What to do and see in Mallorca in January?

If you are planning a getaway to Mallorca in January, you are about to discover a completely different side to this Mediterranean destination. Although temperatures may be cooler than in the summer months, Mallorca in January offers endless possibilities. From folkloric festivities, outdoor plans that allow you to explore the island’s nature or visit the capital, Palma de Mallorca, with its rich history, impressive architecture and vibrant cultural scene. There is something for everyone.

During your visit in January, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the authenticity of Mallorca and take part in local festivities, where the community comes together to celebrate deep-rooted traditions. In addition, outdoor plans offer a refreshing experience within the breathtaking scenery, such as hiking in the Tramuntana Mountains or strolling along quiet beaches. Also, in Mallorca in January you can enjoy activities such as tasting local dishes in cosy ‘cellers’ or authentic village bars, or visiting charming local markets. Get ready for an unforgettable experience in Mallorca this January!

The festival of Sant Antoni in Sa Pobla

The festivity of Sant Antoni in Sa Pobla is a celebration that pays homage to the patron saint of animals. Every year, on 17th January, the inhabitants of this Mallorcan town congregate to take part in an event full of tradition and colour. One of the most distinctive elements of this festivity are the ‘dimonis’, masked characters representing demons who parade through the streets in elaborate costumes and terrifying masks. Their presence symbolises the struggle of good against evil and dates back to the 14th century.

Bonfires are another essential component of the festival. Large piles of wood are lit in different parts of the town, creating a warm and cosy atmosphere in the middle of winter. Families gather around the fire to sing the popular ‘gloses’, typical Mallorcan songs, which are sung to the sound of a zambomba. The typical food of this festivity is espinagadas, made with meat or eel.

The festivity of Sant Antoni in Sa Pobla is, without a doubt, a unique experience that combines religious devotion with pagan roots that you cannot miss if you go to Mallorca in January. This festivity is also very popular in Artà and Manacor..

Festivities of San Sebastián in Palma

The festivities of San Sebastián in Palma de Mallorca are a celebration in honour of the city’s patron saint that takes place on 20th January every year. The festivity combines religious elements with popular traditions, creating a festive and joyful atmosphere throughout the city. One of the highlights is the procession, in which the image of San Sebastián is carried in a solemn parade through the streets, accompanied by bagpipers and bigheaded figures.

In addition to the procession, the fiestas of San Sebastián in Palma offer a varied programme of cultural and entertainment activities for all tastes, attracting many visitors with a wide range of musical concerts in the different squares of the city, and becoming an annual event of reference to celebrate the cultural identity of the city and also to enjoy the night-time atmosphere.

A stroll through Palma de Mallorca

Strolling through the city of Palma is an enriching experience that invites you to enter a labyrinth of cobbled streets and charming squares. Each corner holds a unique history and beauty, from the old town with its narrow medieval streets to the more modern neighbourhoods with their avant-garde architecture. As you walk along these roads, you will discover whitewashed façades, flowery balconies and interior courtyards that bear witness to centuries of Mallorcan history and culture. Neighbourhoods such as La Lonja or Santa Catalina add a bohemian touch to the experience, with trendy bars and restaurants that encourage you to stop and enjoy the local authenticity, which doesn’t let up in January.

In the city of Palma, the diversity of tourist tours is as wide-ranging as it is fascinating. From historical tours through the old town, where the secrets of the medieval architecture and the legends that lie within its cobbled streets are revealed, to bicycle and Segway tours that allow you to explore the city on wheels. For foodies, some culinary tours offer the opportunity to take a tapas tour of Palma in authentic markets and taverns. Lovers of the alternative can delight in a free night tour of Palma where they will learn about the mysteries and anecdotes of the city on a night tour with local guides.

Hiking Routes

Mallorca’s weather in January makes it an ideal time to explore the island through its hiking routes. The possibilities are vast with a wide variety of trails, each adapted to different levels of ability and fitness. From gentle routes winding through beautiful valleys and along coastlines, to more challenging trails leading to impressive mountain peaks, there are options to suit all tastes.

The low-difficulty trails are ideal for those looking for a relaxing walk in the middle of Mallorca’s lush nature, such as the visit to Ses Coves Blanques in Cala de San Vicente, which offers beautiful views of the sea and can be done with children without any difficulty. Those who love a challenge will find satisfaction in routes that require greater resistance and technique, such as the ascent to Puig Tomir from Binifaldó, crowning a 1200-metre peak and negotiating a 600-metre cliff.

Visit the Caves of Hams

There are many caves in Mallorca to visit. However, for those wanting an alternative to the famous Caves of Drach, the Caves of Hams offer an equally fascinating and memorable experience. Here, visitors have the opportunity to explore equally impressive underground grottoes, but with the added advantage of avoiding the crowds that often congregate at the Drach. Carefully designed lighting highlights the unique beauty of the geological formations, creating a magical atmosphere inside the caves, which also feature an underground lake.

The Caves of Hams are the only caves in Mallorca that offer an audiovisual show in a Time Lapse, a giant projection that takes place on the millenary rock of the cave. The projection, Genesis, covers the period from the Big Bang to the present day at a dizzying pace. At Click Mallorca you can find discounted tickets to visit the Hams Caves.

Visit the Palma Aquarium with the AquaDome

Another ideal plan in January, if one day the weather doesn’t allow you to make plans outdoors, is to visit the Palma Aquarium. The Palma Aquarium is a fascinating window into the underwater world that offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. In its impressive 3.5 million litre saltwater tank visitors have the opportunity to marvel at the majestic sharks, emblematic creatures of the oceans.

In this huge aquarium, you can observe these impressive predators from different viewpoints, even stretch out on cushions and get a close-up view of them. In addition, the Aquarium houses an amazing collection of 70 species of live corals spread across the different aquariums, creating a vibrant and colourful ecosystem that reveals the richness and diversity of marine life!

For those looking for an even more immersive experience, the AquaDome 3D cinema is an exciting option. Through three-dimensional projections, visitors are transported to the depths of the ocean, where they can feel the thrill of being surrounded by whales. This cutting-edge technology provides an immersive and captivating view of marine life, offering an educational and exciting experience for all lovers of the underwater world! The Palma Aquarium is a must-see destination for those who wish to explore and appreciate the beauty and importance of the oceans and their varied fauna and flora. You can buy tickets to the Aquarium and AquaDome on the click-mallorca website.

Visit Soller Botanical Garden

The Botanic Garden of Sóller is a true paradise for nature and botany lovers in Mallorca. Located in the heart of the Sóller valley, this garden captivates a lush collection of Mediterranean plants. Strolling along its carefully designed paths, visitors are immersed in a serene and magical environment, where a wide variety of plant species display their beauty at every turn. From centuries-old olive trees to majestic palms and colourful native flowers, the Jardí Botànic offers an educational and sensory experience that highlights the botanical richness of the region.

In addition to its impressive collection of plants, the Botanical Garden of Sóller offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley and the mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana. In January the Botanical Garden is an oasis of tranquillity that invites visitors to connect with nature and appreciate the diversity of flora that Mallorca has to offer.

Horse Riding in Mallorca

Horse riding in Mallorca during the winter is an experience that allows you to connect with nature in a unique environment. In January you have the chance to ride along some of the island’s most beautiful beaches on horseback, creating an unforgettable experience for horse riding enthusiasts.

One of the most enchanting excursions is the crossing of Son Serra de Marina, an unspoilt beach that is reached by horseback through a pine forest. For an hour, riders have the opportunity to explore this coastal paradise as the horses stride steadily along the shore. Horseback riding on the beach in winter in Mallorca is a unique way to enjoy the seascape in a calm and serene environment, away from the hustle and bustle of the high season.

On the click mallorca website you will find more information and you can also book your ticket for horse riding on the beach.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Witnessing the sunrise from a hot air balloon in Mallorca in January is an experience that awakens the senses and the adventurous spirit. As the darkness gradually dissipates, the warm tones of the sun begin to illuminate the horizon, painting the sky with brushstrokes of orange and pink. From the heights, you can see the island slowly awaken: the fields bathed in golden light, the rooftops of the villages with a morning glow. This experience provides a sense of serenity and connection with nature that lingers long after you have landed.

A balloon ride is also an ideal gift if you want to surprise someone with an unforgettable moment. At Click-Mallorca you can book a balloon ride both for your own enjoyment and to surprise with something so special.

Almond Trees in Blossom

The Almond blossom is one of the most impressive natural spectacles in Mallorca. Between the end of January and the beginning of February, until mid-March, the island is dyed a radiant and delicate white. The fields and hills are transformed into a sea of white and pink flowers that contrast with the intense blue of the Mediterranean sky.

This phenomenon is especially noticeable in the Serra de Tramuntana, as well as in the rural areas around villages such as Bunyola, Sóller and Valldemossa and also in the Raiguer area. Visitors arriving at this time of year are privileged to witness the ephemeral beauty of the almond blossom, an event that leaves a lasting impression and an intimate connection with Mallorcan nature. If you want to prepare your route to see the almond blossom, don’t miss our previous post, where you will find some suggestions for routes.

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The weather in Mallorca in January

In January, Mallorca experiences a mild winter climate that invites you to explore the island in a quieter and more relaxed way. Temperatures usually range between 8°C and 15°C, although they can occasionally drop even lower at night. It is therefore advisable to bring warm clothing, including jackets, scarves and jumpers to keep you comfortable during the cooler evenings. During the day, you may feel slightly cooler temparatures compared to the summer heat, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities in comfort.

In January, the days are shorter compared to the summer months, which means that the sun rises around 8:30 in the morning and sets around 17:30 in the evening. This provides approximately 9 hours of daylight, which still allows you to make the most of the daylight hours to explore the island and enjoy the scenery. The central hours of the day tend to be warmer, but it is advisable to bring extra layers to be prepared for the cooler temperatures in the early and late hours of the day.

Tips for travelling to Mallorca in January

In January, some tourist sites may be less crowded, allowing for a quieter and more authentic experience. Visit Palma Cathedral or explore the island’s inland villages. Take the opportunity to hike in the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, enjoy the almond blossom or go hiking along the coast.

In January, Mallorca tends to have cool and occasionally wet weather. To be prepared, it is advisable to bring warm clothes, such as coats and jumpers, as the nights can be quite chilly. During the day, between-season clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and trousers, will keep you comfortable. A waterproof jacket is essential due to possible rain. Don’t forget suitable footwear and accessories such as scarves and hats to keep you warm too!

Despite the season, it is important to wear sunscreen, as the sun can be strong. Adjust your clothing according to the weather forecast and, if you plan to visit beaches, bring swimming costumes, although the water can be cold for swimming. With this variety of clothing, you will be ready to enjoy your trip to Mallorca in January in a comfortable and appropriate way.

Find more things to do in Mallorca in January here:

Find more activities and excursions that you can do in January in Mallorca on our website by clicking here: