Getting around Mallorca
Road is the main form of transport in Mallorca. Three motorways connect Palma and the airport with other parts of the island, notably the north.
Use of the horn is common, and it's also common practice for drivers to temporarily stop their vehicles in the street with hazard lights on as a warning. Foreign drivers should note that pedestrian crossings are denoted by black and white lines (not flashing orange lights).
Road quality is generally good, although steep, narrow mountain routes can make it difficult for coaches and cars to pass other than at special points. Heavy traffic congestion is rare.
There are three motorways where the speed limit is 120kph (75mph). On main roads the speed limit is 100kph (62 mph), for minor roads it is 90kph (56 mph) and on urban roads it is 60kph (37 mph).
Car hire is available from Palma airport and in all the resorts. Major international and (often cheaper) local firms operate. The minimum age of car hire is 18, but most companies hire only to over 21s.
Taxis are a safe and popular way of getting to and from the airport, as well as around Palma. Taxis can be hailed from the street or telephoned, and all use a meter.
Scooters and motorbikes are available for hire, but check this doesn’t invalidate your health insurance. Cycling is a popular way to explore the island.
Getting around by bus is easy, efficient and cheap. Buses serve almost all towns and villages, although services are limited in rural areas. Palma’s main bus station is located adjacent to the train station in Plaza Espaňa. The number 1 bus connects Palma and the airport. See www.emtpalma.es for bus routes.
Break down services are usually provided by individual car hire companies. If not, try Real Automóvil Club de Espanya (RACE) (tel: 902 300 505; www.race.es).
Fast, efficient, affordable train services run between Palma (Plaza Espaňa) and Inca, stopping at towns such as Santa Maria, Binissalem and Festival Park shopping outlet. There are also connections between Inca and Sa Pobla and Manacor. Schedules and fares can be found at www.tib.org. A short metro line connects Palma city centre to the university.
The Sóller railway (www.trendesoller.com), an antique wooden train aimed at tourists, runs from Palma to Sóller several times a day.
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