If you’re planning a trip to the Balearic Islands, the many things to do in Palma de Mallorca will surprise you. This sun-drenched Spanish city is far more than a gateway to the island’s beaches – it’s a destination in its own right, with Gothic architecture, world-class art, vintage railways, and a dining scene that rivals anywhere in the Mediterranean.
We’ve spent time exploring Palma’s winding old town streets, lingering over long lunches, and discovering the cultural gems that most visitors walk straight past. Here are the experiences we’d recommend to anyone visiting.
Things to Do in Palma de Mallorca
Palma de Mallorca has a history stretching back more than 2,000 years, shaped by Roman, Moorish, and medieval influences that are still visible in the architecture, gardens, and street plan of the old town today. What makes the city so rewarding to explore is how compact it is – the Cathedral, the castle, the Gothic merchants’ exchange, and the elegant boulevard of the Passeig del Born are all within easy walking distance of one another.
You can cover an extraordinary amount of ground on foot in just a couple of days, yet still feel as though you’ve only scratched the surface.
1. Visit the Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca
One of the most breathtaking Gothic cathedrals in Europe, La Seu rises dramatically from the waterfront and dominates Palma’s skyline. The interior is extraordinary – Antoni Gaudí began restoration work here in the early 20th century, and the rose window is one of the largest of its kind in the world.
Visiting at golden hour, when the light pours through the stained glass, is an experience we’d return to Palma for alone.
2. Explore Castillo de Bellver
Perched on a pine-covered hill above the city, Castillo de Bellver is the only circular Gothic castle in Spain – and one of the few in all of Europe. Built in the 14th century as a royal residence, it later served as a prison before becoming a museum.
The panoramic views over Palma Bay from the tower are exceptional and well worth the short walk up through the woods.
3. Discover Sa Llotja
A masterpiece of Catalan Gothic architecture, Sa Llotja was built in the 15th century as a merchants’ exchange and remains one of the finest secular Gothic buildings in the western Mediterranean. The interior, with its twisted columns and soaring stone ceiling, is genuinely awe-inspiring.
Today it functions as an exhibition space, so check what’s on during your visit.
4. Wander S’Hort del Rei
Tucked between the Cathedral and the old Arab walls, S’Hort del Rei is one of Palma’s most beautiful and overlooked spaces. This historic royal garden is dotted with fountains, sculptures, and fragrant orange trees, making it the perfect place to pause between sightseeing.
Joan Miró’s iconic The Egg sculpture sits here, and the views up to the Cathedral from the gardens are spectacular.
5. Soak Up the Atmosphere at Plaça Major
Palma’s grand central square is the beating heart of the old town, ringed with ochre arcades and filled with café terraces, street performers, and market stalls. It’s the kind of place you find yourself returning to throughout the day – for morning coffee, a midday people-watch, or an aperitivo as the sun dips.
The underground market beneath the square is worth exploring too.
6. Stroll the Passeig del Born
Palma’s most elegant boulevard runs through the centre of the city, lined with plane trees, luxury boutiques, and handsome 19th-century buildings. The Passeig del Born is perfect for a leisurely stroll and connects some of the city’s finest streets.
In the evenings, it fills with locals on their paseo – one of those simple pleasures that makes Mediterranean city life so appealing.
7. Browse the Palma de Mallorca Shops
Palma’s shopping scene is one of the most characterful in the Mediterranean, with a mix of independent boutiques, historic specialist shops, and stylish concept stores tucked into the lanes of the old town.
Rialto Living is a Palma institution. Spread across a beautifully restored historic building, it combines a curated lifestyle store, art gallery, café, and bookshop under one roof. The interiors are exceptional – think Mallorcan ceramics, international design pieces, and carefully chosen fashion alongside contemporary art exhibitions.
For something quintessentially Mallorcan, La Pajarita is one of the oldest confectionery shops on the island, selling traditional sweets, chocolates, and local delicacies from a beautifully preserved historic interior that has barely changed in over a century. It’s the kind of shop that makes you want to buy everything in sight.
No visit to Palma’s old town is complete without stepping into Alpargatería La Concepción, a traditional espadrille workshop where handmade alpargatas have been crafted for generations. The shop is a living piece of Mallorcan heritage, and picking up a pair of hand-stitched espadrilles makes for one of the most authentic souvenirs you can bring home from the island.
8. Visit the Museu Fundació Juan March
One of Palma’s best-kept secrets, this outstanding art museum is housed in a magnificent 17th-century mansion in the old town – and entry is free. The permanent collection includes works by Picasso, Miró, Dalí, and Antoni Tàpies, displayed across beautifully preserved historic rooms. It’s one of the most rewarding cultural experiences in Mallorca and consistently overlooked by visitors heading straight for the beach.
9. Ride the Vintage Train to Sóller
One of the great little rail journeys of Europe, the vintage wooden train from Plaça d’Espanya to Sóller has been running since 1912 and rattles through the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range in extraordinary style. The journey through olive groves, citrus orchards, and mountain tunnels takes around an hour and arrives in the charming market town of Sóller, from where a historic tram continues down to the port. Book ahead in high season.
10. Linger at Cappuccino Sant Miquel
Palma has a wonderful café culture, and Cappuccino Sant Miquel is among the finest expressions of it. Set in a beautifully restored historic building with soaring ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and a sun-drenched terrace, it’s the kind of place where a coffee becomes a two-hour affair.
The brunch menu is excellent and the people-watching from the terrace is some of the best in the city.
11. Admire the Superyachts at Marina Port de Mallorca
A walk along the marina at golden hour is one of the great free pleasures of any visit to Palma. The gleaming superyachts, the mountain backdrop, and the warm amber light make it one of the most photogenic spots in the city.
The waterfront promenade connects the marina to the Cathedral quarter, making it easy to combine with an evening stroll through the old town.
12. Grab a Selfie at the Palma de Mallorca Sign
No visit to Palma is complete without a photo at the city’s iconic letter sign – the Escultura Palma. The striking sculpture spells out the city’s name in bold letters, making it one of the most photographed spots in Mallorca and an irresistible first stop.
It’s right near the waterfront, so you can combine it with a stroll along the seafront promenade over the road and soak up that first hit of Mediterranean sunshine. Visit early in the morning for the best light and the fewest crowds. The address is Passeig de Sagrera, 8, Palma, 07012.
Where to Eat in Palma de Mallorca
No visit to Palma is complete without exploring the dining scene, which has quietly become one of the most exciting in Spain.
FERVOR brings contemporary Spanish fire to the table – literally. The restaurant’s open kitchen and live-fire cooking make it a dramatic and delicious experience, with a menu that celebrates local Mallorcan ingredients elevated by serious technique.
Tapas Palma Santa Catalina is the place to head for authentic Mallorcan tapas in the buzzing Santa Catalina neighbourhood. The market district has transformed into Palma’s most vibrant dining quarter, and this is one of its most reliable addresses for sharing plates, local wine, and effortlessly good food.
Where to Stay in Palma de Mallorca
For those seeking a truly luxurious base, Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá sits in a privileged position with stunning sea views and the refined atmosphere that this corner of Mallorca deserves. It’s the kind of property that makes you want to linger long after checkout.
Planning a trip to Mallorca? Save this guide and explore more luxury travel inspiration at luxurycolumnist.com.
Read next:
