Guide

Renting a holiday villa in Mallorca: the checklist

By Jerome Kwamo.K · Published · Last updated · 6 min read

In short

Before booking a holiday villa in Mallorca, check above all: the tourist licence number (e.g. ETV/…), the total price including tourist tax and deposit, the minimum stay, check-in times, cancellation terms and who your local contact is.

Renting a holiday villa in Mallorca: the checklist

1. Does the villa have a tourist licence?

Holiday letting in Mallorca requires a licence. Reputable villas have a registration number, usually prefixed ETV (Estancia Turística en Vivienda), VT or AG. Since 2025 there is also a Spanish registration number starting with "ESFCTU". We show the licence on every villa page, for example ETV/3651 for Villa Serena.

2. What does the stay cost in total?

Ask for a total price: rent, tourist tax (per guest aged 16+ per night) and any extras such as final cleaning or pool heating.

3. How large is the deposit – and when is it returned?

A deposit is standard and refunded after departure. Clarify the amount, payment method and refund period beforehand.

4. Minimum stay and changeover day

Many villas have a minimum stay; at JKK Escapes it is at least 4 nights. In high season villas are often rented Saturday to Saturday only.

5. Check-in, check-out and key handover

Usual times are arrival from 3–4 pm and departure by 10 am–12 noon. Ask who will meet you and whether a late arrival is possible.

6. Are bedrooms and bathrooms really suitable?

"Up to 10 guests" can include sofa beds. Check the number of real bedrooms and bathrooms. At Sa Font, for example, all four bedrooms have their own bathroom.

7. Pool: size, safety, heating

With small children a pool fence or cover matters. In the shoulder season a heated pool is worth it.

8. Location and rental car

Most villas are outside towns. Plan on a rental car – two for large groups.

9. Cleaning and service

Ask how often the villa is cleaned and whether linen changes, breakfast or a chef are available.

10. Who helps on site?

If something goes wrong you need a reachable contact. With us you have a personal contact and a 24/7 emergency number.

FAQ

What does ETV mean for a holiday villa in Mallorca?

ETV stands for "Estancia Turística en Vivienda" – the tourist licence for holiday homes in the Balearic Islands.

How far in advance should you book a villa in Mallorca?

For July and August ideally 6–9 months ahead; for the shoulder season 1–3 months is usually enough.

Do I need a rental car in Mallorca?

In most cases yes, as villas are usually outside towns. For groups of 8 or more, two cars or a transfer are recommended.

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