Make your Mallorca family holidays memorable with these top plans

Mallorca shines brightest between May and October, when the weather is warm but not oppressive, and the sea is invitingly calm. During the February half-term holidays, the almond blossoms are out, and the island hums with gentle early springtime charm. Yet, of course, when visiting Mallorca with family, you will be tied to school holidays. If you can travel outside of term time, June and September are ideal, as they are sunny, less crowded, and offer a packed calendar of local festivals. Those with very young children should avoid booking Mallorca holidays in July and August as the temperatures soar during this time. If you do have to travel during this time, plan around early mornings and poolside siestas.

Start your Mallorca family holidays exploring the island’s capital, Palma. This city blends history, culture and relaxed seaside vibes in a way that is wonderfully accessible for families. The first landmark to visit is the La Seu Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that captivates little imaginations with its soaring ceilings and sea-facing setting. Just nearby, kids can run along the old city walls or chase pigeons in the leafy Parc de la Mar. The Old Town is not to be missed, especially as it makes for a picturesque place to stop and enjoy a quick coffee and ice cream in between your sightseeing. For a more hands-on experience during your Palma family holidays, the Museu Fundación Juan March often has child-friendly exhibitions, ideal for sheltering away from the elements. If you want to explore the island by boat, many excursions can also be picked up from Palma, so it is worth keeping in mind during your visit.

Locals can tell you that Can Joan de S’Aigo is the perfect pit stop for families exploring the capital. This hidden gem is tucked into a quiet street in the Old Town and has been serving ice cream and pastries since the 1700s. Kids will love the old-world décor almost as much as the menu. This fairytale café serves its delicious ice cream in a wide variety of flavours and you cannot leave without trying the famed ensaïmada, a spiral-shaped Mallorcan pastry dusted with icing sugar. It’s a charming way to introduce children to local flavours in a setting that feels straight out of a storybook.

History fans will love exploring the historic fortress of Castell de Bellver, which overlooks Palma from its forested hilltop perch. With its unique circular layout, this 14th-century fortress is a dream setting for budding knights and queens. Children can run along the ramparts, peer out of arrow-slit windows, and explore the echoing courtyard below. The castle’s tower offers panoramic views over Palma’s harbour and there is also a small museum inside detailing the island’s history, making this a surprisingly engaging cultural stop that’s just the right size for younger visitors.

Looking for ways to enjoy your Mallorca holidays for young families? A dolphin observation excursion is a wonderful way to explore the island in a fun and interactive way. Boat rides can be organised from any of Mallorca’s ports, such as Palma, Pollença or Alcudia with most tours taking you to the Cape of Formentor, one of the island’s best spots for dolphin watching. Of course, opt for a tour that promotes the protection and conservation of the dolphins and you will be sure to be rewarded with fascinating information about the local dolphin population. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to catch a glimpse of this beautiful species and throughout Mallorca, the months of April through to October offer the best season for this day trip.

There is plenty to do in Mallorca for families, yet there is perhaps no plan as original as a train ride on the Sóller vintage train. Combine your stay in Palma with a ride on the Ferrocarril de Sóller, a century-old wooden train that winds from Palma to the picturesque town of Sóller. It’s a magical journey through citrus groves, tunnels and mountain views that will be loved by kids and adults alike. Kids will love the Harry Potter-esque carriages; parents will appreciate the scenery. Once in Sóller, stroll the square, grab an ice cream, or hop on the vintage tram to Port de Sóller for a beachside lunch.

When thinking about Mallorca for your family holidays, it is easy just to imagine endless stretches of beaches. Yet, Mallorca is also home to stunning protected landscapes. Adventure-loving families should make for La Reserva, a nature park in the foothills of the Tramuntana Mountains. 

Here you can walk along scenic trails through forest, caves and waterfalls, spot birds of prey and bears, and challenge older children with zip lines and rock climbing. It is the perfect way to burn off steam while exploring the natural side of the island. Can’t make it to La Reserva? The Serra de Tramuntana Nature Park, a UNESCO Heritage site, has many family-friendly routes to choose from. Explore the Cuber reservoir or head into the picturesque villages of Pollença or Valldemossa for an authentic glance at local life.

Being an island, Mallorca is not short of picturesque beaches. Yet, with little ones in tow, it is important to choose a beach that suits all ages. Cala Viñas, in the southwestern side of Mallorca, located just minutes from the Occidental Cala Viñas, is a fantastic option for families. Its fine white sand lined by palm trees and its shallow turquoise waters create a tropical, sheltered place to swim, paddleboard and soak up the sun. Alternatively, Cala Ferrera, next to the Barceló Ponent Beach, offers a textbook-perfect beach in the south of the island. This blissful beach is home to tranquil waters, ideal for swimming, snorkelling or a relaxing boat ride during your Mallorca family holidays.

One of the Mallorca family attractions not to miss is exploring Alcudia’s Old Town. Walking through the town feels like stepping into a storybook with a maze of cobbled lanes, medieval walls and hidden courtyards that spark young imaginations. Kids can pretend to be ancient knights protecting the city as they walk along the city’s ancient ramparts, while parents take in sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. 

There is also a twice-weekly market (Tuesdays and Sundays) that makes for a fun place to soak up local culture. Here you can stock up on everything from fresh fruit to handmade toys and straw hats as well as traditional souvenirs. Stop for a freshly squeezed orange juice, glass of local wine or a slice of coca (Mallorcan flatbread) at one of the shaded cafés in the central square, then let little ones run free in the nearby pedestrian-only streets. Its history made fun and refreshingly car-free.

Looking for Mallorca family activities to help banish the heat? The Hidropark in Alcudia is one of the best things to do in Mallorca for families. This small but cheerful park is perfect for younger kids, with mini-slides, a wave pool, and enough splash zones to tire out even the most energetic explorer. Open every day, it is worth noting that during the high season, it will get busy, so be sure to book your tickets online to avoid long queues.

For sporty families and fans of tennis, the Rafa Nadal Museum Xperience in Manacor offers a high-energy outing that’s both fun and inspiring. More than just a tribute to the tennis legend, the museum is packed with interactive zones where children can test their reflexes, play virtual sports games, and engage in hands-on exhibits. Expect immersive experiences all using state-of-the-art simulators. It's a brilliant way to sneak in some learning and movement, especially on a day when you want a break from the beach. Plus, it’s a great rainy-day option.

Listed time and time again as one of the top Mallorca family day trips, the Cuevas del Drach remains one of Mallorca’s most magical experiences. Located near Porto Cristo, these vast underground caves feature towering stalactites, eerie rock formations and, at their heart, Lake Martel, one of the largest subterranean lakes in Europe. Kids of all ages will be fascinated by this natural wonder. Plus, the tour includes a short classical music concert performed live on boats drifting across the water. It’s cool underground (literally and figuratively), so bring a light layer and prepare to descend into a world that feels plucked from a fantasy novel.