Palma Cathedral (La Seu), Palma de Mallorca

Palma

Palma Cathedral (La Seu), Palma de Mallorca

Photo by Tom Podmore

About Palma

Palma is Mallorca’s stylish base, where you can wander the Gothic old town in the morning and watch the harbor turn gold in the evening. In just two days, you’ll see Palma Cathedral, snack at the local markets, get viewpoints from the historic city walls, and cap it off with Mallorcan dinner by the water. Then head up to Bellver Castle for sweeping views over the bay.

Things to Do in Palma

Banys Àrabs, Palma
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Old town history walk

Start at Plaça de Cort, then walk to Banys Àrabs, one of the few surviving Islamic-era structures in the city. Continue through the narrow lanes to Palau de l'Almudaina, a former Moorish fortress later adapted as a royal residence. Finish at Palau March Museu for its sculpture terrace and city views. Check current opening hours before setting out, especially for the Arab Baths.

La Seu Cathedral, Palma

Cathedral and waterfront views

Walk from Palau March Museu to La Seu Cathedral. Enter for the vast Gothic interior, the rose window, and the dramatic canopy designed by Antoni Gaudí. Afterward, follow the waterfront path beside Parc de la Mar for postcard views back toward the cathedral. The cathedral visit is indoors, but modest clothing is a sensible choice and entry times can change for religious services.

Mercat de l'Olivar, Palma
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Market lunch

Take a short bus ride or walk to Mercat de l'Olivar for a relaxed lunch among produce stalls, seafood counters, and tapas bars. Try a slice of Mallorcan coca, tumbet, or a seafood dish, then leave time for a coffee and a browse. It is busiest around midday, and many stalls close earlier than restaurants, so aim to arrive before 14:00.

Passeig del Born, Palma
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Boulevards and city walls

After lunch, follow the shaded streets from Mercat de l'Olivar through La Rambla and onward to Passeig del Born. Look up for grand town houses, carved entrances, and former merchants' residences. End at Es Baluard Museu, where the terrace gives you a broad harbour panorama. Keep this as a flexible stop if the heat is strong, since the museum provides a cool afternoon break.

Sa Llotja, Palma
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Harbour sunset and Mallorcan dinner

Finish with an easy walk from Es Baluard Museu along the harbour promenade to Sa Llotja, a striking 15th-century trading hall. Choose a nearby restaurant for dinner and order pa amb oli, grilled local fish, or slow-cooked pork with a glass of Mallorcan wine. For sunset, linger around Passeig Marítim, where the cathedral and harbour lights make a memorable final view.

Castell de Bellver, Palma
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Bellver Castle viewpoint

Take EMT Palma bus 4 or 46 from the centre toward Castell de Bellver. Start at the lower entrance, climb through the pine woodland, and follow the approach to the unusual circular castle, built in the 14th century. Explore the central courtyard and museum before walking to the ramparts for views across the bay. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the uphill approach is exposed in places.

Palma Itineraries

Palma FAQ

Late afternoon is ideal. Aim to be along the waterfront about 60 to 90 minutes before sunset so you can grab a good spot for photos and dinner.

Yes. The Gothic quarter and main sights like the cathedral, old streets, and seafront are easy to reach on foot, especially if you stay near the center.

Look for fresh local produce, small plates, and simple seafood or tapas-style bites. If you can, grab something quick and sit down nearby so you can keep exploring.

You can reach it by local bus or taxi, and both work well for a day trip viewpoint. Wear comfy shoes if you also plan to walk some of the surrounding paths.

You’ll find a lively mix of relaxed waterfront dining and busier food spots in Santa Catalina. It’s a good area to bounce between casual bites and a longer sit-down dinner.

It can help for popular times, especially in peak seasons. Check official sites for current opening hours and ticket options before you go.
Palma Travel Guide – Itineraries, When to Visit & Things To Do