Speed Limits in the Balearic Islands

In the Balearic Islands, speed limits vary by road type:

• 50 km/h in urban areas,
• 90 km/h on rural roads, and
• 120 km/h on highways.

If you have a car hire in Balearic Islands, it’s crucial to adhere to these limits, as enforcement is strict.

Key Roads in the Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands have several main roads that connect key locations and offer scenic routes:

Mallorca

• MA1 (Autopista de Ponent) is a road that connects Palma de Mallorca to Andratx. The highway passes through the towns of Calvià, Magaluf, and Santa Ponsa. It connects Palma with the western part of the island..
• MA 13 (Autopista Inca) connects Palma de Mallorca to Alcúdia and en route passes by Inca and Sa Pobla. This is the motorway to take if you want to visit the northern coast and explore Alcúdia’s beaches and the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.

Menorca

• ME1 connects the two main cities of the island – Mahón in the east to Ciutadella in the west. This ancient road dating back to 2nd century BC was previously known as C 721. After some improvements in 2001, the road was diverted from Alayor and Ferreries. This 45 km motorway is the ideal route to take when you want to explore Menorca with your car rental in Balearic Island

Ibiza

• E 20 motorway runs between Ibiza town and Sant Antoni de Portmany. The route passes through Sant Rafel and connects the island’s capital with the bustling town of Sant Antoni.

Formentera

• PM 8 is a scenic drive that begins at La Savina and ends in La Mola.

Traffic in the Balearic Islands

• The MA 1 road in Mallorca and MA 20 – the way to the airport see heavy traffic. The road connecting the two bustling party sites – Ibiza town and Sant Antoni de Portmany – is another high traffic zone.
• The rush hours include 8am to 10am and 4pm to 6pm. During tourist season the high traffic hours extend from 6pm to 9pm.

Long Drive from Port de Sóller to Sa Calobra

This approximately 37 km, one-hour drive from Port de Sóller to Sa Calobra offers breathtaking views traversing from sunny beaches to long winding roads uphill.

• Head north on Carretera de Palma (MA 11) to Sóller
• After passing through Sóller, take left on to MA10. This scenic route will take you through the Tramuntana mountain range.
• Look for the turn to the MA 2141 road, which will lead you to Sa Calobra. This road is famous for its hairpin bends and stunning views.
• Keep to MA 2141 till you reach the parking area at Sa Calobra.

Places to See in the Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands offer a diverse experience for every traveller. Here are some suggestions:

• Palma Cathedral or La Seu in Mallorca is a Gothic architectural masterpiece that captivates both history enthusiasts and art lovers. Enter the Cathedral and you’ll understand why many call it the ‘Cathedral of Light’. There are 61 stained-glass windows in La Seu – the most spectacular being the central rose window, which harnesses the morning sun, flooding the building with beams of coloured light.
• Es Vedrà is an enigmatic rock formation that captivates both nature enthusiasts and mystics. Cloaked in myth and legend, this rocky islet rises majestically from the Mediterranean, offering a stunning panorama from the nearby Cala d’Hort beach. Its magical allure has made it an awe-inspiring symbol of Ibiza.
• Cova d’en Xoroi in Menorca is a one-of-a-kind venue that blends natural beauty with vibrant nightlife. Carved into the cliffs of Menorca, this bar offers breathtaking sea views by day and transforms into a pulsating entertainment hub as the sun sets.

Things to do in the Balearic Islands

• Culinary Delights in Menorca: Drive through the coastal villages such as Fornells and Ciutadella, famous for their seafood restaurants. Savour traditional dishes like caldereta de langosta (lobster stew), sopa de peix (fish soup), and ginxana (Menorcan cheese). Also indulge in local wines, cheeses and cured meats.
• Music Festivals in Balearic Islands: These vibrant isles often host music festivals during the summer such as Ibiza Rocks – an indie rock festival with a focus on emerging artists.
  
• Island Hopping Cruises: These cruises typically focus on exploring the different islands of the Balearic archipelago, allowing you to experience the unique charm of each one.

Shopping in the Balearic Islands

• Mercadillo Las Dalias in Ibiza, is a great place to splurge on beautiful dresses, handmade accessories, artworks and artisanal foods.
• The Golden Mile in Mallorca: The area between Paseo del Borne and Jaime III, often referred to as Palma’s ‘Fifth Avenue’, is undoubtedly the most iconic district for shopping.

Nightlife in Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands, especially Ibiza, is known as a clubbers paradise. The archipelago boasts of a world-famous nightlife with iconic clubs and vibrant beach parties, making them a global hotspot for revellers.

• Bambuddha: This iconic restaurant blends Asian and Mediterranean flavours into a unique "MediterrAsian" cuisine, served in a serene, spiritually-inspired setting. With creative cocktails, impeccable service, and unforgettable events, Bambuddha offers a holistic escape. 
• Pikes: This quirky venue, steeped in rock 'n' roll history and set in a historic mansion, is ideal for those looking to get away from the high-end club scene.