Mallorca is one of Europe's most popular family holiday islands, and Palma Airport handles enormous numbers of families, especially between June and September. The airport is used to it, but the sheer volume creates its own challenges.
Getting through the airport
If arriving from within the Schengen zone (most European flights), there is no passport queue. You go straight to baggage claim, which speeds things up considerably with tired children. From outside Schengen, expect a standard passport check.
Baggage claim is on one level, with trolleys available. The walk from arrivals to the transport area outside is short and flat, which helps with strollers and heavy bags. The terminal has baby-changing facilities and family restrooms.
During peak summer, the arrivals hall is crowded and noisy with tour operator representatives, families gathering, and people looking for their transport. It can be overwhelming for small children. Moving through it quickly toward your transport is the best strategy.
Child car seats
Spanish law requires children under 135 cm to use an appropriate child restraint in vehicles. Taxis in Spain are technically exempt from this rule, but that does not mean your child is safe without one. Many resort destinations involve 30-60 minutes of motorway driving.
Pre-booked transfer services can provide child seats and booster seats if you request them when booking. Specify the age and weight of each child so the correct seats are fitted. This is especially important for the longer transfers to resorts in the north or east of the island.
If you are renting a car, most companies offer child seats as an add-on. Book in advance during summer as they can sell out.
Transport with children
Bus to Palma is fine for older children with small bags. It is not practical with strollers, heavy luggage, and toddlers.
Taxis work well for families heading to Palma. For longer resort transfers, a standard sedan may not fit two adults, two children, a stroller, and several suitcases. You may need a larger vehicle.
Pre-booked transfers are the most common choice for families heading to resorts. You get a vehicle sized for your group, child seats fitted, and a direct drive to your hotel. No waiting in the summer taxi queue with restless children.
Tour operator coaches are included in many package holidays. They work but are slow, making multiple hotel stops. Children often find the extended journey tiring after an already long travel day.
Practical family tips
- Bring snacks and water for the transfer, especially if heading to a distant resort. There is limited opportunity to buy food between the airport and your hotel.
- If your children sleep easily in cars, a late-afternoon or evening flight can work well. They sleep through the transfer and wake up at the resort.
- The airport has a small play area, but it is not large enough to occupy energetic children for long.
- Mallorca's summer heat can be intense. If you arrive midday, the car park and taxi rank area will be hot. Get into your vehicle quickly.
- Confirm your hotel has baby cots or child beds arranged if needed. This is separate from your transfer but worth verifying before arrival.