Travel To Mallorca: What Americans Need To Know

Americans can travel to Mallorca, the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands, via direct flights from the USA to Palma de Mallorca Airport. However, as of 2024, Americans will need to obtain a visa to enter Mallorca, as the European Union has announced a new security programme mandating US passport holders to obtain visas before travelling to Spain. Mallorca is a popular tourist destination, known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural history. The island offers a unique blend of influences and architectural styles, including Phoenician ruins, Roman walls, and Moorish palaces.

Language and communication

The official languages of Mallorca are Spanish (also called Castilian) and Catalan. The local dialect of Catalan spoken on the island is called Mallorquin, and depending on the area, the dialect may vary slightly. Outside of Palma, most people speak Catalan at home, on the street, and in places of business. In addition, a Catalan certificate is required for government jobs in Mallorca.

Spanish is the language of communication in about 50% of Mallorcan households, primarily in Palma, the island's capital and only major city. Many of these are transplants from mainland Spain. There are also many households where some family members speak Spanish with certain people and Catalan with others. As a general rule, Spanish is more dominant in Palma, where it is also spoken on the street and in businesses. Once you leave Palma, Catalan is more dominant.

In addition to the many people who speak Spanish at home, most Mallorcan Catalan speakers learn Spanish as a second language. It is a required subject in school. As a result, 94% of people on Mallorca speak Spanish in one way or another. The only exceptions are very elderly people in some of the small villages.

English is also widely spoken, particularly in resorts. About 23% of people on the island speak English, and many hotel workers and waiters are fluent, especially in prime tourist areas like Palma, Calvia, and Port de Alcudia. There are also many British expats and seasonal workers on the island, especially in the area west of Palma, which includes Palmanova, Calviá, and Magaluf.

German is another common language on Mallorca, with about 37,000 Germans living on the island and over 660,000 visiting each year. Many hotels and restaurants have staff who speak basic German, and some Mallorcans learn German in school. You'll find the highest number of service workers who speak German in the parts of the island highly populated by German tourists, such as Playa de Palma, S'Arenal, and Alcudia.

Other languages spoken on Mallorca by both natives and foreigners include Arabic, Italian, Russian, and French.

If you are visiting Mallorca, it is beneficial to know some basic Spanish or Catalan phrases. However, you can also get by with English. If you have taken the time to learn some Spanish, you may find that people will respond in English, as they did with one long-time resident who shared their experience. This can be disheartening, so it is good to be prepared for this possibility.

On the other hand, knowing some Spanish can be very useful, especially when shopping in a market or asking for directions. If you need to speak Spanish, a translation app on your phone can be helpful for immediate translations, pronunciations, and text translations. Learning some basic phrases, such as how to order food, ask for the bill, and say please and thank you, will also go a long way.

Visas and entry requirements

As of January 2024, Americans are required to obtain a visa to enter Mallorca, Spain. The European Union has implemented a new security programme, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which mandates that US passport holders obtain visas before travelling to any of the visa-required countries, including Spain.

The ETIAS visa waiver will be an entry requirement for American travellers to Mallorca, but this will not be enforced until 2025. It is important to note that there will be a 6-month grace period to allow eligible travellers to familiarise themselves with the new system.

Before booking flights to Europe, Americans are advised to visit the ETIAS website for more information.

It is worth noting that direct flights are available from the USA to Palma de Mallorca Airport during the summer season.

When visiting Mallorca, it is recommended to have travel insurance as Spain does not provide free health treatment for Americans.

Additionally, Mallorca is part of Spain, so the local currency is the Euro. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments or rural areas, as some businesses may not accept credit cards. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Spain, while American Express and Discover are less common.

When exploring Mallorca by car, remember that they drive on the right-hand side in Spain. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required, along with an American driver's licence, to drive in the country. Rental cars are typically smaller and manual transmission, so it is recommended to contact the rental company in advance to ensure an automatic vehicle is available if needed.

Finally, while Catalan and Spanish are the primary languages in Mallorca, English is widely spoken, especially in resorts. However, learning some basic Spanish phrases can be helpful and show respect for the local culture.

Tipping etiquette

Tipping culture in Mallorca is different from that of the US. While failing to tip in the US can be considered rude and offensive, this is not the case in Mallorca. Service industry professionals in Mallorca often earn higher salaries compared to those in the US, so tips are not expected. However, it is still polite to leave a modest tip to show your appreciation for good service. Here is a guide to help you navigate tipping etiquette during your time in Mallorca:

Restaurants:

Tipping in restaurants is common, especially in touristy or business areas. A good rule of thumb is to leave around 10% of the bill as a tip. If the service was exceptional, you can increase the tip to 15-20%. For example, if your meal costs €100, a tip of €10-€15 would be appropriate. It is preferable to leave cash tips if possible.

Bars and Cafes:

In bars and cafes, you can round up the bill to the nearest significant amount or leave a small tip each time you order a drink. For example, for a €10 drink, a tip of €1-€2 is suggested. If you visit a fancy cocktail bar or have a particularly skilled barista, you may want to leave a larger tip.

Hotels:

Tipping in hotels is standard practice in Mallorca. You can tip between 10-20%, depending on the service levels. This includes staff such as maids, bellboys, valets, and front desk employees. For porters, it is customary to give a small tip of €1 per bag when they help you with your luggage. For concierge or reception staff, a tip of €5-€10 is appropriate for exceptional service.

Taxis:

For taxi drivers, a tip of 10% is common for longer journeys, especially if they help with your luggage. For short journeys, you can simply round up the bill to the nearest euro. For example, for a €50 taxi ride, a €5 tip is appropriate, while for a €7.50 ride, rounding up to €8 is sufficient.

Tour Guides:

Tour guides often rely on tips as a source of income, so it is customary to tip them around 10%. If you are taking a private or multi-day tour, a tip of €10-€20 is appropriate. For free tours, a €5 tip per person is appreciated.

Spas:

Tipping in spas is not expected but is appreciated. You can leave a tip of around 10-15% of the treatment price. For example, for a €100 massage, a €10-€15 tip is customary, depending on the quality of the service.

Remember to tip in the local currency, which is the Euro, and carry some small change with you to make tipping easier. Also, check your bill to see if a service charge has already been included before deciding on the tip amount.

Driving rules and rental cars

If you want to explore Mallorca, renting a car is the best way to do it. However, there are some important things to know about driving rules and rental cars on the island.

Driving Rules

In Mallorca, you must drive on the right-hand side of the road. The general speed limits are 50 km/h in towns, 90-100 km/h on open roads, and 120 km/h on motorways. These convert to 31, 56-62, and 75 mph, respectively. You must always wear a seatbelt, and children under 135 cm in height must sit in the back and use an approved child restraint system. It is illegal to use your cell phone while driving unless you are using it with both hands-free. Overtaking must be done on the left side, and you should always indicate with sidelights when you are doing so.

Drinking and Driving

The legal alcohol limit is .05%, and it is a serious offense to drink and drive. The maximum amount of alcohol allowed is 0.5 milliliters per milliliter of blood.

What to Keep in the Car

The following items are mandatory to have in the car: a warning triangle, a visibility vest, a spare set of light bulbs, a driving license, registration, and insurance. If you wear glasses, you are required by law to have a spare pair with you.

Renting a Car

Renting a car in Mallorca is highly recommended, as it allows you to visit many beautiful places on the island. Most car rental companies in Mallorca are decent and reliable, as the island relies heavily on tourism, and bad reputations can hurt their business.

To rent a car in Spain, you must be 21 years old and have had a valid driver's license for at least two years. Additionally, you must have a credit card, and everyone who will be driving the car must be registered in the contract.

It is important to read the contract thoroughly to know exactly what is included in the price. Some factors that can influence the price are the driver's age, transmission type, pick-up and drop-off locations, and whether you pick up or drop off at the airport or train/bus station.

All rental cars in Spain are required to have basic insurance, which is included in the rental price. However, if you plan to visit some of the more remote or challenging areas of the island, you may want to consider purchasing additional insurance, such as a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW).

When renting a car in Mallorca, it is generally recommended to choose the smallest vehicle possible. This is because the roads in Mallorca can be narrow, and parking spaces can be tight, especially in residential areas and the old town of Palma.

Driving in the Mountains

If you plan to drive in the mountains, it is important to choose a suitable vehicle and drive at a comfortable speed for you. The roads in the mountains can be winding and dangerous, and it can be challenging to see around tight corners. Always enter turns in low gear and stay as far to the right as possible.

Additionally, keep an eye on the weather conditions, as storms and rain can make the roads even more treacherous. Make sure to check the forecast before heading out and bring suitable clothing, food, and water.

Driving in the City

Driving in Palma, the capital of Mallorca, can be tricky due to its narrow streets and busy tourist hotspots. There are also many one-way streets, so it is important to pay attention to traffic signs.

Parking

Parking in Mallorca is relatively easy, with all parking zones clearly marked with colors: white for free parking, blue for paid parking, and yellow for no parking. There are also many private car parks available. However, finding parking in the summer months, especially near major tourist attractions, can be challenging.

Rental Car Pick-Up and Drop-Off

If you are picking up or dropping off your rental car at the airport, it is generally recommended to reserve your car as early as possible, especially if you want an automatic transmission vehicle. Rental car companies in European countries tend to have a limited supply of automatic vehicles, and they can run out during the high season.

Scenic Drives

If you're looking for scenic drives, consider driving along the coast from Palma to Port de Soller. This route offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, and you'll pass through quaint towns and villages such as Deia, Valldemossa, and Soller.

Another famous scenic drive is the Sa Calobra Road, which is full of hairpin bends and should be driven with caution.

Overall, driving in Mallorca is a great way to explore the island and its beautiful sights. Just be sure to follow the local driving rules and plan your route in advance to make the most of your trip.

Local customs and meal times

Local Customs in Mallorca

Language

Spanish, or Castilian, is widely spoken in Mallorca, as is Catalan (or Mallorquin, a Catalan dialect). However, English is also widely spoken, particularly in resorts. Learning some basic Spanish phrases, such as how to order food and ask for the bill, is beneficial and may come in handy when shopping in markets or asking for directions.

Tipping

Tipping culture in Mallorca is more modest than in the US, with 10% of the bill being the recommended amount to tip. This is not obligatory but is appreciated by restaurant workers, who often earn a minimum wage and work long hours.

Driving

In Mallorca, people drive on the right-hand side. To drive in Spain, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your American driver's license. Rental cars in Mallorca are usually smaller and manual, so it is recommended to contact the rental centre in advance if you require an automatic car.

Dress Code

Europeans tend to dress more formally in their daily lives. While Mallorca is a tourist destination, it is advisable to dress respectfully when visiting churches, sightseeing in Palma, or visiting the old towns.

Smoking

Smoking is allowed on most beaches in Mallorca, but the Spanish Health Ministry is looking to implement a ban on all beaches in the future. There are smoke-free beaches available, and a ban on smoking on restaurant terraces has been lifted.

Drinking

The legal drinking age in Mallorca is 18 years old. The police are intolerant of drunken behaviour, so it is important to drink responsibly.

Pickpocketing

Mallorca is generally safe, but it is important to remain vigilant for pickpockets in crowded areas, especially at night. Keep valuables secure when visiting busy areas or going for a swim.

Meal Times in Mallorca

Lunch

Lunchtimes for Spaniards are typically later, starting from 2-3 pm and lasting until around 5 pm. Going for lunch on the earlier side, around 12:30-1 pm, increases the chance of getting a table in a popular restaurant, but booking ahead is always advised.

Dinner

Dinner time for locals in Mallorca is around 9-10 pm. In holiday resorts, it is more common to have dinner around 8 pm, with last orders around 10:30 pm.

Siesta

During the hot summer months, some businesses and shops close in the afternoon for a siesta, usually from around 2-2:30 pm to 5 pm. However, big chain stores and supermarkets remain open.

Frequently asked questions