There are several convenient ways to get around Mallorca, a beautiful island in Spain. Here are some of the best methods of transportation available:
- Car Rental
- Autobus
- Train
- Bicycle
- Taxi
- Scooter rental
- Walking
1. Car Rental: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. There are numerous car rental agencies available at the airport and in major towns. Be sure to have a valid driver’s license and familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules.
2. Public Bus: Mallorca has an extensive bus network that connects most towns and popular tourist destinations. The buses are reliable, affordable, and operated by the company called Empresa Municipal de Transports Urbans de Palma de Mallorca (EMT). You can find bus schedules and routes on their website or at bus stops.
There are 2 types of buses in Mallorca, the EMT and TIB.
Buses from Palma: from 6:30 am to 11:00 pm.
The fare for an EMT bus ticket in Palma is 2€. Additionally, there is an option to purchase a non-rechargeable 10-trip card in Palma, which costs 15€.
Night buses start before 00:00 and end at 6:30 in the morning.
A convenient option is the single ticket to Palma Airport, priced at 6.75 €. You have the flexibility to purchase the bus ticket in cash directly upon boarding the bus.
3. Train: The island has a train service called Ferrocarril de Sóller, which runs between Palma and the town of Sóller. It offers a scenic journey through the countryside and is a popular way to explore the picturesque villages along the way.
Individual tickets for the journey cost 25€ for a one-way trip, amounting to a total of 50€ for a round trip. However, the recommended and most cost-effective choice is to purchase a combined train and Sóller tram ticket. This option costs 32€ and includes a round trip ticket from Palma to Sóller, as well as return tickets for the charming tram ride that connects Sóller and Port de Sóller.
5. Bicycle: Mallorca is a cyclist-friendly destination with numerous cycling routes and bike lanes. You can rent bicycles from various rental shops and hotels, especially in popular tourist areas. Cycling is a fantastic way to enjoy the island’s beautiful landscapes and coastal roads.
6. Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Mallorca, particularly in larger towns and tourist areas. You can find them at taxi stands or hail one on the street. It’s advisable to ask for an estimate of the fare or ensure that the meter is used before starting the journey.
These are some helpful phone numbers of taxi companies in Mallorca:
- Palma teletaxi: 971 20 09 00.
- Radio Taxi Palma: 971 40 14 14.
- Radio Taxi Mallorca: 971 20 12 12
6. Scooter/Motorbike Rental: Renting a scooter or motorbike can be a convenient and efficient way to get around Mallorca, especially in urban areas with heavy traffic. However, ensure that you have the necessary license and wear appropriate safety gear.
7. Walking: Mallorca’s towns and cities are often best explored on foot. Many tourist attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance, particularly in areas with narrow streets and historic centers.
It’s important to note that some areas of Mallorca may have limited or no public transportation options. Plan your itinerary in advance and consider a combination of transportation methods to make the most of your time on the island.
How do you get around Mallorca by public transport?
Mallorca has some options of transport within the island, some of these options we show here below:
- Buses: TIB (Transports de les Illes Balears) operates transport services across the island; TIB buses and coaches are distinctively yellow and red.
- Trains: TIB also operates the train routes in Mallorca.
- Tren de Soller: Orange Blossom Express. It takes approximately one hour to travel from Palma to Soller, and an additional 30 minutes if you choose to take the optional tram to Port de Soller. The cost for a round trip ticket is 25 euros per adult. It’s a fantastic day trip with plenty of enjoyable moments, but be cautious when planning your return to Palma as the last trains tend to get crowded. Along the journey, you’ll encounter numerous picturesque spots, including some lengthy tunnels. I highly recommend this experience, as there are plenty of great photo opportunities along the way.
What is the best way to get around in Mallorca?
When it comes to exploring Mallorca on a budget, public transport emerges as the most cost-effective option. This is particularly true if you’re looking to navigate Palma, the vibrant capital, thanks to its extensive bus network.
That being said, if your goal is to venture beyond Palma and truly immerse yourself in all that Mallorca has to offer, public transport may not be the ideal choice. While intercity transport efficiently connects the capital with most municipalities, it falls short when it comes to reaching certain attractions and the pristine beaches that are undoubtedly worth a visit.
Public transport within Palma, on the other hand, is a different story. The city boasts excellent public transportation services that have seen remarkable improvements in recent times, driven by the objective of reducing congestion while enhancing efficiency and sustainability. Currently, bus and metro services cater to commuters, and exciting plans are underway to introduce a tramway system in the near future.
To truly make the most of your Mallorca experience, consider a combination of transportation methods. While public transport serves as a convenient option within Palma, other modes like car rentals or organized tours can offer greater flexibility to explore the island’s hidden gems, attractions, and breathtaking beaches.
Choose the transportation method that best suits your needs and embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting island of Mallorca.
