Things To Do
in Palma

Palma, the capital of Mallorca, is a stunning Mediterranean city known for its vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and beautiful beaches. The historic old town boasts a mix of Gothic and Moorish influences, highlighted by the magnificent La Seu Cathedral. With a bustling port, lively street life, and an abundance of outdoor activities, Palma is a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Its warm climate and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite among travelers year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Palma's History
morning
:

Start your day at La Seu Cathedral, exploring its stunning architecture and interior. Then, wander through the picturesque streets of the Old Town, stopping at the Royal Palace of La Almudaina.

afternoon
:

Visit the Es Baluard Museum for contemporary art, followed by lunch at a local tapas bar. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Paseo Marítimo, soaking in views of the marina.

evening
:

Dine at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood while watching the sunset. After dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife in the Santa Catalina district.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a morning hike at Parc de la Mar, followed by a refreshing swim at Platja de Can Pere Antoni beach. Grab a coffee at a beachside café.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, such as Mercat de l'Olivar, where you can try local produce and delicacies. Visit the Bellver Castle for panoramic views of the city.

evening
:

End your day with a traditional Mallorcan dinner at a restaurant in the Old Town, followed by a stroll through the illuminated streets.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$4
🚕Taxi fare (within city limits)$15
🏨Hotel night (3-star)$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning architecture and historical sites.
  • Beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.
  • Vibrant culture with delicious local cuisine.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some.
  • Higher prices in tourist areas.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Palma

Visit one of these nice places.

La Seu Cathedral

An iconic Gothic cathedral with stunning architecture, perfect for capturing both exterior and interior shots.

Bellver Castle

A circular castle that offers panoramic views of Palma, ideal for breathtaking landscape photography.

Paseo Marítimo

A scenic waterfront promenade, perfect for capturing the vibrant atmosphere of Palma's marina.

Culinary Guide

Food in Palma

Palma offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects the island's rich cultural heritage. From fresh seafood to traditional pastries, there's something for every palate.

Palma Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pa amb oli

A classic dish featuring bread topped with olive oil, tomatoes, and cured meats.

Must-Try!

Tumbet

A vegetable casserole made with layers of potatoes, eggplant, and red peppers.

Ensaimada

A sweet pastry, often filled with cream or pumpkin, perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercat de l'Olivar

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local meats, and tapas.

Mercat de Santa Catalina

Known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse food stalls offering local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Palma enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 30°C (86°F), while winter averages around 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is minimal, mostly occurring in autumn and winter. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, offering mild temperatures and clear skies.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on both cheeks is common when greeting.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start your meal.

Punctuality

Being slightly late is acceptable, but it's best to be on time for formal events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Palma is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas. It's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. Emergency services can be contacted by dialing 112.

Tipping in Palma

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a 5-10% tip in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash for small purchases is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an excellent time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Expect hot weather and crowded beaches; it's the peak tourist season.

Autumn

A great time to visit with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and the grape harvest.

Winter

Cooler temperatures; while it's quieter, many attractions remain open and offer a cozy atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Palma at Night

Palma's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, catering to all tastes. Popular areas include Santa Catalina and the Old Town, where you can find an array of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The nightlife typically starts late, with locals heading out around midnight and parties lasting until dawn. Beach clubs also offer a relaxed atmosphere with stunning ocean views and cocktails.

Hiking in Palma

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Camí de s'Arxiduc

A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the coast and is suitable for various skill levels.

Torrent de Pareis

A more challenging hike through a gorge leading to a beautiful beach, ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Palma by plane.

Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI)

Located about 8 km from the city center, it is the main airport serving Palma and the Balearic Islands, offering numerous international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Palma is highly walkable, especially in the Old Town, where narrow streets and charming alleys are best explored on foot. Many attractions are within walking distance, and pedestrian-friendly areas are abundant. Public transportation is also available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population is a mix of locals and expatriates, with a strong Spanish and Catalan heritage.

Tourists

Palma attracts millions of tourists each year, contributing to a diverse cultural scene and economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is hugely popular in Palma, with local clubs like RCD Mallorca enjoying a passionate fan base.

Cycling

The island's varied terrain makes it a favorite among cyclists, with numerous routes and events held year-round.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Palma can be heavy, particularly during peak tourist seasons. However, public transportation options such as buses and trains are efficient and widely used. Biking and walking are encouraged in the urban areas, making the city accessible without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Palma.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly in tapas style.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free meals are becoming more common, especially in larger restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Palma is of a high standard, with several public and private hospitals available. The public healthcare system is accessible for EU residents with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Private healthcare is also available, though it is advisable to have travel insurance for emergencies.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide