The short version: If you think Mallorca is just sprawling mega-resorts and package holidays, you haven’t been to the north. Dominated by the dramatic Serra de Tramuntana mountains, this side of the island hides medieval fortress towns like Alcudia, untouched protected coves like Cala Agulla, and authentic agricultural hubs like Sineu. It requires a rental car and a bit of effort, but it’s where the real, fiercely independent Mallorcan culture still thrives.
On this page7 sections
- Do you need a car to explore Northern Mallorca?
- Are the beaches in Northern Mallorca better than the south?
- Where can you find authentic rural culture in Mallorca?
- Is Alcudia’s Old Town worth visiting?
- Where are the best cliffside views in Mallorca?
- Should you stay in Northern Mallorca?
- Frequently asked questions
Right then, Mallorca. When you mention it, most people probably conjure up images of package holidays, sprawling resorts in the south, maybe Magaluf if they’re unlucky. And look, that side of Mallorca exists. But there’s so much more to this island, especially if you head north.
This part of Mallorca feels like a different world. It’s dominated by the Serra de Tramuntana – a seriously impressive mountain range that plunges dramatically into the sea along the northwest coast, so impressive it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But Northern Mallorca also encompasses rolling inland plains, ancient towns steeped in history, a rugged coastline dotted with beautiful coves, and a culture that feels distinctly Mallorcan. Forget the usual tourist trail for a bit; this is about exploring the diverse character of the north.
In the video linked below, I take you on a visual tour (lots of drone shots!) of some of the top things to do and see in this fascinating region. This blog post digs a little deeper, adding more context, history, and practical bits to help you plan your own exploration.
Do you need a car to explore Northern Mallorca?
Yes, you absolutely need to rent a car to explore Northern Mallorca properly. While local buses connect major hubs like Alcudia and Pollenca, having your own vehicle is the only realistic way to reach the secluded mountain viewpoints, inland agricultural villages, and rugged coves at your own pace.
Watch this section in the video → 3:41
While Palma is great for walking, exploring Northern Mallorca properly really benefits from having a car. It gives you the freedom to explore the smaller villages, hidden coves, and mountain roads at your own pace. Driving is generally straightforward, though roads can be narrow and winding in the mountains and some of the older towns. Buses do connect the main towns (like Alcudia, Pollenca, Arta, Can Picafort), but services can be less frequent than around Palma, especially if you want to reach more rural spots. Plan ahead if you’re relying on public transport. Parking can also be a bit of a faff in the popular towns during peak season, as expected.
Are the beaches in Northern Mallorca better than the south?
The northern beaches offer a wilder, more dramatic alternative to the heavily developed southern mega-resorts. Because much of the coastline falls under the protected Llevant Peninsula Natural Park, coves here feature pine trees stretching right down to the sand instead of towering hotels.
Watch this section in the video → 0:53
The coastline in the north offers a real mix, from long sandy stretches to more rugged coves.
Cala Agulla: Let’s start with a beauty. Cala Agulla, near Cala Ratjada, looks like the quintessential Mallorcan beach – stunningly clear turquoise water, fine white sand backed by pine trees. What makes it special is that it’s part of the Llevant Peninsula Natural Park, meaning the surrounding area is protected from overdevelopment. It’s not exactly a secret and gets popular, but the natural setting makes it feel a bit different from a purely resort beach. It’s gorgeous, no doubt about it.
Cala Gat: Just around the headland from Cala Agulla is Cala Gat. This is a much smaller, more intimate cove, sheltered by rocks and pines. The water is incredibly clear, great for snorkelling. You can really notice the influence of the nearby Tramuntana mountains here – the coastline feels rockier, more dramatic. It’s a lovely little spot for a quieter swim.
Can Picafort: Okay, Can Picafort is a proper tourist resort, stretching along the Bay of Alcudia. It’s got a long, sandy beach with shallow water, and all the hotels, restaurants, and bars you’d expect. But it’s maybe a bit less intense than some of the mega-resorts further south. Interestingly, Can Picafort also has history beneath the surface – the Son Real Necropolis nearby is a fascinating burial site dating back to the Talaiotic period (around the 7th century BC), showing people have lived along this bay for thousands of years. So, even the popular spots have hidden layers.
Where can you find authentic rural culture in Mallorca?
To experience authentic Mallorcan life, head inland to the agricultural heartland known as the Pla de Mallorca. Towns like Sineu and Arta offer a glimpse into a traditional, slower-paced island culture far removed from the bustling coastal resorts.
Watch this section in the video → 1:50
Head inland from the coast, and you discover a different side of Northern Mallorca altogether.
Arta: Now this town is special. Arta feels authentically Mallorcan, less touched by mass tourism than some coastal areas. Its skyline is dominated by the imposing Santuari de Sant Salvador, perched dramatically on a fortified hilltop overlooking the town. It’s a bit of a climb up the steps, past Stations of the Cross, but the views from the top – over the town, the surrounding countryside, and even out to the sea – are absolutely spectacular. The church itself is impressive, but Arta also has a significant history. During the Christian reconquest of Mallorca in the 13th century, Arta was one of the last pockets of Moorish resistance. Exploring its streets feels like stepping back into that layered past.
Capdepera: Not far from Arta is Capdepera, another town dominated by its history – specifically, its massive medieval castle. This fortress dates mainly from the 14th century and was crucial for defending the area against frequent pirate attacks (a major problem for Mallorca for centuries). You can walk the ramparts, explore the towers, and imagine what life must have been like guarding the coast from here. The views are fantastic, too.
Sineu: Drive right into the geographical heart of Mallorca, and you’ll find Sineu. This ancient town feels like the agricultural hub it has always been. It was even briefly the capital of the Kingdom of Mallorca. Its main claim to fame today is its Wednesday market. This isn’t just a tourist market; it’s one of the oldest (dating back to the early 14th century) and most traditional markets on the island, famous for selling livestock alongside local produce, crafts, and well, pretty much everything else. It’s a noisy, bustling, authentic slice of Mallorcan life. Get there early if you go.
Maria de la Salut & Santa Margalida: For a real sense of rural Mallorca, take a drive through the plains around villages like Maria de la Salut and Santa Margalida. This is the Pla de Mallorca, the island’s agricultural heartland. You’ll see fields of crops, orchards of almond and fig trees, olive groves, vineyards, and flocks of sheep. It’s incredibly peaceful, the pace of life is slower, and the landscape is beautiful in a quiet, understated way. This is where you find the Mallorca that exists away from the coast altogether.
Is Alcudia’s Old Town worth visiting?
Yes, Alcudia’s Old Town is an absolute must-visit. It’s one of the best-preserved historic sites in the Balearics, completely encircled by 14th-century medieval walls built to defend against pirates, and sits directly next to ancient Roman ruins.
Watch this section in the video → 2:59
These two towns are northern Mallorca highlights, each with its own distinct character.
Alcudia (Old Town): Forget the nearby Port d’Alcudia resort for a moment and head straight for Alcudia’s Old Town. This place is fantastic. It’s one of the best-preserved historic towns on the island, completely encircled by impressive medieval walls built in the 14th century. You can actually walk along sections of the ramparts for great views. Inside the walls, it’s a maze of narrow, pedestrianised streets, stone houses with flower boxes, lovely little squares, and plenty of shops and cafes. But Alcudia’s history goes back much further – just outside the walls are the ruins of Pollentia, the most important Roman city in the Balearic Islands. You can visit the remains of houses, a forum, and a theatre. Alcudia Old Town really does feel like stepping back through different layers of history.
Pollenca: Nestled picturesquely at the foot of the Tramuntana mountains, Pollenca has a different feel again. It’s long been a magnet for artists and writers, drawn by the beautiful scenery and the town’s charming atmosphere. It feels quite cultured and slightly bohemian. Its most famous landmark is the Calvari steps – a long staircase of 365 steps (one for each day of the year, apparently) leading up a small hill to a tiny chapel at the top. It’s lined with cypress trees and offers fantastic views back over the town rooftops and the surrounding landscape as you climb. Definitely requires a bit of energy, but it’s worth the effort!
Where are the best cliffside views in Mallorca?
The most spectacular views on the island are at Mirador Es Colomer, located on the rugged Formentor peninsula. The viewpoint features platforms built directly into sheer cliffs, offering staggering drops of hundreds of feet down to the crashing turquoise sea.
Watch this section in the video → 3:27
You simply cannot visit this part of Mallorca without experiencing this viewpoint. Located on the rugged Formentor peninsula (the road itself is an experience!), Mirador Es Colomer is one of the iconic viewpoints in Mallorca. There’s a dedicated car park and a walkway leading out to viewing platforms built onto the sheer cliffs. The views are just staggering. You look down hundreds of feet to the turquoise sea crashing against the rocks below, and across to the dramatic cliffs and the small island of Colomer. It’s pure, raw, natural beauty. It gets busy, especially for sunset (which is meant to be incredible from here), but even with crowds, the sheer scale and drama of the landscape are unforgettable. This is the wild, untamed side of Mallorca.
Should you stay in Northern Mallorca?
If you prefer dramatic natural landscapes, authentic historic towns, and quiet coves over loud nightlife and manicured resorts, you should absolutely base yourself in the north. It offers a layered culture that feels like a completely different world from the typical package holiday.
Watch this section in the video → 3:41
So, what’s the verdict on the north? For me, it offers an incredible diversity that often gets missed. You’ve got beautiful beaches (some busy, some quiet), but you’ve also got dramatic mountains, peaceful countryside, and towns absolutely steeped in history and local culture. It feels less packaged, perhaps more authentic, than some other parts of the island.
If you’re the kind of traveller who likes to explore beyond the obvious, who enjoys history and culture as much as coastline, and who appreciates stunning natural landscapes, then Northern Mallorca is definitely for you. It shows you a side of the island that proves it’s far more than just a simple beach destination.
What Are Your Northern Mallorca Favourites?
That’s my take on some of the top things to see and do in Northern Mallorca. Have you explored this region? What were your highlights? Did I miss any essential spots? Let me know your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below!
Frequently asked questions
Is Northern Mallorca less touristy than the south?
Northern Mallorca is significantly less touristy than the south because its coastline falls under strict natural park protections, which prevent the massive, high-rise resort developments seen elsewhere. The region’s rugged geography and protected status mean it remains focused on traditional, independent tourism.
Watch this section in the video → 0:53
Yes, significantly. While towns like Can Picafort still attract crowds, the north’s strict environmental protections and the rugged Tramuntana mountains prevent the sprawling mega-resort development you find down south.
What is the best day to visit Sineu?
Wednesday is the best day to visit Sineu. It hosts one of the oldest and largest traditional markets on the island, dating back to the early 14th century, where locals sell everything from fresh produce to livestock.
Are there Roman ruins in Mallorca?
Yes, the most important Roman city in the Balearic Islands, Pollentia, is located just outside the 14th-century medieval walls of Alcudia’s Old Town in Northern Mallorca.
Is the drive to Mirador Es Colomer difficult?
The road leading to the Formentor peninsula and Mirador Es Colomer is notoriously winding and narrow. It requires confident driving, but the sheer, dramatic cliffside views at the end are entirely worth the effort.
What are the Calvari steps in Pollenca?
The Calvari steps are a famous staircase in the bohemian town of Pollenca consisting of 365 steps—one for each day of the year. Climbing to the top rewards you with panoramic views over the town’s rooftops and the surrounding landscape.