Beaches, restaurants, and Palma are some of the most common things on an itinerary in Mallorca, and that can provide a remarkably nice holiday. However, with the many cultural, historic, and gastronomic wonders all over the island, it is important to plan at least one day or a weekend of exploration. You can make a point of finding a few of the seemingly countless "talaiots" which are the Bronze Era settlements so amazingly well preserved on the island. One of the best is known as Son Fornes and is found on the road between Pina and Montuiri.
Alternatively, you might plan a day of scouting out Roman ruins in Alcudia or Bocchoris. Of course, you could just wait for market day in Valldemossa, pack a hamper of delicious foods you purchase there and head to the port with its lovely beach and remarkable peace. You might even make a point of finding the different caves that are open to the public such as the Cuevas Del Drach, Coves de Campanet, and the Caves D'Arta among others.
As you can see, there are many things to do, even on such a small island, and so we'll take some time just to explore the most popular spots:
The largest city and the real birthplace of life here on the island, it deserves at least one full day. You'll want to start early as it is a top destination and often busy. Fortunately, almost all of the main attractions are within walking distance of one another and travelers do not need to have a car to take in the sights. Note: Make sure you give yourself a chance to see the cathedral area at night as it is both safe and remarkably appealing.
In Palma, the Passeig del Born is a tree-lined beauty where you can enjoy some of the best shopping and people watching possible. Don't ignore the fact that it leads you to the waterfront, which is another "must see". Get to the cathedral early, and be prepared to be awed, especially if you can enter through Portal del Mirador. The Moorish palace known as the Palau de L'Almudaina is a must as well. Make sure you allow yourself time to explore the narrow passages and lovely neighborhoods of this area, and then head to Parc del Mar. The Arab Baths are nearby. Strolling away the afternoon and early evening, be sure to pay a visit to Mercado del Olivar. If you are in search of ideal eating spots, many "in the know" say that the tapas at Restaurante Taste are exceptional and that a few sweets from Ca'n Joan de S'Aigo are a must (especially the local almond ice cream).
Of course, the busiest area of the city is the Playa del Palma, where you will find a large array of resorts, beaches, and recreational activities. Several excellent beach clubs are here, including the impressive PuroBeach Club and the excellent Garito Café with its world-class DJs and beautiful Art Deco design.
Because it is the final stop of one of the island's train routes and because it is a unique mountain locale, this is another larger attraction. Lots of excellent shopping is here and if you are fortunate enough to drive, you will experience some of the most impressive scenery imaginable. There is a lovely main square and cathedral, but it is the port only a few miles from the town that is a main attraction. (Note: If you are fortunate enough to have a luxury villa to use as your base, the drive from Palma through Valldemossa, Deia, and then to Soller is an absolute must). An agricultural area known for its olive, lemon and orange groves, you are sure to enjoy some of the most delicious meals at the many restaurants and cafes in this area, including Agapanto, Can Gata, Ca' Nantuna, Café Soller, the Gran Hotel, and Fornalutx which is well-known for its amazing paella. If a romantic meal is in order, the views and foods of S'Atic are impossible to beat.
Note that a visit to Valldemossa while on your way to Soller is a good option as it is the home of Chopin when he lived in Mallorca with his lover, George Sand in the early 1800s. It is also a great way to enjoy the Tramuntana Mountains within 30 minutes of Palma. There is a cathedral here, a wonderful market, excellent shopping, and a lot of great panoramic views throughout the village. Another 20 minutes takes you to the Port Valldemossa, which is also wonderful. Making your way to Soller from here also takes you through the artists' town of Deia, which is considered one of the loveliest of all villages and worth a few hours of time spent leisurely exploring, dining, and relaxing.
Though you won't often hear people describe the island in this way, if you are someone who would prefer to stay in a resort location where the finest beaches are located, it will be the eastern area of Mallorca. Towns like Cala Ratjada, Cala D'Or, Cala Moraia, and Cala Millor are only a few of the areas found along this lovely stretch of the island's coast. As one traveler wrote, though, "most routes in the south are beach bound trunk roads", though Capdepera is always cited as a lovely place to travel as well as Llucmajor towards the southwest.