City, Beach
Palma
Palma
Mallorca's capital city, home to a huge Gothic cathedral, an old Moorish quarter and some of the best food and markets in the Balearic Islands.
Palma is the capital of Mallorca, the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands, set on a wide bay along the island's south coast. Many people only pass through on their way from the airport to the beach resorts, which is a shame, because the city itself is well worth seeing. Behind its seafront you'll find a famous Gothic cathedral, an old town of narrow streets and squares, and one of the liveliest food scenes in the Balearics.
What Palma is known for
Palma is best known for its old town and its grand seafront cathedral, set in a lively capital that holds around half of Mallorca's population. That cathedral, known as La Seu, is the city's signature landmark, famous for having the largest Gothic rose window in the world. Beside it stands the Almudaina, a former Moorish fortress that now serves as the Spanish royal family's residence on the island. Palma is also known for the old town that lies behind the cathedral, a maze of narrow lanes, small squares and warm stone buildings. Two sights in particular draw people in: the beautifully preserved Arab baths, a rare reminder of the island's Moorish past, and Sa Llotja, a grand seafront hall built in the 1400s for the city's merchants. The main shopping street, Passeig del Born, runs nearby and is lined with trees, cafés and shops. Palma is also recognised for Bellver Castle, an unusual round fortress from the 1300s that looks out over the bay and now houses the city's history museum. Beyond the headline sights, the city has built a name for its art scene, the lively restaurants of the Santa Catalina district and a handful of beaches within walking distance of the centre, so it's worth spending a day or two exploring the city.
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Experiences and things to do in Palma
If you're drawn to history and culture, begin at the cathedral and the Almudaina palace beside it, then wander into the old town to see the Arab baths and the main square, Plaça Major. For one of the best views in the city, head up to Bellver Castle or climb to the cathedral roof terraces. Art lovers should make time for Es Baluard and the nearby Miró museum, just west of the centre. And when you'd rather slow down, the city beach at Can Pere Antoni is only a short walk from the old town.
Where to stay in Palma
The old town is the best base for first-time visitors, with historic hotels and easy walking distance of the cathedral and harbour. Es Born and Santa Catalina have a livelier restaurant and bar scene. For beach access, Palma Nova and Illetes are a short drive west.
Food and drink in Palma
Palma is the best place to eat on the island, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to small, traditional tapas bars. The Santa Catalina district is the heart of the city's food scene, full of lively bars and built around a popular covered market. For local produce, visit the Mercat de l'Olivar, Palma's main food market, piled high with island cheeses, cured meats and fresh seafood.
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Best time to visit Palma
May, June and September are ideal, with warm temperatures, long days and lighter crowds than July and August. Winter is mild and good for city breaks, though some beach-area businesses close.
Getting to Palma and around
Palma has its own airport (PMI), about 8km east of the city, with direct flights from across the UK and Europe all year. The airport bus is a cheap, quick way into the centre. Ferries leave the Port of Palma for Barcelona, Valencia, Ibiza and Menorca. The old town is small and easy to explore on foot.
Nearest Airport to Palma
Nearest Sea Port to Palma
Travel tips for visiting Palma
Book your cathedral tickets online and arrive early, when the morning light shines through the great rose window. The airport bus is much cheaper than a taxi, and just as quick into the centre. Bellver Castle sits up on a hill, so it's easiest to reach by the tourist bus or a short taxi ride. Visit the Santa Catalina market in the morning, when the food stalls are at their best. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable times to visit, as July and August get very hot and crowded. Some restaurants close on Sundays or Mondays, so it's worth checking before you head out.
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FAQs about visiting Palma
Helpful answers for planning your visit to Palma.
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