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39.60° N · 2.90° E · Spain
Mallorca & Ibiza
Couples, families and golfers who want an easy flight, good beaches and hill villages by the sea.
Local time
Mallorca and Ibiza are the best known of the Balearic Islands, but they offer very different stays. Mallorca, the largest, has the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape of stone terraces, olive groves and villages high above the sea, plus long beaches, rocky coves and the elegant city of Palma. Ibiza is smaller and calmer than its party reputation suggests, with whitewashed villages, pine-fringed coves and very clear water.
Both islands are an easy flight from much of Europe, which makes them ideal for long weekends and shoulder-season breaks. Mallorca suits golfers, cyclists and families, with many courses and long sandy bays, while the quieter north of Ibiza and its country house hotels suit couples. Adults-only hotels are common on both, and food is a draw too, from Palma’s market halls to fish grilled in harbour villages.
When to go
The year in Mallorca & Ibiza
May to September is the main season, with warm sea and long sunny days. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, while May, June and September are calmer. April and October are good for walking, cycling and golf, with mild days and fewer crowds. From November to March the islands are quiet, many beach hotels close and the weather is cool and changeable, though Palma and the mountain villages stay inviting.
Typical long term values, indicative. Weather in any single year can differ.
Where to stay
Resort styles here
In Mallorca, Palma has stylish city hotels, the Tramuntana villages of Deià, Sóller and Valldemossa have mountain retreats, and the north around Pollença and Alcúdia has family resorts on wide bays. The southeast has coves and natural parks, and golf courses cluster around Palma. In Ibiza, the north around Sant Joan and Sant Miquel is the quietest, the south near Ses Salines has the beach clubs, and Santa Eulària on the east coast suits families.
Getting there
Palma and Ibiza have nonstop flights from most European cities, around two hours from Frankfurt. The drive from the airport takes 15 minutes to an hour on either island.
Guides that mention Mallorca & Ibiza
Read before you go
Three Generations, One Stay: Planning a Multigenerational Resort Trip
Residences, connecting villas, step-free paths, buggies, celebrations and who pays: how to plan a resort stay for three generations.
Resorts with Babies and Toddlers: What to Ask Before You Book
Cots, pool fences, lagoon steps, sun, naps and doctors: the questions to send a resort before you travel with a baby or a toddler.
