Mallorca Through American Eyes (Part 2) - Top Experiences & Cultural Insights

Favorite Places and Activities for Americans in Mallorca

What do Americans love to do once they arrive on this Balearic paradise? The short answer: a bit of everything. One of the joys of Mallorca is how it packs so much variety into one island. American visitors — who might be accustomed to the vast distances of the U.S. — are delighted that in Mallorca you can drive from a mountain village to a beach to a city center all in one day.

Some favorite places have emerged among U.S. travelers: - Palma de Mallorca: The island’s capital city is often the first stop. Americans enjoy wandering Palma’s historic downtown, touring the stunning 13th-century La Seu Cathedral and the royal Almudaina Palace, and snapping photos of the Palma Harbor filled with luxury yachts. The history here blows Americans away — it’s not every day you stand in a Gothic cathedral that’s older than the United States itself! Plus, Palma’s shops and restaurants make it easy for English-speakers to feel at home.

• Beaches and Calas: Of course, the beaches are a huge draw. Popular beach areas like Playa de Palma (a long sandy beach near the city) and Alcúdia Bay in the north see many American families and couples. More intrepid travelers venture to postcard-perfect coves such as Calo des Moro or Es Trenc to experience that crystal-clear, Caribbean-quality water. A day of sunbathing, swimming, and perhaps a seaside picnic of local bread, cheese, and olives is a classic Mallorcan pleasure anyone can appreciate.

• Tramuntana Mountain Towns: Many Americans are enchanted by the Serra de Tramuntana mountains (a UNESCO World Heritage site) that run along Mallorca’s northwest. Towns like Valldemossa and Deià have cobblestone streets, stone houses with green shutters, and incredible views. These towns are known for artists and writers – the legacy of Robert Graves (who lived in Deià) and Frédéric Chopin (who wintered in Valldemossa) is a big draw for culturally minded visitors. Americans often say visiting Valldemossa’s monastery, where Chopin stayed, feels like stepping into a novel.

• Scenic Drives and Hikes: Americans, used to road trips, love renting a car to explore the island’s many scenic roads. A top recommendation is the drive to Cap de Formentor, the northernmost tip of the island, with its dramatic cliffs and lighthouse – a breathtaking, panoramic view that often ends up as someone’s Facebook cover photo. For hikers, the Tramuntana offers trails through olive groves and pine forests, satisfying the adventurous spirit of many visitors.

• • Food & Wine Experiences: Trying Spanish and Mallorcan cuisine is definitely on the to-do list. Americans enjoy visiting local food markets like the Mercat de l’Olivar in Palma to sample cheeses, jamón serrano, and perhaps an ensaïmada pastry. Many also take winery tours in the island’s interior; Mallorca’s wines are lesser-known back home, so it feels like a delightful discovery. And while dinner in Spain happens late, Americans happily adjust when they get a taste of tapas and paella on a terrace in Palma’s Old Town or fresh seafood at a beachside chiringuito.

Additional popular activities include:

• Cycling and Golf: Mallorca is a mecca for cyclists and golfers alike. U.S. visitors who cycle are thrilled to find well-paved roads and bike rental shops everywhere – the same routes used by European cycling teams for winter training become memorable rides for American tourists. Golfers flock to courses like Golf Son Gual or T Golf Palma; with around 20 golf courses on the island, booking a tee time with ocean views is a real treat.
• Sailing Trips: Being an island, Mallorca offers wonderful boating experiences. Many Americans book a day cruise or catamaran tour to sail along the coast, swim in hidden coves, and even try snorkeling. The idea of captaining a sailboat in the Mediterranean – or at least joining the crew for a day – checks the box for a dream vacation experience.
• Cultural Tours: History buffs join guided tours of landmarks like Castell de Bellver (a 14th-century hilltop castle overlooking Palma) or the Ruins of Pollentia (an ancient Roman city in Alcúdia). An English-speaking guide explaining Mallorca’s mix of cultures – Roman, Moorish, Catalan – deepens the experience for curious travelers.

Cultural Differences: How Americans Experience the Island

Despite the comforts of home that Mallorca offers, there are some delightful cultural differences that Americans notice:

• Pace of Life: In the U.S., everything is go-go-go, but in Mallorca the vibe is more relaxed and laid-back. An American might be initially surprised when shops close in the afternoon for siesta time, or when dinner at a restaurant doesn’t start until 8 or 9 PM (whereas back home 9 PM might be dessert time!). Many end up embracing this slower schedule, enjoying a long lunch and a nap, then staying out later in the evening – a chance to live on “island time,” Mediterranean style.

• Mealtimes and Food Culture: Breakfast in Mallorca might be a simple café con leche and pastry – quite different from a big American diner breakfast. Americans learn to savor smaller portions of strong coffee and may even try saying “Bon profit!” (Catalan for “enjoy your meal”) instead of digging into pancakes. At dinner, U.S. visitors sometimes chuckle at how leisurely Spaniards dine – with multiple courses, lots of bread, and conversations that stretch on. The American instinct might be to ask for the check quickly, but in Mallorca you usually have to ask for the bill when you’re ready; waiters won’t rush you, which can be refreshing once you get used to it.

• • Transportation: Many Americans are used to driving everywhere. While renting a car in Mallorca is popular, visitors are often impressed by the island’s public transportation and walkability. You can catch an air-conditioned bus or even ride the vintage Tren de Sóller, a charming wooden train that doubles as a tourist ride and a local commuter. (That said, an American behind the wheel might need to adjust to narrower roads and European roundabouts!)

• Language & Communication: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but Americans enjoy picking up a few Spanish or Catalan phrases during their stay. Don’t be surprised if you hear an enthusiastic traveler practicing “¡gracias!” or “hola, ¿qué tal?” with everyone they meet. Many locals speak multiple languages – Spanish, Catalan, German, and English often mingle in a single Palma café. This polyglot atmosphere is exciting and might even inspire some to dust off their high-school Spanish.

• Tipping and Service: In the U.S., tipping 15-20% at restaurants is standard, but in Spain tipping is more modest and not always expected. An American might leave a larger tip out of habit or gratitude, which servers appreciate – though locals might simply smile, knowing it’s an “American thing.”

Overall, American visitors tend to experience Mallorca with wide-eyed appreciation. Many comment on how safe they feel letting their kids play on the beach, or how welcoming the local people are. They love the mix of adventure and relaxation. In fact, an American’s first trip to Mallorca often becomes the first of many, with fond cultural quirks becoming cherished memories.

Let's wrap it up

Mallorca has successfully woven itself into the heart of American travelers, offering that perfect balance between the comfort of a top tourist destination and the thrill of a new cultural experience. Whether it’s rubbing shoulders with celebrities at a local café, marveling at ancient olive groves, or simply soaking up the sun on a turquoise-water beach, Americans are finding countless reasons to say “¡Me encanta Mallorca!” (I love Mallorca!). As flight connections improve and word of mouth spreads, the bond between the U.S. and this Spanish paradise is sure to grow. If you’re an American looking for your next adventure abroad, don’t be surprised if Mallorca tops your bucket list – the island is ready to welcome you with open arms and a hearty “Bienvenidos!”