With a population of 859,000 and covering an area of 3,640km2, it is the largest of the Balearic archipelago and its main airport in Palma de Mallorca is actually one of the busiest in Spain.

Due to its idyllic location, gorgeous coastline, stunning beaches and interesting history, Majorca is a hugely popular tourist destination. Thousands of people travel to the island every year to relax on its beaches, explore the charming and rugged countryside and stroll through the beautiful towns and villages that time seems to have forgotten. The following is a list of 6 must see/visit attractions in Majorca that no trip would be complete without:

Palma de Mallorca – Catedral de Mallorca

Located in the capital of Majorca, the Cathedral de Mallorca is an absolutely stunning structure. This immense cathedral overlooks the beautiful harbour and stands out as a true icon of the city and indeed the island. Construction of this religious monument started in the 13th century but its recognisable Gothic facade wasn’t completed until the 17th century. While the exterior is breathtaking, the interior is just as splendid with a host of ornate decoration and some awe-inspiring stained glass windows.

The historic old town of Alcudia

Alcudia is a popular tourist destination in its own right and a great place to visit. Located in the northern region of Majorca, the main port is a bustling place with plenty to see, but the real treat is the historic walled old town. This ancient walled city is located in-land and it is possible to walk all the way around the well-preserved city walls. Furthermore, there are several immense gate towers and the narrow streets of the old town are charming and perfect to explore.

Real Cartuja de Valldemossa

If you travel approximately 30 minutes to the north of Palma de Mallorca you will find the quiet town of Valldemossa. This is the perfect place to visit for a day trip and an easy drive if you have a hire car. The town itself is a charming place to walk through with several sleepy streets full of beautiful architecture but the real treat is the Monastery.

The Real Cartuja de Valldemossa is a magnificent 14th-century monastery built by the Carthusian Monks. During its history, various famous people have visited this holy place including the notable composer Frederic Chopin. Today you can admire the beautiful decor of the building and take time to reflect.

The fishing village of Cala Figuera

Majorca is packed full of quiet and sleepy fishing villages that hug the rugged coastline and Cala Figuera is one such place. You can find this beautiful village on the southeastern coast of the island further down from Cala d’Or and Portocolom. Although only small in size, Cala Figuera is a brilliant place to explore – you can walk onto the pier and look at the fishing boats, or hike along the dramatic rocky cliffs for stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. If you arrive here early in the morning, you can watch the fishermen bringing in their daily catch ready to be sold at the local market.

The Playa del Arenal

Majorca has a plethora of awesome beaches and the Playa del Arenal is possibly the longest and most well-known. This beach stretched for approximately 6km from El Arenal all the way across to Can Pastilla. From end to end the beach is covered with beautiful golden sand and the moderate waters of the Mediterranean Sea lap the coastline gently. If you are staying in Palma de Mallorca or the surrounding area this beach is a must visit! Relax on the golden sands, take a dip in the water or enjoy a bite to eat or a drink at one of the many beach bars and cafes that line the Arenal promenade.

Puerto Portals

Mallorca has its fair share of luxury retreats and Puerto Portals is known as a place where the rich and famous frequent. This stylish and modern marina is packed full of supersize luxury yachts that are fantastic to admire. Furthermore, the port has plenty of boutique shops, high-quality cafes and designer stores if you enjoy shopping and the high-life. Don’t forget to watch out for the various supercars driving through the streets!

As you can see, Mallorca has some varied attractions and something to suit everyone’s tastes. If you are visiting Mallorca, consider using a hire-car service – the island is easy to travel around by car, and the roads are well developed. Aside from that, this Balearic Island really is a wonderful holiday destination and a true gem in the Mediterranean Sea that is waiting to be explored!