© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
Commercial town with a weekly market in central Mallorca
Inca lies halfway up the motorway between Palma and Alcudia, almost at the centre of the island and at the foot of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.
Inca is Mallorca's third-largest town, best known as the 'city of leather' owing to a lengthy history of leather making that continues nowadays. The town is steeped in history and, whilst not as pretty as some of the other towns on the island, features some lovely architecture. The local market taking place every Thursday is one of its main tourist attractions, otherwise, it remains a sleepy local town. There’s also a good number of boutique and high-street fashion shops, cafes and a selection of well-known cellar restaurants (old wine cellars turned into restaurants) worth exploring.
It’s largely a residential town, full of native Mallorcans living alongside a small expat community and has brilliant public transport links connecting it to the rest of the island. If you come on an organised tour, it’s more than likely you will be taken to a leather factory. Shop around, as there are still a few bargains to be had.
Inca, being a large residential town, has a thriving events calendar with theatre, exhibitions, live music concerts and sports events taking place throughout the year. Here are just a couple of the biggest and best to keep an eye out for.
Inca hosts Mallorca's biggest autumn fair, known as the Dijous Bo or Good Thursday. It was originally an agricultural fair that has grown to include exhibitions, music concerts, fireworks and all-night parties. It takes place across various weekends in October and November.
Throughout July, Inca puts on a spectacular jazz festival within the historical building of Claustre de San Domingo which is a huge draw for jazz music lovers on the island at this time of year. Keep an eye on our events calendar for the dates.
Inca is home to one of Mallorca's biggest markets. Every Thursday, the streets around Plaça d'Espanya are taken over by row upon row of stalls. You will find plenty of leather here, plus jewellery, carved olive wood, lace and fresh produce from across the island. If you appreciate a good flower arrangement, make sure you head to Plaça d'Espanya as it transforms into an open-air flower show.
Jazz Voyeur Festival, established as the point of reference for high-quality jazz music in the Balearic Islands thanks to its remarkable track record, presents an artistic line-up that once again manages to bring great national and international artists to Mallorca.
Want to play golf, soak up the sun, watch exciting matches, and maybe even swing a club yourself. This could be the event for you.
Puerto Portals has become the port with the largest fleet of Dragons in Spain and a benchmark on the international circuit.
Head to Palma's city centre for the switching on of the Christmas Lights. Live music and more will liven up the streets of the vibrant city.
Get into the festive spirit at Palma's annual Christmas Fair.
The German community in Santa Ponsa celebrate their very own 'Weihnachtsmarkt' every year at the Polígono Son Bugadellas.
Inca has its place in Mallorca’s early history as the home to several Talaiotic settlements which were inhabited way back before the Romans occupied the island. During the Islamic period, the town was known as ‘Inkán’ and, from this time some traces remain such as the "sinies" and the "ganats" or "foggara", different systems employed by the Arabs to draw underground water.
Inca and its surrounding area were mass producers of wine between the 17th and 19th centuries but the plague of phylloxera destroyed the industry. This is when its residents focused on tanning and leather craftsmanship. With the implementation of the rail system and a gas factory, this industry boomed.
Traces of its wine producing are still very much on show as many old wine cellars have been converted into restaurants and ooze character thanks to the original winemaking artefacts on display. They are known as ‘cellar’ restaurants and are best known for serving authentic Mallorcan food. The good news is that wine production in the area is on the rise again and already producing some top quality wines.
Inca’s quite a mish-mash of architecture and there are a few buildings and other sights and attractions of interest to culture vultures visiting the area.
The churches are the main attraction, particularly the Baroque-style parish church of Santa Maria Maggiore which was originally built in the year 1248. However, the present building dates back to the 18th century and is the third one occupying the same site.
Other historical places of interest in the municipality of Inca, equally Baroque, are the Convento Dominicano de Santo Domingo, the Church of San Francisco and its cloister, the Puig de Santa Magdalena and the Convento de Sant Bartomeu.
The main square, Plaça d'Espanya is home to the town hall, the legendary Spanish steps, and plenty of nice cafes. It’s a great place to kick back with a coffee and watch the world go by.
The museum of footwear and leather ‘Museu del Calçat i Ia Pell d'Inca’ exhibits machinery and other objects related to the leather industry.
One of Mallorca’s most talked about treasures, Sa Calobra, forms an unusual cove found at the head of a gorge of the Torrent de Pareis. It’s curious location and dramatic surroundings have inspired artists for many years and still do today.
The Port of Soller offers the only sandy beaches on the west coast of Majorca. This lovely little resort offers two beaches along it's horseshoe bay, all with golden sands and clear blue seas.
Playa de Muro is a beautiful 6 kilometre long, Blue Flag award-winning, white sandy beach in the north of Mallorca. It's generally quieter than neighbouring Alcudia beach because of its out of town location.
Situated 10km away from Alcudia on Mallorca’s northern coast, Playa de Ca’n Picafort is a busy yet beautiful expanse of soft white sand with clear blue waters. This small fishing village turned purpose-built-resort, mostly caters to tourists and all-inclusive holidaymakers, who arrive by the bus load every summer.
This beautiful and popular ‘Blue Flag’ beach boasting fine white sand, stretches more than 3 kilometres east from Port d'Alcúdia. This breath-taking beach is one of the reasons why Port d'Alcúdia remains so popular with holiday makers year after year.
Cala Deia is a very beautiful small rocky cala with clear waters and rock pools, one of the few beaches on the west coast of Mallorca. It's quite a rugged beach here so you might need to bring a chair or a lilo to lie on.
Inca is famous for its ‘cellars’, old wine-cellars turned into characterful restaurants featuring traditional dishes at reasonable prices. You can expect homemade hearty food from which you will come away feeling more than satisfied.
Away from these establishments are contemporary places serving high-quality, locally inspired dishes with a modern twist, often with a lunchtime menu that you'll find particularly popular amongst tourists and locals.
For a more casual vibe go modern and try the latest international food trends - there are plenty of restaurants offering these.
At the Joan Marc Restaurant you will discover the new Mallorca’s cuisine, fresher, simpler and full of flavours.
This restaurant is located in the centre of Inca. Enjoy tasty and healthy food at a reasonable price.
Historic family run restaurant near Inca with standout views and a great all round reputation.
At Miceli restaurant you can expect a combination of home cooked food with a sprinkling of a quirky feel.
Located in Inca, this restaurant offers a taste of all the Balearic islands, not just Mallorca
Inca is a year-round destination. The town and its surrounding villages provide an attractive base for those keen to immerse themselves in some genuine Mallorcan culture as well as those who like to indulge in outdoor pursuits. So enjoy some wine tasting and vineyard tours, or go shopping for leather goods.
Leather is the word in Inca. You will find leather shops littering the town, while Thursday’s market offers lots of options of varying quality with some bargains to be had. Alternatively, visit the large leather outlets on the outskirts of town. For high-street shopping, head to Avinguda del Bisbe Llompart which has famed Spanish brands along with some independent shopping stores. Carrer des Hostals, adjacent to Plaça d'Espanya, is where you will find boutique shops selling international designer labels.
Cyclists will enjoy the rolling country lanes within close proximity to Inca, which is also within easy reach of the craggy Serra de Tramuntana for thigh-busting climbs and some of the most famous cycling routes on the island.
A cycling tour with Mills and Honey isn't just about cycling, it's about immersing yourself in the landscape, culture and flavours of the island.
An easy route more suited to someone with a bit of road cycling experience due to the nature of the hills and busy roads.
An easy ride if you are used to road biking and at 44km this route could be a good challenge for a beginner!
The road to Sa Calobra is one of the reasons so many cyclists come to Mallorca. With an average gradient of 7% (maximum gradient is 12%) and a height gain of 668m over 9.4km it is sure to test the most professional thighs.
Cycling from Port de Soller along the coast and through Deia, you will then travel on to Valldemossa before heading back inland and finishing over the Coll de Soller.
Starting and finishing in Port de Soller this ride has a half way point in Cala Deia where you ahve the chance to stop for some lunch, a snack or even a dip in the sea to cool off.
There are plenty of charming hill villages close to Inca such as Lloseta, Selva or Mancor de la Vall. These are good places to start hikes and explore the countryside.
Inca can be reached either by train from Palma or by car. If you go to Inca on a Thursday, you'll be able to enjoy one of Mallorca's biggest and best markets.
Lloseta is located in the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, just outside Inca. You can catch a train there from Palma (Plaza de España). From Lloseta you can take the road going to Mancor de la Vall, passing by Biniamar.
Campanet is located in the north-west of Mallorca, about 8 km north of Inca. In Campanet, the parish church is worth a visit. It was built in 1717, and its outstanding feature is the sculpture on the altar. The church holds the relics of the Martyr San Victoriano, the complete body of the saint dressed as a warrior.
Alaró is located in the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, between Palma and Inca.
It is common knowledge that in order to find the best views of anything, one needs to go up! I am certainly a firm believer in this theory and it was with this goal that I set out one Sunday afternoon to reach the top of the island!
Ses Fonts Ufanes is a protected area of natural springs on the outskirts of Campanet. It's the perfect place for a relaxing walk with all the family. Although there are plenty of coastal walks on the island, it's rare to be able to stroll along a riverbank and enjoy the sound of gushing water.
Mallorca has a great variety of canyons suitable from beginner level to advanced, with each of them offering a unique experience.
Swim in the crystal clear waters on the north-west coast and discover its stunning underwater world on this snorkelling trip
Daily trips for certified divers in a great diversity of dive sites
Son Dur-hi estate offers all the peace and seclusion of an exclusive retreat. This stunning, secluded villa is ideal for gathering with your family and friends to enjoy Mallorcan countryside living at its best. Large groups are well catered for with the main house with three bedrooms and a separate annexe with two double bedrooms.
This is a luxurious villa that has been restored from old ruins with great care to incorporate the original architecture with a modern design.
Designed with exquisite taste, this stylish and modern villa in Moscari exudes class and good taste. With every attention to the utmost details, the property has a beautiful harmony of Mallorcan architecture and Dutch interior design.
With every attention to the utmost details, the property has a beautiful harmony of Mallorcan architecture and Dutch interior designed with exquisite taste, this stylish and modern villa in Moscari exudes class and good taste.
Empaltada is a truly luxury and stylish villa with private pool, combining a great privacy with classy details. The truly perfect holiday home for an unforgettable holiday on Mallorca.
Font 39 is a beautiful and cozy town house with a private pool that enjoys a privileged location within the traditional town of Campanet, in the center of Mallorca.
Staying in short-term rental accommodation is a wonderful way to experience your holiday in your own time and space. With the freedom to cook, relax and come and go as you please, there are a number of beautiful rural establishments in the surrounding countryside, along with some lovely private fincas available to rent, ideal for larger groups.
Son Dur-hi estate offers all the peace and seclusion of an exclusive retreat. This stunning, secluded villa is ideal for gathering with your family and friends to enjoy Mallorcan countryside living at its best. Large groups are well catered for with the main house with three bedrooms and a separate annexe with two double bedrooms.
With every attention to the utmost details, the property has a beautiful harmony of Mallorcan architecture and Dutch interior designed with exquisite taste, this stylish and modern villa in Moscari exudes class and good taste.
Designed with exquisite taste, this stylish and modern villa in Moscari exudes class and good taste. With every attention to the utmost details, the property has a beautiful harmony of Mallorcan architecture and Dutch interior design.
This is a luxurious villa that has been restored from old ruins with great care to incorporate the original architecture with a modern design.
Empaltada is a truly luxury and stylish villa with private pool, combining a great privacy with classy details. The truly perfect holiday home for an unforgettable holiday on Mallorca.
Villa Ses Porrasses is a large stone beautiful clad family villa able to accommodate 14 people in this wonderful 7 bedroom villa nestled at the foot of the Tramuntana Mountain. With it's own driveway leading up to this stunning property with a wrap around veranda, stunning views and large terraces to enjoy al fresco dining.
There are very few hotels in Inca itself, but there are boutique hotels dotted around the outskirts of the town that are within walking distance.
Boutique hotel located in the very heart of the beautiful mountain range Sierra de Tramuntana. This country hotel has been constructed within an ancient Mallorcan finca, inside a more than 200 years old oil mill.
This hotel is located in the heart of Mallorca, between Consell and Binissalem, an area well know for its wines.
This beautiful rural hotel is within the village of Selva in the north part of the island. It has a privileged setting at the heart of nature surrounded by olive, almond, orange and lemons trees.
Filicumis is a farm, built in 1828, situated on the slopes of the Tramuntana mountain range. The house is a typical Mallorcan farm with a central courtyard and a well, set in a typical Mediterranean landscape of almond, olive and fig trees.
Charming rural hotel based on an old Mallorcan oil mill, in a property more than 200 years old. It has been recently refurbished, and is located in the heart of hiking and cycling land.
One of the oldest farms in Santa María, the house is surrounded by vineyards and even produced its own wine until just a few years ago. It has been renovated following the style of the typical inns in the Burgundy region and has become a very unique hotel with spectacular views either to the vineyards or to the Tramuntana mountain range.
Inca is just under a 30-minute drive from Palma airport. Head towards Palma along the Ma-19, then use the Ma-20 ring road around the city before taking the Ma-13 all the way to Inca. Alternatively take the hassle out of driving and book a private transfer.
There is a direct bus to Inca from the airport.
Experience luxury and convenience with this company. Arrive at your yacht charter, sunset tour or boat trip in unparalleled style in a Rolls Royce Ghost.
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
This taxi & transfer company operates out of Palma, covering the whole of Mallorca Island.
The only British taxi driver in Mallorca, offering airport transfers to destinations throughout the island.
A group of taxi drivers with many years of experience in the sector of airport transfers in Mallorca. You can book online in advance or call to book last-minute.
This taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.
Find out all about what is happening in Mallorca and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, fabulous beaches, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see, and experience on the island.
See allLatest News & ReviewsThe island hosts all sorts of events, including agricultural fairs in the spring and autumn, live music and DJs in the summer, religious fiestas and international sporting events. Some of the most popular are the Mallorca 312 cycling race in April, the Copa del Rey sailing regatta in July and the Moors vs Christians mock battle in September.
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