ENArtà, Mallorca – History, Nature & Timeless Charm
Tucked away in Mallorca’s north-east, Artà is a town where cobblestone streets wind up to a hilltop sanctuary, where centuries-old traditions are still alive, and where the surrounding landscape feels as untouched as it did generations ago.
It’s a place for slow travel, local markets, and long walks into nature. 🌿
Why Visit Artà?
Artà isn’t a resort town. It’s where you come to live like a local for a day, connect with Mallorca’s history, and explore nature at your own pace.
Highlights include:
- 🏛️ Historic Old Town with traditional architecture and artisan shops.
- ⛪ Sant Salvador Sanctuary with panoramic island views.
- 🥾 Access to Parc Natural de Llevant for incredible hiking and hidden beaches.
- 🛍️ Tuesday market – one of the island’s most authentic.
- 🍽️ A growing food scene blending traditional Mallorcan flavours with creative twists.
A Glimpse Into Artà’s History 🕰️
Artà’s history stretches back to prehistoric times, with talaiots (stone towers) still scattered in the surrounding countryside. The town itself developed under Moorish influence, before becoming a stronghold of Christian Mallorca in the Middle Ages.
The Sant Salvador Sanctuary, perched on a hill above the town, dates to the 14th century and has been a site of pilgrimage for centuries. Walking up its cypress-lined stairway is still one of the most memorable experiences in Artà.
Things to Do in Artà
🏛️ Wander the Old Town
Start in the Plaça del Conqueridor and lose yourself in the narrow streets filled with craft shops, art galleries, and cosy cafés. Don’t miss Carrer de Ciutat for independent boutiques and artisanal goods.
⛪ Climb to Sant Salvador
From the town centre, a gentle climb up a stairway of 180 steps leads you to the Sant Salvador Sanctuary. Views stretch across almond groves, tiled rooftops, and out towards the coast.
🥾 Parc Natural de Llevant
Artà is the gateway to one of Mallorca’s most underrated natural parks. With hiking trails, hidden coves, and a feeling of true wilderness, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers. We’ll cover it in detail in our upcoming Parc Natural de Llevant guide.
🛍️ Artà’s Weekly Market
📅 Every Tuesday
📍 Plaça del Conqueridor & surrounding streets
This isn’t just for tourists — locals come here to stock up on fresh produce, olive oil, herbs, and handmade goods. It’s lively, colourful, and a great way to taste authentic Mallorca.
🔗 Read our full Mallorca Weekly Markets Guide
Beaches Near Artà 🏖️
While Artà itself is inland, some of Mallorca’s most beautiful and untouched beaches are within a short drive:
| Beach | Why Go | Distance |
| Cala Torta | Wild & unspoilt, turquoise waters | ~15 min |
| Cala Mitjana | Hidden, perfect for hiking access | ~20 min |
| Cala Mesquida | Dunes, surf & facilities | ~15 min |
Restaurants & Where to Eat 🍽️
| Restaurant | Style | Why Go |
| Restaurante Finca Es Serral | Rural fine dining | Farm-to-table with stunning countryside views |
| Café Parísien | Bistro | French-Mallorcan fusion in the heart of town |
| Sa Gripia | Traditional Mallorcan | Long-standing local favourite |
Where to Stay in Artà 🏡
If you want to stay close to nature but within walking distance of charming streets, Artà is a great base.
| Hotel | Type | Why Stay |
| Hotel Can Moragues | Boutique | Restored manor house with garden |
| Carrossa Hotel Spa Villas | Luxury resort | Spa, golf, and views over the Llevant |
| Yartan Boutique Hotel | Boutique | Stylish adults-only retreat |
Fun Facts About Artà 💡
- The name “Artà” comes from the Arabic Yartân, reflecting its Moorish past.
- The area is known for fig bread — try it at the market.
- Some of the island’s oldest archaeological sites, like Ses Païsses, are just outside town.
Getting to Artà 🚗
- By Car: ~1 hour from Palma via Ma-15.
- By Bus: Direct TIB routes from Palma (~1h 15m).
- Car Hire: Ideal if you want to combine with beach days or hikes — check deals here: 🚗 Find a Car Rental in Mallorca (affiliate link)
Artà Summary
| Feature | Details |
| Best For | History lovers, hikers, and slow travellers |
| Must-See | Sant Salvador, Parc Natural de Llevant, Tuesday Market |
| Nearby Beaches | Cala Torta, Cala Mesquida, Cala Mitjana |
| Events | Tuesday Market, local fiestas in August |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring & Autumn for hiking, Summer for beaches |
Final Thoughts
Artà offers a rare mix of authentic Mallorcan culture and access to some of the island’s wildest landscapes. It’s a town to slow down in — sip a cortado in the square, climb to the sanctuary, wander the market, and then escape to the hills or coast.
📌 Next up: Our full Parc Natural de Llevant Guide — the perfect complement to your Artà visit.
