The Top 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 this beautiful part of Spain.
Fancy seeing a different side of Spain? Explore Andalucia on Culture Trip’s four-day break – highlights include a Local Insider-led tour of Seville and visits to Cadiz and Jerez.
Take a walk through a pine forest to Bellver Castle
Forest, Museum

Get stuffed at the San Juan Mercado Gastronómico
Market
Fancy yourself as a bit of a foodie? Then tantalise those tastebuds with a look at our four-day foodie fling to Spain’s Basque Country, one of Europe’s most thrilling gastro-destinations.
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
Building, Cathedral
If epic architecture is what you’re after, and particularly if Señor Gaudí is involved, then join us in Barcelona for an artistic exploration of the Catalan capital, which includes a visit to his two most famous masterpieces, Park Güell and La Sagrada Familia.
Walk or cycle along the seafront to Portixol
Natural Feature

Walk the tapas trail of Palma's Ruta Martiana
Building
Visit the ancient Arab Baths
Architectural Landmark, Archaeological site
Discover more about Spain fascinating history on our Mini Trip to Malaga and Granada, where you’ll get authentic insights from our Local Insider.
Take a look around Joan Miró's studio
Art Gallery
Hit the beach
Natural Feature

Take in some art history at Esbaluard Museu
Museum
Get a lesson in Spanish brandy at the Bodegas Suau
Distillery
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.
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.
Buy some Gordiola glassware for a unique souvenir
Shop

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
Music Venue
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.
Visit the Royal Palace
Park, Memorial
See our full collection of trips to Spain, or venture further afield with one of our many Epic Trips or Mini Trips.
Additional reporting by Callum Davies
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