Palma de Mallorca travel guide
Palma de Mallorca Tourism | Palma de Mallorca Guide
You're Going to Love Palma de Mallorca
Imagine a city where beautiful Mediterranean beaches are surrounded by romantic Moorish landmarks and spectacular historical buildings - that's Palma de Mallorca.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Palma de Mallorca
1. Those Beaches
Ca'n Pere Antoni is one of Palma de Mallorca's finest beaches - and one of its most popular. Those who prefer bigger beaches can walk to nearby Cala Major.
2. La Seu
The Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma is the city's most famous landmark. Commonly called 'La Seu', the huge Cathedral was partially renovated by Gaudi.
3. La Almudaina Royal Palace
La Almudaina Royal Palace was once the city's Alcazar and, although it was rebuilt in the Gothic style by Jaime II, it retains elements of its Moorish past.
4. Seaside Events and Festivals
Parc de la Mar hosts an eclectic program of events throughout the year. Catch open-air movie screenings, concerts, and fiestas in a delightful setting.
5. The Nightlife
Palma de Mallorca rivals Ibiza when it comes to Balearic Island nightlife. Head for Passeig Maritim for clubs and bars that stay open till 6 am.
What to do in Palma de Mallorca
1. Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma: Reaching to the Heavens
Palma's glorious cathedral is also known as "La Seu". Building was started by King James I of Aragon in 1229 AD but the construction was not finished until 1601. This huge Gothic edifice towers above the old Roman citadel in the center of Palma, with commanding views over the city and out to the Mediterranean Sea. Inside, you might be surprised at the sheer scale of the cathedral, with the central nave rising to 144 feet, dwarfing that of Notre Dame in Paris. It provides a cool and calming contrast to the bustle and heat of the city and the interior boasts some fantastic finishings including one of the world's largest stained-glass windows, the Rose Window.
2. Palma Beach: People Platja
Platja de Palma is the city's beach and a pretty wonderful one too. It stretches for some four miles and the fine white sand is particularly beautiful. The beach is backed by lots of good hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants, so there are plenty of places to enjoy a refreshment and a bit of people watching. There are lots of watersports available for the more active and a stroll along the promenade is a great way to work up an appetite or walk off your meal.
3. Castell de Bellver: History in the Round
The Castell de Bellver is a unique round castle dating from the 14th century. It is set in beautiful grounds within scented pine woods and contains a fascinating museum of Palma's history. It is one of the best-preserved medieval castles you'll find and it really is like stepping back in time when you walk through the courtyards and cloisters. Bellver is Catalan for "lovely view" and from the upper levels you can enjoy some of the best views of the city and harbor.
4. Es Baluard: Modern Art on the Ancient Walls
Es Baluard is Palma's museum of modern and contemporary art. The museum occupies a 16th century bastion but the collections are modern and focused on 20th and 21st century artists that have a connection to the Balearic Islands. The interior is also modern and bright and an ideal space to show some impressive exhibits. This is where to come for a cultural fix when in Palma.
5. Palau de l'Almudaina: A Palace Fit for the Kings
The Palau de l'Almudaina dates from at least Roman times and was possibly the site of a prehistoric settlement long before that. It was then rebuilt as an Islamic fort before being converted to house the island's Christian monarchs in the 13th century. It is still the official summer residence of the Spanish royal family, although they do tend to vacation over at Cala Major. Inside you'll find huge stone-walled rooms hung with tapestries and furnished with period pieces. The beautiful artesonado-timbered ceilings are simply stunning and the Gothic chapel of Capella de Sant'Anna will transport you to where great kings and queens once prayed.
1. Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma: Reaching to the Heavens
Palma's glorious cathedral is also known as "La Seu". Building was started by King James I of Aragon in 1229 AD but the construction was not finished until 1601. This huge Gothic edifice towers above the old Roman citadel in the center of Palma, with commanding views over the city and out to the Mediterranean Sea. Inside, you might be surprised at the sheer scale of the cathedral, with the central nave rising to 144 feet, dwarfing that of Notre Dame in Paris. It provides a cool and calming contrast to the bustle and heat of the city and the interior boasts some fantastic finishings including one of the world's largest stained-glass windows, the Rose Window.
2. Palma Beach: People Platja
Platja de Palma is the city's beach and a pretty wonderful one too. It stretches for some four miles and the fine white sand is particularly beautiful. The beach is backed by lots of good hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants, so there are plenty of places to enjoy a refreshment and a bit of people watching. There are lots of watersports available for the more active and a stroll along the promenade is a great way to work up an appetite or walk off your meal.
3. Castell de Bellver: History in the Round
The Castell de Bellver is a unique round castle dating from the 14th century. It is set in beautiful grounds within scented pine woods and contains a fascinating museum of Palma's history. It is one of the best-preserved medieval castles you'll find and it really is like stepping back in time when you walk through the courtyards and cloisters. Bellver is Catalan for "lovely view" and from the upper levels you can enjoy some of the best views of the city and harbor.
4. Es Baluard: Modern Art on the Ancient Walls
Es Baluard is Palma's museum of modern and contemporary art. The museum occupies a 16th century bastion but the collections are modern and focused on 20th and 21st century artists that have a connection to the Balearic Islands. The interior is also modern and bright and an ideal space to show some impressive exhibits. This is where to come for a cultural fix when in Palma.
5. Palau de l'Almudaina: A Palace Fit for the Kings
The Palau de l'Almudaina dates from at least Roman times and was possibly the site of a prehistoric settlement long before that. It was then rebuilt as an Islamic fort before being converted to house the island's Christian monarchs in the 13th century. It is still the official summer residence of the Spanish royal family, although they do tend to vacation over at Cala Major. Inside you'll find huge stone-walled rooms hung with tapestries and furnished with period pieces. The beautiful artesonado-timbered ceilings are simply stunning and the Gothic chapel of Capella de Sant'Anna will transport you to where great kings and queens once prayed.
1. Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma: Reaching to the Heavens
Palma's glorious cathedral is also known as "La Seu". Building was started by King James I of Aragon in 1229 AD but the construction was not finished until 1601. This huge Gothic edifice towers above the old Roman citadel in the center of Palma, with commanding views over the city and out to the Mediterranean Sea. Inside, you might be surprised at the sheer scale of the cathedral, with the central nave rising to 144 feet, dwarfing that of Notre Dame in Paris. It provides a cool and calming contrast to the bustle and heat of the city and the interior boasts some fantastic finishings including one of the world's largest stained-glass windows, the Rose Window.
2. Palma Beach: People Platja
Platja de Palma is the city's beach and a pretty wonderful one too. It stretches for some four miles and the fine white sand is particularly beautiful. The beach is backed by lots of good hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants, so there are plenty of places to enjoy a refreshment and a bit of people watching. There are lots of watersports available for the more active and a stroll along the promenade is a great way to work up an appetite or walk off your meal.
3. Castell de Bellver: History in the Round
The Castell de Bellver is a unique round castle dating from the 14th century. It is set in beautiful grounds within scented pine woods and contains a fascinating museum of Palma's history. It is one of the best-preserved medieval castles you'll find and it really is like stepping back in time when you walk through the courtyards and cloisters. Bellver is Catalan for "lovely view" and from the upper levels you can enjoy some of the best views of the city and harbor.
4. Es Baluard: Modern Art on the Ancient Walls
Es Baluard is Palma's museum of modern and contemporary art. The museum occupies a 16th century bastion but the collections are modern and focused on 20th and 21st century artists that have a connection to the Balearic Islands. The interior is also modern and bright and an ideal space to show some impressive exhibits. This is where to come for a cultural fix when in Palma.
5. Palau de l'Almudaina: A Palace Fit for the Kings
The Palau de l'Almudaina dates from at least Roman times and was possibly the site of a prehistoric settlement long before that. It was then rebuilt as an Islamic fort before being converted to house the island's Christian monarchs in the 13th century. It is still the official summer residence of the Spanish royal family, although they do tend to vacation over at Cala Major. Inside you'll find huge stone-walled rooms hung with tapestries and furnished with period pieces. The beautiful artesonado-timbered ceilings are simply stunning and the Gothic chapel of Capella de Sant'Anna will transport you to where great kings and queens once prayed.
Activities & attractions in Palma de Mallorca
Tours
Where to Eat in Palma de Mallorca
Try contemporary Spanish cuisine at Arrocería Sa Cranca in Passeig de Maritim or Italian at Ottimo in Passeig de Mallorca. A basic lunch in the city center costs EUR12, while dinner for two with wine starts at EUR53.
When to visit Palma de Mallorca
Palma de Mallorca has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters so it's the ideal choice at any time. Visit in summer if you're planning a beach vacation or come in January for winter sun and the Three Kings fiesta.
How to Get to Palma de Mallorca
Plane
Palma Airport (PMI) is 5.5 miles from the city center. Take the EMT Line 1 bus service for EUR3 or hop in a taxi for EUR35.
Train
TIB runs trains from towns on the island such as Inca and Manacor. Trains stop at the Estació Intermodal de Palma in the center of the city.
Car
Unless you're taking the ferry from Dénia or Valencia, it's not possible to drive from the mainland.
Bus
Mallorcan regional buses from towns like Andratx, Cala d'Or, and Valldemossa are operated by TIB and they terminate at the Estació Intermodal de Palma.
Airports near Palma de Mallorca
Airlines serving Palma de Mallorca
Where to stay in Palma de Mallorca
Mallorca is known for high-end boutique hotels such as the Castillo Hotel Son Vida and Boutique Hotel Can Cera. However, you'll also find lots of budget-friendly hotels like Hotel Isla Mallorca and Spa and BQ Apolo Hotel.
Popular Neighborhoods in Palma de Mallorca
Port de Palma - one of Palma de Mallorca's most stylish districts. As well as the marina, you'll find La Seu and Parc de la Mar here.
Old Town - this popular neighborhood is known for shopping streets like Passeig des Born and the elegant tree-lined La Rambla.
Sa Llotja - one of the oldest parts of Palma, this area is home to some of the city's best galleries, designer boutiques, and restaurants.
Where to stay in popular areas of Palma de Mallorca
Most booked hotels in Palma de Mallorca
How to Get Around Palma de Mallorca
Public Transportation
EMT runs buses throughout the city. The number 50 sightseeing is a good option for visitors. Fares are EUR15 for adults and EUR6,50 for children. Tickets are valid for 24 hours, and you can hop on and off as many times as you wish.
Taxi
Taxis can be found close to tourist attractions and you'll pay EUR15 for a 5-mile trip.
Car
Rent a car from Avis or Enterprise and you'll be able to see more of the island. Prices start at just EUR20 per day for compact cars.
The Cost of Living in Palma de Mallorca
Shopping Streets
Shop for designer brands and high street favorites in Passeig des Born. Or, look for arts and crafts and souvenirs in nearby Plaça Major.
Groceries and Other
You'll find branches of Carrefour, BIP BIP Supermarket, and Veritas in the city, and it will cost you EUR1.04 for a quart of milk and EUR2.42 for a dozen large eggs.