Local Knowledge
Do you need a car in Mallorca?
Not if you stay in Palma or in one resort and plan a few day trips: buses cover that. You will want a car for remote coves, mountain villages and days with several stops. Many visitors hire one for two or three days in the middle of the trip.
When the bus is enough
TIB buses link the airport with Palma and the main resorts, and Palma with almost every town. They suit a stay in Palma, Alcúdia, Pollença, Sóller or the big bays of the south and east, and a ticket costs a few euros. The Mallorca bus map shows every line, stop and the next departures.
When a car pays off
A car makes sense for small coves without a bus stop, the Tramuntana villages, sunrise and sunset spots, and days with three or four stops. It also helps families with small children and anyone staying in a rural finca. Compare deposits, card rules and airport pickup in our car hire directory.
The middle way: a car for a few days
You do not need a car for the whole stay. Take the airport bus or a transfer to your hotel, then hire a car for the days you explore. Many local companies have offices in the resorts or deliver to hotels.
Taxis and transfers
Taxis wait outside arrivals at Palma airport and in the resorts, and fares are regulated. A taxi suits the airport run with luggage or a late ride back from dinner. For a long day across the island, a hire car for the day can cost less.
Beaches and parking
Car parks at popular beaches fill early in July and August, and some charge. Before you set off, the sea conditions page shows which beaches are calm today, and our beach guide explains how to reach each one.
If you drive
Our car hire page has short driving notes: Palma's low-emission zone, roundabouts, parking and the Sa Calobra road. Driving in Mallorca