Is Palma worth visiting? Having been a few times now, I would say yes! Â Palma de Mallorca is far more than just a transit hub to beach resorts. It’s a sophisticated city break destination that combines Moorish and Gothic architecture, vibrant culture, exceptional food, and Mediterranean charm all in one compact package.
After experiencing this great destination firsthand, I can confidently say the capital city of Mallorca deserves serious consideration for your next city break. Here’s everything you need to know about why Palma is worth visiting, plus insider tips to make the most of your trip to this stunning Balearic island.
Why is Palma worth visiting?
It’s not a party town
Many travellers dismiss Palma, associating it with nearby Magaluf’s party scene (only 20 minutes away). This is a huge mistake. Palma is sophisticated, cultured, and offers a completely different experience from the typical clubbing Balearic beach resort. Think Barcelona’s charm meets Mediterranean island life – without the crowds.
It’s easily explored on foot
Palma strikes the ideal balance: large enough to offer great attractions, restaurants, and nightlife, yet compact enough to explore thoroughly in a long weekend. Most places are within walking distance, making it perfect for travellers who want to make the most of their weekend break.
What makes Palma special?
Here are some of the best things to do in Palma de Mallorca:
History and culture
Palma’s crown jewel and most famous landmark is Palma Cathedral (La Seu Cathedral) – a Gothic masterpiece. Built on the site of an Arab mosque and later enhanced by Antoni Gaudà in the early 20th century, it overlooks the sea in the oldest part of the city centre.
The city seamlessly blends medieval charm with contemporary style. Butter-coloured stone buildings with wrought-iron balconies line narrow streets in the old town (Casco Antiguo), while modern districts like Santa Catalina buzz with trendy restaurants and boutique shops.
The Arab Baths (Banys Arabs) represent the only remaining structure from the original Arab city of Medina Mayurqa. Dating from the 10th-12th century, these ancient buildings offer fascinating insight into Palma’s Islamic past and are nestled within pretty gardens that used to be an orchard.
The Royal Palace of La Almudaina, still used as the Spanish royal family’s official summer residence. This 14th-century Alcázar-style fortified palace comprises royal quarters, the Chapel of Saint Anne, and historic baths. You can even get free entry on Wednesdays and Sundays from 3.00pm-7.00pm.
Don’t miss Bellver Castle (Castell de Bellver), a unique circular Gothic castle that offers spectacular views over the city and the Mediterranean Sea. This 14th-century fortress, built by King Jaume II, is one of the few circular castles in Europe and now houses the city’s history museum.
If art is your thing, head to Es Baluard Museum, which is located in a former 17th-century military fortress. It features contemporary Balearic and Mediterranean art, including works by Picasso and Cézanne. The museum extends onto outdoor terraces offering spectacular city and bay views – there’s even a restaurant where you can combine art appreciation with wine tasting. The city centre also features numerous smaller art galleries and cultural spaces, making it a great spot for culture enthusiasts to explore.
Foodie experiences
While there are too many amazing restaurants and bars to choose from in Palma, we didn’t have a problem eating and drinking well. Traditional Mallorcan food includes dishes like sausage Sobrassada, perfect spread across fresh bread, or hearty soup, Arroz Brut.
We scoffed quite a few ensaimadas – a traditional Mallorcan pastry, filled with cream, chocolate, custard, or lemon curd. They’re fantastic for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Head to popular bakeries that specialise in them, including Ca’n Joan de s’Aigo, which has been serving up ensaimadas since its opening in 1700 in the heart of the old town. They now have three locations to choose from.
Wineing is the perfect place if you’re looking for a different tapas experience. I loved it here so much that I went twice. This gem of a wine bar is located inside an old renovated building within the La Lonja quarter of the city. The concept is simple. There are 48 different wines to try by the glass – a little sample or a full tipple. You’re given a card that allows you to select wine from bottles lined up around the bar. Needless to say, it’s a lot of fun trying out several different varieties, from local to further afield. And the tapas here are phenomenal. Try the sizzling prawns – they’re a must.
We also ate in La Bóveda, a city icon in the Sa Llotja area, which offers an authentic local atmosphere where tourists and locals mingle over excellent mussels, prawns, patatas bravas, and their very drinkable house wine.
If you want to experience the heart of Palma’s food scene and sample fresh produce, including olive oil, head to Mercat de Santa Catalina (Santa Catalina’s food market). Here you can wander amongst over 500 stalls groaning with all manner of tasty local food. From freshly-caught seafood to cheeses, wine and spices, the choice is endless.
Soak in beach vibes
While Palma is primarily a city break destination, it offers great access to some of the best beaches in the Balearic Islands. Playa de Palma, one of the island’s most famous sandy beaches, stretches for several kilometres and is easily accessible from the city centre. Head there for warm waters and palm-fringed promenades.
Parc de la Mar, built around a saltwater lake, provides urban beach vibes beneath palm trees with cathedral views. The park hosts open-air events, film screenings, and festivals throughout the year – making it the perfect place to relax without leaving the city. Stop at one of several cafes for a cool drink. And there’s even a playground for little ones.
For a proper beach experience, Balneario Illetas (10 minutes outside the city) offers stunning views over a small beach and rocky cove, complete with restaurant, lounge terrace, spa, and resident DJ – perfect for recovering from late nights while watching the sunset and enjoying the natural beauty of the Mediterranean coastline.
Natural landscapes
If you want to explore away from the city centre, then it’s easy to do so. If you have a bit of extra time, it’s well worth making the effort. The UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana is a stunning mountain range featuring pretty villages, olive and orange groves and hiking trails. Perhaps one of the most famous destinations is Sóller, surrounded by green hills and citrus orchards. You can reach it via the iconic wooden train that connects with Palma.
Shopping and strolling
Go to Avinguda Jaime III and Passeig d’es Born if you’re looking to do some shopping. Chic avenues lined with designer boutiques (including Louis Vuitton), jewellery shops, and department stores can be found here. Palma’s compact size means you can cover significant ground on foot – a great way to see the city.
Don’t miss Plaza Mayor (the main square), perfect for people watching and enjoying local cuisine at the surrounding cafes. The square often features street art and local performances. Also, get lost-on-purpose strolling through the old town’s narrow streets, and discovering tapas bars buzzing with people.
Palma de Mallorca FAQs
Getting to Palma and getting around
Budget airlines offer daily flights to Palma from major cities across the UK, including easyJet and Ryanair. The city centre makes walking the best way to get around for most attractions. But you can also easily order an Uber. For day trips to the Serra de Tramuntana or other parts of the island, consider a rental car.
Where to stay in Palma
Look for accommodation near the old town and marina for easy access to major attractions. La Llonja, Avinguda Jaume III, Sant Nicolau, and La Calatrava are great options. The best hotels are scattered throughout the city centre and along the waterfront. There are also plenty of options for apartment and villa rentals.
Best time to visit Palma
The best time to visit Palma depends on what you’re after. The summer months (June-August) offer perfect beach weather and the liveliest atmosphere, though this is peak season with bigger crowds and higher prices.
For the best way to experience Palma with fewer crowds, consider visiting during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October). The weather is still pleasantly warm, but you’ll find it much less busy. The winter months can be great for cultural activities and exploring, but the weather is more variable.
How much time do I need?
A long weekend (3-4 days) allows you to experience the best things Palma has to offer, without rushing. This gives more time to explore different neighbourhoods, enjoy leisurely meals, experience the nightlife, and include some relaxation time. For those wanting to combine city exploration with day trips to the beach or the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, consider extending your stay for a few more days.
Great write up. I’ve always fancied Palma. Will have to put it on my list. Feel a girls weekend away might be in order.
You can never go wrong with a girls weekend. Think they’re a must!
Looks as though I need to add Palma to my list of places to go. Fabulous post & photos as always.
Thanks Izzie. It’s such a wonderful place and very underrated I think.
It all sounds amazing, just what I need to do these last days! Ive never been there, but I will make sure to save these tips for when I go!! Ps: the blog tour post is coming up soon, I did not forget about it 😀
Oh lovely! Look forward to seeing that. Yes, if you can fit a trip to Palma in your super busy life, you must. The food is just amazing 🙂
I will, I hope soon…its not even far from here… just need to find the right opportunity!! Good food is already a huge reason for me to go 😀 thank you for writing this lovely post!!
Ting! I’m currently in Mallorca. Wish I’d read this yesterday – as we had a wander into Palma – though had a sleepy little girl on our hands so didn’t get very far.I love the city though! The cathedral is stunning. I’ve been to that beach club before too and it’s very cool and chilled out! Love it xx
Looks fabulous!! We went to a restaurant in Palermo on the walls of the Fort…so lovely. Your photo reminds me of that.
I keep looking at booking a girls weekend here – have booked marked this for reference. #MondayEscapes
Wineing sounds like my kind of place…what a fabulous concept!
It’s gorgeous and such great food and wine!
Pinning this one straight away – Mallorca is on our short list and your must sees seem approachable and fun!
Great food and wine there and all walkable in Palma. Fab beaches too!
Again, somewhere I would love to visit! I loved your pictures! How did you edit them? I’m getting bored with the photo app I use at the moment and need some new tips or recommendations for good photo apps! #MondayEscapes
Thank you! The two photo editors I use are pic monkey and fotor. They’re both pretty good and do lots of stuff.
We absolutely adore Mallorca and especially Palma as I always holidayed there when growing up. My husband knew how special it was to me and proposed there in 2008. Reading your article I had no idea that Sebastian was the patron saint of the cathedral – how apt for our little boy to be a Sebastian too! Crazy! Love Palma – thank you for some new tips! #mondayescapes
Oh how lovely! Glad I could bring back some nice memories for you! And that your son is called Sebastian!
The cathedral and Es Baluard are gorgeous! I bet the food must be delicious, like Spanish food always is 😀 I wanted to go to Palma de Mallorca for a while, you’ve made me want to book a ticket even more. 🙂
Go, go, go! We stayed in a really great apartment close to the marina and old town. It’s very easy to explore
I’ve only been to Palma once but would love to go back. We hired bikes and cycled along the harbour which was fab. Definitely have to try a few places from your list, especially as I’m a massive fan of tapas and wine!
Oh if you go back Wineing is so fab. It’s just hard to leave 🙂
My kind of getaway 🙂 The ensaimada reminds me of cream puffs…#MondayEscapes
They are so delicious!
Great pictures and suggestions – looks like so much fun! And hello, I want an ensaimada right now, thank you very much!!
Ha ha! They are really good!
I love Palma! It is a truly beautiful city as your photos show! La Seu is magnificent and the local food and wine is to die for! I must return, it has been a few years since my last visit #MondayEscapes
I went without my son, on a girls’ weekend, so a little different experience, but would love to go back as a family. I would still enjoy the same things!
I have been in Mallorca, but I must admit that I do not remember much about it a part from eating ensaimadas (food cannot be forgotten, right?). Well, in my defense I’ll say that I was there more than 15 years ago… maybe I should go back! By the way I did not know Antoni Gaudi was involved in the cathedral, so interesting to know 🙂
I think it’s time for another trip! Just to eat the ensaimadas!
Palma is one of my favorite spots in Spain. We combined a visit here with the Las Fallas Festival in Valencia. It’s a good combo for a long weekend.
I’ve not been to Valencia, but it’s a place I want to visit. That’s a great idea to combine both places
I’ve not been to Mallorca ( I know!) but I’m sure many of its tourists never make it to the capital. It looks idyllic though, and I know what you mean about wanting to explore! #mondayescapes
Yes, it’s such a shame – they all miss Palma and head out.
Looks fabulous! Definitely adding this to my ever growing list of places to visit! 🙂 x
It’s pretty spectacular – dominates the city
I totally agree that you haven’t really been some where until you’ve tasted the local cuisine – it’s such an important part of discovering somewhere new. Your foodie suggestions have front mouth watering! Especially in the breakfast #Mondayescapes
Oh gosh, the tapas and the food was good! But all that wine would make everything taste good 🙂
Ooh it looks so lovely this is somewhere I had never considered but I would now xx
Gorgeous photos! I would love to visit Palma, looks perfect for a long weekend away.
Becky xx
I’ve been to Mallorca but had no time to visit Palma. I’d love to properly see the city instead of flying in and out of it. Thanks for the tips!
No problem, try to visit next time you’re there 🙂
I think I was about six when I was last in Mallorca – must get back before my daughter is six. History, wine and fantastic pastries – my ultimate combo! #MondayEscapes
You’d all love it there – the ensaimadas are worth the trip alone!
Interesting how the Cathedral was built on the site of an Arab mosque. I find it fascinating how so many European Churches have previously been places of worship for other religions!
You’re right! Those pesky Europeans 🙂
It looks like a great place for a long weekend visit! I think I’d be eating many ensaimada, lol
They are so delicious!
So much to do in Palma! I love being able to combine relaxing by the beach with other activities such as historic sights, wandering alleyways and fine dining 🙂 Would love to visit here someday! #mondayescapes
It’s a wonderful place full of history and food food. A great combo as you said!
We had a great family holiday in Palma: what an amazing place! I find the cathedral incredible: we stayed in the city centre and would wander around it almost every day. Your photos are beautiful, they make me want to go straight back there!
Thank you Marta. We could have spent more time wandering the old streets and catherdral too. A great place to do it!
I think a lot of people bypass it for bigger cities like Barcelona and Madrid. Glad you like the look of it!
Every picture is more beautiful than the next! I have only been to Barcelona, Spain and would love to go back (without children so I can relax and enjoy some wine!) Palma looks amazing 🙂 #citytripping
Thanks Lisa for popping by. Palma is such a lovely city – so often ignored. Yes, having a weekend break sans kids is a good tonic once in a while 🙂
Palma is such a great city – we visit quite a lot – so will take all these tips on board and discover a few new places. Seeing your pictures of yummy tapas and all that sunshine is making me wish I was back there now! Thanks for linking to #citytripping xx
Me too! Thanks for hosting. Hope you’re enjoying it and it’s a big success! x
Would love to start a day with those pastries by the sea 🙂 Wonderful post, thank you!
Pleasure, I think it would be great to go back with my son too!
Every time I see this post, I think I must book a return trip to Mallorca – still haven’t managed to since my last comment. Thanks for joining in with #citytripping
We have visited other parts of Majorca (when Rory was little) but haven’t been to Palma apart from it being the starting point for a Mediterranean cruise. I wish now we had booked to stay either before or after the cruise.
Wineing looks like my kind of place.
Oooh, what a timely post to reshare. We will be stopping off in Mallorca next year. I’ve booked marked this so I can formulate our plan of action nearer the time! #citytripping
Wow these look so yummy! My mouth is watering just looking at your photos.
The beauty of this place cannot be expressed with words. Love everything about it. Thanks for sharing your experience and views about it, Ting!
Thank you for popping by
Wonderful !!
Totally agree! Palma de Mallorca is as fantastic as it sounds. Visit once and you too will be wanting to stay