Welcome to Santanyí, one of the weightier towns in southeast Mallorca. A mannerly spot that has all of the Balearic recreate one could hope for, its tropical to everything on the eastern side.
Santanyí is one of my favorite Mallorcan towns, so much so, that we lived just on the outskirts in a neighboring town for six weeks last year. This part of Mallorca is special slow living, village life, and tropical to all of the weightier calas and beaches.
While we lived in the small neighboring village of Ses Salines (10 minutes from Santanyí), Santanyí was the large town that we would go to on a regular basis. We became frequent visitors to the weekly markets and found our favorite restaurants and shops.
Why Visit Santanyí
What makes Santanyí uneaten special is that the municipality itself is mostly pedestrian. You park on the outside and walk into the part-way where several criss-crossing alleys lead to the center.
Its one of the most visited towns in Mallorca, and for good reason. It has a lot on offer in the town and is one of the worthier villages similar to Pollenca in size. Most small towns in Mallorca like Valldemossa and Deiá just have a handful of restaurants and accommodations.
The other part that is wonderful well-nigh Santanyí and why we chose this part of Mallorca as a home for nearly 2 months, is the location. Youre within a 15-20 minute momentum to some of the most iconic weightier beaches of Mallorca.
You can really explore this part of the island efficiently from Santanyí, which is why I unchangingly recommend it as the weightier hub for the eastern side. The only downside is that in some peak months, the traffic and crowds are unavoidable. But those are manageable with early starts to the day and some strategic timing.
Below, Im sharing my Santanyí guide and local knowledge without living in the area. Find where to stay, where to eat, and the weightier beaches tropical to Santanyí.
Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Weightier Hotels in Santanyí:
- Can Ferrereta, for the weightier adults-only hotel
- SHotelet de Santanyi, for the weightier overall hotel
- Cal Reiet Holistic Retreat, for the weightier countryside hotel
Want to plan your unshortened trip to Mallorca? Read my full island guide and my guide to the best luxury hotels in Mallorca!
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Santanyí, Mallorca
What to Know Before You Visit Santanyí
Getting to Santanyí
Getting to Santanyí, Mallorca is relatively easy, as the town is well-connected to the rest of the island. The nearest major airport is Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), which is approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) from Santanyí. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Santanyí.
The Most User-friendly Way is By Rental Car
Getting virtually Mallorca really does require a rental car. Its what will indulge you to wangle beaches, small villages and towns, and surrounding areas. I would recommend flying into Palma de Mallorca, grabbing your rental car there, and road-tripping.
The eastern part of Mallorca is very easy to momentum in with unappetizing roads and well-spoken signage (unlike the western side). Your biggest rencontre will unchangingly be parking, so plan on a smaller car.
You do need to reserve a car in advance, I use Discover Cars to get the cheapest rates for my car rentals in Europe.
Getting Virtually Santanyí
Getting virtually Santanyí is quite convenient, as its a relatively meaty town. Most of the attractions and suavities are within walking loftiness of the town center, making strolling through its mannerly streets a pleasant way to explore.
Additionally, renting a bicycle or a scooter is a popular option for tent a bit increasingly ground and reaching nearby beaches and natural sites. Youll see people wanderlust virtually often, but be prepared for hot days in the sun.
The Weightier Time to Visit Santanyí
The weightier time to visit Santanyí, Mallorca, is during the spring (April to June) and early storing (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, and the tourist crowds are thinner compared to the peak summer season.
This allows you to enjoy the towns attractions, beaches, and outdoor activities comfortably. Summer (July and August) is the busiest and hottest time, so if you prefer a quieter and increasingly temperate experience, its prudent to plan your visit duing the shoulder seasons.
Where to Stay in Santanyí
There are a few perks to booking a hotel in town, which allows you to park the car once and then walk in everywhere. Depending on what kind of wits you want, you could moreover squint into the countryside for smaller shop hotels and vacation rentals. Ive grouped the hotels by in-town and countryside to make it easier to narrow in on the wits thats weightier for you. Lastly, if youre planning on exploring increasingly of the island, be sure to trammels out my guide to the weightier luxury hotels in Mallorca which highlights wondrous properties wideness the island.
Travel Tip: I lived in Ses Salines, where I personally enjoyed the smaller village finger and stuff in the countryside. This is moreover a unconfined wiring as there are two fantastic restaurants in town as well.
Hotels In-Town
Can Ferrereta (Adults-Only)
Can Ferrereta is a luxurious shop hotel located in the mannerly town of Santanyí, Mallorca. This elegant and intimate hotel offers a tranquil retreat for sultana guests, combining modern suavities with a historic atmosphere, making it an platonic nomination for a romantic getaway or a peaceful escape. Book the weightier rates here.
SHotelet de Santanyi
SHotelet de Santanyi is a mannerly shop hotel nestled in the heart of Santanyí, Mallorca. With its welcoming atmosphere, stylish design, and personalized service, this shop hotel provides a cozy and relaxing oasis for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy the towns attractions, making it a unconfined nomination for a memorable stay in Santanyí. Book the weightier rates here.
Cal Reiet Holistic Retreat
Cal Reiet Holistic Retreat is a wellness and holistic retreat part-way located near Santanyí, Mallorca. This serene and rejuvenating retreat offers guests a holistic experience, including yoga, meditation, healthy cuisine, and spa treatments. Its an platonic destination for those seeking relaxation, personal growth, and well-being in a tranquil and natural setting on the trappy island of Mallorca. Book the weightier rates here.
Other Hotels Nearby
Villa Station by Cassai (Ses Salines)
Villa Station by Cassai is a stylish and trendy villa walk-up in Ses Salines, Mallorca. This shop villa offers modern amenities, sleek design, and a private pool. This place is washed-up by the Cassai Group, they have a restaurant in town! Book the weightier rates here.
Finca Hotel Rural Es Turó (Santanyí Countryside)
Finca Hotel Rural Es Turó is a mannerly rural hotel located in the countryside near Santanyí, Mallorca. Set in a peaceful and picturesque environment, this Finca-style hotel provides guests with a tranquil retreat, well-appointed accommodations, and a taste of pure Mallorcan rural life. Book the weightier rates here.
Sa Carrotja (Adults Only, Ses Salines)
Sa Carrotja is a shop hotel in Ses Salines, Mallorca, exclusively designed for sultana guests. This adults-only retreat offers a serene and relaxing atmosphere, making it an platonic destination for couples or individuals seeking a peaceful getaway. Book the weightier rates here.
Bookmarked Vacation Rentals in the Area
Terraced House in Santanyí (2br / 2ba)
Design Terraced House in Santanyí (3br / 2ba)
Luxury Townhouse in Santanyí (3b / 2ba with Pool)
The Weightier Things to Do in Santanyí
Go to the Saturday or Wednesday Market
One of the biggest draws to Santanyí is the weekly market, moreover known as Mercat Setmanal Santanyí. Its a big deal on the island people come in from everywhere for this. The Saturday one is particularly busy. The streets are full of vendors selling various produce, goods, and more.
I personally prefer the smaller Wednesday market as it has fewer crowds and vendors. If you do plan to go, the early bird gets the worm, so victorious early. Go for a stroll in the part-way of the town and then stop at any of the cafes for a coffee to watch the crowds go by.
Spend the Day at The Beach
With a prime location to the best beaches of Mallorca, you can hands visit any of these near Santanyí on an afternoon trip. Youll definitely need a car or some kind of transport.
Cala Llombards
Cala Llombards was our go-to plane though the parking can be tricky come late morning and afternoon. Its an easy archway into the beach, super kid-friendly as well, and is sandy. Youll need to bring your own shade, so remember this or try to find a spot versus the rocks.
Cala Santanyí
Cala Santanyí is flipside family-friendly Cala. There is zaftig parking here to access. I dont think the water at the shoreline is the best, but if you go out virtually the rocks, it does get clearer. Several restaurants are here too, so there are some amenities.
Playa de SAmarador / Parc Natural de Mondrago
This is my favorite waterfront in eastern Mallorca, the water is unbeatable at Playa de SAmarador. Set inside Parc Natural de Mondrago, this large cove waterfront has small waves. Its my go-to for a full day at the beach. Theres a snack shack with drinks and chairs/umbrellas for rent.
Cala sAlmunia
Cala sAlmunia is one of the weightier rocky calas, its a wonderful spot for a very early morning dip as it gets very crowded.
Stroll the Old Town and Shop Local
The old town of Santanyí is a thing to do in itself. There are so many lovely roads and alleyways, full of shops and local designers. Some of my favorite stores from my time include Mimar Lifestyle (home goods), Valle Trufa (gourmet grocery), Flor de Sal dEs Trenc (artisanal local salt), Es Taller Mallorca, Artesania (glass shop), and Sa Floristeria (floral store.)
Visit Cala Figuera
One of our favorite port towns is just outside of Santanyí, tabbed Cala Figuera. Its a unconfined afternoon excursion. Head out to the cala, stroll virtually the picturesque shipping village, and then stop for an apero at one of the restaurants with a view. We unchangingly stop at Bon Bar for a drink!
If youre looking to get out on the water, Cala Figuera is moreover where most boats go out. If youre interested in getting out on the water, consider booking this scenic wend tour or this popular scenic 2-hour cruise out of Cala Figuera.
Where to Eat in Santanyí
Casa Manolo (Bodega Barahona)
I dont get emotional when I talk well-nigh most places, but this one does it for me. Its in the village of Ses Salines where we lived, and one of the top 3 restaurants in all of Mallorca. Most momentum right by it, only to see the fish sign and not realize its an wondrous restaurant. You have to typesetting in advance, lunch is increasingly popular than dinner.
I ate here probably a dozen times when we lived there as we loved it so much. Its a purely seafood restaurant that has been unshut for generations in Mallorca. Some dishes to try are the fried artichoke, fish cooked in salt, the squid prepared tableside, and their rice dishes. I would fly to Mallorca just to eat here.
Es Cantonet
This is such a gem just on the outskirts of Santanyí. Known for its succulent Mediterranean cuisine and warm atmosphere, its a must-visit in my opinion. With a menu featuring fresh local ingredients and traditional Mallorcan dishes, Es Cantonet is perfect for a long dinner out.
Retroway
One of the newer restaurants in town, Retroway has a fusion-Asian-inspired menu. Its a unconfined unravel from traditional Mallorca cuisine if you need it.
GRÁ
Another new spot in town, GRÁ, is an Irish Gastropub but washed-up very Mallorcan! The kick is that it is entirely vegan, so a unconfined healthy spot for a plant-based dining experience.
Laudat
For the most elevated dinner in town, Laudat is the place to get a reservation. The environment and supplies are amazing, arguably the most popular spot in town.
Bar Sa Cova
A good spot for a drink is in the part-way of Santanyí. Youll see many people eating supplies here, Ive tried it twice now, and have been disappointed. So its in my opinion a spot for a drink and a light appetizer.
Palma 13
A good low-key spot for Mallorcan supplies no thrills kind of place.