Our day in Palma de Mallorca began at 9:00 a.m. when we met our private guide and driver, ready to explore as much of this stunning island as possible in just 13 hours.
Morning: The Caves of Drach
I had my heart set on visiting the Cuevas del Drach after seeing photos of their crystal-clear underground lake and otherworldly rock formations. It was certainly beautiful and unlike anything I’d seen before.
However, after the hour-and-a-half drive each way, I wouldn’t make that same choice again with such limited time. Our guide explained that there are caves all over Spain, and while these are impressive, the experience felt overly touristy. For a short visit, I’d rather spend my time soaking up the charm of Mallorca’s villages, culture, and cuisine.
After visiting the caves, we made a stop in Cala Anguila, a quiet beachside town in the Cala Romántica area. The cove is peaceful and picturesque, with turquoise waters and soft sand surrounded by rugged cliffs. It felt worlds away from the busier parts of the island and was the perfect place to pause and enjoy a more tranquil side of Mallorca.
Afternoon: Valldemossa
After the caves, we drove to the village of Valldemossa and this was where Mallorca truly came alive for me. This town is absolutely beautiful, quaint, and authentic, with cobbled streets and flower-filled balconies. Even in August, it wasn’t overly crowded, which made it an ideal spot to relax and take in the scenery.
Our guide recommended Cappuccino Valldemossa, a charming café-restaurant where we enjoyed lunch on the patio overlooking the town. It’s an absolute must when visiting. The setting was dreamy, and the food and service were wonderful.
Late Afternoon: Exploring Palma
From there, we returned to downtown Palma. The city has an incredible mix of history, food, and boutique shopping, with everything from small local stores to high-end designer brands. The streets are full of character, lined with a fascinating blend of Roman, Moorish, and Christian influences that span more than 2,000 years of history. You can wander for hours through the colorful alleyways, discovering hidden plazas and architectural gems.
Though we saw the magnificent Palma Cathedral from afar, we didn’t have time to visit inside before returning to our yacht at 5:30 p.m. Every minute of the day was filled, but it left me longing to see more.
What I’d Do Differently
If I could redo the day, I’d skip the long cave excursion and focus instead on Mallorca’s charming towns. I missed Valldemossa’s neighbor, Deià, as well as Sóller, a lovely old town connected to its port by a vintage tram. Sóller is known for its art, culture, and famous oranges and olive oil, though our guide warned it can get quite busy in the summer.
Next time, I’d plan a visit in September, when the crowds are smaller but the weather is still warm.
Bonus: Cala Anguila
For those with more time, Cala Anguila, a quiet cove beach in the resort area of Cala Romántica, is worth noting. Its turquoise waters and peaceful setting make it the perfect escape from the busier parts of the island.
Mallorca is a destination where every turn reveals something beautiful, from mountain villages to the sparkling coastline. Even in just 13 hours, it left a lasting impression, and a strong desire to return, this time to explore at a slower pace.
