48 Hours in Mallorca

Looking for a quick and stylish escape from the UK? Just over two hours from London, Mallorca offers golden beaches, peaceful villages and relaxed Mediterranean charm. With a Friday-to-Sunday itinerary, you can get a real break without using up your annual leave. Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in this sun-soaked island paradise, whether you hire a car or not.

Friday Afternoon: Land, Drop Bags and Head to the Coast

With morning flights from most UK cities, you’ll land in Palma just in time for lunch. Base yourself in Ses Illetes, a calm stretch of coastline just 15 minutes from the airport. It’s close to Palma but feels peaceful, with turquoise water and tucked-away beach clubs.

Where to stay in Ses Illetes

• Hotel BonSol Resort & Spa: Traditional with private beach access and sea-view terraces
• Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá: Adults-only, beautifully designed and perched right on the sea

Check in, freshen up and take a walk along the coast. There are casual lunch spots nearby, or head into the city for an early afternoon wander.

Evening

Explore Palma Old Town. Visit the cathedral, walk the narrow streets and stop for a cocktail in Santa Catalina. For dinner, try El Camino or Botànic for a refined take on Mallorcan cuisine.

Saturday: Villages, Beaches and Sea Views

Option 1: With a car
Drive north into the Serra de Tramuntana. Start with coffee in Valldemossa, then head to Deià for art galleries and stunning views. Swim at Cala Deià, a rocky cove that feels miles from the tourist trail.

Lunch
Book a seaside table at Ca’s Patro March, perched over the water. Simple food, unbeatable views.

Afternoon
Continue along the coast. Stop at Cala Tuent or Sa Calobra for another swim. Return to Ses Illetes for a low-key evening.

Option 2: Without a car
Take the bus or a taxi into Palma’s Santa Catalina district. Grab brunch at Mama Carmen’s, browse the market and shop local boutiques.

Afternoon
Return to Ses Illetes for a beach club afternoon at Balneario Illetas. Order a bottle of rosé, relax on a sunbed and take it slow.

Evening
Stay local. Try Restaurante Maricel for a more elevated dinner or head to Purobeach Illetas for drinks with a view.

Sunday: Slow Start and One Last Dip

Make the most of your final morning. Go for a swim, read by the pool or grab a coffee and walk the coastline one last time.

Lunch options

• Corazon by Cappuccino in Illetas for Mediterranean dishes with a modern feel
• Patrón Lunares in Palma for laid-back seafood in a former fishermen’s social club

If you’re flying out in the evening, you’ll have time for a relaxed meal and a final stroll before heading to the airport.

Car Hire or No Car Hire?

Hire a car if

• You want to explore the Tramuntana mountains and remote beaches
• You’re confident on narrow mountain roads
• You prefer flexibility and freedom to roam

Go without a car if

• You’re staying near Palma or Illetas
• You’re happy to use taxis or local buses
• You want to relax without planning every move
• Taxis and ride apps are easy to find. Most short trips around the island are quick and affordable.

What Makes Mallorca Perfect for a Weekend

• Flights are short and frequent from the UK
• You can enjoy sea, sun and slow living in under 48 hours
• The island is compact so travel times are short
• There’s something for every pace, whether you want full adventure or total calm

Final Thought

Mallorca delivers the kind of weekend that feels like a holiday. Whether you're sipping wine above a secret cove or swimming before breakfast, this island lets you reset fast. Pack light and go often.

Ready for Friday?