With historical sites, countless art galleries and plentiful restaurants and bars, this Mallorca gem can easily fill several days of exploration.
The jewel of Mallorca, Palma de Mallorca captivates visitors with its enchanting blend of historical heritage and modern attractions. Travellers can easily go from Old World wonders to contemporary galleries and restaurants in one day, relishing the vibrant culture and welcoming ambience.
Honey-coloured stone buildings define the capital city where it sits on the banks of the Badia de Palma, inviting visitors to wander its medieval streets, past aristocratic residences and Baroque churches, and through street markets and bohemian neighbourhoods. Careful city planning and extensive renovations in the Old Town area have ensured that even those returning for a second or third visit will find new treasures they’ve yet to discover.
Things to do in Palma de Mallorca
The best way to immerse oneself in Palma de Mallorca is a stroll along the Paseo del Borne and the Avenida Jaume III, where tradition and modern sophistication meet. The latter is one of Palma’s busiest streets and part of the shopping area known as the Golden Mile. Encounter a tapestry of boutiques, cafes and local artisan studios, each contributing to the city’s remarkable character. Paseo del Borne is one of the most elegant thoroughfares in the city, with a variety of high-end designer stores.
Step away from the boutiques to shop at the Mercat de l’Olivar and Mercat de Santa Catalina, where you’ll find fresh island produce, Mallorcan wine and traditional crafts. Then, wander along Palma Promenade, which hugs the glistening bay.
Palma de Mallorca’s history and culture
Palma de Mallorca can trace its roots to the 13th century Christian reconquest of the island, and back even further to Moorish, Roman and Talayot civilisations. To feel history come to life, take a walk around Palma’s Old Town, where you’ll find the Gothic-style La Seu (Palma) Cathedral that graces the city skyline, the Royal Palace of Almudaina, a medieval fortress turned royal residence, and Es Caluard Contemporary Art Museum.
Nearby, 14th-century Bellver Castle, a Catalan Gothic masterpiece and Spain’s only round castle, offers a different perspective and striking views from its hilltop location of the Bay of Palma and the Tramuntana mountains.
Dining and nightlife in Palma de Mallorca
Palma de Mallorca’s dining scene wholeheartedly embraces the Mediterranean lifestyle with its focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavours. From the renowned ensaimada pastry to the savoury tumbet dish, to three-gourmet lunches and tapas crawls, you’ll find inventive combinations and traditional tastes throughout the island. Make your way to Santa Catalina and La Lonja streets, or the Paseo del Borne and Calle San Miguel for the most robust dining options.
In the evening, the historic centre comes alive in beachfront bars, lounges and atmospheric spots that invite you to unwind. The Auditorium de Palma, as well as the Es Gremi, host live music, mesmerising flamenco shows and more, providing a chance to be immersed in the rhythms and melodies of Mallorca.
Getting around Palma de Mallorca
Fly into Madrid or Valencia, Spain, then take a connecting flight to Palma de Mallorca Airport. The best way to get around is by rental car, but there are plenty of taxis and buses around as well. Service can be limited on the weekends. Car and passenger ferry service to Palma from Barcelona, Ibiza and Valencia is available, as well.
