The Balearic Islands — Mallorca (Majorca), Menorca, Ibiza (Eivissa) and Formentera — are Spain’s magnetic Mediterranean jewels. Each island has its own personality: Mallorca’s dramatic mountains and golden beaches; Menorca’s slower, family-friendly charm; Ibiza’s legendary nightlife and UNESCO-listed old town; and Formentera’s powder-white sands and crystal-clear water. Below you’ll find a detailed, SEO-optimized guide to the Top 10 tourist attractions across this archipelago, with practical tips, transport notes and insider suggestions so you can plan the perfect Balearics trip.

Quick snapshot — the Top 10

  1. Palma Cathedral (La Seu), Mallorca

  2. Cap de Formentor & Mirador, Mallorca

  3. Coves del Drach (Drach Caves), Mallorca

  4. Dalt Vila (Old Town), Ibiza (UNESCO)

  5. Es Trenc & Sa Colònia de Sant Jordi (Mallorca’s natural beach)

  6. Illetes Beach & Formentera day trip (Formentera)

  7. Ciutadella & Mahón (historic towns), Menorca

  8. Cabrera Archipelago National Park (boat trip from Mallorca)

  9. Cala Macarella / Cala Turqueta (Menorca coves)

  10. Nightlife & Sunset Spots — Ibiza’s clubs and Sant Antoni sunset strip

1. Palma Cathedral (La Seu) — Mallorca’s gothic icon

Why go: La Seu dominates Palma’s skyline — a soaring Gothic cathedral right on the waterfront with a spectacular rose window and a jaw-dropping interior. It’s one of Mallorca’s most photographed landmarks and a must-see for anyone arriving in the capital.
What to expect: High vaulted nave, intricate chapels, Gaudí-era interventions (early 20th-century works inside), and terraces that offer great views of the sea and Almudaina Palace. The cathedral’s history stretches back to the 13th century and its architecture blends medieval and later renovations. Plan 60–90 minutes for a proper visit, longer if you take a guided tour. Wikipedia

Practical tips:

  • Best time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups and get better light for photos.

  • Tickets: Book online for skip-the-line access during high season.

  • Nearby: Stroll the old town streets, visit Bellver Castle on a short drive, and try Mallorcan tapas in the La Lonja district.

2. Cap de Formentor — Mallorca’s drama queen viewpoint

Why go: A scenic peninsula at Mallorca’s northeastern tip, Cap de Formentor rewards visitors with winding coastal roads, dramatic cliffs and panoramic viewpoints. The Mirador des Colomer lookout and the lighthouse are iconic photo spots.
What to expect: Spectacular coastal panoramas, turquoise coves visible from high vantage points, and a chance to combine the drive with nearby Playa de Formentor (beach) or the town of Pollença. The road is steep and sinuous — the journey is part of the experience. 

Practical tips:

  • Best time: Sunrise or late afternoon for softer light and cooler temperatures. Summer can be crowded — aim for shoulder-season.

  • How to get there: Drive from Pollença / Alcúdia; many guided tours operate from Palma.

  • Bring: Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and a camera with a good zoom for cliff shots.

3. Coves del Drach (Drach Caves) — Mallorca’s subterranean spectacle

Why go: These famous caves near Porto Cristo feature enormous caverns, stalactites/stalagmites, and the vast underground Lake Martel — where classical concerts and a candlelit boat ride are staged. It’s a magical, other-worldly experience for families and couples alike. cuevasdeldrach.com

What to expect: A guided walk through the caves ending in an atmospheric short concert on the lake, followed by a boat crossing. The caves are cooled year-round — bring a light jacket. Time: roughly 1–1.5 hours.

Practical tips:

  • Book ahead: The cave concerts and boat rides are popular and often sell out in high season.

  • Accessibility: Some sections have steps; check in advance for mobility concerns.

  • Pair it: Combine with a visit to nearby Cala Millor or the pearl factory tours in Portocristo.

4. Dalt Vila (Old Town of Ibiza) — history, lanes & UNESCO status

Why go: Ibiza’s fortified old town, Dalt Vila, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site: rambling cobbled streets, medieval fortifications, viewpoints over the harbor, boutique shops and atmospheric cafés. It’s the cultural heart of Ibiza and an easy contrast to the island’s party reputation. UNESCO World Heritage Centre

What to expect: Walk the ramparts, visit the cathedral and museums, and enjoy sunset views from the walls. The area comes alive with festivals, medieval markets and local events (check dates — Ibiza stages medieval fairs and cultural events regularly).

Practical tips:

  • Best time: Late afternoon into evening for photogenic light and relaxed strolls.

  • Entry: The old town is free to enter, but some monuments/museums charge.

  • Combine: Wander down towards the port for seafood and people-watching.

5. Es Trenc & Sa Colònia de Sant Jordi — Mallorca’s unspoiled beaches

Why go: Es Trenc is one of Mallorca’s most famous natural beaches — long stretches of white sand, clear shallow water and a largely undeveloped backdrop that riffs on Caribbean vibes. Nearby Sa Colònia offers charming restaurants and access points. This stretch is ideal for swimming, sunbathing and beach walking.

What to expect: Soft sand, relatively shallow waters (great for families), occasional dunes and a relaxed vibe. The area can be windy at times, which keeps it pleasant in summer heat.

Practical tips:

  • Arrive early in summer (parking fills fast) or visit in shoulder season.

  • Facilities: Limited in some stretches — bring water and shade if you’ll stay long.

  • Respect nature: Some parts are protected; follow signposts and avoid trampling dunes.

6. Illetes & Formentera — day-trip paradise

Why go: Formentera — the tiny sister island south of Ibiza — is famous for Illetes, a spit of unbelievably clear water and fine sand. It’s the place for snorkeling, relaxed beach days, and boho-chic beach clubs. A day trip from Ibiza is hugely popular. 

What to expect: Crystal-clear, shallow sea ideal for swimming and snorkeling; relaxed beach bars; bicycle and scooter rentals on Formentera for exploring small coves and lighthouses.

Practical tips:

  • Getting there: Ferries from Ibiza Port to La Savina (Formentera) run frequently in summer.

  • Best time: Spring/early summer and September for warm water and fewer crowds.

  • Bring: A mask/snorkel, sun protection, and cash at some small kiosks.

7. Ciutadella & Mahón — Menorca’s historic twin gems

Why go: Menorca’s two main towns — Ciutadella (west) and Maó / Mahón (east) — are compact, historic and great for walking. Ciutadella is known for its picturesque old port, Gothic cathedral and narrow alleys; Mahón boasts one of the Mediterranean’s deepest natural harbors and Georgian-influenced architecture.

What to expect: Charming promenades, traditional seafood restaurants, museums, and local craft shops. Menorca feels quieter than Mallorca and Ibiza, perfect for families and slow travel.

Practical tips:

  • Best time: May–June and September for pleasant weather and less high-season bustle.

  • Combine: Rent a car to explore the island’s coves (cales) and prehistoric megaliths (taulas).

  • Food: Sample lobster stew (caldereta de llagosta) and local Mahón cheese.

8. Cabrera Archipelago National Park — marine wilderness escape

Why go: The small island of Cabrera (south of Mallorca) is a protected national park offering pristine waters, abundant marine life and a quiet contrast to the busy Balearic beaches. Boat tours from Mallorca visit Cabrera for snorkeling, hiking to the castle and wildlife spotting. Wikipedia

What to expect: A limited number of daily visitors (permits limit crowds), crystal waters, snorkeling among posidonia meadows, and simple trails up to a 14th-century castle with sweeping views.

Practical tips:

  • Book a licensed boat tour from Colònia Sant Jordi or Mallorca ports — day trips often include lunch and snorkeling gear.

  • Pack: Sun protection, water, and reef-safe sunscreen (Cabrera is ecologically sensitive).

  • Note: Facilities are minimal — respect park rules.

9. Cala Macarella & Cala Turqueta — Menorca’s postcard coves

Why go: Menorca’s sheltered coves like Cala Macarella and Cala Turqueta are consistently rated among Spain’s most beautiful beaches — turquoise water, pine-shaded cliffs and soft sand. They’re ideal for swimming and family days out.

What to expect: Short hikes or parking walks to reach the coves, clear water for snorkeling, small seasonal kiosks and natural shade under pine trees.

Practical tips:

  • Arrive early in high season to secure parking. Many coves limit vehicle access.

  • Pair with: A boat trip along Menorca’s southern cliffs for remote coves.

  • Respect: Carry out all trash — Menorca emphasizes ecological preservation.

10. Ibiza nightlife & sunset culture — clubs, bars and scenic sunsets

Why go: For many, Ibiza equals nightlife: world-class DJs, legendary clubs (Pacha, Amnesia, Ushuaïa) and beachfront parties. But the island’s sunsets — from cafés in Sant Antoni or the rocky headlands around Cala Comte — are equally famous. The island offers both high-energy nights and chilled sunset culture.

What to expect: International DJ lineups in summer, big-ticket events, beach clubs with daily parties and chill sunset gatherings with cocktails and live acoustic music. Remember that Ibiza is also a place for boutique hotels, wellness retreats and quiet rural retreats — so mix your plans if you want variety.

Practical tips:

  • Book club tickets in advance for headline DJs; many shows sell out.

  • Balance: If you plan club nights, reserve at least one recovery day — explore Dalt Vila, beaches or Formentera.

  • Respect local rules: Noise regulations and club policies are strictly enforced.

Best time to visit the Balearic Islands

  • Peak season: June–August (warmest weather, busiest beaches, full nightlife).

  • Shoulder seasons: April–June and September–October — arguably the best balance of weather, fewer crowds and lower prices.

  • Winter: Quiet, with reduced services but cooler temperatures and great off-season walking/hiking opportunities.

How to move between islands

  • Ferry: Regular fast ferries connect Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera in summer — ideal for day trips (e.g., Ibiza → Formentera).

  • Plane: Short domestic flights operate year-round and can be quicker when islands are farther apart (Mallorca ↔ Menorca, Mallorca ↔ Ibiza).

  • Car rental: Recommended on Mallorca and Menorca for exploring — Ibiza too if you plan to see the island beyond the main towns. Formentera is best explored by bike, scooter or car once you arrive from Ibiza’s ferry.

8 travel tips (insider hacks)

  1. Book peak experiences early — cave concerts (Drach), guided rooftop visits at La Seu, and club nights in Ibiza can sell out.

  2. Use local transport apps and timetables: ferries and inter-island services change seasonally.

  3. Respect natural protections — posidonia meadows are crucial to the marine ecosystem; choose reef-safe sunscreen and avoid anchoring on meadows.

  4. Try regional dishes: caldereta de peix (fish stew), sobrassada, ensaimada — food is a highlight. Recent local coverage highlights a renewed culinary focus on Mallorcan traditional dishes. AP News

  5. Avoid peak-hour driving in high summer around major viewpoints like Cap de Formentor.

  6. Pack layers — evenings on the water and inside caves are cooler.

  7. Rent a scooter/bike in Formentera and Menorca for flexible island exploration.

  8. Plan cultural visits into your trip — Dalt Vila and local festivals add depth beyond sun-and-sea.

Suggested 7–10 day Balearic itinerary (balanced)

  • Day 1–2 (Mallorca — Palma): Explore Palma Cathedral, old town, Bellver Castle, and tapas.

  • Day 3 (Mallorca — East coast): Coves del Drach + Porto Cristo + beaches.

  • Day 4 (Mallorca — North): Drive Cap de Formentor, stop in Pollença.

  • Day 5 (Menorca): Ferry/flight to Menorca — day in Ciutadella, Cala Macarella.

  • Day 6 (Menorca → Ibiza): Morning beach, afternoon transfer to Ibiza; evening in Dalt Vila.

  • Day 7 (Formentera day trip): Take ferry from Ibiza to Illetes/Formentera. Or swap Ibiza/Formentera days for a club night and recovery day.

  • Add day for Cabrera if you love marine parks and protected islands.

Where to stay (by style)

  • Luxury & style: Palma old town hotels; beach resorts in Formentor/Magaluf (Mallorca) and high-end beach clubs in Formentera.

  • Boutique & historic: Dalt Vila (Ibiza) guesthouses; small palaces converted to hotels in Palma.

  • Budget & local: Family-run guesthouses in Menorca; hostels and apartments in Ibiza Town if you’re there for clubs.

Responsible travel & local etiquette

  • The Balearics face overtourism pressures at peak months. Be mindful of local rules (no swimming in certain protected coves, respect signage), keep noise down in residential neighborhoods, and avoid one-time-use plastics. Recent regional efforts emphasize sustainability on Formentera and monitoring visitor flows in sites like Dalt Vila to protect heritage. Cadena SER

Quick checklist before you go

  • Passport / EU ID (Schengen rules apply).

  • Ferry/flight bookings & printed or digital tickets.

  • Local currency (euros) — cards are universally accepted but small kiosks may prefer cash.

  • Travel insurance (covering water activities if you plan snorkeling, boating).

  • Sunscreen (reef-safe recommended), hat, reusable water bottle.

  • Comfortable walking shoes for old towns and ramps.

Final thoughts — which island for which traveler?

  • Mallorca: Best for variety — beaches, mountains (Serra de Tramuntana), culture and family beaches.

  • Ibiza: Nightlife and seaside luxury — balanced by art, culture and UNESCO Dalt Vila.

  • Menorca: Laid-back, family-friendly, and delightfully natural.

  • Formentera: The ultimate beach day trip: calm, pristine and slow-paced.

Sources & further reading (handpicked)

  • Official pages and tourism guides for the Coves del Drach and visitor information. cuevasdeldrach.com

  • Palma Cathedral (La Seu) official and historical pages. Wikipedia

  • UNESCO listing and info for Dalt Vila, Ibiza. UNESCO World Heritage Centre

  • Formentera & Illetes beach guides and activity pages. hotels

  • General Balearic attractions & travel guides (TripAdvisor summaries). Tripadvisor

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