Formentor with boat trip + local market

If you’re considering a full-day adventure that combines scenic views, local culture, and a splash of seaside relaxation, this tour of Mallorca’s northern coast might catch your eye. It’s a popular choice among travelers looking to see a good chunk of the island without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

From what we’ve gathered, this tour offers a mix of highlights: bustling markets, spectacular viewpoints, a boat ride, and plenty of time to enjoy the famous Formentor beach. It’s designed to give you a well-rounded taste of the north, with some solid value for money, especially with hotel pickup included.

That said, it’s not perfect—some reviews mention organizational hiccups or crowded spots, and the beach time might not satisfy everyone. If you’re someone keen on exploring at a relaxed pace or craving more free time in each location, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you enjoy sightseeing with knowledgeable guides and love seeing diverse parts of an island in one day, this could be a good fit. It’s especially suited for those who want a structured, informative experience rather than an open-ended day.

Key Points

• Great value for money considering the variety of sights and experiences packed into one day.
• Hotel pickup makes the start hassle-free, especially if you’re staying outside Palma.
• Scenic viewpoints and boat trip offer unique perspectives of Mallorca’s coastline and mountains.
• Guide’s commentary is friendly and informative, enhancing your understanding of the island.
• Crowded spots and organizational issues are potential downsides, so patience is helpful.
• Flexible options for markets (Sineu or Alcudia) depending on your starting point or day of the week.

An Overview of the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Our journey begins with a comfortable, air-conditioned coach ride through Mallorca’s varied landscapes. While this might seem like just transportation, it’s actually part of the experience, giving you a glimpse of the island’s rural charm and mountain scenery. The tour’s well-structured stops mean you get a good balance of sightseeing and leisure, though the overall pace can be a bit brisk.

Markets: Sineu or Alcudia

Depending on your starting point and the day of the week, you’ll visit either the Sineu Market or the Alcudia Market. Both are lively, authentic spots filled with local produce, handcrafted goods, and a buzz of activity. Reviewers have highlighted the markets as highlights, especially the Alcudia market for its picturesque setting among ancient walls and lively ambiance. You’ll have around 1.5 hours to soak it all in, and many suggest using this time to try some fresh orange juice or pick up souvenirs like lace or olive wood items.

A traveler noted, “The market location was great… plenty of time there to enjoy a fresh orange juice really good, sweet oranges.” This stop is truly about enjoying local life and tasting some of the island’s fresh produce, which makes a nice contrast to the more scenic stops later.

The Drive to Mirador Es Colomer and Formentor

Next, you’ll take a scenic drive along one of Mallorca’s most celebrated roads built in 1929, winding through the UNESCO-listed Tramuntana mountains. This road alone is worth the trip, offering sweeping views of cliffs, bays, and pine forests.

The viewpoint of Colomer is a must-see, with panoramic vistas of the Cap of Formentor and the dramatic coastline. One review described it as “spectacular,” with plenty of opportunities for photos. But be aware, it can get crowded, and buses aren’t always able to park right at the viewpoint, so get there early if you want unobstructed shots.

The Boat Trip to Port of Pollensa

From the beach at Formentor, you’ll hop on a 30-minute boat ride (weather permitting, from May to October). This gives a fresh perspective on the coastal cliffs, mountains, and secluded coves. Many reviewers praise this part as one of the highlights, appreciating the way it shows the coast from a different angle.

A traveler mentioned, “The coastline was nice, we were able to admire interesting buildings from the sea,” which captures the appeal of viewing Mallorca from the water.

Time at Formentor Beach

After the boat, you’ll head to Formentor Beach for about an hour. Here, you can stroll along the pristine shoreline, take a swim in the crystal-clear waters, or walk to the nearby 5-star Formentor Hotel for a quick coffee.

One reviewer loved the beach but also noted that it can get crowded: “The beach of Formentor was crowded, since it is sought after by travelers.” Pack your essentials—swimsuit, towel, and maybe some snacks—since facilities can be limited and prices high.

Port of Pollensa and Leisure Time

Your day concludes with free time in Puerto Pollensa, a charming marina town. Here, you can relax on the beach, wander around the marina, or grab some lunch in one of the local cafes.

A reviewer said, “There are many options—stroll around the marina, go for lunch, or relax on the beach,” which perfectly sums up the laid-back vibe of this final stop. Keep in mind, there’s only about 45 minutes here, so plan accordingly if you want a proper sit-down meal or a longer exploration.

Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

This tour is run by Nofrills Excursions and is tailored for up to 55 travelers, so it’s a sizable group. The air-conditioned coach keeps things comfortable, and the itinerary is designed to maximize sightseeing without making the day feel overly rushed. Given the length (around 8 hours), expect a fair amount of time on the bus, but also plenty of stops to stretch your legs and take in the views.

The boat trip is about 25 minutes if weather allows, adding a special touch to your experience. The hotel pickup is a real convenience, especially if you’re staying outside Palma, saving you from waiting around for a meeting point.

Price and Value

At around $64.20 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the variety of experiences, the guide’s commentary, and transportation arranged for you. Many reviews agree that it’s a worthwhile expense for a full day of sightseeing. Some even suggest that the stops at markets and viewpoints make it a budget-friendly way to see Mallorca’s highlights.

Honest Insights from Travelers

While most reviews are positive, a few travelers pointed out organizational issues. For example, some felt that the end-of-day bus changeover outside Palma was confusing or frustrating, especially for elderly travelers. One review even shared disappointment over not being able to stop at the lighthouse at Cap de Formentor, preferring that to the market stop.

On the whole, people love the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, often highlighting the scenic drives and views. However, a few found the beach time too limited or the crowded viewpoints a downside. Be prepared for busy spots and perhaps plan to get there early if you want unobstructed photos.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you want a rundown of Mallorca’s north in one day, especially if you appreciate guided commentary and scenic highlights. It’s suited for travelers who don’t mind a moderate pace and are happy to spend part of the day on a bus.

If you’re keen on shopping at markets, enjoying the beach, taking a boat ride, and seeing mountain viewpoints, you’ll find this tour ticks most boxes. However, if you’re looking for more free time or want to explore off-the-beaten-path spots, you might find it a little structured.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel or a nearby point, making start your day easier.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat ride lasts about 30 minutes, weather permitting, and runs from May to October.

What stops are included?
Highlights include visits to a local market (either Sineu or Alcudia), the Mirador Es Colomer viewpoint, Formentor Beach, and leisure time in Puerto Pollensa.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, although there are cafes at Formentor Beach and in Pollensa where you can buy refreshments.

How much free time do I get at each stop?
Expect around 1 to 1.5 hours for markets; about an hour at Formentor Beach; and approximately 45 minutes in Puerto Pollensa.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, but they need to be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally suitable for families who enjoy sightseeing and beach time.

Will I see the lighthouse at Cap de Formentor?
Not on this tour; the main stops are the viewpoint of Colomer, the beach, and the marina. Preferences for the lighthouse can be expressed, but it’s not included here.

What is the tour group size?
Up to 55 travelers, so it’s a fairly sizable group but still manageable for sightseeing and listening to guides.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Mallorca tour covers a lot of ground in a single day, making it a practical choice for those wanting to see several iconic sights without the hassle of planning. It offers fantastic views, lively markets, and a boat ride that you’ll enjoy even if parts of the organization could be smoother.

It’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate a guided experience that balances sightseeing and leisure. Expect some crowds and a busy schedule, but also some truly memorable moments—especially if you love panoramic views and local markets.

If you’re after a comprehensive, value-packed day with friendly guides and scenic stops, this could be a trip you’ll remember fondly. Just remember to bring some snacks, a camera, and a little patience, and you’ll have a great day exploring Mallorca’s northern coast.