Things To Do
in Palma
Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands, blends medieval charm with a sunlit marina. Its narrow lanes lead to the Gothic La Seu cathedral, bustling markets, and lively cafés overlooking the Mediterranean. The city pairs a historic old town with a modern waterfront, making it easy to wander on foot, by bike, or by tram.
Surrounding the city, the Serra de Tramuntana hills offer dramatic coastal scenery and scenic hikes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Palma Cathedral, also known as La Seu, where its Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass windows will leave you in awe. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, stopping at quaint cafés for a traditional ensaimada pastry and coffee. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you explore the bustling markets nearby, filled with local produce and artisan goods.
Post-lunch, head to the Almudaina Palace, a majestic royal residence that provides insight into Mallorca’s royal history and offers beautiful views of the harbor. Spend your afternoon wandering through the picturesque streets of the historic Jewish Quarter, admiring the charming architecture and discovering hidden gems such as local artisan shops and galleries. Before you wrap up your exploration, make a stop at the Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art for a dose of culture and creativity.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the cathedral, where you can savor exquisite local cuisine paired with a fine Mallorcan wine. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, watching the boats bobbing in the harbor and enjoying the gentle sea breeze. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local bar for a refreshing cocktail and live music, soaking in the vibrant nightlife of Palma.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café, followed by a relaxing morning at Playa de Palma, known for its golden sands and clear waters. Settle on a sunbed, soak up the Mediterranean sun, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the warm sea. If you’re feeling adventurous, try out some water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing, available at various rental stations along the beach.
After a morning of sun and fun, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a beachside chiringuito, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes and traditional paella. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or take a stroll along the promenade, exploring the charming shops and boutiques that line the coast. You might also consider renting a bike to explore further down the coast, discovering hidden coves and quieter beaches.
As evening approaches, unwind with a sunset walk along the beach, where the sky transforms into hues of orange and pink. Dine at a seaside restaurant, enjoying a delicious meal while listening to the sound of waves gently lapping against the shore. After dinner, enjoy a cocktail at a beach bar, mingling with locals and other travelers as you bask in the Mediterranean ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍷Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚌One-way public transport ticket | $1-3 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $120-200 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic architecture and a vibrant market scene
- Excellent seafood, fresh produce, and Mallorcan cuisine
- Easy access to beaches and the Serra de Tramuntana
- Can be crowded and pricey in peak season
- Parking can be challenging in the old town
- Some tourist areas may feel commercialized
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Catalán o español?" - Catalan or Spanish?
Places to Visit in Palma
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Gothic cathedral perched above the harbor; striking against the blue Mediterranean, especially at dawn or sunset.
Palm-lined seafront with yachts and fishermen’s boats, perfect for golden-hour silhouettes and long exposure shots.
Circular fortress with sweeping views over Palma and the bay; great for panoramic city photography.
Colorful stalls, tiled walls, and vibrant market life ideal for candid and still-life shots.
Historic squares and narrow archways framed by pastel buildings—classic Palma photography.
Food in Palma
Palma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rustic bread rubbed with tomato and olive oil, often topped with cheese or jamón; a Mallorcan staple found in many tavernas.
Must-Try!
A cured, peppery pork sausage often spread on bread or used in tapas and baked dishes.
A light, spiral pastry dusted with sugar; popular for breakfast or dessert.
A hearty layered vegetable casserole with potatoes, peppers, and eggplant in tomato sauce.
A savory fried dish of pork (or other meats) with peppers, onions, and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market known for fresh seafood, produce, tapas, and a lively atmosphere.
Central market offering a wide range of fresh goods, prepared bites, and casual stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'hola' or 'buenos días'; say please and thank you; meals are often enjoyed slowly with conversation.
Be mindful of mid-day closures in some shops; plan around mealtimes and business hours.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; remove hats and speak softly.
Safety
Tipping in Palma
Ensure a smooth experience
Not mandatory, but appreciated for good service; 5-10% at restaurants if service is not included.
Cash and cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; carry some local currency for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days, blossoming gardens, and comfortable crowds; great for outdoor dining and city strolling.
Hot and sunny, with peak crowds and high sea temperatures; plan morning or late afternoon activities and enjoy beaches and coastal breezes.
Milder temperatures and fewer tourists; ideal for hiking in the Tramuntana and enjoying terrace cafes.
Mild and gentler rainfall; many outdoor venues remain open; fewer crowds but city sights are still accessible.
Palma at Night
Hiking in Palma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular circular hike with forested paths and panoramic views; suitable for a half-day trip.
Spectacular coastal gorge hike with towering limestone walls; best with a guide and proper planning.
Coastal trails offering dramatic sea views and diverse landscapes along Mallorca’s coast.
Higher-elevation hikes for experienced hikers with rewarding summit views.
Airports
How to reach Palma by plane.
Main international gateway to Mallorca, located about 8-10 km from Palma city center; frequent domestic and international flights with straightforward taxi or public transit connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Balearic and Spanish residents who maintain traditional customs and daily rhythms.
Large influx of visitors from Europe during summer months.
Growing community of international residents, especially in the older neighborhoods and Can Barbany area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The island hosts local football culture with matches and fan events; RCD Mallorca is the primary club in the area.
Sailing, windsurfing, snorkeling, and paddleboarding are popular along the coast.
Mallorca’s varied terrain makes it a favorite for road cyclists and mountain bikers, especially in the Serra de Tramuntana.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Palma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for veggie tapas, vegetable-forward dishes, and seasonal market vegetables; many places can adapt dishes; consider arroz or pisto as vegetarian options.