Weather in Palma de Mallorca
What to do in Palma de Mallorca – a one-day itinerary for exploring the island’s capital
What to do in Palma de Mallorca – the heart of Majorca? Palma is a capital full of charm, history and unforgettable places. This is a city that delights and attracts tourists from all over the world. If you are planning a longer stay on the island, it is really worth taking the time to discover it.
In this post, I will tell you step by step what is worth seeing and why it is worth booking a whole day to visit Palma. It is a large city with a wide range of attractions that will appeal to everyone – regardless of whether you are looking for beautiful beaches, monuments, atmospheric streets or good food. Palma will certainly not disappoint you!
I invite you to read and discover the capital of Majorca with me! So… What to do in Palma de Mallorca?
Advantages and disadvantages of Palma de Mallorca
Is Palma de Mallorca a good place to go on a trip? What to do in Palma de Mallorca during your holidays?
Definitely yes! Palma is a great base for trips – it is close to the airport, picturesque bays and popular places in Mallorca. What’s more, the city offers attractions all year round, so regardless of the season, you will always find something to do. This is a big advantage, especially for those visiting Mallorca in winter, when other places may offer much fewer open hotels, restaurants or attractions.
Palma is a city that is bustling all year round, but it can be crowded in the summer. It attracts tourists who often come here mainly for entertainment, which means more traffic on the beaches and streets. Because of this, you can sometimes come across drunk tourists or more garbage. Additionally, especially in the season, there is a growing trade in illegal goods, such as handbags, beach accessories and drinks. This can be a bit of a nuisance, especially when compared to less crowded areas of the island.
Where to park in Palma de Mallorca?
Many people choose to travel to Palma by bus, mainly because the local transport network is well-developed and finding a parking space can be quite difficult. And indeed, if traveling by bus is not a problem for you, it is worth considering this option. However, most tourists decide to park, often in unauthorized places, which can end up with a ticket. Locals do not spare time in reporting such situations, and the police react quickly.
That is why I wholeheartedly recommend using the underground car parks, which are easily accessible in various parts of the city. The cost is around 2 euros per hour, but in return you have the peace of mind that your car is safe and you avoid unpleasant surprises. These car parks are well-marked and easy to find, even directly from the street. My favorite car park is located here: https://goo.gl/maps/eQRCUnUeGEKQTQVU8
It is also worth noting that there are many ORA zones in the capital, but also in many other places on the island. The ORA zone (Zona ORA) in Mallorca is an area where a zone parking system applies, the so-called “paid parking zone”. In these zones, parking is only allowed in designated areas and requires paying a fee. This is a solution used mainly in larger cities, such as Palma de Mallorca, to manage the availability of parking spaces and reduce the problem of congestion. In these zones, you can usually park for 2 hours ONLY.
It is worth remembering that failure to comply with the parking rules in the ORA zone may result in a fine, so it is always worth making sure that you have parked in a designated space and paid for your parking.
Sightseeing plan – What to do in Palma de Mallorca?
Luckily, the most beautiful places in Palma are very close to each other, so sightseeing will be a pleasure. But before we get to the easiest and most popular spots, let’s start our Palma adventure from a little further afield. I assume that most of you will start your journey from Plaza de España – it’s a great place to start, where you can find parking or easily reach by bus or train. However, if you start your trip in another part of the city, nothing is lost – you can easily adapt this plan to your needs! Check out what to do in Palma de Mallorca!
Top attractions in Palma de Mallorca
- Plaza de Toros and Coliseu Balear
What is Coliseu Balear? As the name suggests, it is a coliseum that used to be a bullfighting arena. Although annual bullfights are now planned, many island residents have signed a petition to abandon this tradition. Today, Coliseu Balear is a venue for various events and concerts. The arena was built in 1928.
You can walk to Coliseu Balear from Plaza de España in about 12 minutes. However, if you prefer a more convenient way to travel, just head to the nearby bus station, from where you can get to the coliseum in 8-14 minutes, depending on the mode of transport you choose.
If you are interested in history and architecture, this place will definitely interest you. However, if you are short on time, you can safely skip this historic coliseum!
Here is the link to the official website of the coliseum: http://www.mallorcatravel.com/cultura/coliseo_balear.htm
- Plaza de España in Palma de Mallorca
The Plaza de España in Palma is one of the most characteristic and lively squares in the city. As is often the case in Spain, it is a central point that connects many important communication routes. In the very centre of the square is the monument to Jaume I, commemorating the king who played a key role in the history of Mallorca. It is an imposing figure that attracts the attention of all passers-by.
The Plaza de España is also a great place to relax. Around the square you will find numerous bars, cafés and restaurants where you can stop, have a coffee or try local delicacies. Although the Plaza de España is mainly a stopover point when exploring the city, it is a lively place that definitely deserves a moment of attention. It is the heart of Palma, combining tradition with modernity, while offering a great atmosphere and comfort for tourists.
La Rambla and Paseo del Borne are two of the most picturesque and elegant places in Palma de Mallorca that you simply must see when visiting the island. Both of these boulevards offer an unforgettable atmosphere and are great places to stroll, shop or relax.
La Rambla is a charming, wide avenue full of greenery and flowering trees that give it a unique character. On one side it is framed by classic buildings, and on the other – spacious sidewalks where tourists can stroll, admiring the architecture and the numerous stands and cafes. It is the perfect place to relax with a cup of coffee or tea in one of the local cafes, where you can feel the real atmosphere of the city. La Rambla is full of life, yet maintains a calm, relaxing atmosphere that makes walking here a real pleasure.
Paseo del Borne, on the other hand, is a representative street in the heart of Palma, combining elegance with modern style. Here you will find beautiful 19th-century buildings, as well as luxury shops, art galleries and restaurants. It is a perfect place for shopping, admiring street art or simply walking in the shade of the palm trees that grow along the boulevard. Paseo del Borne impresses with its appearance, especially in the evening, when the lighting creates a unique atmosphere, and restaurants and cafes encourage you to relax.
Visiting the capital of Majorca – What to do in Palma de Mallorca
From La Rambla you can head to Plaza Mayor, where a charming weekly market takes place every Saturday. It’s a great place to find souvenirs, crafts, clothes and many other interesting things. Plaza Mayor is also a place full of atmospheric restaurants and cafes where you can feel the true spirit of Mallorca. It’s the heart of the city, full of life and local charm!
My next stop is Jardines de s’Hort del Rei, the beautiful royal gardens. It’s a unique oasis of peace where you can relax and admire the well-kept landscape. The area around the cathedral is full of artists, which gives this place a unique character. Even if you’re not a garden lover, it’s definitely worth a visit to feel relaxed and sheltered in the shade of the trees.
After visiting the gardens, it’s worth heading to the walls, which offer breathtaking views of the port and the majestic La Seu cathedral. It’s the perfect place to end your walk and feel the magic of Palma.
Next stop is the Royal Palace of Almudaina – a real gem of Palma! This beautiful palace, located right next to the majestic La Seu Cathedral, is one of the most important monuments in Mallorca. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages, and its architecture combines Gothic, Islamic and Renaissance styles to create a unique, harmonious effect. For centuries, the palace was the seat of the rulers of Mallorca, and today it is a museum, where you can admire both the rich interiors and the beautiful courtyards.
Entrance to the Royal Palace of Almudaina costs 7 euros, and if you want to learn more about the history of this place, you can buy a guide for an additional 4 euros. The guide is available in both traditional and electronic form. Remember that the last admission is an hour before closing time, so it is worth planning your visit in advance. This is a unique opportunity to feel like a king or queen as you wander through the historical halls and gardens of this magnificent palace!
Opening hours:
Summer (April – September) – 10:00 – 20:00
Winter (October – March) – 10:00 – 18:00
The Palace is closed every Monday and on September 26 and 27. On September 19, the Palace is only open until 13:00, and on September 28 until 14:30
The Palace was built in the early 14th century by King Jaime II, between 1305 and 1314. At the moment, the Palace is the official residence of the King of Spain when he visits the island.
Here is the link to the official website of the palace: https://www.patrimonionacional.es/en/real-sitio/palacio-real-de-la-almudaina
Główne atrakcje Palma de Mallorca
Here is one of the greatest prides of Mallorca – La Seu Cathedral. This majestic work, built of piedra de Santanyi stone in the 13th century, takes your breath away with its size and details. In the 20th century, the interior of the cathedral was enriched by Antoni Gaudí himself, whose work you associate with unparalleled masterpieces in Barcelona. La Seu Cathedral is not only an architectural marvel, but also a place full of magical light phenomena. On February 2 and November 11, light passes through the largest rose window, creating an incredible phenomenon – Espectáculo del Ocho. It is a truly unique view!
Opening hours: 10:00 – 18:00
Cathedral entrance fee:
8 euros
Terrace entrance fee:
12 euros
If you are planning to go to the terrace, remember that a maximum of 20 people can go there, and the tour lasts only one hour. It is also worth adding that the cathedral is closed every Sunday. We highly recommend buying tickets online for the terrace to avoid queues and disappointment – availability is limited. However, if you decide to buy a ticket for the cathedral itself, be prepared to wait in line for a while. It is definitely worth seeing this place with your own eyes! You can buy your tickets HERE.
The Round Castle in Mallorca
I highly recommend going to Bellver Castle by bus, as the journey on foot will take about 45 minutes. The bus will also take the same time, but it will definitely be a more convenient option. However, if you are travelling by car, it is worth planning your route so that after exploring the centre of Palma de Mallorca you do not have to go far back, but go straight to the castle.
Bellver Castle towers at a height of almost 113 metres above sea level, and its construction was ordered to begin by King Jaime II in 1300. Interestingly, both slaves and women worked on the construction of the castle. Initially, it served as a royal residence, and later, for many years, it became a prison.
The castle has a unique, round shape, and a picturesque forest stretches around it, creating an extremely charming area. Today, the castle is open to the public and houses a museum. It is also a place where many cultural events take place, so it is worth checking what is going on there when planning your visit!
Opening hours:
Summer (April – September) – Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 – 19:00, Sundays and public holidays: 10:00 – 15:00
Winter (October – March) – Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 – 18:00, Sundays and public holidays: 10:00 – 15:00
Closed 25.12, 1.01, 1.05 and Easter Sunday. Schedules may also be modified due to cultural events organized by the City Council.
Prices:
On Sundays, entry to the castle is free, on other days adults must pay 4 euros, children under 14 years of age enter for free. And children between 14 and 18 years of age pay only 2 euros.
Official website: https://castelldebellver.palma.cat/portal/PALMA/castelldebellver/castelldebellver_principal1.jsp?codResi=1
The beach in the capital of Majorca – What to do in Palma de Mallorca
If you feel like you still have some energy, be sure to head to Playa de Palma. This is a beautiful, 6-kilometer beach that stretches from Can Pastilla to El Arenal. Along its entire length, there is a charming promenade, full of bars and restaurants where you can relax and admire the views. There are lifeguards on the beach, as well as water equipment rentals, so there is no shortage of attractions for water sports enthusiasts.
If you like shopping, you will certainly find something for yourself – on the first line of the coast there are many shops with handmade beach covers and other local products.
Personally, I recommend going to the beach from the port side, because this is where the picturesque palm trees grow, which add a unique charm to this place. Although the beach is popular and sometimes crowded, especially because of tourists, it is still a great place for families with children, because the water is very shallow. It is worth remembering, however, that in this area you can meet illegal sellers and slightly louder tourists, but this does not spoil the charm of the beach itself. This is the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing!
Local, unique markets
Santa Catalina
Santa Catalina is one of the most charming districts of Palma, full of narrow streets, colorful houses and local restaurants. Known for its wide gastronomic offer, it is a great place for lunch or dinner. Here you will find numerous bistros, cafes and traditional tapas bars that serve delicious dishes inspired by Mallorcan cuisine. It is also a great place to shop in local craft and design shops. It is worth visiting this place to feel the real, authentic atmosphere of the city and to get to know its more local, everyday rhythm.
Mercat de l’Olivar
For a taste of the local scene, be sure to visit the Mercat de l’Olivar, a traditional market in Palma where you can buy fresh produce, local specialities, cheeses, cold cuts and seafood. It’s a great place to get a taste of Mallorca and take home some culinary souvenirs.
Is it worth visiting the capital of Majorca – Palma de Mallorca?
Palma de Mallorca is one of those places that captivates you at first sight and never ceases to fascinate you. It is a city that combines rich history, magnificent architecture, picturesque streets and unforgettable views. If you are wondering why it is worth spending a few days to visit the capital of Mallorca, here are a few reasons that will surely convince you! Check What to do in Palma de Mallorca and why!
1. Beautiful monuments and history in every corner
In Palma, history meets modernity in a unique way. Walking through the narrow streets, you will come across unique monuments, such as the majestic La Seu Cathedral, from which the view is impossible to forget. Bellver Castle, rising on a hill, offers a panoramic view of the city, and the Royal Palace of Almudaina reminds us of the royal heritage of the island. Palma is a city that hides many stories and invites you to discover its secrets.
2. Charming squares and atmospheric districts
Neighborhoods like Santa Catalina are a real gem, where you can still feel the local character of the island. Narrow, cobbled streets, colorful houses, local shops and delicious cuisine – all this gives Palma a unique atmosphere. If you dream of relaxing in cafes, relax in Plaza Mayor, and if you want to feel the pulse of the city, head to La Rambla or Paseo del Borne, where there is always something going on.
3. Fantastic shopping and delicious food
Palma is also a great place to shop. You will find both designer boutiques and traditional markets where you can buy local products and handicrafts. The city also impresses with its culinary offer, from elegant restaurants to intimate tapas bars. You can try regional specialities such as ensaimada or sobrasada, and in the evening enjoy delicious dishes with a glass of wine.
4. Great beaches and relaxation
Although Palma is a large city, there is also plenty of space to relax. Playa de Palma is the perfect place to relax in the sun. There are charming promenades along the coast, where you can stroll and enjoy the views of the sea and surrounding mountains. And if you want to get a real feel of Mallorca, head to the smaller, less touristy beaches in the area, which offer peace and natural beauty.
5. Great views and terraces
There is nothing better than walking around Palma and admiring it from different viewpoints. From the view from the terraces of La Seu Cathedral to the panorama from Bellver Castle, each of these places offers unforgettable views of the city, the port and the sea. It is definitely worth climbing to higher levels and admiring this picturesque city from above.
Palma de Mallorca is a city that has something for everyone – for lovers of history, culture, shopping, delicious food and relaxation. Whether you are looking for a place for a short break or a full-blown holiday, the capital of Mallorca is the perfect choice. This is a place you simply must see!
Restaurants in Palma de Mallorca worth visiting – What to do in Palma de Mallorca
There are a huge number of restaurants in the capital of the island that are worth recommending, and today I will focus on a few recommendations that will make your day in the capital more enjoyable and filled with local atmosphere.
However, before we go any further, I would like to highly recommend an alternative to searching for restaurants on the map. For some time now, a company has appeared in Mallorca that deals with so-called food tours, or gastronomic trips around Mallorca. Using the Wine and Dine option, you will have the opportunity to enjoy delicious dishes in several restaurants in Palma. Additionally, the route is designed so that you can visit a bit of the capital and enjoy the beautiful interiors of restaurants hidden in tenement houses. Delicious food, nice atmosphere and great views guaranteed. Check out the offer HERE.
What to eat in Palma de Mallorca?
1. Rivareno
If you are looking for exceptional ice cream that will transport you to a real paradise of flavors, you must visit Rivareno. This gelateria serves some of the best ice cream on the island, made with natural ingredients, without artificial additives. You can choose from a wide range of flavors – from classic to more unusual ones, such as pistachio or chocolate with an intense flavor. It is the perfect place to cool down on hot days.
2. Bar Espanya
Bar Espanya is a cult place in Palma that combines tradition with modernity. There you will find delicious tapas, local specialities and a variety of wines. It is the perfect place for a quick lunch or an evening meeting with friends. The interior of the bar is kept in a pleasant, traditional style, which gives it a unique charm. It is a place that is lively and very popular with both locals and tourists.
3. La Rosa Vermuteria
La Rosa Vermuteria is an extraordinary place that combines a passion for wine and aperitifs with Spanish tradition. It is an ideal restaurant for lovers of excellent vermouths and tapas. The place stands out with its cozy interior, and its offer is a real treat for gourmets. Here you can taste a variety of snacks – from olives to refined cold cuts and cheeses.
4. Palma Bread
Palma Bread is a place for lovers of fresh, homemade pastries. This bakery is a real feast for the senses – from fragrant bread to delicious cakes and rolls. You will also find delicious sandwiches and lunch snacks there. The perfect place for morning coffee with a croissant or for a quick lunch in an atmospheric setting.
5. Mercat d’Olivar
Mercat d’Olivar is a lively market in the heart of Palma, where you can experience a real local atmosphere. Here you will find fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, cold cuts, as well as prepared dishes served by different stalls. It is a great place to shop and taste local specialities. It is worth taking the time to wander around this market to discover all its flavors and smells.
6. Sa Farinera
Sa Farinera is a place that combines tradition with modernity, offering delicious Mediterranean cuisine in a unique style. The restaurant specializes in dishes based on local products, such as fresh fish, seafood, and meat delicacies. Sa Farinera is the perfect place for a special dinner in an intimate atmosphere with high-quality service and excellent wines. The location is located by the airport.
Got Questions?
Want to know more about preparing for your dream holidays in Mallorca? Want to rent a car without deposit, or book a tour with english guide? Looking for information on the best shopping spots, local cuisine, or practical tips? ☀️ Contact me on Instagram or Facebook! I’ll answer all your questions and share the latest updates. On my blog, you’ll find many helpful articles to help you plan an unforgettable holiday. Check out the TOP 10, GUIDES categories to discover the island’s most beautiful spots and learn more about it. Make your holidays in Mallorca the best time of your life!
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