Car Hire Palma de Mallorca — Explore the Island Beyond the Resorts

Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands, combines sophisticated city life with easy access to some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful beaches. While many visitors never leave their resorts, the real Mallorca reveals itself to those who explore—the dramatic Tramuntana mountains, hidden calas accessible only by foot or boat, and hilltop villages that maintain traditional island life. Hiring a car in Palma is essential for experiencing the island beyond the package holidays.

Mallorca is larger and more diverse than many visitors expect. The Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, runs along the west coast with dramatic peaks and picturesque villages. The north offers the Bay of Alcúdia’s long sandy beaches. The east coast is dotted with hidden coves (calas) that are among the Mediterranean’s most beautiful. A rental car lets you experience all of this, from sophisticated Palma to remote beaches that tour buses never reach.

Picking Up Your Rental Car in Palma

Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) is one of Spain’s busiest, serving millions of visitors annually. All major international companies operate here with extensive fleets. The airport’s size means queues can be long—book ahead and consider fast-track options.

City locations include offices near the cathedral, the port, and major hotels. If you’re staying in Palma for a few days, consider city pickup to avoid airport queues.

Required documents: Valid driving licence, passport or ID, and credit card. EU licence holders don’t need an International Driving Permit; non-EU visitors should check requirements.

Peak season: July and August see extreme demand. Book months ahead and expect higher prices.

Where to Go with Your Rental Car from Palma

Serra de Tramuntana (30-60km, 45min-1hr)

UNESCO-listed mountain range with dramatic scenery, stone villages, and hiking trails. Highlights include Valldemossa (where Chopin stayed), Deià (artist’s village), and Sóller (accessed by a scenic mountain road or vintage train).

Calas of the East Coast (50-70km, 1hr)

Hidden coves with crystal-clear water: Caló des Moro, Cala Llombards, Cala Figuera. Some require walking from parking areas. Arrive early in peak season.

Formentor and Cape Formentor (70km, 1hr)

Dramatic cliffs at Mallorca’s northern tip. The drive offers spectacular views. Formentor Beach is one of the island’s finest. The lighthouse at the cape is iconic.

Alcúdia and Pollença (60km, 50min)

Historic towns with Roman ruins (Alcúdia) and a traditional market (Pollença on Sundays). The Bay of Alcúdia offers long sandy beaches.

Palma City

The Gothic cathedral (La Seu), the Almudaina Palace, and the winding streets of the old town. Excellent shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Tips for Driving in Mallorca

Roads: Main roads are excellent. Mountain roads in the Tramuntana are winding but scenic. The drive from Palma to Sóller through the mountains is spectacular but requires caution.

Speed limits: 50km/h in built-up areas, 90km/h on open roads (often reduced to 80km/h on island roads).

Driving style: Summer brings many inexperienced drivers. Stay alert, particularly on narrow coastal roads.

Parking: Palma has extensive paid parking. Beach parking fills by mid-morning in July-August—arrive early or visit late afternoon.

Fuel: Stations are plentiful on main roads. Fill up before heading to remote calas.

Seasonal note: Some mountain roads and cala access roads are narrow. Consider a compact car for easier manoeuvring.

Book your Palma de Mallorca car hire through the search above for competitive rates with airport and city pickup options.