Palma de Mallorca is the capital and largest city on the island of Mallorca. Half of Mallorca's population live in Palma de Mallorca, drawn in by the city's thriving commerce and lively sophistication.

Many of the island's best restaurants are established in Palma de Mallorca, and those who live here enjoy the intimacy of its stylish and sophisticated cafe society. There are plenty of excellent tapas bars here in Palma and chefs have been busy reinventing traditional dishes in a more sophisticated style. Meanwhile, Palma residents still take great pride in their local food: this small city has three large daily markets and a generous sprinkling of delis, bakeries and patisseries.


Beyond the vibrancy and modernism of one of Europe's most frequented destinations, Palma has a history so diverse it is difficult to know where to start. Although Palma got its name from the Roman city of Palmeria, it has both Moorish and European flavours. Formerly an ancient walled city, the old quarter of Palma consists of a maze of narrow alleys, shady avenues and cobblestone streets that are deeply marked with history and well worth ambling through.

Placa Major is the nerve centre of the old quarter and the convergence point of Palma's primary pedestrian shopping streets. This spacious 19th-century square is pedestrianised and populated with cafes, elegant restaurants and souvenir shops selling local handicraft. Placa Major is also a good place to catch street performances by local talent who perform here regularly. Rising above the ancient city walls is La Seu Palma Cathedral, Mallorca's most iconic building. A Roman Catholic Cathedral built on the site of an existing Arab mosque, La Seu Palma Cathedral is lined with palm trees on the crest of a hill.


A lot of Palma's sidewalks are well paved and ideal for evening walks, especially around the Parc de la Mar lake and along the waterfront. Within the Parc de la Mar, the ceramic mural by Joan Miro is particularly noteworthy, along with other works of art. Housing a majestic harbour on the Bay of Palma, Palma de Mallorca acts as an important commercial dock for trade. The Port of Palma also serves as an entry point for many visitors. The view of numerous luxury yachts, cruise ships and commercial liners moored along the city's coast is reflects the importance of the sea and tourism to Mallorca. Water sports are also a key part of Mallorcan life. Every year, the Princess Sofia and Copa del Rey sailing competitions are held here in Mallorca.


Half Day Walking Tour
Placa d'Espanya, a convergence point for many buses and the train to Soller, is a good starting point for a half-day walk around the old quarter.

As you head towards the harbour from Placa d'Espanya, it is well worth taking your time to have a coffee in one of the outdoor cafes or stop for a nibble at one of the tapas bars.

Along the waterfront is the La Seu Palma Cathedral and the Almudaina Palace, both of which are worth visiting. Hidden amongst the small secret streets that surround the Cathedral in Palma are the Arab Baths, a treasure that has been left behind from long ago. Located within a courtyard of cactus, palm and orange trees, the 10th century Arab Baths are one of the few remaining examples of Moorish architecture on Mallorca.

After a trip to the baths, head back towards Placa d'Espana along Passeig des Born, a shady boulevard lined with trees. You may want to take a rest on one of the many wooden benches, and people watch.

As you continue your journey, you will arrive at the old Gran Hotel, Palma's first luxury hotel. The Gran Hotel has been converted into a modern art museum and renamed Fundacio la Caixa.




Recommended Books

Street Plan of Palma De Mallorca

Mallorca (Europe Popout Maps) The Mallorca PopOut Map is pocket-sized travel essential that pops open in a single motion to reveal six different maps. The Mallorca PopOut has maps for the Mallorca, Palma, the Bay of Palma and its beaches, the Serra de Tramuntana region, the Balearic Islands and a Balearic Locator. Incredibly detailed maps show museums, places of interest, historic sites, hotels, shopping, markets, bookshops, parks, theatres and more. Features include: best beach guide; detailed map of the Bay of Palma and its beaches; guide to 35 museums and places of interest; the best parks and gardens; hiking, beaches and major attractions in the Serra de Tramuntana; Balearis Island ferry routes and locator.

Cool Spots Majorca / Ibiza This overview chronicles the coolest spots in the fashionable scenes of Majorca and Ibiza. Long the favorites of discerning travellers, these islands offer just about everything your stylish heart could desire. This guide showcases a dazzling array of chic hotels, restaurants, watering holes, marinas, spas, golf courses, beaches, and shops that are available on these beautiful islands.