Things To Do
in Pollensa

Pollensa is a charming hilltop town in Mallorca's north, renowned for its medieval streets and scenic views. Its cobbled lanes lead to the 16th-century Calvari stairway, and the town sits at the edge of the Tramuntana mountains with easy access to beaches. The atmosphere blends family-run tapas bars, local art, and a relaxed pace that invites lingering in plazas and terraces.

Nearby Port de Pollensa and its crescent-shaped beaches extend the coastline experience for visitors and locals alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Pollensa's historic center, admiring the well-preserved architecture and quaint shops. Stop by the local bakery to indulge in a freshly baked ensaimada, paired with a rich café con leche. Visit the beautiful Church of Our Lady of the Angels, where the intricate Baroque altar will leave you in awe.

afternoon
:

After a leisurely lunch at a local tapas bar, explore the bustling market that takes place every Sunday, where you can find local produce and handmade crafts. Spend some time at the picturesque Plaza Mayor, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps enjoying a gelato. As the afternoon sun sets, take a short hike up to the Calvari Steps for stunning panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.

evening
:

Cap off your day with dinner at a traditional Mallorcan restaurant, sampling local dishes such as tumbet and pa amb oli. Enjoy the live music often performed in the square, creating a lively ambiance that perfectly reflects the town's culture. Stroll back through the cobbled streets, taking in the serene beauty of Pollensa at night.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the stunning beaches of Port de Pollensa, where soft sands and crystal-clear waters await. Rent a sunbed and soak up the sun, or dive into the refreshing Mediterranean Sea for a swim. For the adventurous, consider trying out paddleboarding or kayaking, which are popular activities in this beautiful bay.

afternoon
:

After working up an appetite, enjoy a beachfront lunch at a seafood restaurant, where you can savor fresh catch of the day while overlooking the waves. Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach, building sandcastles, or joining a beach volleyball game with locals. If you're feeling adventurous, sign up for a thrilling jet ski ride to explore the coastline from the water.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere as families gather for evening outings. Dine at a beachfront restaurant, where the sound of waves complements your meal of delicious paella. End your day by watching the sunset paint the sky with breathtaking hues of orange and pink.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-20
Coffee/tea$2-5
🏨Mid-range hotel room (per night)$120-180
🚌Public transport day pass$4-8
🍷Bottle of local wine$10-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming historic town with easy access to beaches
  • Excellent base for walking, cycling and hiking in the Tramuntana
  • Can be crowded in peak season
  • Limited late-night options in the old town
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Bon dia" - Good morning
  • "Si us plau" - Please
  • "Gràcies" - Thank you
  • "On és el bany?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Parla anglès?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Pollensa

Visit one of these nice places.

Calvari Steps

A dramatic staircase rising above Pollensa with sweeping town views; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photos.

Port de Pollensa Marina

A picturesque seaside scene with boats, palm trees, and pastel façades along the promenade.

Plaça Major and Pollensa Old Town

Narrow lanes, whitewashed walls, and charming arches perfect for street photography.

Cap de Formentor Lighthouse viewpoint

Cliffs meeting the sea at dramatic angles; renowned for dramatic lighting at dawn or dusk.

Mirador Es Colomer

Spectacular coastal panorama over the Tramuntana coastline and headlands.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pollensa

Mallorcan cuisine blends land and sea with olive oil, herbs, and fresh produce. Expect simple, robust flavors—from ensaïmada pastries to sobrasada sausage and seafood caught along Mallorca’s coast.

Pollensa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ensaïmada

A light, spiraled pastry dusted with powdered sugar; a Mallorcan staple found in nearly every bakery.

Must-Try!

Sobrasada

Raw cured sausage with a paprika kick, often spread on bread or melted over dishes.

Tumbet

A hearty vegetable bake with layers of potatoes, eggplant, peppers, and tomato sauce.

Pa amb Oli

Crusty bread rubbed with tomato and olive oil, topped with cheese or cured meat.

Arroz Brut

A saffron-tue dish cooked in a rich broth with meats or seafood and vegetables.

Coca de trampó

Flatbread topped with a fresh trampó tomato-pepper mixture.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercat de Pollensa

Local market operating in the old town on certain days; great for fresh produce, cheese, olives, and regional specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, sunny summers and mild winters. Expect high UV in summer and pleasant springs and autumns—ideal for outdoor activities and coastal exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Language

Catalan and Spanish are widely spoken; learning a few basic phrases in Catalan is appreciated.

Meal Times

Lunch typically around 2-3 pm; dinner often starts around 8-9:30 pm; dining is generally relaxed and social.

Greetings and Conduct

Greet with a polite 'hola' or 'bon dia'; speak softly in public spaces and be respectful in churches and religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pollensa is generally safe for travelers. Watch for petty theft in crowded tourist areas, keep valuables secure, and follow beach safety guidelines and watercraft regulations.

Tipping in Pollensa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common if no service charge is included.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful in smaller cafes; contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot, dry days with high UV; carry water, wear sunscreen, and aim for early-morning activities to avoid peak heat and crowds.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists; great for hiking, cycling, and winery visits as harvest season begins.

Winter

Mild overall with occasional rain; fewer services open in the evenings but the town remains welcoming and peaceful.

Spring

Blooming landscapes and comfortable temperatures; ideal for walking, photography, and exploring surrounding villages.

Nightlife Guide

Pollensa at Night

Pollensa's nightlife is laid-back, especially in the old town. In Port de Pollensa, you’ll find beach bars, casual pubs, and live music during the warmer months, with a focus on sunset and after-dinner atmospheres rather than club scenes.

Hiking in Pollensa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Puig de Pollensa summit trail

Steep climb with rewarding views over Pollensa and the coastline.

Cap de Formentor coastal hike

Coastal route to the lighthouse with dramatic cliffs and sea views.

Torrent de Pareis gorge

World-renowned gorge hike near Escorca; full-day excursion from Pollensa area.

Mirador Es Colomer walk

Walks along the dramatic Cap de Formentor peninsula for sweeping coastal panoramas.

Airports

How to reach Pollensa by plane.

Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI)

Main international gateway for Mallorca; about a 45-60 minute drive to Pollensa depending on traffic.

Menorca Airport (MAH)

Alternative island airport; further away from Pollensa but reachable by flight or ferry connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pollensa town center is highly walkable with narrow lanes and a compact layout; parking can be challenging during peak times. Port de Pollensa is pedestrian-friendly along the promenade, with some sections accessible by car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Traditional families and seasonal workers in tourism and services.

Seasonal expats/second-home owners

A notable portion of residents are seasonal visitors from across Europe.

Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts

Attracted to Tramuntana trails and coastal landscapes.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Mallorca is a world-renowned cycling destination with varied routes.

Football (soccer)

Local matches and casual games in town facilities.

Water sports

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling along the coast.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy in summer around Port de Pollensa. Roads in the hills are narrow and winding; public transport exists but schedules can be limited in off-peak seasons. Consider a car rental with parking plans if exploring beyond the town center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pollensa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Mallorcan dishes often feature vegetables and olive oil; tumbet and pa amb oli are naturally vegetarian-friendly; ask for tomato- and herb-forward preparations and avoid obvious meat broths.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Spain has high-quality healthcare; you can access public services with a European Health Insurance Card. There are private clinics and pharmacies in Pollensa and Port de Pollensa; emergency number is 112.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide