Out of Town Blog
12 Best Things to Do in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Top Things to Do in Palma de Mallorca, Spain: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Palma de Mallorca offers visitors an enchanting blend of stunning historic architecture, vibrant cultural attractions, and the sun-drenched charm of the Mediterranean in Spain’s beautiful Balearic Islands. As the island’s bustling capital and primary gateway, the city greets travelers with its iconic centuries-old Gothic cathedrals—such as the majestic La Seu—imposing royal palaces, picturesque plazas, and acclaimed world-class museums. Meandering through the cobblestone streets, one encounters lively markets, stylish boutique shops, cozy cafes, and panoramic seaside views that capture the essence of Mallorca’s captivating spirit.
Things to do in Palma De Majorca, Spain
This guide covers the twelve most rewarding attractions and experiences that showcase Palma’s rich history, artistic heritage, and natural beauty. From exploring Gothic masterpieces and medieval castles to discovering contemporary art foundations and peaceful parks, you’ll find activities that match different interests and travel styles. The city’s compact size makes it easy to visit multiple attractions in a single trip, whether you have just a day or an entire week to explore.
Palma de Mallorca Cathedral
1) Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca
The Catedral-Basílica stands as Palma’s most famous landmark. This Gothic cathedral overlooks the Mediterranean Sea from the city’s historic center. You’ll spot its massive structure from far away as you approach the old town.
The cathedral features one of the largest rose windows in the world. This stunning circular stained glass window creates beautiful light patterns inside the building. Famous architect Antoni Gaudí also designed a wrought-iron canopy that hangs above the altar.
You can explore the cathedral’s impressive interior with its tall stone columns and vaulted ceilings. The building took over 300 years to complete. Many locals still call it “La Seu,” which means “The See” in Catalan.
The cathedral sits in Plaça de la Seu, making it easy to combine with other nearby attractions. You’ll find great photo opportunities both inside and outside the building.
Location: Plaça de la Seu, s/n, Centre, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Contact: +34 971 71 31 33
Website: Visit Website
Llotja de Palma
2) Llotja de Palma
The Llotja de Palma stands as one of the most impressive Gothic buildings in Palma’s historic center. Built in the 15th century, this former guild building showcases dramatic Gothic architecture that draws visitors from around the world.
You’ll find stunning stone work and towering arches that demonstrate the skill of medieval craftsmen. The building served as a commercial exchange where merchants conducted business centuries ago.
Today, you can visit the Llotja when it hosts art exhibitions and cultural events. The interior spaces provide a perfect backdrop for contemporary art displays against historic stone walls.
The building sits in the heart of Palma’s old town, making it easy to include in your walking tour of the city’s historic sites.
Location: Plaça de la Llotja, 5, Centre, 07012 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Royal Palace of La Almudaina
3) Royal Palace of La Almudaina
The Royal Palace of La Almudaina stands as one of Palma’s most important landmarks. This grand palace dates back to the 14th century and serves as the official residence of the King and Queen during their visits to Mallorca.
The palace began as an Arabian fort before becoming the royal residence you see today. You’ll find different artistic styles throughout the building that show the island’s rich history. The palace sits right next to Palma Cathedral, making both buildings key symbols of the city.
You can visit the palace Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The palace stays closed on Mondays. Free entrance is available on Wednesdays and Sundays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
You can take photos inside for personal use, but flash photography is not allowed in certain areas. Tripods and selfie sticks are not permitted during your visit.
Location: Carrer del Palau Reial, s/n, Centre, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Contact: +34 971 21 41 34
Website: Visit Website
Bellver Castle
4) Castell de Bellver
Castell de Bellver stands as one of Europe’s most unique castles with its rare circular design. Built in the 1300s, this Gothic fortress sits on a wooded hilltop overlooking Palma Bay.
The castle’s round structure makes it different from most medieval fortresses you’ll see. You can walk around the entire perimeter and enjoy amazing views of the city and Mediterranean Sea below.
Inside, you’ll find Palma’s history museum with exhibits about the island’s past. The castle also features beautiful courtyards and well-preserved medieval architecture that shows how people lived centuries ago.
You can reach the castle by walking up the hill or taking a bus from the city center. The climb is worth it for the views and the chance to explore this remarkable piece of history.
Location: Carrer Camilo José Cela, s/n, Ponent, 07014 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Contact: +34 971 73 50 65
Poble Espanyol de Mallorca
5) Poble Espanyol de Mallorca
Poble Espanyol de Mallorca is a unique museum that recreates famous Spanish buildings and landmarks in one location. You can walk through this replica city and see copies of structures from across Spain without leaving Palma.
The attraction features reproductions of Spanish architecture from different regions. You’ll find recreated buildings that represent various styles and historical periods from throughout Spain.
This place works as both a museum and event space. You can explore the recreated Spanish city during regular visits or attend special events held on the grounds.
The attraction lets you experience Spanish culture and architecture in a concentrated area. You can see examples of different regional building styles and learn about Spain’s architectural heritage.
Location: Carrer del Poble Espanyol, 55, Ponent, 07014 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Contact: +34 971 73 10 62
Website: Visit Website
6) Museu de La Seu de Mallorca
The Museu de La Seu sits inside Palma’s famous cathedral. You can explore religious art and historical items from the cathedral’s past.
The museum shows sacred objects, paintings, and church decorations. Many pieces date back hundreds of years. You’ll see gold and silver items used in religious ceremonies.
The cathedral itself is part of your visit. You can walk through the main areas and see the beautiful stained glass windows. The building took over 300 years to complete.
Plan about an hour for your visit. The museum is in the city center near the old town. You can easily walk there from most hotels in Palma.
Location: Plaça de la Seu, s/n, Centre, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Contact: +34 971 71 31 33
Fundacion Juan March Palma
7) Fundación Juan March Palma
The Fundación Juan March Palma sits in the heart of Palma’s historic center. This modern art museum is housed in a beautiful 17th-century palace that has been carefully restored.
You can explore Spanish art from the 1900s in this cultural center. The museum displays works from 20th-century Spanish artists and changes its exhibits regularly to show different pieces from their collection.
The museum offers free cultural activities and educational programs. Since 1998, they have worked with teachers across the Balearic Islands to help students learn about art. You can visit their library and study room on different floors of the building.
The museum also has a shop where you can buy art books, exhibition catalogs, postcards, and office items. All activities and entry to the museum are free, making it an excellent stop during your visit to Palma.
Location: Carrer de Sant Miquel, 11, Centre, 07002 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Contact: +34 971 71 04 28
Website: Visit Website
L’Hort del Rei Palma
8) L’Hort del Rei
L’Hort del Rei is a peaceful garden located in the heart of Palma. These Moorish-style gardens were once part of a royal palace. You can walk through shady paths and see beautiful fountains throughout the space.
The gardens show the Islamic influence on Mallorca’s history. You’ll find ornate water features and well-maintained plants. The design follows traditional Moorish garden principles with geometric patterns and flowing water.
This spot offers a quiet break from the busy streets of Palma. The gardens are perfect for a short walk or rest. You can enjoy the shade from the trees and listen to the fountains.
The location puts you close to other main attractions in the city center. Many visitors combine a trip here with nearby sights. The gardens are easy to reach on foot from most central hotels.
Location: Av. d’Antoni Maura, 18, Centre, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Fundacio Miro Mallorca
9) Fundació Miró Mallorca
You can step into the creative world of Joan Miró at this unique art museum. The foundation preserves the actual workshops where the famous artist painted and sculpted from the 1950s to 1980s.
The museum shows both permanent and temporary exhibitions. You’ll see Miró’s original works alongside displays that explain his artistic process and techniques.
The workshops give you a direct look at where Miró created his art. You can take guided tours to learn about his life and see the tools and spaces he used daily.
The foundation also offers art workshops where you can try printmaking techniques like lithography and screen printing. These hands-on classes let you experience some of the same methods Miró used in his work.
Location: C/ de Saridakis, 29, Ponent, 07015 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Contact: +34 971 70 14 20
Website: Visit Website
Parc de Sa Feixina
10) Parc de Sa Feixina
Parc de Sa Feixina is a large urban park that offers a peaceful break from the busy streets of Palma. You can find green spaces, walking paths, and shaded areas perfect for relaxing during your visit.
The park has several attractions that make it popular with families and active visitors. You’ll discover a playground where children can play safely. There’s also a skate park for skateboarding and inline skating.
If you enjoy biking, you can use the dedicated bike paths that run through the park. The paths connect to other parts of the city, making it easy to explore Palma on two wheels.
As you walk through the park, you’ll see several stone monuments scattered throughout the area. These add historical interest to your visit and provide nice spots for photos.
Location: Avinguda de l’Argentina, s/n, Ponent, 07011 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Contact: +34 971 22 59 00
Ferrocarril de Soller Palma
11) Train Sóller Station (Palma de Mallorca)
The Train Sóller Station offers you a unique journey on a historic wooden train that dates back to 1912. This heritage railroad takes you from Palma through the scenic countryside to the charming town of Sóller.
You can choose from different ticket options depending on your travel needs. A one-way trip from Palma to Sóller costs 23€, while a round-trip ticket is 30€. The train makes stops in Bunyola, giving you flexibility in your journey.
The narrow-gauge train runs several times daily with departures from Palma starting at 10:10 AM. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes each way. You’ll travel through beautiful mountain landscapes and tunnels carved through the Serra de Tramuntana.
For a complete experience, you can buy a combined train and tram ticket for 40€. This takes you from Palma to Sóller, then connects you via historic tram to Puerto de Sóller on the coast.
Location: Carrer d’Eusebi Estada, 1, Nord, 07004 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Contact: +34 971 75 20 28
Website: Visit Website
Getting Around Palma de Mallorca
Palma offers excellent public buses and taxis for easy city travel. Walking and cycling work well for the compact Old Town, while rental cars provide freedom to explore beyond the city center.
Public Transportation Options
The EMT bus system covers all major areas of Palma with over 30 routes. Single tickets cost €1.50, but you’ll save money with a 10-ride card for €8.00.
Bus line 1 connects the airport to the city center in 20 minutes. Lines 3, 20, and 46 serve popular beach areas like Playa de Palma.
Taxis are reliable but more expensive. Expect to pay €10-15 for most trips within the city. You can hail them on the street or find taxi stands near major attractions.
The tourist train runs a circuit through the Old Town and costs €16 for adults. It stops at 16 locations including the Cathedral and Bellver Castle.
Metro Line M1 connects Plaza España to the University of the Balearic Islands. While limited, it’s useful if your hotel is near these areas.
Car Rental Tips
Major rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar have offices at the airport and downtown. Book ahead during summer months for better rates.
Parking in the Old Town is very limited and expensive. Use the Parc de la Mar underground garage near the Cathedral for €2 per hour.
Blue parking zones cost €1.20 per hour with a 2-hour limit. Green zones allow residents only during certain hours.
Driving in narrow Old Town streets can be stressful. Many areas are pedestrian-only, especially around the Cathedral and shopping districts.
Car rental makes sense for day trips to beaches like Es Trenc or mountain villages. For staying within Palma, public transport works better.
Cycling and Walking Routes
The Old Town covers just 2 square kilometers, making it perfect for walking. Most major sights are within 15 minutes of each other on foot.
Passeig Marítim offers a flat 4-kilometer coastal walk from the Cathedral to Portixol. This waterfront path has dedicated bike lanes and great sea views.
BiciPalma bike-share stations are located throughout the city. Daily passes cost €13 and include 30-minute rides. Longer rides cost extra.
The seafront bike path extends 15 kilometers east to Can Pastilla beach. It’s mostly flat and well-marked with rental shops along the way.
Bellver Castle sits 3 kilometers from downtown with a steep uphill walk. The route through Bellver Forest provides shade and nature views.
Download the Palma365 app for walking route maps and audio guides to major attractions.
Cultural Insights and Local Etiquette
Language and Communication
Catalan is the official language of Mallorca, though Spanish is widely spoken. Most locals speak both languages fluently.
You’ll find English spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. However, learning basic Spanish phrases shows respect and opens doors to authentic experiences.
Essential phrases to know:
Bon dia (Good morning in Catalan)
Buenos días (Good morning in Spanish)
Gràcies/Gracias (Thank you)
Perdó/Perdón (Excuse me)
Locals are patient with tourists attempting Spanish. They often switch to English if they see you struggling.
Business hours reflect Spanish culture. Many shops close from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM for siesta. Banks and offices typically open from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Dining Customs
Meal times in Palma differ significantly from Northern European and American schedules.
Lunch happens between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Dinner starts around 9:00 PM or later, especially on weekends.
Key dining etiquette:
Wait to be seated at restaurants
Keep hands visible on the table
Splitting bills (ir a medias) is common among friends
Tipping 5-10% is appreciated but not required
Tapas culture is central to social life. You’ll often receive small plates of food with drinks at traditional bars.
Coffee culture is specific. Order café con leche for coffee with milk, or cortado for a smaller version. Avoid cappuccinos after 11:00 AM.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Sant Sebastià (January 20) is Palma’s patron saint festival. The city celebrates with concerts, traditional dances, and street food.
Semana Santa (Easter Week) features solemn religious processions through the old town. Streets fill with locals carrying elaborate floats.
Sant Joan (June 23) marks the summer solstice. Locals light bonfires on beaches and celebrate with fireworks and traditional foods.
La Nit de l’Art happens every September. Galleries and museums stay open late, and art lovers stroll between venues.
Summer months bring outdoor concerts to parks and plazas. The Bellver Castle hosts classical music performances with city views.
Local markets like Mercat de l’Olivar become cultural experiences. Visit on Saturday mornings when locals shop for fresh produce and socialize.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top tourist attractions to visit in Palma de Mallorca?
The Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca stands as the city’s most famous landmark. This Gothic cathedral offers stunning architecture and views of the harbor.
Castell de Bellver provides panoramic views of the city and coastline. The circular castle houses a history museum and beautiful courtyards.
The Royal Palace of La Almudaina showcases Moorish and Gothic architecture. You can explore royal rooms and gardens in this working palace.
Can you recommend some must-see historical sites in Palma de Mallorca?
Llotja de Palma represents one of Europe’s finest examples of Gothic civil architecture. The former merchant exchange now hosts art exhibitions.
The Royal Palace of La Almudaina dates back to Moorish times. You’ll find centuries of history within its walls and courtyards.
Castell de Bellver offers unique circular architecture from the 14th century. The castle served as a royal residence and later a prison.
Where can I find the best local cuisine experiences in Palma de Mallorca?
The Old Town contains many traditional restaurants serving Mallorcan specialties. Look for places offering sobrasada, ensaimada, and fresh seafood.
Local markets like Mercat de l’Olivar showcase fresh ingredients and local products. You can taste regional foods and buy local specialties.
Traditional tapas bars throughout the city serve authentic dishes. Many family-run establishments have been operating for generations.
What are the best activities for families traveling with children to Palma de Mallorca?
Poble Espanyol de Mallorca offers an interactive experience with replicas of Spanish architecture. Children can explore different regions of Spain in one location.
The city’s beaches provide safe swimming and water activities. Playa de Palma and other nearby beaches have facilities for families.
Parks and playgrounds throughout the city give children space to play. Many areas offer shade and seating for parents.
How can I explore the art and culture scene in Palma de Mallorca?
Several museums showcase local and international art collections. The city hosts rotating exhibitions and permanent displays.
Art galleries in the Old Town feature contemporary and traditional works. Many galleries represent local Mallorcan artists.
Cultural events and festivals happen throughout the year. Check local calendars for concerts, theater performances, and art shows.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known places to visit in Palma de Mallorca?
Small neighborhood plazas offer quiet spots away from tourist crowds. These areas show authentic daily life in Palma.
Local workshops and artisan studios welcome visitors. You can watch craftspeople create traditional items and pottery.
Lesser-known viewpoints around the city provide beautiful photo opportunities. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting.
Madrid Travel Tour Packages You Should Try
Follow and Subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube for more Travel related updates.
Read:
Ultimate List of the Best Hotels in Mallorca, Spain
Top 15 Best Things to do in Mallorca, Spain
Autumn is a fantastic time to visit Mallorca
12 Best Things to Do in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Team Out of Town
Out of Town Blog
