Day 1: Palma de Mallorca

Begin your Balearic adventure in Palma de Mallorca, the archipelago’s capital and largest city. This sophisticated Mediterranean metropolis seamlessly blends medieval architecture with modern cosmopolitan flair. The city’s crown jewel is undoubtedly the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria, locally known as La Seu. This Gothic masterpiece, constructed over nearly four centuries (1229-1601), dominates the city’sskyline with its soaring buttresses and intricate rose window—one of the largest in the Gothic world.

The cathedral’s interior is equally breathtaking, featuring renovations by the legendary Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, who worked on the building from 1904 to 1914. The interplay of light through the stained glass creates an almost ethereal atmosphere, particularly in the early morning when the sun’s rays illuminate the nave. Adjacent to the cathedral, you’ll find the Almudaina Palace, a royal residence that dates back to the Islamic period and showcases a fascinating fusion of Moorish and Gothic architectural styles.

Spend your afternoon wandering through Palma’s historic Old Town, a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets lined with honey-colored stone buildings, boutique shops, and inviting cafés. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Arab Baths (Banys Àrabs), one of the few remaining examples of Moorish architecture on the island. For dinner, head to the trendy Santa Catalina neighborhood, known for its innovative restaurants and vibrant nightlife scene.

Day 2: Serra de Tramuntana and Valldemossa

Dedicate your second day to exploring Mallorca’s dramatic northwestern coastline and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. This spectacular landscape of rugged peaks, terraced olive groves, and picturesque villages represents the very essence of Mediterranean beauty. Your first stop should be the enchanting village of Valldemossa, perched 400 meters above sea level.

Valldemossa gained international fame as the winter residence of the Polish composer Frédéric Chopin and his companion, the French writer George Sand, during 1838-1839. The Royal Carthusian Monastery (Real Cartuja), where the couple stayed, is now a museum showcasing their legacy along with the monastery’s fascinating history. The village itself is a photographer’s dream, with its cobbled streets, traditional stone houses adorned with green shutters, and numerous artisan shops.

Continue along the spectacular coastal road to the picturesque village of Deià, a haven for artists and writers since the 1950s. The British poet Robert Graves made this village his home for most of his life, and his house is now a museum. Stop at the scenic viewpoint of Sa Foradada for breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, where a natural hole in the rock formation creates a stunning natural arch.

Complete your mountain tour in Sóller, a charming town known for its Art Nouveau architecture and orange groves. Take the historic wooden tram down to Port de Sóller, a beautiful horseshoe-shaped bay perfect for a refreshing swim and seafood dinner.

Day 3: Eastern Mallorca – Caves and Beaches

Your third day takes you to Mallorca’s stunning eastern coast, home to some of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular caves and beaches. Begin with a visit to the Caves of Drach (Cuevas del Drach), near Porto Cristo. These magnificent underground caverns extend for 2.4 kilometers and reach depths of 25 meters, featuring one of the world’s largest underground lakes, Lake Martel.

The cave tour culminates in a magical experience: a classical music concert performed by musicians in boats on the illuminated underground lake. The acoustics are extraordinary, and the setting is truly unforgettable. After emerging from the subterranean world, spend the afternoon at one of the east coast’s pristine beaches. Cala Mondragó, part of a natural park, offers two beautiful coves with turquoise waters surrounded by pine forests and sand dunes.

Alternatively, visit Cala Figuera, a picturesque fishing village where traditional boats bob in a narrow fjord-like inlet, creating a scene that has remained largely unchanged for decades. End your day in the medieval walled town of Alcúdia, where you can explore the well-preserved Roman ruins and walk along the 14th-century fortifications as the sun sets over the bay.

Day 4: Ibiza Town (Eivissa) and Dalt Vila

Catch a morning flight or ferry to Ibiza, the island famous worldwide for its legendary nightlife but equally worthy of recognition for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. While Ibiza’s club scene is internationally renowned, the island offers far more than just parties—it’s a place of surprising tranquility, artistic heritage, and pristine beaches.

Begin your exploration in Ibiza Town (Eivissa), the island’s vibrant capital. The historic heart of the city is Dalt Vila (meaning “high town”), a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Mediterranean’s best-preserved fortified towns. The massive Renaissance-era walls and bastions, constructed in the 16th century to defend against pirate attacks and the Ottoman Empire, encircle a maze of steep cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and historic buildings.

Enter through the imposing Portal de ses Taules gateway and climb through the atmospheric streets to the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Snows, which sits at the highest point of the fortification. Along the way, you’ll discover charming boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants tucked into centuries-old buildings. The panoramic views from the cathedral terrace are spectacular, offering sweeping vistas across the town, harbor, and the Mediterranean beyond.

In the afternoon, explore the trendy Marina district (La Marina) with its bohemian atmosphere, vintage shops, and waterfront restaurants. As evening approaches, head to Café del Mar in Sant Antoni de Portmany for the island’s famous sunset experience. This legendary venue pioneered the “chill-out” music scene and offers the perfect soundtrack to one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful sunsets.

Day 5: Northern Ibiza – Beaches and Hippy Markets

Dedicate your fifth day to discovering Ibiza’s more tranquil northern region and experiencing the island’s famous bohemian spirit. Start early with a visit to the Las Dalias Hippy Market (if visiting on a Saturday), a legendary institution that has been operating since 1954. This colorful market epitomizes Ibiza’s alternative culture, offering handmade jewelry, clothing, artwork, and live music in a festive atmosphere.

Continue to the stunning beaches of northern Ibiza, starting with Benirràs Beach, famous for its distinctive rock formation (Cap Bernat) that juts out into the sea and its legendary Sunday sunset drumming sessions. The beach has a relaxed, hippy vibe and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Next, visit Cala d’Hort, where you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views of Es Vedrà, the mysterious rocky island that rises 400 meters from the sea. According to local legend, Es Vedrà is the third most magnetic point on Earth and has been associated with numerous UFO sightings and mystical experiences. The sunset view from here, with Es Vedrà silhouetted against the colorful sky, is simply magical.

Explore the charming village of Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera, located in the heart of the island. This picturesque white village has maintained its authentic character while attracting an artistic community. Its central square is surrounded by excellent restaurants, stylish boutiques, and art galleries. End your day at one of Ibiza’s beach clubs, such as Experimental Beach or Cala Bassa Beach Club, where you can enjoy cocktails, Mediterranean cuisine, and live music in a sophisticated setting.

Day 6: Mahón and Eastern Menorca

Ferry or fly to Menorca, the easternmost and second-largest Balearic island, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993 for its exceptional environmental preservation. Menorca offers a stark contrast to Ibiza’s party atmosphere and Mallorca’s tourist crowds—this is an island that has consciously chosen sustainable development over mass tourism, resulting in pristine landscapes, unspoiled beaches, and authentic Mediterranean charm.

Begin in Mahón (Maó), the island’s capital and home to one of the Mediterranean’s deepest natural harbors, stretching five kilometers inland. The British ruled Menorca for much of the 18th century, and their influence is evident in the Georgian-style architecture, sash windows, and even the local gin production tradition. Visit the historic old town with its elegant townhouses, the 13th-century Santa María Church with its impressive organ (featuring over 3,000 pipes), and the bustling market.

Don’t miss a visit to the Xoriguer Gin Distillery, where you can learn about Menorca’s unique gin-making tradition and sample this distinctive spirit. The harbor waterfront is perfect for a leisurely lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants. In the afternoon, explore the Talayotic archaeological sites, remnants of the prehistoric culture that flourished on Menorca from 2000-123 BC. The Taula de Trepucó, just outside Mahón, features impressive megalithic structures unique to Menorca.

Head to the southeastern coast to discover some of Menorca’s most beautiful beaches. Cala Macarella and Cala Macarelleta are twin coves of extraordinary beauty, with pristine turquoise waters framed by white cliffs and pine forests. These beaches epitomize Mediterranean paradise and are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Day 7: Ciutadella and Western Menorca

Spend your final day exploring Ciutadella, Menorca’s former capital and arguably the island’s most beautiful town. This elegant city boasts a stunning historic center filled with aristocratic palaces, Gothic churches, and atmospheric squares. The heart of the old town is the Plaça des Born, dominated by the Town Hall and an obelisk commemorating the Turkish invasion of 1558.

Wander through the narrow medieval streets of the old quarter, visiting the magnificent Cathedral of Menorca, built on the site of the town’s former mosque after the Christian reconquest in 1287. The Gothic façade and neoclassical interior create a striking architectural contrast. Explore the harbor area, where you can watch fishing boats unload their catch and enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.

The Mercat Municipal (Municipal Market) is excellent for purchasing local products such as Mahón cheese, sobrasada (a spicy cured sausage), and ensaimadas. In the afternoon, visit the spectacular northern coast, where dramatic cliffs meet the wild Mediterranean Sea. The lighthouse at Cap de Cavalleria, the northernmost point of the Balearic Islands, offers panoramic views and windswept beauty.

Conclude your Balearic adventure at one of the stunning beaches along the northern coast, such as Cala Pregonda, with its distinctive reddish-golden sand and unusual rock formations, or Cavalleria Beach, a wild and beautiful stretch of sand backed by dunes. As the sun sets on your final evening, reflect on the incredible diversity of experiences the Balearic Islands have offered—from Mallorca’s cultural richness and mountain beauty, to Ibiza’s vibrant energy and stunning sunsets, to Menorca’s peaceful authenticity and pristine nature.