious. They love getting lost in the city streets or flipping through the pages of a good book. In love with the art of creation, bringing ideas to life and combining words to tell a story.

Who said Mallorca is only for summer? When the heat goes away, the island is transformed to reveal its calmer and more authentic side. This is the perfect time to discover a Mallorca that few know about, far from the hustle and bustle, but equally fascinating.

Not only will you be able to enjoy the sun and the beach, you will also be able to lose yourself in charming villages, savor delicious surprises, learn all about its history and discover mountainous scenery when the cold arrives. Have I convinced you? Here is a guide to what you must do to discover Mallorca in winter.

A leisurely walk through the historic center

The summer bustle disappears and the streets of the center of Palma become a peaceful place to explore. Forget about the crowds, in the low season you can enjoy the city with all the calm in the world.

Discover central districts you will fall in love with. La Lonja invites you to lose yourself in narrow alleys full of history and a lively nightlife. El Born combines modernity and tradition with its designer shops and welcoming cafés. The Old Town offers a journey back in time culminating in the stunning Cathedral. and Santa Catalina, the bohemian district, full of color with its local markets.

a building next to a body of water

In winter the queues are much shorter, so take the chance to soak up the history and art without the crowds. You must not miss:

  • Palma Cathedral (La Seu): A majestic Gothic cathedral alongside the sea.  One of the most iconic monuments in Mallorca.
  • Almudaina Royal Palace: It was originally a Muslim fortress overlooking the port, but it was transformed into a royal residence after the conquest of Jaume I.
  • Bellver Castle: It is a medieval fortress with a unique circular layout on a hill above Palma. Built in the 14th century, it provides panoramic views of the city, the bay and Tramuntana mountains. It is also home to the City History Museum.
  • Es Baluard Museum: A benchmark for contemporary art. The collection includes works by local and international artists, and its modern architecture is complemented by stunning sea and city views.
  • Joan March Foundation: a cultural space dedicated to contemporary art, including exhibitions of paintings, sculpture and photography by renowned artists.
a tray of pastries and a plate of food

Cuisine that warms the soul

Cool days in Mallorca call out for hearty and tasty dishes. And what better way to savor delicacies such as deep-fried fried dishes or local soups, both popular dishes when the cold arrives; brut rice with intense seasonal flavors or a coca de trampó fresh from the oven.

If you want to try delicious dishes like these, I recommend you visit:

  • Arrels Restaurant. Discover quality Mallorcan cuisine based on fresh, local ingredients. With a modern flair, dishes prepared by chef Marga Coll highlight traditional flavors in a unique setting alongside the sea. (Located in Passeig de Illetas, 7, Illetas).
  • Ola de Mar. Savor exquisite Mallorcan dishes on a spectacular terrace with sea views. From fish from the Balearic coast to stews and rice dishes. (Located at Calle Vicario Joaquín Fuster, 1 Portixol).
  • Ca'n Joan de s'Aigo: An essential stop to enjoy all the sweet dishes in Mallorca. An ensaimada and hot chocolate that you won’t be able to resist.
  • Posters. A rooftop area with city views in the center of Palma. Enjoy cocktails, Mallorcan dishes and a lively atmosphere.

Another great place to find the best Mallorcan cuisine is in the local markets. The Olivar and Santa Catalina markets will make you feel like a true Mallorcan, with fresh, local products that you will want to take home with you.

a street with trees with lights and balls

Enjoy the festivals in Palma

  • Christmas lights over the city

If your visit coincides with Christmas, I recommend you book an afternoon to see the lights that decorate the city. You will fall in love! Palma is transformed into a Christmas fairytale setting, with streets lighting up and creating a Christmas spirit. Stop off in the Plaza Mayor to see the biggest Christmas tree or lose yourself in the lights on Avenida Jaime III and Passeig del Born.

  • Festival with a local flavour: Sant Sebastià

Winter is also home to popular festivals in honor of the patron saint of Palma: San Sebastià. Music, tapas and a festive spirit fill the city the night of January 20. The celebrations last until the early hours of the morning around bonfires. It’s the perfect time to join your locals in experiencing the true essence of Mallorcan culture.

a stone building with a tower and a steeple in a village

Charming towns: the most authentic Mallorca

Valldemossa: the artists' corner

A hidden paradise between mountains, famous for its monastery and its connection with Chopin. In winter, the town becomes an even more special place to relax while sipping hot chocolate with potato coca, a typical local sweet.

Deià: a refuge for artists

If you love art, this is the place for you: galleries and artist workshops await you to allow you to be inspired by the best local creativity. The steep narrow streets and stone houses are even more beautiful with the clear sky and the mountains that surround you.

Soller: between sea and mountains

Located in a valley surrounded by the Sierra de Tramuntana mountains, stroll through the charming streets and take the tram to the port if you wish. And don’t leave without trying a delicious “arròs brut” with a glass of local wine. You will love it.

Pollença: culture, peace and great food.

This winter town will capture your heart. Peace is almost total and you can enjoy the local life without the crowds. Take the chance to stroll through the Plaza Mayor and visit the church of Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles. And, of course, don’t forget to enjoy some of the local cuisine.

a street with tables and chairs in a city

Local markets: a feast for all the senses

If you love great food, you must not miss the island markets, full of fresh produce and local flavours. In winter you can explore them at your own pace and enjoy all the authentic Mallorcan atmosphere.

Santa Maria and Consell: tradition in its purest form

Of all the markets on the island, Santa Maria and Consell are two of the most traditional. Enjoy fresh produce, fresh vegetables and a wide range of tasty local cold cuts. The perfect place to take a piece of Mallorca home with you.

Andratx: where the countryside meets the sea

The traditional market in this village has the rustic air that we really like. From fresh fruit to clothing and antiques, everything has a very special touch. And if you have any time left, don’t forget to explore the surroundings. This is one of the places that sticks in your heart.

Inca: the most authentic market

This weekly market is very popular and comes alive every Thursday, with people buying fresh products, clothing, Mallorcan handicrafts and much more. The hustle and bustle, the cooking smells, the vendors' voices and the constant coming and going of shoppers make this place a special space full of energy. If you have a chance to visit, I guarantee you will enjoy it very much.

Santanyí crafts and history

It is famous for its picturesque atmosphere, surrounded by narrow streets and traditional stone buildings. Every Wednesday and Saturday, the market is full of stalls offering everything from fresh produce to local handicrafts. But it’s not only a place to shop, it’s also a place to enjoy the city architecture, local art and traditional Mallorcan dishes.

a castle on a hill with trees

Hiking and nature: Let’s walk through paradise!

Mallorca is a paradise for hikers, with routes suitable for all levels. From the Serra de Tramuntana mountains to s'Albufera, the island offers truly unique scenery. And what better time than winter to enjoy hiking in Mallorca.

Sierra de Tramuntana: the heart of the island

is the mountainous heart of Mallorca, declared a World Heritage Site. The stunning scenery, with mountains, valleys and cliffs, are ideal for hiking. In winter, the roads become cooler and more pleasant, and you can enjoy spectacular scenery without the summer crowds. A total pleasure!

Camí d'es Correu: history and nature in a single step

This old mountain road connects several villages in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains and is perfect for a relaxing walk in the heart of nature. The views are truly captivating.

Sa Foradada: a corner of natural beauty

Without a doubt, this is one of the most photographed places in Mallorca, and that’s also true: the views of the Mediterranean Sea are stunning. In winter, the fresh air makes the walk to the viewpoint even more pleasant and the colors of the landscape add that special touch.

Alaró Castle: a leap into the past

The climb up to Alaró Castle becomes an even more special adventure on clear winter days. The panoramic views of the island will take your breath away, and the Es Verger restaurant at the foot of the mountain is the perfect place to refuel with its famous baked lamb.

a beach with palm trees and buildings

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a narrow street with buildings and a bike on the side
If you love great food, you must not miss the island markets, full of fresh produce and local flavours. In winter you can explore them at your own pace and enjoy all the authentic Mallorcan atmosphere.
Elena Palacios

Who needs summer when you can enjoy Mallorca in winter? The island has everything you’re looking for, also in the low season: peace, nature, culture, great food and, above all, a touch of authenticity that makes the city unique. And if you are looking for a place to stay, our city hotels in the center of Palma offer all the comfort you need for an unforgettable getaway break. So prepare your trip to Mallorca this winter now.

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