The Best Bars in Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Despite its prime location in the centre of Palma, the hip Nakar Hotel remains one of the city’s best kept secrets. Their cooler-than-cool roof terrace bar opens after 8pm for non-residents with views from the infinity pool of the capital’s illuminated Gothic Cathedral and the sea beyond. Great for people-watching and chilling out to some tunes from regular guest DJs. Combine your evening with dinner at the swish CUIT restaurant one floor down with its equally glorious vistas.

Somewhat of an institution in Palma, this lovely traditional bar in the Sa Gerreria neighbourhood is a must-visit. Its first 500 years of life was spent as a basket shop owned by the same family, and the decor has changed little since its transition to a bar. Rub shoulders with the locals sipping on cheap (but good) Cava while picking at the array of freshly cooked tapas and pintxos on the long marble bar. Tapas Tuesday (or La Ruta Martiana) nights are an especially good time to bar hop in this area, sample great food and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Part of the city’s main contemporary art gallery, Es Baluard is a gorgeous spot to sip a cool drink on a summer evening. There is a gentle breeze on the expansive terrace with views of both the marina and Cathedral which seem to float on top of palm trees. People often gather to watch a pretty sunset over Castle Bellver in the distance too, whilst perching on impressive outdoor sculptures. Drinks aren’t too pricey and the food is delicious (although service can be a little surly).

One of the quirkier places to stumble across in Palma, Sa Sifoneria is a charming hole-in-the-wall cellar-style bar. The novelty isn’t just about sitting on little soda crates to sample a variety of local wines and vermouths, you can also buy many of them straight from the barrel to go. Knowing that you are purchasing locally produced tipples at very reasonable prices (you can pick up a bottle of vermouth for around €3 a bottle), it’s hard not to love. There’s also a larger and more lively sister bar La Sifoneria in El Terreno if you find yourself in that end of town.

The Almudaina Hotel’s Sky Bar is a fantastic spot for soaking up some afternoon sun. Recline in deck chairs on the rooftop or simply admire the breathtaking sea views from the lower terrace with a cold drink in hand. There is also a large indoor bar with comfy sofas and widescreen TV for those interested in watching sporting events. It’s generally one of the more quiet and peaceful havens in the midst of the city’s shopping district.

Bar Flexas is a popular haunt of the hipper local crowd, with distinctive retro decor and eclectic vintage furniture. There are always plenty of parties, exhibitions and events here, including the ever popular transvestite night. It also has a small kitchen that knocks out some great gourmet bar food, as well as one of the more entertaining websites you’ll find around.

Set atop the seriously upscale Hotel Sant Francesc – a remodelled 19th-century mansion – the Sushi Bar oozes contemporary chic. Its roof terrace, with pool bar and lovely views of neighbouring Sant Francesc Basilica, is open to non-residents from 8pm for posh cocktails and sushi. If you can slip in earlier, it also makes a fantastic spot to enjoy a sunset over the city.