Things to Do in Palma de Mallorca: A local City Travel Guide

Welcome to my ultimate Things to Do in Palma de Mallorca guide! After years of calling this Mediterranean gem my home, I’m excited to share every secret I’ve gathered—from sunrise walks to late-night tapas runs. From strolling down charming historic alleys and tasting the best tapas, to uncovering hidden boutiques and staying at dreamy hotels—consider this your personal insider handbook. So here’s my Palma de Mallorca travel guide filled with the best restaurants, hotels and the best places to visit.

Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a two-week adventure, you’ll find personal recommendations that blend history, culture, beach days, and hidden corners known only to locals (and their dogs—my Buddy’s favorite cafés included).

Let’s dive into this vibrant city together and get on the move to discover the best of Palma!

Why You’ll Love Palma de Mallorca

Palma is where Gothic grandeur meets island ease. Picture yourself strolling palm-lined avenues by the harbor at dawn, the salty breeze carrying the scent of freshly baked ensaimadas. Later, get lost in honey-hued Old Town lanes, duck into a courtyard bar for a vermut, and watch the warm light glint off La Seu Cathedral’s rose window. By evening, you’re sipping an Aperol spritz on a rooftop overlooking terracotta rooftops. After living here, I promise: Palma will steal your heart.

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City guide Palma | travel guide

• History and culture of Palma
• Best time to visit Palma de Mallorca
• Things to do in Palma de Mallorca
• How to get to Palma de Mallorca
• Getting around Palma
• Restaurants in Palma de Mallorca
• Best bars and nightlife in Palma
• Shopping in Palma
• Hotels in Palma de Mallorca: Where to Stay Like a Local
• Day trips from Palma

History and culture of Palma

Palma de Mallorca has a rich history that dates back to the Roman Empire. The city has been occupied by various groups over the centuries, including the Moors, who left a lasting influence on the culture and architecture of the city. Palma is also known for its art and culture, with several museums and galleries that showcase local artists and artifacts.

» Fancy a deep dive into Mallorcan culinary delights? Don’t miss the flavorsome world of Mallorcan Cuisine & Wine Pairing.

Best time to visit Palma

The best time to visit Mallorca is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the city can be crowded during this time, and prices may be higher. If you’re looking for a quieter and more affordable trip, consider visiting during the offseason between October and April.

• Spring (April–June): Bougainvillea blooms, mild 20–25°C days, fewer crowds. Ideal for exploring without the heat.
• Summer (July–August): Hot (28–32°C), vibrant nightlife, packed beaches. Book restaurants and tours in advance.
• Autumn (September–October): Ocean still warm, golden light, local festivals. Perfect for slower travel and wine tastings. Read more about why Spain is fantastic to visit in autumn.
• Winter (Nov–Mar): Quiet streets, off-season hotel deals, Christmas markets in Plaça Major. Some attractions close early.

Your Complete Palma de Mallorca Travel Guide: Getting There & Around

• By Air: Palma Airport (PMI) is 8 km from the city. Ryanair, Vueling, easyJet and major carriers fly direct from Europe and beyond. A taxi takes 15 minutes; buses run every 15 minutes.
• By Ferry: From Barcelona or Valencia, overnight ferries arrive at Port de Palma. It’s a scenic—and pet-friendly—way to start your trip.

Getting around Palma

• On Foot: The Old Town is compact and best explored by foot. Wear comfy shoes—cobbles abound!
• BiciPalma Bikes: 70 stations around the city. Great for waterfront rides.
• Taxis & Buses: Blue TIB buses connect suburbs and beaches; taxis are plentiful but pricier.
• Car Rental: If you plan day trips to mountains or outlying coves, a car is handy—just book early and reserve child seats if needed.

For a no-car approach, see my Mallorca Itinerary Without a Car guide.

» This is also a great budget option! Curious to know more budget tips in Palma?

Top things to do in Palma de Mallorca

When exploring Palma, you’ll quickly notice the city effortlessly blends historical grandeur with a laid-back island atmosphere.

La Seu Cathedral – Palma’s Icon

No visit to Palma is complete without stepping inside La Seu, one of Europe’s most impressive Gothic cathedrals. Illuminated by dazzling stained-glass windows and the iconic Rose Window, it’s an absolute must-see among the top things to do in Palma de Mallorca.

Royal Palace of Almudaina

Next door, the Almudaina Palace blends Moorish and Christian design. Wander the Throne Room and the Palm Courtyard as seagulls circle overhead.

Almudaina Palace

Adjacent to La Seu is the majestic Almudaina Palace, a royal palace with Moorish roots. Explore the ornate rooms and courtyards to feel centuries of history beneath your feet.

Passeig des Born & Jaime III – Shopping & Strolling

At Passeig des Born, locals sip cortados under plane trees while flirting with designer storefronts. Cross to Jaime III for Spanish fashions and a quick tapas bite at an open-air café. I once bumped into a Michelin-starred chef here—proof that Palma’s flair extends from local bodegas to haute cuisine.

Bellver Castle

The only circular castle in Spain, Bellver perches on a wooded hill. Hike the twisting path or take the #3 bus—either way, pack water and a sunhat. The top platform offers a 360° panorama so wide you’ll map out your week’s adventures in one breathtaking glance.

Palma Old Town

I’ve spent countless days wandering through Palma’s Old Town, discovering secret squares, charming cafés, and small artisan shops. Each street feels like stepping into a postcard scene. Lose yourself in Palma’s enchanting Old Town—a maze of cafés, boutiques, and historic architecture. It’s one of the unmissable places to visit in Palma de Mallorca.

→ Insider tip: Stop at Plaça de Cort for a coffee break and authentic Mallorcan pastries.

Restaurants in Palma de Mallorca

Palma’s culinary scene is deliciously diverse, blending traditional Mallorcan flavors with modern gastronomy. Here are the must-visit restaurants in Palma de Mallorca:

• Forn de Sant Joan: For modern Mallorcan dishes and tapas in an elegant setting.
• Can Eduardo: Seafood lovers, this one’s for you. Fresh catches served with stunning harbour views.
• El Camino: A buzzing tapas bar blending classic recipes with a trendy atmosphere.

Foodie delights continued:
→ 8 Best Steak Restaurants in Mallorca
→ Best Unknown Places for Paella in Mallorca
→ Mallorca’s Wine Culture & Mallorca Wine Pairing Guide

→ Extra foodie tip: Check my hidden gems article about the best paella places—trust me, it’s worth it!

Best bars and nightlife in Palma

Palma de Mallorca has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs that stay open late. Some popular spots to check out include Abaco, a stunning bar with beautiful gardens and elaborate decorations, and Tito’s, a popular nightclub with several different dance floors. Ascend to the top and experience nightlife from the best rooftop bars. Or for a more local experience, find out the best bars in Palma. Curious on where the best places to go and what areas you need to be in in Palma? We’ve made a guide with the best areas about Santa Catalina, Paseo Maritimo and La Lonja.

» Still in need of a hotel? We’ve made a list of the 5 most romantic on the island

Shopping in Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca offers an excellent shopping experience, from designer stores to independent boutiques. For designer shopping, head to Passeig des Born and Jaime III, where you will find luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Mulberry. For independent boutiques, head to the narrow streets of the old town, where you will find unique fashion, jewelry, and accessory stores. The famous El Corte Inglés department store can be found in Avinguda Alexandre Rosselló, and it is a one-stop-shop for fashion, cosmetics, and homeware. For local products, head to the markets of Plaça Major and Mercat de l’Olivar, where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and souvenirs. In between the traditional boutiques, find sustainable options and make your travel eco-friendly with these sustainable shopping choices.

♥ Want to go to a rooftop after? We’ve made a list with the 10 best rooftops in Palma

Hotels in Palma de Mallorca

When deciding where to stay, Palma de Mallorca offers hotels for every style—luxury, boutique, or eco-friendly stays.

• Can Bordoy Grand House: Elegant charm amidst lush gardens. (Also in my Top 10 most luxurious hotels in Palma article.)
• Hotel Sant Francesc: Luxury in a restored mansion; their rooftop is dreamy.
• Can Bordoy Grand House: Elegant suites set in lush gardens—luxurious yet intimate.
• Hotel Cort: A chic boutique hotel with a lively, central location near Plaça de Cort.

More Mallorca hotel inspiration:
→ Discover the most special hotels in Mallorca
→ Top 5 Most Romantic Hotels in Mallorca
→ Best Finca Hotels in Mallorca
→ 8 Best Spa Retreats in Mallorca

Check out my guide to the best eco-friendly hotels in Mallorca if sustainability is close to your heart!

♥ Want to know more of my life on the island? Make sure to follow me on Instagram

Day trips from Palma | city guide Palma

Palma is a great base for exploring the island’s beautiful beaches and charming villages. The picturesque town of Valldemossa is just a short drive away and is famous for its beautiful architecture and stunning mountain views. The coastal town of Sóller is also easily accessible from Palma, and you can take a scenic train ride from the city to the town. Another popular day trip is to the stunning beaches of Es Trenc and Sa Calobra, which are located in the southeast of the island.

For a meticulously curated list of destinations, from the rugged beauty of the Tramuntana mountains to the tranquil waters of Cala Tuent, head over to our detailed guide on The Best Day Trips from Palma.

» Also a sunrise lover? Discover where you can see the best sunrise in Mallorca!

» Detailed ideas in my Best Day Trips from Palma guide.

Personal Palma Highlights – From a Local Perspective

Palma was my home, and some experiences are unforgettable:

• Sunrise walks along the Paseo Marítimo.
• Enjoying a cortado at cozy Santa Catalina cafés.
• Paella picnic on the cathedral steps at golden hour.
• Afternoon swims at Cala Major beach—only a short distance from Palma’s city center.

These little moments made Palma a cherished chapter of my life, and I’m sure they’ll enrich your journey too.

FAQ Places to visit in Palma de Mallorca

DISCOVER ALL THE HOTSPOTS AND TRAVEL TIPS IN THE MALLORCA TRAVEL GUIDE

There’s so much to see and do in Palma de Mallorca, and this guide only scratches the surface. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, art, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean sun, Palma has something for everyone. Palma de Mallorca is a vibrant and exciting city that has something to offer everyone. From its rich history and culture to its beautiful beaches, excellent cuisine, and exciting nightlife, there is always something to discover. We hope this travel guide has given you a good idea of what to expect from this beautiful city and has helped you plan your trip.

I hope this Palma de Mallorca travel guide inspires your travels as much as Palma inspired me. From iconic places to visit in Palma de Mallorca to hidden gems, luxurious hotels in Palma de Mallorca, and unforgettable restaurants in Palma de Mallorca, you’re all set.

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