The 17 Best Things to See and Do in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Glorious beaches and people watching are among Mallorca’s biggest draws, but the urban side of things has its own appeal. Visiting the capital, Palma de Mallorca, also the largest and oldest town on this Balearic island, is a treat whether it’s history, culture or food and drink you’re after. Here are our top picks of things to do in Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
Take a walk through a pine forest to Bellver Castle
Museum, Memorial, Historical Landmark, Archaeological site
Wander the quaint streets of Palma's Old Town
Architectural Landmark
Wander the narrow cobbled streets of Palma’s casco antiguo, and admire its elegant archways, grand historic palacios, medieval churches and charming squares. Snatch a glimpse of shady courtyards through ancient doorways, or take an official guided tour and learn about the district’s long and varied history. Along the way, stop to buy some traditional Mallorcan baskets at the Mimbreria Vidal, one of Palma’s oldest basket shops; nibble on an ensaïmada from any one of the many local bakeries; or sit in a sunny plaza and enjoy a cold drink and tapas. If your legs aren’t up to the stroll, you could always take a Segway tour.
Visit Palma's spectacular cathedral, La Seu
Cathedral, Church, Mosque
Set sail on the oldest active ship in Spain
Historical Landmark
Sailing is a fun way to take in the Mallorcan coastline, but why not take it to the next level by boarding the oldest working ship in Spain. The Rafael Verdara, launched in 1841 and registered in Ibiza, has a long and fascinating history. It’s well maintained and fully functional, and you can now book trips for the day, for a romantic sunset cruise or, for the more adventurous, a 10-day long whale-watching excursion (only available in summer). Day trips run at €95 (£87) per adult, setting off from the Muelle de Golondrinas de Palma. It’s not the cheapest, but you won’t forget it in a hurry.
Walk the tapas trail of Palma's Ruta Martiana
Building
Visit the ancient Arab Baths
Architectural Landmark, Archaeological site
Walk or cycle along the seafront to Portixol
Natural Feature
Visit the Royal Palace
Park, Memorial
Descend into the magical Caves of Genova
Natural Feature
There are countless caves to discover all over Mallorca, but many people don’t know that you don’t have to join a full-day boat tour of the island to have some underground fun. It’s a surprise then that the Caves of Genova, so conveniently located on the outskirts of Palma, is a little bit of a hidden gem. It’s a quaint affair here, with a humble restaurant beside the seemingly unremarkable doorway that leads you 40m below the surface. What you find on the other side of that doorway is far more notable, as spectacular formations of spiky stalactites shoot out of every nook and cranny of the cave complex, which now has over 3km of underground pathways for you to explore. Recommended by Gethin Morgan.
Daydream the day away at Parc de la Mar
Park
Nestled between the cathedral and the alluring waters of the Med, this pretty urban park space has become the perfect spot to stop and take in the moment as you revel in the beauty of Palma. Take a gentle stroll around the artificial lake or grab a palm-shaded bench spot, from which you can watch the day go by. Spot tourists and locals passing and the sun gently slipping closer and closer to the glimmering Mediterranean horizon. It’s the perfect place to stop and reflect after a tour of the city. Recommended by Gethin Morgan.
Get stuffed at the San Juan Mercado Gastronómico
The San Juan Mercado Gastronómico makes for a real feast of the senses, both in terms of the Instagrammable interiors and the extensive array of delicious treats on offer. Set in a former abattoir, the place is also cavernous, with high-table seating down the middle and 17 “stalls” offering everything from freshly cooked seafood, oysters and champagne, pintxos, mini-burgers, endless hams, every kind of croquette you can imagine and much more. The jet-black squid-ink tortilla is a must-try, and most stalls also have an impressive range of wines. Always buzzing, it’s a great place to grab a quick lunch or enjoy a night out with regular live music and DJs.
Take a look around Joan Miró’s studio
Artist Joan Miró’s mother and wife were both Mallorquin, and Miró spent much of his childhood on the island. He moved to Mallorca permanently in the 1950s and achieved his lifelong dream of having his own studio, which was designed for him by architect Josep Lluís Sert. The Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró, set up by Miró and his wife shortly before he died, allows visitors to see the studios where he worked right up until his death in 1983. There is also a gallery, sculpture garden and educational spaces, and its peaceful location in the hills on the outskirts of Palma allows for magnificent views over the city and the sea.
Hit the beach
If you need a break from sightseeing and fancy a beach day without having to stray too far, Palma’s city beach (C’an Pere Antoni) has everything you need. Easily walkable from the centre of town, this 750m-long (half-mile) stretch of sand has showers, toilets and a lifeguard (in high season), plus a beach club at either end. As city beaches go, this one has a lot going for it – mostly frequented by locals, it’s clean, the sand is fine and golden, and the water clear and safe for swimming. Upmarket Nassau Beach Club at the far end has comfortable sun loungers (reservable by phone) with waiter service, and a popular (but expensive) restaurant. Closer to the city is the Anima Beach Club, with a more youthful Ibiza-esque vibe.
Take in some art history at Esbaluard Museu
Right in the centre of town, Esbaluard is the art gallery in Mallorca, and at a paltry €6 (£5.50) entry fee, there really is no excuse not to visit. Joan Miró once again features, flanked by some 500 modern and contemporary artists with works on display in the vast space. You can even see some of Picasso’s lesser-known ceramics. Walking the gallery will give you a Balearic history lesson, from the Islamic origins of the district where the building is situated up to the present day. Included on site are a viewing platform to take in the gorgeous vistas, a restaurant and the Aljub – a former freshwater cistern repurposed as a flexible event space.
Get a lesson in Spanish brandy at the Bodegas Suau
Despite being warm all year round, Mallorca is famed for its brandy, a drink typically consumed to stave off the cold. Since 1851, Bodegas Suau has represented a partnership between the island and mainland Spain, as the liquor is distilled there, then brought to Mallorca to be aged. The cellar itself is a great attraction, and the perfect place to sample the brandy, as you’ll be meeting it just as it is ready to be bottled and sold. Given its age, the location is rich with Mallorcan tradition, and tours can be booked for just €10 (£9.10) per person.
Buy some Gordiola glassware for a unique souvenir
Gordiola has been making glassware in Mallorca for more than 300 years, and its artistic, unusual blowing and decorating has endured. Its approach to bowls, stemware, vases and other products means that no two items are the same, so you’ll be going home with something truly unique. Vidrería Gordiola is right in the centre of Palma, just a few minutes from the cathedral, and the staff there are happy to answer questions about the amazing products on display. There’s really no better way to take a piece of Mallorca home with you than to pick up some Gordiola glass, just be sure to pack it safely!
Dance the night away
As you’d expect from the largest town on the island, Palma has a bustling nightlife. The Plaza Quadrado isn’t just reliable for good tapas, it also makes a perfect waypoint for heading out on the town. Clubs such as the Blue Jazz Club and Bar Flexas take a very relaxed approach. If you’re looking for something more modern, Stereo Club and Es Gremi offer house, techno and other dance music to keep you moving until the small hours. If you’re inclined towards something more rustic, Galactic offers swing music nights, while Social is a great spot for a relaxed cocktail to close out the night.
Additional reporting by Callum Davies