Pollença
Pollença Travel Guide 2026
Table of Contents
Visit Pollença for its
- Charming mountain town ambience
- Historic landmarks
- Breathtaking landscapes
Pollença is a historic area with a charming town, located on the northern cape of the Tramnuntana Mountains. In addition to the town itself, the municipality also comprise the popular holiday destinations of Port de Pollença and Cala de Sant Vicenç.
In this guide, you get to know Pollença and all it has to offer. You will find local points of interest, leisure activities, hotels, market, events and much more.
What to expect from Pollença
Is Pollença worth visiting?
Pollença is quite the darling when it comes to travel destinations in Mallorca. However, most tourist only know of the beautiful coastal town of Port de Pollença, and not much about the old town hidden in a lush valley approx.. 7 km (4 miles) inland from the bay.
In Pollença you will find a wide range of different accommodation offers, from private fincas, villas and apartments to luxury hotels, agroturismos and boutique hotels, yes the possibilities are indeed many in this area.
Best Things to do and see in Pollença
All options are on the table in Pollença, there are almost no limitations when it comes to leisure. The area is versatile, the cultural heritage is rich and the location and infrastructure makes it easy to reach other interesting places in no time. What this means, is that when you’re looking for things to do in Pollença you can choose from a very wide selection of activities such as physical activities, sightseeing, shopping and much more.
CLIMB THE CALVARY STAIRS
One the main attractions in Pollença, is the stairway built into the mountain slope leading to the summit. At the top of the calvary stairs, you will find the calvary chapel that is used for special occasions and religious ceremonies. However, most people would probably agree that is is the amazing views from the top that makes this climb so special and well worth the struggle. The stairway has about 400 steps, and when you reach the top you will be blessed with a feeling of accomplishment together with the breathtaking panoramic views of the entire valley.
Book your trip
VISIT THE PARISH CHURCH AND MAIN SQUARE
In the heart of Pollença’s old town, you will find the Nostra Senyora dels Angels parish church situated in the main square. The church was first built by the Knights Templar after the Catalan conquest of Mallorca, in 1229. Then, in the 15th century, the church was expanded and the watchtower was added as part of an extensive network of towers around the island that could warn against approaching enemies. Inside, you will find some beautiful treasures and art works worth seeing.
WALK TO THE MOUNTAINTOP SANCTUARY OF PUIG DE MARIA
If you just can’t get enough of walking/hiking, climb to the summit of the Maria mountain found in the Pollença valley. At the top, you can rest at the old convent of Maria while enjoying the breathtaking views of the bays of Pollença and Alcúdia, as well as the Tramuntana mountains to your west. The sanctuary was built back in the 14th century, as it was commonly believed that the higher you went, the better you would be protected from the plague.
CROSS THE ROMAN BRIDGE
One of the most well-preserved remains of Roman presence on the island, is the Pont Roma (Roman bridge) situated in the western part of Pollença. The Roman army led by Quintus Caecilius Metellus, took over Mallorca in 123 BC after fighting in the Punic Wars for more than a hundred years. They established the capital of Pollen-tia (Alcúdia), and this bridge was an important part of the infrastructure leading to the city.
Visit MUSEU DE POLLENCA
The municipal museum of Pollenca is a great place to learn about the area and the rich cultural heritage here. At the museum, you will find interesting exhibitions and collections of artifacts, paintings and works representing different periods of time all the way back to the prehistory.
ORATORI DE SANT JORDI
This small oratory standing on the corner of one of Pollenca’s charming squares, was originally built back in the 16th century as barracks for soldiers to prepare for battle when the coast was under attack of pirates.
VISIT THE GALLERY OF DIONÍS BENNÀSSAR
The house and gallery of local painter, Dionís Bennàssar is open to the public thanks to the foundation of same name. Dionís Bennàssar was known for his beautiful paintings of the Mallorcan nature that occupied him more than anything else. Here in his house, you can explore the life of this local artist, see his workshop and enjoy the many splendid works.
WALK TO THE OLD LOOKOUT, TALAIA D’ALBERCUTX
If you are up for walking or hiking in the beautiful nature, you’re in luck when visiting the area of Pollença. On the mountain sides, you will find the old medieval watchtower of Albercutx from where you can enjoy a refreshment while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views of the bay of Pollença and Formentor.
ENJOY THE BREATHTAKING VIEWS FROM THE VICTORIA HERMITAGE
On the opposite side of the Pollença bay, another peninsula stretches from Mallorca’s north coast, namely the Alcanada peninsula. Up here, you’ll find the old hermitage of Victoria, a sacred place that has now been transformed to a hostel and cafeteria. From the old hermitage, you can enjoy the magical views of the bay of Pollença and see to the bay of Formentor.
Leisure activities to indulge in in Pollença
Cycling
Road cycling is undoubtedly one of the most popular sports and things to do in Mallorca. The extensive network of paved roads, the many hairpin turns in the mountains and the stunning surroundings make road cycling a joy for all levels. There is a great selection of bike rentals in Pollença, where you can find a variety of different types of bikes and have them customized to match your physique.
MOUNTAIN BIKING IN THE TRAMUNTANA
If you prefer gravel over asphalt and want to get closer to nature while spinning, then a mountain bike trip is a perfect idea. There are numerous trails you can explore in the Tramuntana, all of them will get you to some of the most magical places and vantage points and the best thing is, there is almost no traffic to pay attention to. Head down to the nearest bike rental shop in the town and have them set up a mountain bike for you, or join a MTB guided tour.
GO BIRDWATCHING IN THE LA GOLA RESERVE
La Gola is a small and very charming wetland found in Port of Pollença. In the La Gola reserve, you can spot species such as blackwinged stilt, cetti’s warbler, the greenfinch, cattle egret, mallard, wood pigeon and various species of herons. This small piece of paradise is the perfect escape from the mass tourism that occupies most of the area.
GOLFING IN BEAUTIFUL SETTINGS
Pollença is home to a nice 9-hole golf course situated in the green valley with the mountains rising around it. If you want more, make the short drive to nearby Alcúdia and find the Alcanada golf course, a beautiful 18-hole course overlooking the bay of Port d’Alcúdia and the iconic Alcanada lighthouse island.
SPEND A DAY AT THE BEACH
The bay of Pollença offers several kilometers of wonderful beach for you to enjoy. There is a range of fun activities by the beaches that you can do with or without prior experience, such as trying the paddle boards, surfing, jet skis or simply relax under the Mediterranean sun with a good book or podcast. There are two fantastic beaches; Platja de Port de Pollença and Platja d’Albercuitx, both spacious.
What are the best places to stay in Pollença
Staying in Pollença is a great idea if you’re looking for a base that gives you direct access to tons of activities.
Son Brull Hotel & Spa – If you are looking to spoil yourself at a place where authenticity and luxury converges, this is your best choice in Pollenca.
Juma Hotel – If you prefer to stay close to the town and all the restaurants and shops, go for Hotel Juma, situated in a historic townhouse in the heart of Pollenca.
Son Grua Agroturismo – If you prefer stay close to nature, in tranquility and seclusion, this adults only agroturismo will let you completely recharge.
Where to eat Pollença
No matter where you choose to sink into a seat for a refreshment or meal in Pollença, you can always be sure to be served fresh local produce in a friendly atmosphere. Many of the town’s eateries are found around the central square Plaça Major, which leaves an often vibrant dining scene.
Q11
On Plaça Major, right next to the parish church, Restaurant Q11 serves Mediterranean fusion dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
365
Just outside the town, you’ll find Restaurant 365 which belongs to the Son Brull Hotel & Spa. Here, most ingredients come from their own organic production.
Shopping in Pollença
There are a lot of small local shops in Pollença that you will love browsing. The area is famous for its textile crafts, hence a number of clothing stores.
The area around the Calvary stairs has a vibrant vibe, with many shops and bars which completes the shopping experience.
In the narrow streets running behind the central square, you will too find a great deal of small shops. Look for Carrer de Joan Mas and Carrer de Miquel Costa i Llobera.
Events in Pollença
Pollença weekly market
The weekly market in Pollença old town is held on Sundays, in the main square by the parish church.
The weekly market in Port de Pollença is held on Wednesdays.
Sant Antoni (Saint Anthony)
The celebration of Sant Antoni is the most traditional in Mallorca, it was introduced already in the late Middle Ages. Sant Antoni is patron saint of domestic animals, and every year blessings of pets takes place in the town. The celebration is characterized by the many bonfires lit in the streets, as well as the famous pine climbing contest Saturday evening. Participants compete in climbing a pine tree of 20 meters that has been soaped in, a custom of Pollenca.
When: January 16th and 17th
Where: Old town
Sant Sebastià (Saint Sebastian)
The celebration of Saint Sebastian is almost as traditional as the celebration of Saint Anthony. In Pollença, you can look forward to the dance of two young men and their cardboard horses, who dance to the rhythms of a drum and tambourine while a flag symbolizing the saint is waved.
When: January 20th
Where: Old town
Setmana Santa (holy week)
Easter is always a special time to be in Mallorca, as there are numerous events and celebrations in all villages. Pollença is one of those places most interesting during Easter, as a great procession of Christ takes place on the 365-step Calvary stairway, an event that has been a great tourist attraction since the 1960’s. The procession starts at the summit of the Calvary stairs by the chapel of same name, and follows a route marked by paintings of the Passion of Christ, until it reaches the parish church of Our Lady of Angels.
When: Easter
Where: Old town
Fira del Vi (wine fair)
Since 2004, the annual wine fair has been held in the Sant Domingo convent in Pollença’s old town. A wide range of Balearic wineries are represented at the fair which usually attracts a large audience of tourists and locals coming to taste the many different wines and learn about Balearic oenenology.
When: April
Where: Convent of Sant Domingo
Corpus Cristi
The Corpus Cristi festivity is a tradition held since the 1600’s. The main highlight of this celebration, which has often been associated with the weavers guild, is the procession where Sant Joan Pelós (John the Baptist) followed by two eagles dances through the old town carrying a lamb. The music that accompanies the characters dates back from medieval times, and the costumes of the two eagles are very beautifully decorated in jewels.
When: June
Where: Old town
La Patrona
August starts out with the celebration of Our Lady of Angels, patron saint of Pollença. According to tradition, the day begins with the performance of a musical piece known as the “Alborada” composed by Nicolás de Castro played at 5am in the morning. The festivities are officially inaugurated with a speech in the cloister of the Sant Domingo convent, a tradition practiced since 1970.
The main event and highlight of this festival, is the reenactment of a legendary clash between Ottoman forces and local troops from Pollença that happened in the early morning hours on May 31st, 1550. The Ottoman forces were commanded by Dragut while the local troops by Joan Mas, a battle which ended with Mallorcan victory. The first evidence of this reenactment dates from 1860.
The acts begins with a meeting between Joan Mas and Dragut at Plaça de l’Almoina, by the peacock fountain. The events has three stages, each with lively and realistic clashes through town. At the final stage, usually by the soccer field of Ca’n Escarrinxo, the Christian troops frees the hostages taken by the Ottomans and march back to the old town. In front of the parish church, at the main square, the victorious troops sings a famous “Te Deúm” composed by Reverend Miquel Tortell. Inside the church, the “Puig Patrona” is sung, a poem by local artist Costa i Llobera.
When: 2nd of August
Where: Pollença
Festival de Pollença
The Pollença festival is for you who love classical music! The Festival de Pollença was founded in 1962 at the initiative of the distinguished English violinist Philip Newman. The festival has kept going and growing in popularity until today under the artistic direction of major figures such as Eugen Prokop, baritone Joan Pons and the composer Joan Valent.
Traditionally, it has been held during summer nights, in the incomparable setting of the old cloister of Sant Domingo convent, with an exquisite and demanding program that aims to bring the different artistic strands of classical music to the public.
When: Mid-August
Where: Convent of Sant Domingo
La Fira
The annual trade fair of Pollença is one of the greatest and most traditional of its kind in these areas. The fair has its roots back in 1784, and commemorates traditional agriculture and craftsmanship with a wide range of cultural activities and events. There will of course also be a great market with all kinds of local products available. Another highlight of the fair, is the craftsmanship show held in the cloister of the Sant Domingo convent.
When: Fourth Sunday after Saint Luke’s
Where: Old town
FAQs
Pollença is located some 60 km from Palma airport. The car ride will take you about 45 minutes to complete.
Pollença is a popular destination all year round thanks to its location close to mountains and coast. Winter and spring is perfect for sports and physical activities, while the warm Mediterranean summer invites to the fantastic beaches.
Pollença is an area abundant in places of interest and beautiful spots. Most famous is Pollença for its coastal area of Port de Pollença, the stairway of El Calvario leading to a hilltop chapel, and the mountaintop sanctuary of Puig de Maria.
You will find the weekly market in Pollença on Sundays at the main square of the old town.
On Wednesdays, there’s a market in Port de Pollença.
Head out to Port de Pollença where you’ll find two spacious sandy beaches that together comprise about 3 km of beachline. North of the marina, you’ll find the Platja d’Albercutx, and south of the marina, the Platja de Port de Pollença.
Both beaches are excellent for various activities such as swimming, paragliding, sailing etc.
Yes, Pollença is very safe to visit. However, you should always keep your personal items safe anywhere you travel.
Location and how to get to Pollença
Pollença is located in the northern part of Mallorca, about 60 km from Palma airport.
If you hire a car or taxi, the ride will take about 45 minutes. Taxi price is approx. 80 euro.
If you prefer to go with public transportation, use bus line 301 from Estació Intermodal at Placa d’Espanya in Palma city. The ride is approx. 55 minutes. The ride from the airport to Placa d’Espanya takes about 30 minutes.
Mallorca Booking Checklist
Below you’ll find my best tools for planning my trips to Mallorca. If you use these, I will receive a small commission that helps keeping the site up and running (no cost to you).
1. Book Your Accommodation
Book hotels and guest accommodation at best rates using search engines like Expedia
2. Book Your Tours & Experiences
Curated tours and skip-the-line tickets are my favorite ways to discover new places and, in particular, completing my stays with knowledge and fun. Use GetYourGuide and Viator to browse the catalogues of interesting activities.
3. Book Your Rental Car
Choose freedom to explore and go beyond limitations of chartered coaches, public transportation and expensive taxi fares. Discover Cars compares car rental rates from all reputable companies.
