Mallorca v Barcelona: how to get there for the big match

The 2025/26 La Liga season is about to kick off and what better way to start than with a sun-soaked football weekender in Mallorca? On Saturday, August 16, the Balearic upstarts RCD Mallorca facing off against defending champions FC Barcelona in a thrilling season opener that’s sure to draw fans from all over Spain and beyond.

With multiple ferry routes from Barcelona and Valencia running every day, it’s the perfect excuse to spend a sunny weekend enjoying the action on the beach and the pitch in Mallorca. Let’s see how you can plan your ferry trip to Mallorca in the Balearics for the game and make the most of your football-filled weekend!

Palma is an excellent place to start the 2025/26 football season

Mallorca vs. Barcelona: match date, time & key info

La Liga returns with a sizzling clash between RCD Mallorca and FC Barcelona, at 19:30 on Saturday, August 16, at the Estadi Mallorca Son Moix.

While Barça may be the reigning champions and hold the upper hand historically, Mallorca have pulled off some memorable upsets, including their Copa Del Rey triumph in 2003.  Although Barcelona defeated the Balearic islanders in both matches (1-5 in Mallorca and 1-0 in Barcelona) last year, anything can happen on opening day. 

Could this be the season the islanders turn the tide? One thing's for sure: the match promises drama and passion, both on the pitch and in the stands, under the Balearic sky.

How to get to Mallorca for the match

You can travel to Mallorca by ferry from Barcelona and Valencia. However, as ferries generally set sail from the Spanish mainland in the afternoon or evening, they arrive in Palma at 19:15 or later, so you will have to travel the day before, on Friday. The extra time will allow you to do some sightseeing in Palma or explore the beaches in Mallorca at your leisure.

• You can catch any of the 3 overnight ferries from Barcelona to Mallorca, which leave between 21:30 and 22:45 and arrive in Palma at around 05:30 to 06:00. 
• There are 4 Valencia - Mallorca ferries, with departures from 21:45 to 22:30 and reach Mallorca between 05:00 and 06:30.
• It is also possible to travel with a high-speed ferry to Alcúdia from Barcelona. The port town, on the north of Mallorca, is about 55 km from Palma.

Tip: if you are planning a longer stay, you can check out our complete guide on getting to Mallorca for all travel options.

Start your football weekend escape in Mallorca with a visit to La Seu

When (and why) to book your ferry tickets

If you’re planning to catch the big game live on Mallorca, don’t leave your ferry booking to the last minute, especially in August, which is one of the busiest months of the year. Ferries from Barcelona and Valencia to Mallorca tend to sell out quickly around the weekends and major holidays, and the opening match for La Liga is no exception.

To ensure that you make it to Mallorca in time for the game, it is highly recommended that you book your ferry tickets at least 1-2 weeks in advance. This will allow you to lock in the ferry that suits you the best and plan the rest of your stay on the island.

Extra time tips for football fans in Mallorca

Before you head onto the pitch (or, well, the ferry), here are some extra-time tips to make the most of your football weekend in Mallorca:

• The ferry trip from either Barcelona or Valencia takes about 7 to 8.5 hours, depending on the route and company. For a more relaxed and private overnight journey, you can book a cabin.
• Although there is no dedicated fan zone in town, there are usually family-friendly activities and events in the area around the stadium. Check the team’s official websites closer to match day for more details.
• From the center of Palma you can take the 6, 7, 8 or 9 bus to the stadium, which is on the northwestern outskirts of town. The bus ride usually takes about 30-35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. 
• If you opt to bring your car or rent one in Palma to drive to the match, there are on-site parking facilities in the stadium, as well as other parking lots in the area.
• Whether your team wins, loses, or draws, don’t forget to celebrate (or cheer yourself up) with a freshly baked ensaïmada.
• For more ideas for your football weekend escape, check out our guide on things to do in Mallorca.

Did you remember to pack your ticket for the game?

Ready for kick-off? Pack your jersey, dust off your beach towel, book your ferry tickets to Mallorca with Ferryhopper in just a few clicks, and get ready for the Mallorca v Barcelona clash, island-style!