If you need proof that there's more to Mallorca than sun, sea and sand, Palma is it.
As well as being the entry point for the rest of the island, the capital is a great destination in its own right, with world-class art galleries, shopping and wonderful cuisine.
Getting Around
It’s five miles (8km) from airport to centre, easily accessed by city bus or taxi. You can explore Palma on foot or by bike, but it also has a metro and a bus service leading out to the suburbs and the wider island.
Language
Spanish
Time Difference
1 hr ahead of GMT
Currency
Euro
Neighbourhoods To See
Old Town: for sightseeing
Palma’s enchanting, labyrinthine heart has centuries-old buildings in a combination of Moorish, Gothic and Modernist architecture. La Seu Cathedral and Palau de l'Almudaina are the stars, but enjoy simply wandering the back-alleys, tiny shops and sun-drenched squares.
Santa Catalina: for gastronomy
What was once a fishermen’s village has grown into a dining and nightlife hotspot, oozing with atmosphere. The market at its the heart is the perfect place to find foodie souvenirs and local delicacies.
Portixol: for yacht-spotting and sunbathing
Another former fishing village, posh harbourside Portixol offers some of the island’s best seafood and beaches at Can Perl Antoni and Playa Portixol.
Essential Sights
La Seu Cathedral
The 13th century Mallorca Cathedral was partially revamped by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí in the early 20th century and contains a spectacular mural created by contemporary artist Miquel Barceló in 2006.
Palau de l'Almudaina
This imposing Islamic fortress was converted to a residence for the King of Spain in the 13th century – the royal family still stays occasionally. A fascinating blend of Moorish and Gothic architecture.
Museu Fundación Juan March
Home to a small but impressive collection of Spanish works by the likes of Picasso, Miró and Dalí, plus a few international artists including Auguste Rodin and Henry Moore.
Promenade and Parc de la Mar
Stroll, cycle or picnic with a view along this palm tree-lined promenade and grassy park overlooking the sea and the stunning cathedral.
Es Baluard Museu d'Art Modern i Contemporani de Palma
A 16th-century fort showcasing works by artists who come from or visited the Balearics, including Picasso and Mirò.
Food And Drink
Gorge on lush local produce from olives to almonds to aubergine, and local specialities including porcella suckling pig and spicy sobrasada sausage. Freshly caught seafood is everywhere, of course! The open-air markets are great for local specialities, while restaurants range from rustic cafés and tapas bars to fine dining extravaganzas.
Events
JANUARY | Fiestas de Sant Sebastià
Enjoy festivities honouring Palma’s patron saint, including free concerts, cultural events and kids’ activities.
APRIL | Palma International Boat Show
La Llonja harbour fills with vessels from sailboats to superyachts at one of the industry’s largest boat shows.
JUNE | Nit de Foc
Palma celebrates the island's patron saint, and summer’s arrival on the solstice, with costumed devils, fireworks, bonfires and late-night dancing.
JULY – AUG | Copa del Rey regatta
This glitzy regatta draws some of the world’s most avid sailors to the coast of Palma every summer.
OCTOBER | Colcada de la Beata
This ‘procession of the blessed’ starts with a special sermon and unfolds with a colourful parade, live music and fireworks.