Renting a villa often means hiring a car, and a few questions tend to come up again and again from readers planning their first self-catering trip. We have gathered the most common ones here, along with straightforward answers drawn from years of driving around the island.

Do I really need a car?

For most villa holidays the answer is yes. While resorts are well served by buses, rural and village properties usually sit some distance from shops and beaches. A car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, which is the whole point of choosing a villa over a hotel.

Is driving in Majorca difficult?

Generally no. The main roads are good and well signposted. The mountain routes of the Tramuntana are narrow and winding, so take them slowly, but they are perfectly manageable with a little care. Parking in Palma and popular towns can be tricky in peak season, so look for car parks rather than circling the streets.

What should I check before collecting the car?

• Confirm whether the insurance excess is high and whether it is worth reducing.
• Photograph any existing scratches or dents before you drive away.
• Check the fuel policy, as full-to-full is usually the fairest.

Any final advice?

Book early for the best rates, especially in summer, and choose a car small enough for village lanes but comfortable enough for longer days out. With those simple steps sorted, the open roads of Majorca are yours to enjoy.