Things to do in Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands
Photo: Tobias Lindman, CC BY 2.0, via Flickr

Palma, Mallorca’s capital, is a stylish city with a huge Gothic cathedral by the sea and a maze of an old town.

1. La Seu Cathedral

A vast Gothic cathedral on the waterfront, with interior work by Gaudí and a ceramic chapel by Miquel Barceló.

2. Royal Palace of La Almudaina

The royal palace next to the cathedral.

3. Old town and courtyards

Lanes of grand houses with patios, cafés and the Arab Baths.

4. Bellver Castle

A rare circular Gothic castle on a hill above the bay.

5. Mercat de l’Olivar

The main food market.

6. Beaches and coves

City beaches like Can Pere Antoni, and coves a short drive away.

7. Sóller train

A vintage wooden train runs from Palma through the mountains to Sóller.

Day trips from Palma de Mallorca

  • Valldemossa: about 30 minutes by car.
  • Sóller by vintage train: about 1 hour.
  • Cala Mondragó: about 1 hour by car.

What to eat

  • Ensaïmada
  • Pa amb oli
  • Sobrassada
  • Tumbet

Planning to stay longer? Read our full Palma de Mallorca guide and where to stay in Palma de Mallorca.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do you need in Palma de Mallorca?

2 to 3 days is a good amount of time for a first visit.

What is Palma de Mallorca best known for?

La Seu Cathedral, Royal Palace of La Almudaina, Old town and courtyards.

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