What is the best way to get from Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca?
The island Mallorca, off the eastern coast of Spain, lies in the Mediterranean. It is close to Ibiza and Menorca and very well connected to the continent -the biggest of the Balearian islands. Palma de Mallorca has an international airport and regular ferry services from Barcelona and Valencia.
The quickest and most convenient way to reach the island is by flying. A wide range of low-cost airlines operates daily flights to Mallorca. The Palma de Mallorca Airport, also known as Son Sant Joan Airport, lies 8 km from the city. Vueling, for example, flies from El-Prat Airport in Barcelona, directly to Sant Joan Airport. The flight is 55 minutes.
I have mentioned Vueling, but there are a lot of low-cost airlines that fly to Mallorca. Other airlines include Ryanair, Air Europa, British Airways, and more. Best bet is to check for flights on Expedia.com.
This airport is well-connected and has excellent bus services running to Palma and other destinations around the island.
Travelling to Palma de Mallorca by Ferry.
The other option to travel to Mallorca is by Ferry. Personally, I have a love-hate relationship with Ferries. I am prone to getting seasick and always tread with caution when it comes to ferries. However, a ferry ride is relaxing especially if you can do it overnight. Many ferries leave twice-daily from Barcelona and the ride takes about 7 hours. That is a long time if you compare it to a 55-minute flight.
Most ferries leave by 13h00 and 23h00 daily. Balearia, for example, has seating and cabins. A cabin is a great idea especially if you decide to take the 23h00 ferry. Sadly, prices cannot compare to low-cost flights. A single trip will cost you 77 Euros on Balearia compared to 25 USD on a low-cost flight. (Prices depend on the season and specials offered by airlines).
Long distance buses to get to Mallorca.
If you are traveling from within Europe then it is good to keep in mind that many long distance bus companies offer services via coach. You cannot travel directly to Mallorca and will have to travel by coach to your nearest port and then find a ferry to Barcelona, Valencia or Dénia.
Buses normally stop at the main bus stations and then you will have to find your way to the port to hop on the ferry. Considering the time and cost, it is advisable to consider flying to Mallorca.
