Palma de Mallorca is the largest city of the Balearic Islands, and it’s an interesting place to visit. Indeed, it has a rich cultural heritage because the Romans, the Moorish and the Catholics lived there since 123 BC. Either if you like culture, food or just want to relax, it’s possible to have a good time in Palma de Mallorca! What to do in Palma de Mallorca? Follow the guide!
It’s enjoyable visiting Palma de Mallorca. The weather is usually nice and the city is pretty. You’ll find numerous narrow streets, which can remind of Italy. Palma is not a big city, people are relaxed. In Palma, people speak Majorcan which is almost similar to Catalan. But don’t say this to the locals, they may not be happy! Anyway they also all speak Spanish/Castilian. Here are the things to see in Palma de Mallorca!
The Palma cathedral
It’s impossible to go to Palma and not visit La Seu, the wonderful Palma de Mallorca cathedral! It’s so large that it took 600 years to build it! This impressive Gothic cathedral was redecorated in the 20th century by Antoni Gaudi, a famous Spanish architect. It’s one of the best things to see in Palma! You can visit the cathedral from Monday to Saturday from 10am to 2pm. There’s often a long line to get in, click here to get a skip-the-line ticket.
Bellver castle
It’s one of the very few circular Gothic castles in Europe. It dates back to the 14th century and it was first a royal residence and then a prison. You can now visit this fortress where you’ll also find a museum dedicated to Mallorca’s history. In the summer there are concerts and events in the central courtyard. The castle is perched on a hill above the marina, you can enjoy a nice view of the port and the city there. Bellver castle is one of the top Palma attractions!
The Royal Palace of la Almudaina
The royal palace of la Almudaina is located just next to the cathedral, and it’s still the local residence of the Spanish monarch to this day. The palace dates back to the 14th century, and it was the residence of the political power of the island during the Islamic days. You’ll find numerous historic tapestries in the courtyard. You can visit the palace from 10am to 6pm everyday except on Mondays. It’s probably one of the best places in Palma de Mallorca!
The old town
Take some time to roam around the old town (casco antiguo) of Palma and admire its cobblestone streets, its charming squares and its medieval churches. There are also art galleries, shops and numerous cafes and restaurants where you can taste delicious local dishes on the terrace. You also have to try a tapas bar!
The Arab baths
The Arab baths, also called Banys Arabs, date back to some time between the 10th and 12th centuries, but they’ve only been discovered about 100 years ago! It seems like they’re remains of other buildings from previous periods. There’s a caldarium, a tepidarium and Roman columns, in a peaceful garden.
The beach
Take at least some time to relax on the beach, called C’An Pere Antoni! It’s a good way to have a break when visiting Palma de Mallorca! You can easily get there from the city center. The beach is clean, the water is clear and you can swim safely (there are several lifeguards). The beach has showers, parasols, toilets and two restaurants.
Take a boat trip
You have to do it while in Palma, a boat trip! You have so many options, a quick one-hour tour or a whole day on the sea with barbecue. You can even spend an afternoon partying on a boat. You can just visit the area on a boat or enjoy a luxury catamaran. Click here to enjoy a catamaran cruise with a barbecue.
The Plaza Mayor
You might already know, many large cities in Spain have their own Plaza Mayor, and Palma is no exception. Ideally located in the heart of the city, you’ll find on the Plaza Mayor numerous shops, bars and restaurants. There are also street artists and a famous market selling handicrafts.
The markets
There are numerous markets in Palma de Mallorca, and you have to visit at least one! Mercat 1930 offers numerous prepared local dishes and great cocktails. There are also many stalls selling tapas. Mercat de l’Olivar offers fruits and vegetables, cheese, seafood and of course tapas. Mercat de Santa Catalina offers a great local vibe with beers, tapas, fresh products and local dishes. There’s also the San Juan Mercado Gastronomico.
La Llotja
La Llotja is a large Gothic building located on Llotja square. This historic site dates back to the 15th century, it was a financial center and the headquarters of traders. It’s free to visit, don’t miss the wonderful trade room.
Activities in Palma de Mallorca
Here are some activities you can enjoy in Palma de Mallorca:
- Click here to go quad biking, snorkeling and cliff jumping.
- Click here to visit the island by boat and train.
- Click here to visit the caves of Drach.
- Click here to buy a Palma aquarium ticket.
- Click here to go scuba diving in a beautiful nature reserve.
- Click here to go on a jet ski tour.
- Click here to go to Aqualand, the largest water park in Mallorca.
- Click here to party on a boat.
- Click here to go parasailing.
- Click here to go on a speedboat adventure.
I spent a full week in Palma de Mallorca and I loved it! As you could see, there are many things to do there! If you don’t know where to spend your next vacation, think about Palma de Mallorca! Moreover it’s one of the best places to visit in Spain!
How to get to Palma de Mallorca
Palma is located on Mallorca, the largest island in the Balearic Islands. Therefore it’s easier to get there by plane. But you need to know there are also ferries going to Palma from Barcelona.
How to get around in Palma de Mallorca
The city is not big, you can easily get around by foot in Palma. Otherwise take the bus, you can get anywhere in the city, especially in further places such as Bellver castle.
Best time to visit Palma de Mallorca
The best time to visit Palma de Mallorca is probably from April to October. The weather will allow you to take full advantage of the city’s beauty. FYI it can get very warm in July and August, around 35°C/95°F.
Where to stay in Palma de Mallorca
If you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll like the El Josemari Youth Hostel. It’s clean, there’s a good vibe and it’s well-located. Click here to check the photos, reviews and availability. If you’re looking for a mid-range hotel, the Nou Baleares will satisfy you. The hotel is clean, the beds are comfortable, and the staff is really nice. Click here to check the reviews, photos and availability.
If you would rather stay in a luxury hotel, don’t miss the Sant Francesc Hotel Singular. Perfectly located, spacious rooms, welcoming staff, amazing rooftop, etc. Click here to check the reviews, photos and availability. Finally click here to check the hotels available in Palma de Mallorca.
Palma de Mallorca travel tips
- Traveling soon? Check out my travel resources page! This list of travel accessories can also be useful!
- Never ever travel without travel insurance! It will protect you against illness, injury, theft and cancellations. Click here to get one. Here’s why get travel insurance.
- Want a tailor-made trip to Spain? Get a free quote here!
- Always use a VPN when traveling. I use ExpressVPN and I love it. Here’s why use a VPN when traveling.
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