Yes, Mallorca at Christmas can also be a fantastic destination! Although it may not be the most obvious choice, the truth is that it is a very good option if you are looking for something different. The island still maintains its Mediterranean spirit; the temperatures are milder than in many other places, and it is easy to find tranquility, without the tourist bustle of summer. You will find nativity scenes and markets, streets decorated with colored lights, and many fun parties, so you won’t be bored this Christmas season.
The south of the island, and especially Santanyí, is a perfect place to experience all of this, as its Christmas market is one of the most spectacular you will find in the Balearic Islands. In addition, the atmosphere of this town, full of culture and gastronomy, makes it one of the best options to stay during your visit. Discover in this article all the reasons to visit Mallorca at Christmas and create unique memories.
When do the Christmas lights go on in Mallorca?
To kick off Christmas in Mallorca, Palma turns on its lights at the end of November, and from that moment on, all the towns and corners of the island join the celebration with their decorations, traditional sweets, and family gatherings. If you are on the island during the lighting of the lights, don’t miss this exciting moment, which brings together thousands of people in the capital. Take a walk through the main streets of the center and enjoy the show!
Other places on the island that are worth a visit are Sóller and Santanyí, as they embody the Christmas spirit with great enthusiasm and decorate their squares, with their typical island architecture, with lights and Christmas decorations. Their old towns come alive with markets, music, mulled wine, and lots of entertainment.
Most beautiful Christmas markets in Mallorca
At the Christmas markets in Mallorca you can taste the island’s gastronomy, discover the crafts of local artists, and buy a special souvenir of your trip. Some of the most beautiful are:
Santanyí Christmas Market
Authentic and very local, the Santanyí Christmas Market is held in the town center, in the Plaça Major area, and is charming. Here you will find local artisans who create handmade candles, ceramics, soaps, and clothing; local gastronomic products, such as sobrasada, honey, or oil; and many town shops. You will feel like a resident, not a tourist.
Palma Christmas Market
In the capital, its market offers numerous stalls with local products, both gastronomic and artisanal, and a great atmosphere thanks to the music and decorations. This is perhaps the most touristy and crowded market on the entire island, so you can expect some queues for activities or to access the stalls.
Pueblo Español Christmas Market
This Christmas market in Mallorca simulates a typical Christmas village from other latitudes, with artificial snow, many activities for children, and the charm of being set among some of the most relevant monuments in Spain.
Puerto Portals Market
It is a market with a lot of glamour, of Central European inspiration, where you can taste typical Christmas sweets from various countries, explore the more than 40 stalls, and have fun on the ice rink: a great plan for all ages!
At these Christmas markets in Mallorca, you can enjoy live music, workshops for the little ones, and terraces to drink mulled wine while appreciating the atmosphere and carols. Without forgetting the wonder that are the most beautiful villages in Mallorca.
What to do in Mallorca at Christmas: plans and activities
There is much to do in Mallorca at Christmas, despite being an iconic summer destination. In addition, with fewer tourists, it is possible to discover the island at a different pace and in depth. You will have sunny days and pleasant temperatures, so everything comes together to create the perfect conditions for:
- Exploring the inland villages, normally “forgotten” in summer. Santanyí, Campos, Costitx, or Petra.
- Visiting the nativity scenes on the island, such as the one in Palma and the one in Llucmajor.
- Taking a gastronomic route to try the bunyols, crespells, and robiols, delicious typical sweets.
- Attending Christmas concerts, in various churches throughout the island and also in the Palma auditorium.
- Hiking trails and paths, on foot or by bike. We recommend the cliffs in the Cala Llombards area and the Mondragó Natural Park.
- Spending New Year’s Eve in the Plaza Mayor of Palma, eating grapes and enjoying the fireworks.
Mallorcan traditions and gastronomy
In Mallorca at Christmas you will find fantastic typical dishes; after all, we are talking about an island with a lot of history and culture. Some of the dishes you should try are caldo de Nadal (Christmas broth), roast suckling pig, turrones and neulas (nougat and wafers), ensaimada (spiral pastry), and the aforementioned bunyols, crespells, and robiols (typical sweets).
If you are looking for a more classic and formal tradition, you can attend the Midnight Mass, which is celebrated on the night of December 24, where you can appreciate the singing of the “Sibil·la”, a Gregorian chant declared Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Recommendations for enjoying Christmas in Santanyí
In our opinion, the south of Mallorca and especially Santanyí are the best option to stay on the island and enjoy Christmas. Here are some of the best activities you can do:
- Explore the wildest nature on the island in the Mondragó Natural Park.
- Stroll through the small but charming villages of Campos and Ses Salines.
- Taste the Christmas gastronomy in Mallorca in some of the best restaurants in Santanyí.
- Visit some of the best coves and viewpoints on the island, which are usually very crowded in summer. Although you cannot enjoy the beach, you can appreciate the views and feel the tranquility of the Mediterranean.
Come and experience the magic of Christmas in Mallorca
Discover Christmas in Mallorca, a different and very special experience. It is recommended to choose the south of the island as a base for exploration, as temperatures are milder and the Christmas spirit is more traditional in this area. The food will not leave you indifferent either, and in Santanyí you will find fantastic restaurants.
If you are looking for the perfect accommodation for you and your family this Christmas season, we have good news: at Drac Mallorca we have the perfect place for you to rest and enjoy privacy with all the comfort. They are perfect accommodations to discover Mallorca, with unparalleled service and fantastic prices. Book online now and experience the magic of Christmas in Mallorca.