Traveling to Mallorca with your own car provides you complete freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want, and in leisure. But before you go, there are a few things to think about, especially the challenges driving in Mallorca brings.
In this post, you will discover everything you need to know before driving up to Mallorca in your car.
Driving in Mallorca
What to expect from driving in Mallorca?
Mallorca isn’t necessarily a dangerous place to drive, but it still presents some difficulties. Even though the island is small, there are nearly infinite ways to get about it. With so much to see and little time, you must pick your transportation mode carefully.
Mallorca road trip
Owning a car allows you to explore the island’s most distant coves, natural parks, and traditional communities, making it the finest option to discover the real Mallorca.
Challenging drive
Mallorca is a Mediterranean island with mountains, so it has a lot of beautiful scenery. This means that there are several opportunities to enjoy scenic drives with breathtaking beauty. However, there is a certain amount of risk associated with such altitudes, winding roads, and steep slopes.
The MA-10 road is a prime example of the wild drive in Mallorca. The 51 km long, asphalted road has some breathtaking views. It is sometimes referred to as the island’s craziest road.
It has some tunnels, hairpin twists, and reservoirs along the road. Although driving down is enjoyable, it may be very risky on rainy days. These curved roadways are frequently too narrow for two automobiles to pass at once.
Mallorca Mountain Roads
The rock cliff edges also pose a risk, though it is less likely and more unpredictable. Thus there is a slight chance that a rock could fall and break off its edges. Although Mallorca is not among the most dangerous areas to drive, it nevertheless calls for caution and information before setting out on a journey.
Is driving in Mallorca easy?
Driving in Mallorca is not that difficult. The only issue is Palma, which is really crowded and challenging if you’re not used to it. Mostly, the roads are in good condition, which makes driving around the Balearic islands easy.
Driving style in Mallorca
In recent years, Spain’s highways and dual-carriageways have improved and are currently among the best in Europe. They are toll roads and have the prefix “AP” for highways. They can be used for a fee that can be paid with cash or a credit card.
The highway system is probably the greatest option for a speedy trip, but if you want to save money and are not in a rush, you should use the “autovas” that begins with an “A.” All “A” roads have no tolls.
Should you rent a car in Mallorca?
We recommend that you rent or hire a car in Mallorca because there are simply so many stunning locations to explore and fascinating things to see. However, many visitors are uncertain as to whether they can trust the Mallorcan rental agencies.
Road Tripping in Mallorca
Due to Mallorca’s high dependency on tourism as a revenue source, there is fierce competition among automobile rental providers. This means that unintentional repetition can seriously harm their business. In Mallorca, there are several respectable and trustworthy automobile rental firms where you can rent cars.
Driving in Mallorca: FAQ
What do you need to drive in Mallorca?
You must have a current driving license from your home country to drive in Mallorca, Spain. Drivers having EU licenses can only use their country’s current licenses when on vacation. An international driving permit is required for all other nationalities in addition to their valid national license.
The following items are required to be in the vehicle in Spain:
- Two warning triangles
- Reflective jacket or vest
- One spare wheel and the necessary tools to change it
- Child seats are required for children who weigh less than 18 kg (39.7 lbs).
- Children who are less than 135 cm (4.4 ft) should ride in the back seats with a booster
- Medical kit (not mandatory)
- Flashlight (not mandatory)
Do you need an international driver’s license to drive in Mallorca?
Get an international driving license if you plan to drive anywhere in Spain while renting a car. All international drivers with English licenses must apply for an IDP before traveling by Spanish laws.
Without an IDP, you risk legal and financial ramifications if you are pulled over in Mallorca. So, be sure to apply for your IDP at your neighborhood AAA office before you depart.
Driving in the mountains/villages and towns
Although most roads have excellent pavements, numerous exposed drops and dozens of hairpin curves exist. Drivers should be prepared to reverse when they encounter buses on the bends and narrow sections.
Roads in Mallorca
The hilly village of Esporles is only a 15-minute drive from Palma de Mallorca, the island’s capital. It is a small village located in the Tramuntana mountain range, which may be why it is frequently disregarded by tourists and why it has managed to preserve so much of its ancient charm.
Mallorca landmarks
The MA10 route from Pollensa to Soller is a fantastic drive, but about halfway there, we would suggest turning down into Port Sa Calobra. The steep, curving, small road requires going both ways. It’s a well-known mountain climb for bikers as well.
Before you take the short journey back up to the MA10, it is worthwhile to stop for a picturesque break at Sa Calobra’s Torrent de Pareis.
The “hamlet of artists” of Deià should be your next trip if you have a rental car in Mallorca. Deià, with its cobblestone roads, artisan workshops, and breathtaking views, exudes undeniable tranquility that is hard to discover. And a setting like that provides a pleasant break for people coming from the bustle of the city. You can take a look at the popular stay for your next visit here.
Where to park in towns/beaches/villages?
Towns/Villages
The presence of blue lines for street parking designates an “ORA” zone, where parking is metered. Find the nearby ticket machine to purchase your pay and show ticket. There are frequently “free periods” in these zones. However, they differ from area to area, so verify on the ticket machine.
Mallorca Parking Options
Parking is prohibited when the lines are yellow, but free parking is indicated by white lines. Watch out for places designated for disabled drivers as well. Make sure you park in authorized parking places and pay attention to signs posted around parking areas in several towns on Mallorca that may advertise fair or other events the next day.
Beaches
If you are heading to the beach on Palma, you can find a car parking area in the little lot at the foot of the slope(Mirador del Colomer). There is free parking; from there, a bus to Cala Figuera or Cala Murta costs €2.50 per person. There is a parking space there. However, it is very expensive, and the route is closed from Platja de Formentor between 10 am and 7 pm.
Mallorca Viewpoint
On what hand side do they drive in Mallorca?
You will have to drive your car on the right side of Mallorca.
What are the speed limits on Mallorca roads?
Stick to a speed limit of 50 km/h in populated areas and 90 km/h on other driving roads, such as those on the outskirts of towns. Motorways (toll highways) and dual carriageways with a central reservation between them have a top speed of 120 km/h.
Few other important rules
Fines
On your road trip to Mallorca, make sure that you follow the traffic rules, which are no different than the standard traffic rules of any country, or else you will receive Spanish fines at your home address.
You can get a 50% rebate if you pay within the first 20 days. You can choose to pay the fine online on the ‘Dirección General de Tráfico‘ portal.
Mallorca sunset drive
Additionally, it is strictly prohibited to use radar detectors in Spain, which is punishable by a fine.
Triangles & High Vis
Someone strolling on the road or hard shoulder may receive a fine if they do not use a reflective jacket, which is necessary. Every vehicle with four wheels or more must also have a warning triangle, and Spanish citizens are required to carry two.
Drunk Driving
If the alcohol content in your blood exceeds 0.5 gr/l (0.25 gr/l breath alcohol), serious penalties, such as fines, jail time, and/or license loss, will follow. This implies that drinking just one glass of beer will get you to the limit. To identify drivers who are under the influence of substances while operating a vehicle, the police also conduct saliva drug tests.
Seatbelt
Both front and back seat riders must be buckled up if you have travelers in your car. Children under the age of 12 who are less than 135 cm tall must ride in the vehicle’s backseat and be buckled into a child safety seat that is appropriate for their size and weight. The driver is in charge of making ensuring that all passengers are properly strapped.
Use of the horn
It is forbidden to unnecessarily use audio warning devices, like car horns. In populated areas, these warning signals must be quick, and local authorities might fully forbid using such signals, which are represented by signs, unless there is an emergency.
Recommendations for Renting a Car
Type of car to rent
The type of car you should rent in Mallorca will obviously depend on the number of passengers and the amount of luggage each person carries. However, when visiting Mallorca by rental car, keep the following in mind:
Size
We advise you to choose a narrow car for the roads of Mallorca. Several curving roads can be found all across the island, leading to beaches, mountains, and the countryside. When you need to cross paths with other vehicles, getting a narrow car makes the situation less stressful.
Mallorca Scenic Drive
Transmission
In Mallorca, manual transmissions are found in the majority of rental cars.
The automatic vehicles offered by car rental companies are frequently more expensive. Additionally, fewer automatic cars are available, so book early if you want to drive a car with automatic transmission.
Power
All roads on the island will be accessible for vehicles of any size. However, it will be more enjoyable in the highlands if you don’t pick the smallest engine.
Car rental suggestions
First of all, let’s look at the things to consider while selecting your car rental provider.
- The company should have the type of car you require.
- Look at the cancellation charges if there are any.
- Depending on your plans, look into an unlimited or set daily mileage allowance.
- The site of pickup should be close to your intended destination.
Some of the top-rated vehicle rental agencies in Mallorca are:
- Sixt
- Alamo
- National
- Enterprise
Insurance
Third-party insurance is usually bundled into the cost of renting a car in Mallorca. Even if the car hirer is at fault, this ensures damage to the vehicle, physical injury to a third party, and your vehicle.
In any case, you can get extra insurance, with or without a franchise, to ensure complete peace of mind. This insurance will pay for any repairs needed if the rental automobile suffers damages or a puncture.
Few tips about driving in Mallorca
Here are a few tips about driving in Mallorca:
- Do not wear flip-flops when driving in Mallorca because it is prohibited in the area.
- Keep an eye out for locals overtaking you in your mirrors because they can be impatient.
- Drivers should never use the left lane of the highway for overtaking; instead, they should use the middle or right lanes.
- It is prohibited to use a cell phone while driving unless a hands-free device is in use. When it comes to using a phone while driving, the Guardia Civil will not hold back when issuing fines to both locals and visitors.
- If you aren’t paying attention, the fact that cars frequently enter and leave the freeway at the same place might cause significant congestion.
- There are a lot of speed cameras, but any devices that alert vehicles to them, including those embedded into Sat Navs, are prohibited. A speeding ticket may result in an immediate fine.
Common terms and phrases that might prove useful on your journey
It’s wise to become familiar with common terms and expressions before renting a car in Mallorca since they may come in handy while traveling.
- Motorway: Autopistas Street
- Road: Carretera
- Street: Calle
- Petrol: Gasolina
- Car parking: Plaza de parking
- Fine: Multa
- Road works: Obras de Carretera
Documents required for driving in Mallorca
Here is a list of documents that you need to have for driving in Mallorca:
- Valid driving license
- Only a driver’s license with one year of experience is required for EU citizens.
- An international driving permit is required for all other nationalities (IDP). Residents of the EU are also encouraged to have one. It is not necessary when renting, but it must be provided to police officers with the license in the event that their documentation needs to be verified.
- A credit card in the name of the primary driver
- A copy of the booking, if you made it through the broker’s website.
Conclusion
Driving in Mallorca can be an enjoyable experience because of its scenic roadways and pleasant weather throughout the year. In Mallorca, renting a car is a requirement, not a luxury. Since a car makes it easier to move around, you can see more places and travel to even the most distant places. So, make your booking to rent a car in Mallorca now!
For more about renting cars and inspiration, we recommend reading “Best Road Trips in Mallorca (+ Renting a Car in Mallorca Guide)“.
