Pollensa
· ES

Pollensa

Pollensa, Balearic Islands, Spain

Located in the beautiful Balearic Islands of Spain, Pollensa is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated in the northern part of Mallorca, Pollensa is a popular destin…

#Pollensa#Balearic Islands#Spain#Mediterranean#Historic town
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Pollensa.

Top Hotels in Pollensa

Top Flights to Pollensa

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Pollensa.

Tours

Explore Formentor Lighthouse

Visit the Lighthouse of Cap de Formentor, offering stunning views of the cliffs and ocean.

Pollensa Old Town Walking Tour

Walk through the charming streets of Pollensa's old town, filled with history and culture.

Visit to Santuari del Puig de Maria

Climb to this historic monastery for beautiful views of Pollensa and the surrounding area.

Art and Culture at Dionis Bennassar Museum

Explore the works of local artist Dionis Bennassar in this dedicated museum.

Shopping

Visit the Pollensa Market

Shop for local produce and crafts at the Pollensa Market.

Outdoor

Hiking in Boquer Valley

A serene hike through the Boquer Valley, famous for its natural beauty and bird watching.

Watersports at Port de Pollensa

Enjoy various watersports such as windsurfing and sailing at Port de Pollensa.

Cycling through Tramuntana Mountains

Cycle through the stunning Tramuntana Mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Relax at Cala Sant Vicenç

Visit Cala Sant Vicenç, a picturesque beach perfect for relaxation and swimming.

Kayaking adventure along the coast

Experience the coastline of Pollensa by kayak, a perfect outdoor adventure.

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Pollensa.

Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
Not Available
Languages
Catalan, Spanish, English, German
Average weather
Pollensa
Jan
cloud
15°6°
Feb
cloud
16°6°
Mar
rain
17°8°
Apr
sun
19°10°
May
sun
23°13°
Jun
clear
27°17°
Jul
hot
30°20°
Aug
hot
30°21°
Sep
sun
28°19°
Oct
rain
24°15°
Nov
cloud
19°10°
Dec
cloud
16°7°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Pollensa.

What people love

Pollensa, located in the Balearic Islands of Spain, is a charming town known for its beautiful scenery, historic sites, and vibrant culture. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Pollensa:

  1. Scenic beauty: Pollensa is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Tramuntana mountains, beautiful beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, or simply relaxing in the picturesque surroundings.

  2. Historic sites: Pollensa is rich in history, with ancient Roman remains, medieval architecture, and a historic town center. Highlights include the Roman bridge, the Calvary Steps, and the Church of Our Lady of Angels.

  3. Cultural experiences: Pollensa has a lively arts and cultural scene, with art galleries, music festivals, and traditional markets showcasing local crafts and produce. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture through food, music, and art.

  4. Outdoor activities: Pollensa offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including water sports, golf, horseback riding, and birdwatching. The area's natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.

  5. Gastronomy: Pollensa is known for its delicious cuisine, with a variety of restaurants offering traditional Balearic dishes as well as international fare. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, local wines, and authentic Spanish flavors.

Overall, traveling to Pollensa offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, culture, and outdoor activities, making it a fantastic destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of the Balearic Islands.

So, the pros of traveling to Pollensa include its scenic beauty, historic sites, cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and gastronomy.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Pollensa, located in the Balearic Islands, Spain, include:

  1. Crowds: During peak tourist seasons, Pollensa can become quite crowded with visitors, which may lead to longer wait times at popular attractions, restaurants, and beaches.

  2. High Prices: Due to its popularity as a tourist destination, prices in Pollensa, especially for accommodations, dining, and activities, can be higher compared to other less touristy areas in Spain.

  3. Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, you may encounter some language barriers when interacting with locals who primarily speak Catalan or Spanish.

  4. Weather: The weather in Pollensa can be quite hot during the summer months, which may be uncomfortable for some travelers not used to high temperatures.

  5. Limited Public Transportation: While Pollensa is well-connected by bus and taxi services, the public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities, making it more challenging to explore the surrounding areas without a car.

  6. Tourist Traps: Like many tourist destinations, Pollensa may have some tourist traps such as overpriced souvenirs or restaurants that cater more to tourists than offering an authentic local experience.

  7. Lack of Cultural Diversity: While Pollensa is a beautiful destination with a rich history and culture, some travelers may find the lack of cultural diversity compared to larger cities less stimulating.

These are some potential cons to consider when planning a trip to Pollensa.

Pollensa, located on the island of Mallorca in the Balearic Islands, Spain, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Below is a detailed account of its historical development, significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

  • Prehistoric Times: The area around Pollensa has been inhabited since prehistoric times, as evidenced by the Talaiotic culture, which left behind structures such as the talaiots, megalithic stone towers used for defense or ceremonial purposes.

  • Roman Period: The Romans took over Mallorca in 123 BC, and the area became part of the Roman province of Hispania. Pollensa is thought to have been a minor settlement at that time, with more significant development in nearby areas.

Middle Ages

  • Moorish Rule: During the early Middle Ages, the island was under the control of the Moors, who left a significant cultural imprint on the region.

  • Christian Reconquest: Pollensa was conquered by King James I of Aragon in 1229 during the Christian Reconquest. The town was officially established in the 13th century, with its layout largely influenced by the medieval era.

Modern Era

  • Pirate Attacks: In the 16th century, Pollensa and its surrounding areas were frequently attacked by pirates. The most famous of these attacks occurred in 1550, when locals successfully repelled a raid by Ottoman pirates led by the infamous pirate Dragut. The victory is celebrated annually with the "Moros y Cristianos" festival.

18th to 20th Century

  • Economic Development: Over the centuries, Pollensa developed economically through agriculture, particularly olives and wine. The port also became an important trade hub.

  • Tourism Development: The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the beginnings of tourism, with artists and writers being drawn to the scenic landscape and peaceful environment.

Notable Historical Figures

  • Miquel Costa i Llobera (1854–1922): A famous poet and priest born in Pollensa. His works are celebrated for their depiction of Mallorca's landscape and culture.

Important Landmarks

  • El Calvari: A famous landmark in Pollensa is the El Calvari hill, which features a 365-step stairway leading to a small chapel with stunning views of the town and surrounding area.

  • Pont Romà: An ancient Roman bridge still stands in Pollensa, a testament to the town's historical roots.

  • Pollensa Church: The main church, Església de Nostra Senyora dels Àngels, was built by the Knights Templar in the 13th century and remains a focal point of the town.

  • Convent of Sant Domingo: This 16th-century building now houses a museum and is an excellent example of Baroque architecture.

Cultural Events

  • Festival of Pollensa: A summer music festival that draws international artists and audiences, showcasing Pollensa's cultural vibrancy.

Contemporary Pollensa

Today, Pollensa remains a popular destination for tourists seeking a combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its historical architecture, vibrant festivals, and scenic landscapes continue to attract visitors from around the world.

Pollensa's rich history, from its prehistoric roots to its vibrant present, reflects the diverse cultural influences that have shaped this charming town.