Spain

How to get from Madrid to Palma de Mallorca

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

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FASTEST
1h 16min
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From
40€
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Distance
549 km
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There are 2 way(s) to get from Madrid to Palma de Mallorca

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Madrid
📍For flights to Palma de Mallorca, departures are from Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD). This is Madrid's main international airport, well-equipped with services, shops, and restaurants across its multiple terminals.
🚇Madrid-Barajas Airport is easily accessible from the city center. You can take the metro (line 8, about 15-20 minutes, 5€), the Airport Express bus (24/7, 40 minutes, 5€), or a taxi (fixed rate of 30€ from central Madrid, 20-30 minutes).
⏰Flights to Palma de Mallorca from Madrid are frequent throughout the day, with multiple departures from early morning until late evening. Frequencies increase during peak seasons, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
💸 Transport from 40€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 1h 16min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia
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Practical tips

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Book Flights in Advance

Especially during peak season or for popular routes like Madrid to Palma, booking your flight tickets several weeks or months ahead can secure significantly lower prices and ensure availability, avoiding last-minute surcharges.

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Check Madrid's Airport Terminals

Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD) has multiple terminals. Always confirm which terminal your flight departs from to avoid rushing or going to the wrong place on your travel day.

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Consider Travel Insurance

For longer trips or those involving multiple connections, travel insurance can offer peace of mind against unexpected delays, cancellations, or lost luggage, protecting your investment.

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Be Flexible with Dates

If your schedule allows, flying on weekdays or during off-peak hours can often result in cheaper fares compared to weekends or popular travel times. Use flight comparison tools to check prices across a range of dates.

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Ferry Booking for Balearics

If you choose the bus-ferry option via Valencia, book your ferry ticket from Valencia to Palma well in advance, especially for summer travel, as these can fill up quickly and last-minute tickets are often more expensive.

🛣️ The journey experience

Planning your trip from Madrid to Palma de Mallorca can seem daunting, with several transport options available. As an independent traveller, you want to know instantly which choice offers the best balance of time, cost, and convenience. This guide cuts through the complexity, presenting a clear comparison of durations and price ranges side by side, so you can make an informed decision without hassle.

For this route, flying is by far the most efficient option. A direct flight takes approximately 1 hour and can cost around 40€. If you prefer a more scenic, albeit much longer journey, you can combine a bus trip from Madrid to Valencia followed by a ferry to Palma. This option, while costing about 99€, will take approximately 12 hours in total, making it a significant time commitment.

When travelling in Spain, it's crucial to understand that different modes of transport serve different needs. While high-speed trains are excellent for mainland cities, island connections often involve flights or ferries. For Palma de Mallorca, air travel is the clear winner for speed and value, avoiding the complexities of multi-leg bus and ferry journeys from the capital. Always compare flights and ferry options, especially for islands, to ensure you find the most suitable and cost-effective solution for your travel style.

Frequently asked questions — Madrid → Palma de Mallorca

✨ Why visit Palma de Mallorca?

  • ✓ Explore La Seu Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic masterpiece overlooking the sea.
  • ✓ Wander through the historic Old Town with its charming narrow streets and hidden courtyards.
  • ✓ Visit Bellver Castle, a unique circular fortress offering panoramic views of Palma Bay.
  • ✓ Relax on the city beach of Can Pere Antoni or nearby Cala Major.
  • ✓ Savor authentic Mallorcan cuisine and fresh seafood at local markets and restaurants.
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Recommended stay
3 to 4 nights — perfect for exploring historical sites, enjoying beaches, and local gastronomy.

☀️ When to visit Palma de Mallorca?

MEDITERRANEAN HOT-SUMMER

May to June and September to October — pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and beach activities, avoiding peak summer heat.

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In Palma de Mallorca — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Palma de Mallorca
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Palma de Mallorca?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
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Palma Cathedral (La Seu)
Marvel at the Gothic grandeur of Palma's iconic cathedral, dominating the city's skyline. Its stunning rose window and Gaudí's unique contributions make it a must-see. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy a more serene visit. Entrance fee is typically around 9€.
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Bellver Castle
Explore this unique circular Gothic castle, offering panoramic views of Palma Bay and the surrounding countryside. Originally a royal residence, it later served as a military prison. Take a bus or a pleasant walk up the hill, and consider visiting late afternoon for beautiful sunset views. Entrance is around 4€.
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Stroll Old Town Alleys
Lose yourself in the charming labyrinthine streets of Palma's Old Town. Discover hidden courtyards, historic buildings, and boutique shops. Wear comfortable shoes and allow yourself to wander without a strict itinerary. Many small tapas bars offer a great spot for a mid-stroll refreshment, often for just a few euros.
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Paseo del Borne Experience
Indulge in a blend of luxury shopping, elegant architecture, and people-watching on Palma's most prestigious boulevard. This tree-lined avenue is often dubbed the 'Golden Mile'. Find a spot at a café terrace to soak in the atmosphere, perhaps enjoying a coffee or aperitif for around 3-8€.
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Es Baluard Museum
Visit Es Baluard, the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Housed within a section of Palma's ancient city walls, it offers impressive collections and stunning views over the bay. Check for free entry days or special evening hours. Regular admission is around 6€, offering great value for art lovers.
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Taste Local Gastronomy
Savor authentic Mallorcan cuisine at a traditional 'celler' or a bustling market like Mercat de l'Olivar. Try dishes like 'pa amb oli' or 'frit mallorquí'. Don't hesitate to ask locals for recommendations for the best, most authentic spots, where a good meal can be found for around 15-25€.
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Palma Aquarium Visit
Discover marine life from the Mediterranean and other oceans at Palma Aquarium. It's an ideal activity, especially if traveling with family or seeking a break from historical sites. Allow 2-3 hours for your visit. Tickets are typically around 25-30€, book online for potential discounts.
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Explore Parc de la Mar
Relax in Parc de la Mar, a large park situated between the Cathedral and the sea. It features a saltwater lake, walking paths, and often hosts open-air events. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll or an evening picnic, offering superb views of the cathedral illuminated at night. Free entry.

⏱️ How long to visit Palma de Mallorca?

4 to 7 days

For an independent francophone traveler, 4-7 days are ideal to explore Palma de Majorque and its surroundings. With 4 days, focus on the city's historic center, cathedral, and vibrant markets. If you have 7 days, venture out to the beautiful beaches, Tramuntana mountains, and charming villages like Valldemossa or Deià. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring beyond Palma.

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