There are a few holidays that are simply once in a lifetime experiences – but not every trip has to be so extravagant! With those precious vacation days limited, we know you want to make the most of your time off, and if you’re working to a budget that can seem pretty hard! Not to worry, though: it’s perfectly possible to have fun in the sun without spending a fortune. Majorca’s sunny shores can be brill on any budget, so pack your sunnies and leave the splashing out to the beach!
Life’s A Beach
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Have you ever heard the saying ‘the best things in life are free’? When it comes to Majorca, that’s definitely true: exploring the pristine beaches and incredible landscapes won’t cost you a penny! If you’re over near Magaluf, Palmanova beach is a great option: a spotlessly clean soft-sand beach which boasts shallow water for little ones to enjoy. There are also many restaurants and bars along the edge of the beach, so you can stop off for a drink or a quick meal. On the other side of the island, near Alcudia, you’ll find Playa de Muro beach. This idyllic spot is kept equally clean, and the bright white sand and chic wooden walkway make for some excellent holiday photo ops! There’s a lifeguard on duty too, so you can relax in the knowledge that you’re safe and sound.
Hike to Happiness
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Alongside the beaches, there’s plenty of spectacular scenery in Majorca that doesn’t require you to dig into your budget. If you’re after a bit of exertion, why not attempt the hike from Alaró up to the remains of the 15th-century Castell d’Alaró? Here, you’ll find breathtaking views and a cafe in which to rest up. What’s more, the place is suffused with myths and legends: if you’re there at sunset, you might catch the stone turning golden, tinged with red, which is said to be the remnants of the blood of the Saracens, killed by King James I that soaked the walls. Lovely. Not only is walking free, but you’ll get a good workout in as well – it should take about an hour to walk from Alaró to the Castell. Strap on those boots!
Self Catering Accommodation
While it can be fun to splurge on an all inclusive hotel or eat out every night of your holiday, if you’re on a budget a great way to save a few quid is by opting for a self catering apartment. You can buy breakfast foods for a fraction of the cost from a local supermarket or bakery, and whip up a great selection of meals for the rest of your trip. Aside from the fun of exploring a foreign supermarket (does anyone else think this is exciting?), you can cook some of your favourites while swapping out some tried-and-tested ingredients for local alternatives. We’d heartily recommend a lunch of sobrasada – spreadable pork chorizo – coupled with fresh bread and local cheese. What a feast!
Farmers’ Markets
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If you want to shop while exploring the island though, we have an alternative to the supermarket: farmers’ markets. Lining streets and filling squares, the bustling stalls boast a wealth of fresh produce. The vibrant fruit and veg stalls make for some great pictures, while deli and cheese stalls offer the chance to taste items before you buy them. You could procure your perfect picnic! You can find a market in or around pretty much every town in Majorca, but our pick is in the capital: Mercat de l’Olivar in Palma offers a variety of speciality stalls alongside the typical fruit and veg. Here, you’ll find tapas, fresh seafood, and cheeses. If you do fancy treating yourself, the market reveals a number of luxuries, too: oysters and sparkling wine might get you in the mood for romance!
Eating Out
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If you are going to splash out on a meal out, there are a few wallet-friendly options to choose from! A little off the beaten track in Deia, there’s a cute Mediterranean fusion cafe called S’Hortet. This place boasts universally five-star reviews on TripAdvisor, and serves delicate dishes and homemade cake in an adorable setting, surrounded by mountains and greenery. Why not ask for a table in the garden and chill out in the warmth? Then there’s Restaurant Sa Tercera in Campanet, where you’ll find traditional Spanish fare. Tapas and paella here we come! Looking for something a little different in Palma? Horapa Cala Major offers Thai cuisine that’s extraordinarily delicious and pretty affordable to boot! Alternatively, if you’re just looking for a quick bite without the hassle of cooking, look out for pa amb oli. These bread-based snacks are often a bargain: they’re spread with crushed tomatoes, olive oil, salt and garlic, and are served with things like cheese and ham. Simple but effective!
Pick Your Time Wisely
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Majorca enjoys a pretty temperate climate for most of the year, so if you’re not trying to accommodate school holidays, you’re likely to get more bang for your buck by going in the off-season. May, June, September and October are often warm enough for sunbathing but early enough to escape the crowds, while April, October and November are great options if you’d prefer to be more active.
Has this piqued your interest in a budget trip to Majorca? Check out our Holidays | Flights | Hotels
