The Other Side of Majorca

Away from the infamous resort of Magalluf and the tourist’s stereotype of Majorca as a haven for cheap beer and endless parties, the largest of the Balearic Islands has much to offer student travelers.

Residents call the island ‘Mallorca’ – a far cry from the hard ‘j’ that can be heard during the wet t-shirt competitions around the southeastern bay – and, on closer inspection, it reveals picturesque stretches of sandy beach and a friendly local culture yet to be lost by the hordes of visitors.

From the sophisticated urban life in Palma to idyllic countryside, Majorca’s relatively low cost of living makes it an ideal destination for a budget getaway that combines relaxing beaches and lively nightlife.

Beach break

The main draw of the island is the beauty of its beaches and visitors looking to go sunbathing and swimming won’t be hard pushed to find a suitable spot. Although the main resorts can get very crowded during the summer months, there are plenty of other options around the island for those who wish for somewhere quieter.

At the far northeast tip, Cap de Formentor has spectacular views back across the bays and is home to Majorca’s most inaccessible cove - at the bottom of a very windy cliff road.

Culture and History

There are also plenty of things to do on Majorca away from the brash package-tourist activities with the island’s scenic towns and beaches perfect for a relaxing walk - and student travelers will be pleased to realize that nearly all of this is free!

On the northern shore, Alcudia is a compact walled town with interesting Roman remains (including a well-preserved amphitheatre) and, although it’s not exactly undiscovered, its bustling cafés and family holiday atmosphere make it a pleasant place to visit.

For a taste of the more remote Majorca, energetic walkers might like to head up to Castell d’Alaro, a ruined castle and hilltop chapel about two hours from Alaro. Alternatively, the small mountain town of Valldemossa, nestled amongst olive groves on the west side, is a fascinating place to explore with a history that includes Chopin’s lover, a beatified nun and the Roya Carthusian Monastry.

Eating in Majorca

Traditional Majorcan food is, as you would expect, very Spanish and the Mercat Oliver (Pl. Oliver) in Palma has plenty of tapas and snack stalls for an inexpensive bite to eat along with a stunning array of oranges, flowers, olives, fish and meat for sale.

As the capital city, Palma has rather surprisingly escaped the premium prices and international cuisine characterized by the tourist market and is actually a great place to find reasonable, locally produced meals. Passeig del Born and Pg. Maritim on the oceanfront are crowded with bars and restaurants but for something a bit special, El Pilon on C. Cifre has good cheap tapas combined with a friendly, local atmosphere.

Partying in Palma

For travelers looking to explore Majorca’s nightlife, the scene revolves around the southern bay. In contrast with the laidback countryside towns elsewhere on the island, Magalluf and Palma become vibrant cities after dark. While Magalluf is a center for tastelessness, however, Palma has the stylish bars and clubs of a cool international city.

The majority of venues in Palma lie along the waterfront and stay open later than those inland. Drinks are usually inexpensive, particularly local vino de casa and Spanish beer.

The capital has its share of massive clubs - Tito’s on Pg. Maritim has 6 floors and a laser show – but its bars are more authentic (and cheaper) than such venues and, as they often have live music too, are better value for money for visitors on a budget. Costa Galanca on Av. Argentina is young and funky while the mainstream Moon (Pg. Maritim) is one of the biggest and friendliest bars in the city.

The beach at Alucida

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