Christmas Celebrations in Palma de Mallorca
Get into the festive spirit at Palma's annual Christmas Fair.

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains
Traditional rural town in central Majorca
Perched high on a ridge in Mallorca’s countryside and surrounded by old stone windmills, the sleepy village of Montuiri is probably the most impressive sight on the road between Palma and Manacor.
Montuiri is a traditionally charming village made up of historic buildings, from old medieval houses to grand mansions built in later centuries, making it a pleasant and interesting place to take a stroll. A world away from the usual tourist spots on the island, there’s a timeless feel to Montuiri as it remains true to its Mallorcan roots. Between the streets, you are greeted with views of the relatively unspoiled countryside dotted with ancient farmhouses and old windmills.
The weekly morning market is held on Mondays in the main square and is a great opportunity to see this village at its best whilst rubbing shoulders with the locals.
Montuïri is the setting for one of Mallorca's most spectacular festivals, the Feast of Sant Bartholomew. Each August, 'cossiers' (traditional Mallorcan dancers) accompanied by musicians with bagpipes, flutes and drums, dress up as women and devils and perform a dance, the origins of which stretch back at least 400 years, where evil is overcome by good.
The annual Partridge Fair held in Plaza Major takes place on the first weekend of December. A partridge hunting competition, alongside the usual delights found in Mallorca’s famous fairs, can be enjoyed here, including local produce, livestock and arts and crafts.
Get into the festive spirit at Palma's annual Christmas Fair.
The charming Pueblo Español, a reconstructed Spanish village near the centre of Palma, turns into an outdoor market at the beginning of December.
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.
The boat show is usally held in Palma in the spring, promising and delivering vibrant displays of fancy yachts and all things nautical. Set in Palma's harbour at La Llonja, this spectacular setting in front of the cathedral only adds the the glitz and glamour of this prestigious show.
The name ‘Montuïri’ translates in Latin to ‘Mountain Town’, and whilst official records suggest the town of Montuiri dates back to 1329 AD, the architecture signals that its history started way before that. Buildings like Velar de Sa Torre, Alcoraia, S’Almudaina and Es Rafal Aixat show Moorish influence while settlements outside the village were established in the Bronze Age with Son Fornes, a great place of archaeological interest, dating back as far as 900BC.
The eight mill towers of the Molinar district, redundant since the 1920s, are the symbol of the village. The number of 18th and 19th-century grand mansions standing in the village today suggests that many wealthy men lived in Montuiri in more recent times.
The archaeological site of Son Fornes is 2.5km from Montuiri. Talaiot 1 is one of the largest of these Bronze Age megaliths in Mallorca and it welcomes visitors to one of the most typical settlements of the Talaiotic Period. A museum for this site is housed in an 1800's flour mill, helping us to understand the transformation of the island's communities during the first millennium BC. It is open year-round but, beware, opening hours vary depending on the season.
To learn more about the more recent history of the island visit the Museu Etnològic dels Calderers, a 17th-century rural manor showcasing period interiors, farming tools and tastings of wine and pork products. It is just over a 10 minute drive away from Montuiri.
Head to the top of Puig de Sant Miguel (661m) for the best views of the area. The 14th century Santuari Mare de Deu la Bona Pau is a landmark worth seeing here and there's also a traditional restaurant with a panoramic terrace serving Mallorcan cuisine.
Rialto Living is Palma's most famous interior design and concept store. Located right in the heart of the city, it has a small art gallery inside with temporary art exhibitions.
This small museum of religious and historical antefacts is based in a wing of the former episcopal palace tucked behind the cathedral.
Es Baluard Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art was opened in 2004 as a cultural institution for research and dissemination of Balearic & Mediterranean art from the 20th and 21st centuries.
Spain gets the theme-park treatment at this 'village' in the outskirts of Palma, where reproductions of famous buildings from Cordoba, Toledo and Madrid are gathered together with typical houses from the Spanish regions.
Based on the collection of Antoni Roig Clar, this museum showcases over 3,000 toys from all around the world and from different eraas.
A royal palace has stood on this site next to Palma's cathedral since the Muslim walis (governors) built their alcazar soon after the Arab conquest.
Playa de Palma is a long stretch of beach to the east of Palma de Mallorca and opening onto Palma Bay. It's also one of Mallorca's biggest holiday resorts.
Also known as Platja de Sa Ràpita, an alternative to Es Trenc is the beautiful neighbouring beach at S’Arenal de sa Rapita in the southeast of Majorca. It is much quieter than Es Trenc, and is popular with families, surfers and windsurfers.
Es Racó de S'Arena offers a complete escape from the bustle of tourists and is great for exploring or walking. If you're lucky, you could find yourself completely alone here. Even when there are other people, there is enough space to carve out an area which feels private.
Unassigned to any of the island’s numerous holiday resorts, the stunning beach of Es Trenc is geographically fairly isolated with a wonderful wild and natural feel. With 2km of bleached white sand and transparent water, it's often referred to as more Caribbean than Mediterranean in characteristics.
The small resort town of Ciudad Jardin lies around five kilometres east of Palma. Its beach, also commonly referred to as ‘Ciutat Jardi’, lies alongside a quiet promenade lined with palm trees, offering a huge variety of different styled bars and restaurants.
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.
Montuïri offers a selection of traditional cafés and rustic eateries that reflect the village’s rural charm. Dining here often means enjoying hearty, home-style Mallorcan dishes such as rich rice stews, roasted meats, and freshly made desserts. Many venues feature terraces or outdoor seating, allowing visitors to savour meals while taking in sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and the island’s tranquil plains. The focus is on simple, authentic cuisine that celebrates local ingredients, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere ideal for a relaxed lunch or evening meal in the heart of Mallorca.
Chef Adrián Quetglas and his team create menus based on natural products, traditional recipes and avant-garde techniques of different but complementary cultures, always from the point of view of an author.
Fittingly housed in a beautiful colonial building in the Santa Catalina district of Palma, this is a cafe, bar and club, open all day, every day.
This gem of a restaurant is situated in Palma's old town. It has a simple yet charming interior as well as tables outside which are a popular choice on warm summer evenings.
Located inside the Sant Francesc Hotel, in Palma's old town, this restaurant serves gastronomic Mediterranean cuisine in their chic dining room or lush garden.
This charming restaurant has double height ceilings which highlight the bright and airy peaceful atmosphere and a wonderful terrace with spectacular views towards the marina.
Situated in a historical area, a few metres from the cathedral of Palma de Mallorca and close to the sea, you will find Dins Santi Taura.
Fittingly housed in a beautiful colonial building in the Santa Catalina district of Palma, this is a cafe, bar and club, open all day, every day.
The ambience of this restaurant is casual and attracts a cosmopolitan crowd. The bar with its VIP area is the meeting point for travellers and locals who can listen to DJs playing. Small dishes are served in the bar and when the weather permits, food and drinks can be enjoyed on the patio.
The perfect place for a post-work pint, or an energetic evening with a bunch of friends and a buzzing atmosphere.
Agua has always been regarded as a cool place to hang out, and when you come into the bar you'll hear why they are known for playing the best music in Palma.
Bar Flexas is a bit of an institution in Palma. Well known for its vintage interior and unorthodox clientele, it is always an interesting night here.
This tapas bar is located on a side street just off the Plaza Weyler in Palma. Enjoy vermouths and authentic tapas in a retro-style bar.
Montuiri is a sleepy village, a great place to stroll around and absorb some of the history, natural beauty and character of the island. However, if you were to use Montuiri as a base whilst staying on the island, then there are plenty of interesting places to visit in the surrounding area. The nearby winery is worth a visit, and there's a highly regarded golf course just down the road with its own academy and exclusive clubhouse.
Enjoy a fun full-day or half-day boat trip aboard this luxurious Pardo 43 motor yacht.
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
Enjoy four hours on a private motor boat in Palma Bay, perfect for small groups or those on a budget.
Picture-perfect views from your vintage scooter
Enjoy a fantastic day at sea and exploring secluded coves and beaches aboard a typical yacht from the Balearic Islands, "El Gordito".
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
The area surrounding Montuiri is popular amongst road cycling enthusiasts, as there are various routes to match different levels of ability. There’s a choice of places to rent bikes too.
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.
A flat road cycle but at a distance of 60km this could be a long ride for a beginner so be prepared!
An easy ride if you are used to road biking and at 44km this route could be a good challenge for a beginner!
An easy route more suited to someone with a bit of road cycling experience due to the nature of the hills and busy roads.
On Saturday we hired bikes and set off on a hot afternoon to explore the beaches of Palma Bay. A shoreline cycle path runs from the northern end of Palma docks all the way to the resort S’Arenal in the south.
100,000 cyclists cannot be wrong. Mallorca is one of the most popular and idyllic islands for cycling with it's plentiful flat farm roads and challenging hill climbs.
This area might not be as famous as the west for hikes and walking trails but there are some lovely trails to try. The short walk from Montuiri to the top of Puig de Sant Miguel is one of the best and can be incorporated into a number of routes.
Good Friday is often a great opportunity for a spring time walk, especially in Mallorca where there was not a single cloud in the sky and temperatures were in the mid 20s.
Algaida is located towards the middle of the island, about 15 km east of Palma. This hike can start from the town of Algaida, walking towards Castellitx, where there is a beautiful hermitage, the "Ermita de la Pau" that is well worth visiting, and then on to Aubella, where the climb to Cura starts.
Petra is located towards the middle of the island, about 8km west of Manacor. The walk up to the hermitage starts in Petra, following the paved road and involves a walk of a little over an hour, you can also get there by a trail going up from Vilafranca.
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.
Felanitx is located in the south-east of Mallorca.
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.
An exhilarating rock and water activity suitable for families and adrenaline-junkies, a great way to explore the coastline of Mallorca.
Enjoy an exhilarating day trekking and scrambling through gorges, waterfalls and jumping into giant rock pools.
Lessons delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
Why not have an adventure and try the new water sport, Flyboard? Located in Port Calanova which has the perfect conditions to try this fun and exciting sport.
Whiz around the local coastline with friends and family
Beautifully located amongst pine and wild olive trees on the edge of the pretty rural town of Lloret lies Sa Rota de Ca'n Blanc, a charming and comfortable country hideaway from which to experience and explore the rural heartland of Mallorca.
Enjoy an unforgettable vacation in this villa! Imagine this: Waking up to the sound of birds singing and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air. Go out to the terrace to enjoy breakfast with views of the impressive mountains of Mallorca.
This beautiful, stone clad country home set amongst the undulating countryside surrounding the small village of Buger, offers spacious grounds as well as a generous, convivial interior with wooden flooring, high ceilings and contemporary furnishings that create a light, bright & airy ambiance throughout.
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.
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.
Montuïri offers a variety of short-term rental accommodations, including traditional stone houses, rural villas, and charming cottages. These properties often feature classic Mallorcan architecture, such as exposed beams and stone walls, combined with modern amenities like private pools, gardens, and fully equipped kitchens. Some accommodations are situated on the outskirts of Montuïri, providing scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a peaceful base for exploring central Mallorca, Montuïri's short-term rentals provide a charming and authentic experience.
This fully equipped apartment is ideal for two guests.
This stunning duplex apartment is fully equipped and provides spacious accommodation for two.
This fully equipped and spacious apartment is set on three levels, providing an original and fun accommodation for two.
This fully equipped and unique apartment is set on three levels, providing a quirky and fun accommodation for two.
This spectacular loft apartment is fully equipped and provides delightful accommodation for two.
This fully equipped and comfortable apartment is ideal for two guests.
There are a handful of small hotels located within the village, perfect for a hideaway retreat all year round. Benefiting from the perks of small hotels, from a swimming pool that never feels overcrowded to an honesty bar. you'll find all the mods and cons you would want from a 21st-century hotel, whilst staying in a space that preserves the original charm of the building.
Think beautiful country manors turned four-star hotel specialising in retreats with various packages available and you're not far off what can be found in and around Montuiri.
This charming hotel is located in the historical old town, in the very heart of Palma de Mallorca. It is within easy walking distance of attractions such as the 10th century Arab baths and Palma's breathtaking gothic Cathedral.
This charming 14th century farmhouse has been converted into an agrotourism hotel, where guests can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing stay in a rural environment and get involved in the hotel's agricultural activities.
One of Mallorca's best boutique hotels; Grand Hotel Son Net is a stylishly restored 17th century mansion offering the essence of Mallorcan classicism combined with luxury and grandeur.
Find peace and tranquillity in this chic, modern hotel just off the harbour promenade, with a bustling nightlife. With a friendly atmosphere that invites you to be happy.
Moorish casbah luxury meets contemporary sleekness with unrivaled sea views of Spain's Balearic coast.
Situated in the valley of Es Verger, a nature reserve with breathtaking views over the south of the island, at 510 metres of altitude. The hotel is in a 16th-century manor.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and it takes around 25 minutes to get to Montuiri from Palma airport. Follow the Ma-19, then take exit 6 to get on the Ma-15 towards Manacor, which takes you all the way to Montuiri. Or take the stress out of driving and book a private transfer.
There is a direct bus from Palma Airport to Montuiri. It takes about 30 minutes and runs a few times per day.
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.
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.
Multilingual company offering transfers from the airport to your destination.
The only British taxi driver in Mallorca, offering airport transfers to destinations throughout the island.
Great quality service at rates that are irresistible. This company exclusively transfer you around Mallorca without having to pay an excessive price.
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.
See allUpcoming Events