Do You Need a Rental Car in Mallorca? Getting Around Without One

Why a Car Is Often Recommended

Travellers report that having a rental car is recommended for exploring the island, and that with a car you can be pretty much anywhere in 90 minutes maximum. The island isn't that big, so a car gives you the freedom to visit beaches like Cala Varques, towns like Port d'Andratx and Esporles, and hiking spots without relying on timetables.

Renting a car from the airport is recommended, and underground parking in Palma centre is easy and cheap at around 2 EURO per hour (reported by a user). If you're based in a rural finca or want to explore the Tramuntana, a car is almost essential.

How to Get Around Without a Car

You can get around without a car using Mallorca's bus and train network. TIB buses run to all the main cities from Palma city and airport, roughly hourly, daily. For a few small places such as Lluc or Colònia de Sant Jordi, you change buses at an inland town. TIB trains run every 20 min from Palma to Inca, where they branch to Sa Pobla or Manacor.

A heritage train runs from Palma to Sóller, where you change to the wooden tram to the port. These are so crowded with tourists that they're no longer practical for locals. Buses accept regular credit or debit card, no cash needed, according to travellers report. The bus from the airport to Estació Intermodal costs 5 euros and includes one transfer, which may include the transfer to the bus to Puerto Pollença.

For hiking, use the free AllTrails app to find trails around Mallorca. A hike from St Elm to La Trapa is not a casual walk but also not that hard.

When a Car Is a Mistake

A car is a mistake if you're staying in Palma centre, especially near the big Cathedral, because there are limited traffic areas and entering without authorization can result in fines. One traveller reported receiving a €90 fine for driving through the ACIRE zone after Google Maps routed them there. A commenter advises paying the fine rather than ignoring it, warning that Schengen countries can share information and it could cause problems if you return to Spain or Schengen.

Also, a large SUV is highly impractical in Mallorca; everyone tries to avoid those. Small roads in the Tramuntana can be tricky because they are narrow, and you may get stuck behind cyclists or buses on windy roads. In peak summer, parking in places like Port de Sóller can be limited with a rental car.

If you're not comfortable driving on the right, dealing with roundabouts with zebra crossings at entry and exit, and taking right of way assertively, a car might add stress. Travellers report that if you have the right of way, take it; trying to be polite and giving priority can confuse others and create chaos.

Car Rental Tips and Pitfalls

Book car rentals early; many options were already booked for desired dates, travellers report. Recommended agencies include Sixt, Wiber, Hiper Rent a Car, OK Mobility, and Vanrell. Wiber offers smart/virtual pick up/drop off outside normal hours and full insurance was only a few euros extra per day. Taking the rental company's extra insurance is often easier for peace of mind, avoids a 1000 euro card block, and the price difference is often minimal compared to buying separate insurance.

Be wary of scams: ClickRent charged 3x the quoted amount including a 200e deposit and only refunded 50e claiming the car was extremely dirty; a user advises contacting 'consumo' (consumer protection office in Palma) to seek a refund. Always check the car thoroughly and take photos before driving off.

Driving and Parking in Mallorca

Drive on the right; be aware of speed limits because more cameras are being installed. At roundabouts, watch for zebra crossings right at the entry and exit in urban areas. Watch out for groups of cyclists on the roads.

Use car parks; if parking roadside where there are blue lines, look for a ticket machine nearby and pay for how long you think you'll be. Don't park anywhere stupid and you'll not have a problem with fines. If you get a parking ticket from abroad, translate the letter, go to the website indicated, and enter the barcode numbers to pay by card.

Alternatives to a Car

Renting a scooter for a week is a good way to explore beaches, hiking and the city, according to travellers report. For solo travellers or couples, a scooter can be cheaper and easier to park. However, scooters are not ideal for long distances or in bad weather.

Taxis are available but mostly in the business of airport transfers not short rides in some towns. In Palma, taxis are plentiful. Consider whether there are plenty of taxis in Mallorca and whether it is worth renting a car. For groups, a taxi can be cost-effective for short trips.

If you're staying in Palma, you can use EMT buses within the city and its beach strip. Bus CC orbits city centre M-F every 40 min and is free. Standard fares in 2024 are €2 within the city, €3 to the sea port and €5 to the airport, pay on board, no transfers permitted.