Palma de Mallorca is the vibrant capital of the Balearic Islands, located off the eastern coast of Spain. This sunny Mediterranean destination offers a perfect blend of beach relaxation, urban energy and cultural attractions.
| No. | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | La Seu Cathedral | A Gothic cathedral with a rose window, high vaulted ceilings, and panoramic views. |
| 2 | Old Town | A historic area with cobblestone streets, City Hall, and Saint Eulalia Church. |
| 3 | Beaches | Several beaches for sunbathing and swimming, including Playa de Palma and Cala Major. |
| 4 | Tapas and Seafood | Enjoy local seafood and tapas in various districts like Can Pastilla and Santa Catalina. |
| 5 | Royal Palace of La Almudaina | A converted Arab fortress with royal apartments, chapel, and gardens. |
| 6 | Mercat Olivar | A market with local produce, meats, and artisanal products. |
| 7 | Passeig des Born | A shopping boulevard with boutiques, cafes, and extended shopping hours on Thursdays. |
| 8 | Valdemossa | A village with a medieval monastery and Royal Carthusian Monastery. |
| 9 | Bellver Castle | A Gothic castle on a hilltop with panoramic views and walking trails. |
| 10 | Teatre Principal | A Neoclassical theater with various performances and tours. |
| 11 | Train to Sóller | A vintage train ride to Sóller, passing through mountains and groves. |
| 12 | Arab Baths | Luxurious bath complexes with warm pools, saunas, and massages. |
| 13 | Historical Museum | A museum in a Renaissance palace with various exhibits and a rooftop café. |
| 14 | Bike Tour | Guided tours covering top sights and scenic coastlines, with bike rentals available. |
| 15 | Wine Bars | Wine bars like Malvasia and Vinvit for tasting local wines with small plates. |
| 16 | Es Gremi | A venue for live music, art exhibits, workshops, and dining. |
As you plan your 2024 visit to Mallorca, be sure to include these 15 top things to see and do in Palma:
Marvel at La Seu Cathedral
La Seu Cathedral – Located in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: La Seu Cathedral is a Gothic cathedral built between the 13th-16th centuries on the site of a Moorish mosque. It has great architectural significance and contains stained glass, a rose window, and an ornate antique organ.
What to Expect: Visitors can tour the interior to see the soaring columns, ceilings, chapels, and organ. The treasury and museum also display religious artifacts. Climbing the bell tower provides panoramic views.
Visitor Information: The cathedral is open 10am-6:15pm daily except Sundays when it opens at 2pm. Admission costs around €7. Proper attire is required and photography is limited.
This impressive Gothic cathedral dates back to the 13th century and dominates the Palma cityscape with its soaring spires and elegant arches. Don’t miss seeing the beautiful rose window on the western façade. Inside, marvel at the high vaulted ceilings, ornate chapels and giant stained-glass windows. Climb the bell tower for panoramic city views. The cathedral museum displays sacred artwork and relics.
Wander Around the Old Town
Old Town – Located in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: Palma’s Old Town dates back to Roman times, with narrow cobblestone streets and Medieval, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. Historic sites include the City Hall, churches, palaces, and remnants of the old wall.
What to Expect: Visitors can explore atmospheric alleys lined with shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks. Horse carriage rides are available. The area comes alive at night for dining and entertainment.
Visitor Information: The Old Town is very walkable and always open to explore. Guided walking tours are available to learn about the history and architecture. It gets busy with tourists during the day.
With its narrow cobblestone streets and historic architecture, the atmospheric Old Town is perfect for leisurely strolls. Weave your way through the labyrinthine lanes, stopping to snap photos of sights like the elegant City Hall and the sandstone Saint Eulalia Church. Make sure to visit the elegant Plaça Cort, the historic city center. The shady Parc de la Mar offers a reprieve from sightseeing.
Relax at the Beach
Beaches – Located in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: Palma has over a dozen beautiful beaches along its coastline, from urban strands to remote coves. The beaches have golden sand and clear waters ideal for swimming, sailing, and water sports. Many have amenities and activities.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beach walks, boating, and dining at beachside cafes. Popular beaches include Playa de Palma, Cala Major, Illetas, and more. The beaches get quite crowded in summer.
Visitor Information: The beaches are public and free to access. Amenities like chairs, umbrellas, food, and water sport outfitters are available for a fee at most beaches. Beach attire is recommended.
Palma has several inviting beaches where you can work on your tan or enjoy Mediterranean swims. Just a 15-minute bus ride from the city center, you’ll find the 1.5-mile stretch of golden sands at Playa de Palma. The trendy beach at Cala Major boasts chic clubs and cafés. For a peaceful seaside escape, head to the semi-secluded Cala Està ncia beach nearby.
Feast on Tapas and Seafood
As a seaside city, Palma offers incredible seafood. Savor the catch of the day at beachside restaurants in Can Pastilla or try fish skewers in the Santa Catalina district. The tapas bars on C./Blanquerna and Pl. Tereses are perfect for sampling small plates like patatas bravas, ham croquettes and revuelto (scrambled eggs with seafood or meat). Don’t leave Mallorca without trying the ensaïmada pastries!
Tour the Royal Palace of La Almudaina
Royal Palace of La Almudaina – Located in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: This palace dates back to the 10th century when it was an Islamic fort. It later became a residence for the Kings of Mallorca before Spanish royalty. Today it’s used by the royal family for visits and ceremonies.
What to Expect: Visitors can tour the palace’s Gothic and Renaissance architecture, grand rooms, chapel, and gardens. There are also exhibitions of antique furnishings, paintings, ceramics, and other royal artifacts.
Visitor Information: The palace is open April-September daily 10am-6pm, October-March Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm. Entry costs around €7. Guided tours and audio guides are available for a fee. Proper attire is required.
This grand palace was originally an Arab fortress that was converted into a residence for the kings of Mallorca in the 13th century. Tour the two inner courtyards, royal apartments, chapel and gardens. One highlight is the hall with its amazing 16th century coffered ceiling. Exhibitions here showcase historic Mallorcan artworks and artifacts. Make sure to see the spectacular views from the palace walls.
Browse the Stalls at Mercat Olivar
Mercat Olivar – Located in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: Mercat Olivar is Palma’s main produce market selling fresh local fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and dried goods since the 19th century. The wrought iron building was completed in 1916.
What to Expect: Visitors will find bustling stalls selling high quality produce, gourmet food items, and regional specialties. There are also several small restaurants to sample local dishes. It offers an authentic local shopping experience.
Visitor Information: The market is open Monday-Saturday 7am-2pm. While vendors cater mainly to locals, visitors are welcome to browse, sample, and purchase items. Prices are fixed and haggling is uncommon.
For a taste of local Mallorcan life, browse the food stalls overflowing with fresh produce, meats, baked goods and artisanal products at Mercat Olivar. You’ll find vendors selling island specialties like sobrasada sausage, Mahón cheese, sweet Ibizan liqueurs and almonds. The flower stalls explode with colorful blooms. Stop for a café con leche or fresh juice along with a flaky ensaïmada pastry.
Go Shopping on Passeig des Born
Passeig des Born – Located in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: This tree-lined promenade is Palma’s major shopping thoroughfare, containing boutiques, department stores, restaurants, and nightlife. The area has been a fashionable district for refined shopping since the 19th century.
What to Expect: Visitors can browse the high-end international and Spanish shops featuring clothing, jewelry, art, and home goods. Cafes provide places to stop and people-watch. Street performers and events take place here.
Visitor Information: The promenade is pedestrian only and runs from Plaça de la Reina to Plaça dels Patins. Shops are typically open Monday-Saturday 10am-8:30pm. Major bank cards are widely accepted.
This elegant tree-lined pedestrian boulevard is the place to indulge in some retail therapy in Palma. You’ll find boutiques selling Mallorcan pearls, designer fashions, handcrafted jewelry, stylish shoes and more. There are also plenty of cafés for when you need a shopping break. Thursday nights offer extended shopping hours. Don’t miss popping into the historic General Convent to see the tranquil cloister.
Take a Day Trip to Valdemossa
Valdemossa – Located near Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: Valdemossa is a picturesque village in the Tramuntana Mountains known for historic architecture, scenic beauty, and as the site where composer Chopin spent a winter.
What to Expect: Visitors can tour the 13th century Carthusian Monastery, explore winding lanes, visit galleries and shops, and take in the mountain views. Cafes and restaurants serve local cuisine.
Visitor Information: Valdemossa is a 30 minute drive from Palma. Parking is limited. Buses and tours allow visitors without cars. The town can be crowded on summer weekends.
Just a 40-minute drive north from Palma leads you to the picturesque village of Valdemossa, famous for its medieval monastery and ties to musician Frédéric Chopin. Explore the stone alleyways lined with boutiques and cafés before touring the grand Royal Carthusian Monastery with its lovely cloister and cells decorated with modern art. Visit on a Sunday to experience the lively farmer’s market.
Admire the Views from Bellver Castle
Bellver Castle – Located in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: Bellver Castle is a grand 14th century Gothic castle built for Mallorcan royalty with a unique round design. It later became a prison and now houses a history museum. Its hilltop position provides sweeping views.
What to Expect: Visitors can tour the castle and climb to the roof terrace for panoramic views over Palma. Exhibits inside showcase the history, artwork, and archeology of the Balearic Islands. The wooded grounds are lovely for strolling.
Visitor Information: The castle is a 15 minute drive from central Palma. It’s open daily 10am-6pm April-September, 10am-5pm October-March. Entry costs around €4. The grounds are open 8am-8pm daily.
Perched on a hilltop just outside Palma, the impressive Bellver Castle provides sweeping panoramas over the city below. This grand 14th century Gothic castle is one of Mallorca’s top attractions. Highlights include the circular courtyard, museum of Mallorcan history and climbing to the rooftop tower for photo-worthy vistas. The forested grounds provide pleasant walking trails to take in the castle from all angles.
See a Show at Teatre Principal
Teatre Principal – Located in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: The Teatre Principal is an opulent 19th century theatre that hosts performing arts in Palma. It originally opened in 1857 and has Neoclassical elements. Top artists from around the world perform here.
What to Expect: The theater presents opera, classical music, ballet, drama, musicals, and family shows in an ornate gilded setting. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about its illustrious history.
Visitor Information: Show times vary by performance. Guided tours occur on Tuesdays.
With its grand Neoclassical façade and opulent interior, seeing a performance at the Teatre Principal is a Palma highlight. This historic theater dating from the 1850s is considered one of Spain’s most beautiful. Attend a play, musical, ballet or concert to soak up the grandeur of this venue. If there’s no show, you can request a tour to view the ornate details up close. Don’t miss a drink at the theater’s stately café.
Ride the Vintage Train to Sóller
Vintage Train to Sóller – Located in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: The Sóller vintage train dates back to 1912 and transports passengers on a scenic ride through the mountains from Palma to Sóller. The wood-paneled train is an iconic way to see the countryside.
What to Expect: The train traverses tunnels, bridges, valleys, and villages on a 28km journey. Passengers can relax in wooden carriages while appreciating views of the coast and mountains out the windows. The trip takes about 1.5 hours each way.
Visitor Information: The train operates April through October making several daily trips in each direction. Tickets can be booked online or at the station. Standard fares are around €30 roundtrip.
For a scenic day trip, hop aboard the historic train that travels between Palma and Sóller. The vintage wooden train cars date from 1912 and traverse the beautiful Mallorcan countryside. The one-hour ride takes you past mountains, orange groves and olive orchards before reaching the charming coastal town of Sóller. From here, you can continue to the hilltop village of Deià by tram.
Relax at Arab Baths
Arab Baths – Located in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: Arab Baths features a spa constructed on the site of ancient Moorish baths from the 10th century. The bathing ritual provides relaxation through hydrotherapy pools, steam rooms, and treatments.
What to Expect: Visitors can experience bathing traditions modeled after ancient Hammam baths. Relaxation areas, thermal baths, steam rooms, and light spa treatments are included in regular visits. Massages and facials are available for added fees.
Visitor Information: The spa requires swimwear and reservations. Regular 2-hour visits start at €45. Extended 4-hour visits with 15-minute treatments cost around €75. Robes, towels, and slippers are provided.
Revive your senses at one of Palma’s luxurious Arab baths complexes modeled after ancient Moorish traditions. Hammam Palma has intimate spaces for soaking in warm pools, enjoying a sauna and getting scrubbed down. Alternatively, the larger Banys ÀrabsExperience feature ornate domed rooms, fountains, pools of varying temperatures and relaxing massages. It’s blissful spa-going!
Explore the Historical Museum
Historical Museum of Mallorca – Located in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: This museum occupies a 16th century palace and provides an overview of Mallorca’s history from prehistoric times until today through artifacts and displays. It opened in 1958.
What to Expect: The museum collection includes ancient tools and pottery, Roman mosaics, Islamic pieces, medieval artwork, furniture, weapons, and more. temporary exhibitions focus on specific eras and topics. Audio guides are available.
Visitor Information: The museum is open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-6pm, Sundays 10am-3pm. Entry costs around €5. Explanatory signage is in Catalan, Spanish and English. Guided tours can be booked in advance.
Occupying a palace dating from the 1500s, Palma’s History Museum provides fascinating insight into Mallorca’s past. Wander through the Renaissance-style courtyards before viewing exhibits highlighting Mallorcan artisan work, antique maps of the Mediterranean and artifacts from the ancient Talayotic civilization. Temporary exhibitions showcase modern works. Don’t miss the incredible views from the rooftop terrace café!
Take a Bike Tour
Bike Tours – Offered in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: Biking is a great way to see Palma and Mallorca’s scenic coastline and countryside. Various tour companies offer guided bike excursions of different lengths and difficulties. Routes may incorporate beaches, villages, or the Tramuntana Mountains.
What to Expect: Typical tours provide bikes, equipment, and guides to lead riders along scenic paths at a comfortable pace, stopping at highlights. Some cover 25-30 miles while others are shorter rides. Various themes like food, wine and history are available.
Visitor Information: Prices range from €30-100 per person depending on tour length, bike rental, food, etc. Standard fitness levels are required for most. Advance booking online is recommended, especially in high season.
One of the best ways to cover more ground and see different neighborhoods in Palma is on an easy-paced bike tour. Mallorca’s mostly flat terrain and abundance of scenic coastline trails make it ideal for cyclists. Guided tours hit top sights like the seaside cathedral, Castell de Bellver fortress and the rugged coastline around Portixol. It’s also possible to rent bikes and explore Palma independently.
Savor Spanish Wines at a Wine Bar
Wine Bars – Located in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: Mallorcan wines made from native grapes like Manto Negro and Callet are popular on the island. Wine bars offer the chance to taste local vintages along with Spanish cheeses, charcuterie and tapas. Many bars have outdoor seating.
What to Expect: Visitors can sample 4-5 wines along with accompanying tapas, often for an affordable set price. Serving sizes are ample for sharing. Knowledgable staff provide insights on the wines. The ambience is casual and convivial.
Visitor Information: Prices are usually €15-30 for wine and food pairings. Reservations are recommended for evenings, especially in high season. Tipping is not necessary but appreciated. Central locations include Santa Catalina and Plaça de la Reina.
Mallorca produces a number of quality local wines that are definitely worth sampling. Palma has several cozy wine bars like Malvasia and Vinvit where you can expand your Spanish wine knowledge while tasting award-winning vinos from across the country. Tell the sommelier your preferences and fill up on small plates to perfectly complement each glass. Salud!
Catch a Concert at Es Gremi
Es Gremi – Located in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
History and Significance: Es Gremi is a performing arts center housed in a restored 16th century warehouse. It hosts concerts, theater, dance, opera, and classical music performances in an intimate Baroque style hall.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy diverse Spanish and international productions in a venue acclaimed for its programming and acoustics. There are less than 400 seats, providing an up-close experience with the art.
Visitor Information: Show dates and times vary. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the box office before shows. Prices start around €25-30 depending on the performance. The venue is located in central Palma.
For live music, Es Gremi is one of Palma’s top venues. Set in a former stable house, this intimate performance space hosts an eclectic range of concerts from classical to rock to singer-songwriters. Dinner is available onsite before the shows. During the day, Es Gremi also contains art exhibits, workshops and jazz jam sessions. Check their calendar to see what’s on during your visit.
Conclusion
With its historic sites, great food, lovely beaches and endless things to see and do, Palma de Mallorca makes an ideal sunny European destination any time of year. The city seamlessly blends rich cultural experiences like touring the cathedral and museums with laid-back seaside relaxation. Nearby day trips to charming villages, castles and the stunning Mallorcan coastline provide plenty of options for exploring beyond Palma proper. When planning your 2024 Spain travels, be sure to save time to soak up the history, scenery, cuisine and ambiance unique to the beautiful island capital of Palma.