Palma: The Complete Guide

Palma-cathedral-Mallorca

Palma stands as the vibrant capital of Mallorca, exuding a blend of sophistication and intimacy while brimming with vitality. This city houses half of the island’s residents and maintains a lively atmosphere throughout the year. It offers an array of upscale hotels, trendy dining establishments, charming cafes, boutiques, and a thriving art scene. Frequently likened to Barcelona, Palma’s proximity to the airport, just a 15-minute taxi ride away, renders it an ideal destination for a quick urban getaway.

Positioned in the southern part of the island, Palma graces its residents and visitors with captivating vistas of the glistening Mediterranean sea, viewable in real time via our webcam. While the city boasts numerous enchanting neighbourhoods, the primary attractions and shopping hubs are clustered around the grand Gothic cathedral along the waterfront. This region, known as Palma’s historic old town, abounds in ancient alleyways, historical landmarks, and splendid architectural wonders. Here, you’ll discover an abundance of sightseeing opportunities and opportunities to savour refreshments at its numerous pedestrianized lanes, charming cafes, art galleries, and boutique stores. Thanks to the concentration of these attractions within a square kilometre, exploring the old town is a breeze.

Palma flaunts an expansive harbour that commences just in front of the cathedral and extends along its western border. A cyclist and pedestrian-friendly promenade stretches all the way to the ferry port and cruise terminal, situated approximately 3.5 kilometres from the old town, providing an idyllic setting for a leisurely stroll.

Visiting Palma for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Palma on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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35 Best places to See in Palma

This complete guide to Palma not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Palma and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Plaza de España, Palma

Plaza De Espana, Palma
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Z thomas
In the Plaza de España (Spain Square) of Palma de Mallorca, there stands a prominent statue of James I, the 13th-century King of Aragon, famously known as The Conqueror. This historical figure seized control of Mallorca from Aba Yahya, the Almohad governor, on September 5, 1229. The bronze equestrian sculpture of King James, crafted by […]
Location: Plaza de España, Plaça d'Espanya, Palma, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.10km
Visiting Plaza de España, Palma

Mercat Olivar

Mercat De L’Olivar
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Chixoy
In the centre of Palma de Mallorca sits the Olivar Market. If you like food, all kinds of food, this is definitely the place to be. How does one who has never been here know this? Watch the locals. See where they go for snacks, take-away, shopping, and meals-in-place. Follow them. Do as they do […]
Location: Mercado del Olivar, Plaça de l'Olivar, Palma, Spain | Hours: The Market is open Monday through Thursday, 7am to 2:30pm. On Friday, 2:30pm to 8pm. On Saturday, 7am to 3pm. The market is closed on Sunday. | Distance: 0.10km
Visiting Mercat Olivar

Esglesia de Santa Catalina de Siena (Church of Santa Catalina de Siena)

Església De Santa Catalina De Siena, Palma
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Z thomas
The Church of Santa Catalina de Siena, located on Carrer de Sant Miquel, is a medieval temple and one of the oldest in Palma. Its origins trace back to the founding efforts of Joan Baptista Despuig, a member of the Order of Santiago, who rests within the church, close to the altar. Originally, this church […]
Location: Església de Santa Catalina de Siena, Carrer de Sant Miquel, Palma, Spain | Distance: 0.20km
Visiting Esglesia de Santa Catalina de Siena (Church of Santa Catalina de Siena)

Juan March Foundation Museum

Majorque Palma Vers Placa Major Museu Fundación Juan March
CC BY-SA 3.0 / rene boulay
This part of Palma is closely associated with modernity. Those with an appreciation for contemporary and 20th-century art should make a point to visit the Juan March Foundation Museum, which boasts an impressive collection featuring works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí, Juan Gris, Antoni Tàpies, and Miquel Barceló. In addition […]
Location: Museu Fundación Juan March, Palma, Carrer de Sant Miquel, Palma, Spain | Hours: Monday to Friday: 10 am to 6:30 pm. Saturday: 10:30 am to 2 pm. Sundays and holidays: closed. 24 December: 10 am to 2 pm. 31 December: 10 am to 2 pm. Maundy Thursday and Good Friday: closed. | Website | Distance: 0.30km
Visiting Juan March Foundation Museum

Plaza Mayor, Palma

Plaza Mayor, Palma
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Martin Furtschegger
The old convent of San Felipe Neri in Palma de Mallorca met its demise in 1823, a development welcomed by many. The convent had served as the Court of the Holy Office of the Inquisition, with the Inquisition prison. The court was so feared and so many atrocities took place in the building that it […]
Location: Plaza Mayor, Plaça Major, Palma, Spain | Distance: 0.40km
Visiting Plaza Mayor, Palma

Can Casasayas

Can Casasayas, Palma
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Adam Jones
The modernist itinerary in Palma introduces two prominent landmarks: the Can Casasayas building and the Pensión Menorquina, both epitomizing the distinctive characteristics of the Art Nouveau modernist movement. These two structures, identical in design and arranged with symmetry, are separated by Carrer de Santacília. They were commissioned by Josep Casasayas Casajuana, the proprietor of the […]
Location: Edifici Casasayas Costa de Can Santacília, 8 07001 Palma Illes Balears Spain | Distance: 0.50km
Visiting Can Casasayas

Church of Santa Magdalena

Church Of Santa Magdalena Palma
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Joan Gené
Situated at Plaça de Santa Magdalena, adjacent to the Convent of Santa Magdalena de Palma, stands the Church of Santa Magdalena, another notable place of worship in Palma de Mallorca with origins dating back to the 14th century. This church, constructed in the Baroque style, underwent a complete reconstruction in 1740 while preserving its original […]
Location: Convent de Santa Magdalena de Palma, Plaça de Santa Magdalena, Palma, Spain | Distance: 0.50km
Visiting Church of Santa Magdalena

Plaza de Cort

Plaza Cort Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) Palma De Mallorca
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Thomas Wolf
Plaza de Cort or Cort Square in Palma features two prominent buildings, with the Town Hall and the Palace of the Council of Mallorca sharing this historic space. These structures are easily distinguishable from one another. The Palace of the Council of Mallorca showcases a neo-Gothic facade adorned with towers and a crenelated roof, while […]
Location: Plaza de Corte, Palma, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.60km
Visiting Plaza de Cort

Convent of San Francisco, Palma

Convent Of San Francisco, Palma
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Z thomas
The Convent of San Francisco has a rich history, dating back to its initial construction in 1232. However, in 1281, it underwent significant remodeling, resulting in the structure we see today. Notably, Jacques de Mallorca, the son of King Jacques II de Mallorca, took his religious vows within its walls during the 13th century. Presently, […]
Location: Basílica de Sant Francesc, Plaça de Sant Francesc, Palma, Spain | Distance: 0.60km
Visiting Convent of San Francisco, Palma

Església de Santa Eulàlia (Church of Santa Eulalia), Palma de Mallorca

Església De Santa Eulàlia, Palma
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Foto Fitti
Constructed shortly after the 1229 Catalan conquest of Mallorca, the Església de Santa Eulàlia stands as Palma’s oldest church and a remarkable specimen of Gothic architecture. This towering Roman Catholic edifice was built atop a former Muslim mosque and was recorded as a parish as early as 1236 in the paborde of Tarragona. Dedicated to […]
Location: Santa Eulàlia de Ciutat de Mallorca, Plaça de Santa Eulàlia, Palma, Spain | Distance: 0.60km
Visiting Església de Santa Eulàlia (Church of Santa Eulalia), Palma de Mallorca

Centre Maimó ben Faraig

Centre Maimó Ben Faraig, Palma
© Visit Palma
Situated in Palma’s historic quarter, the Maimó ben Faraig Centre serves as a significant hub for promoting awareness of the Jewish cultural heritage in Mallorca. When approaching the center from the outside, visitors can catch sight of the Almudaina gate, which lends its name to the street it occupies. However, it’s within the center’s walls […]
Location: Centre Maimó Ben Faraig, Carrer de l'Almudaina, Palma, Spain | Hours: From Monday to Saturday: from 10 am to 3 pm | Distance: 0.70km
Visiting Centre Maimó ben Faraig

Puerta de los Judios

Puerta De Los Judios, Palma
© 2024 Andrew Ashton
This is the former location of the Puerta de los Judios or the Gate of the Jews of Mallorca. The great door of the Judería (Gate of the Call Major) was the main door of the Judería, which was located at the cross of the Calle de Monti-Sion and the Calle del Sol. This door […]
Location: Carrer de Santa Clara, 1, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain | Distance: 0.70km
Visiting Puerta de los Judios

Statue of Jehuda Cresques

Jafuda Cresques
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Lliura
Jehuda Cresques or Jafudà Cresques, Jaume Riba, Cresques lo Juheu, Cresques the Jew (1360-1410) was a Catalan cartographer, and probably the man who coordinated the discoveries of the Portuguese naval school at Sagres in the early 15th century. He was son of en:Abraham Cresques, a famous Jewish cartographer, he was born in Majorca in present-day […]
Location: Carrer de la Pelleteria, 1, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain | Distance: 0.70km
Visiting Statue of Jehuda Cresques

Museo de Mallorca

Museo De Mallorca
CC BY-SA 3.0 / artdirector
The museum in Palma finds its home in a 16th-century mansion, affectionately known as the “Casa de la Gran Cristiana.” In 2015, it expanded to include its Fine Arts and Decorative Arts section, housed in the Casal d’Aiamans. The museum comprises a main building and two smaller annexes. The primary building in Palma encompasses archaeology […]
Location: Museum of Mallorca C/ de la Portella, 5 07001 Palma Illes Balears Spain | Distance: 0.80km
Visiting Museo de Mallorca

Iglesia de Montesión (Mount Zion), Palma

Església De Monti-sion De Palma
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Drozi Yarka
The church of Monti Sion in Palma is a significant symbol of sociocultural influences on the city. Built atop the former Jewish main synagogue, it was constructed by the Jesuits who arrived in Mallorca in 1561, with construction commencing in 1571. However, the Jesuits faced opposition from the royal crown due to their substantial economic […]
Location: Monti-Sion, Palma, Spain | Distance: 0.80km
Visiting Iglesia de Montesión (Mount Zion), Palma

Palma's Secret Synagogue

On the street of leather makers or Carrer de la Pelleteria is secret synagogue. The synagogue located on this street was constructed by Aaron Mani in 1370. Unfortunately, it sustained significant damage during the violent assault of 1391. However, it was later reconstructed by Portuguese Jews who were encouraged by the King to resettle in […]
Location: Carrer de la Pelleteria, 11B, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain | Distance: 0.80km
Visiting Palma's Secret Synagogue

Jardí del Bisbe (Bishop’s Garden), Palma

Jardí Del Bisbe Bishop’s Garden, Palma
Public Domain / Mutari
The Bishop’s Garden, or Jardí del Bisbe in Catalan, is situated behind Palma Cathedral, providing a privileged and refreshing view of the cathedral’s roof and the rear facade of the Episcopal Palace. To enter the gardens, visitors pass through an impressive gate constructed in the mannerist style. Once inside, the garden features a layout reminiscent […]
Location: Jardí del Bisbe, Carrer de Sant Pere Nolasc, Palma, Spain | Distance: 0.80km
Visiting Jardí del Bisbe (Bishop’s Garden), Palma

Palau March Museum

Palau Marche Palma
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Z thomas
Situated in the heart of Palma de Mallorca, the Palau March Museum, housing the Bartolome March Foundation’s cherished collection, is hosted within the Palau March Palace. This family palace offers a tranquil oasis amid the bustling energy of Palma, featuring a breathtaking harbor view from its rooftop. Visitors can linger and enjoy the welcoming cafe […]
Location: Carrer del Palau Reial, 18, 07001 Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain | Hours: 10:00 - 16:00 | Price: €10 | Website | Distance: 0.80km
Visiting Palau March Museum

Passeig del Born

Passeig Del Born
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Nikolai Bakhmarov
The ideal spot for a leisurely walk in cool shade, this tree-bordered avenue spans 200 meters. Its central section is reserved for pedestrians and features several benches. Passeig del Born, Palma’s primary shopping thoroughfare, boasts a variety of trendy bars and restaurants that arrange their outdoor seating beneath the leafy canopy. The street is replete […]
Location: Passeig del Born, Palma, Spain | Distance: 0.80km
Visiting Passeig del Born

La Seu: the Cathedral of Palma

Palma Cathedral
James I of Aragon found himself in grave peril during his journey to conquer the Balearic Islands in December 1229. A violent storm overtook his fleet of ships, endangering their survival. In his moment of desperation, young James made a solemn vow to God that if he survived the tempest and successfully conquered Mallorca, he […]
Location: Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca, Plaça de la Seu, Palma, Spain | Hours: Mondays to Fridays from 10.00 hrs (closing times depend on the time of year). Saturdays from 10.00h to 14.15 hrs. | Price: Adults €9 Guided Tours from €25 | Website | Distance: 0.90km
Visiting La Seu: the Cathedral of Palma
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Royal Palace of La Almudaina

Royal Palace Of La Almudaina, Palma
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Martin Furtschegger
The Royal Palace of La Almudaina is a fortified palace, often referred to as an “alcazar.” Its reconstruction in 1309 was overseen by King James II of Majorca, and it was designed based on the Royal Palace of Perpignan. The palace’s layout has remained largely unchanged since the 14th century, featuring spaces for the ruling […]
Location: Royal Palace of La Almudaina, Carrer del Palau Reial, Palma, Spain | Hours: Winter hours (October to March). From Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00 Summer hours (April to September). From Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 - 19:00 | Price: €7.00 | Website | Distance: 0.90km
Visiting Royal Palace of La Almudaina

Banys Arabs (Arab Baths), Palma

Arab Baths Palma-de-mallorca
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ralf Roletschek - Fahrradtechnik und Fotografie
Mallorca’s history is a tapestry woven by various civilizations, with the Romans, Byzantines, and Arabs taking turns settling on the island before the arrival of the Catalans. During the Arab era, Mallorca was known as Medina Mayurqa, and the locals had a penchant for bathing. To fulfill this desire, they ingeniously repurposed materials left behind […]
Location: Ancient Arab Bath house, Carrer de Can Serra, Palma, Spain | Hours: From April to November, opening hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. From December to March, opening hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. | Price: €2.50 | Distance: 0.90km
Visiting Banys Arabs (Arab Baths), Palma

Museu Diocesa de Mallorca

Museu Diocesa De Mallorca
CC BY-SA 4.0 / JosepBC
Nestled within a wing of the former episcopal palace, this petite museum houses an array of religious and historical artifacts. The episcopal palace, positioned just behind the cathedral, originally dates back to the 13th century. While its primary architectural style is Gothic, it has experienced various renovations over the centuries that have altered its original […]
Location: Museo de Arte Sacro de Mallorca, Carrer del Mirador, Palma, Spain | Hours: April to May & October - Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 17:15 June to September - Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 18:15 November to March - Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 14:15 Saturdays from 10:00 to 14:15 all year. | Price: 3€ (2€ for Palma residents) | Website | Distance: 0.90km
Visiting Museu Diocesa de Mallorca

Teatre Municipal Xesc Forteza

Teatre Municipal Xesc Forteza
Public Domain / Chixoy
This theatre is situated in Sa Calatrava, one of the most characteristic neighborhoods in Palma. The building, which has the name of the famous Majorcan actor and humorist, Xesc Forteza, is cube-shaped and has two facilities: the Theater Xesc Forteza and the Municipal Elemental Conservatory of Music. The theatre holds up to 460 people and […]
Location: Teatre Xesc Forteza, Carrer de la Calatrava, Palma, Spain | Website | Distance: 0.90km
Visiting Teatre Municipal Xesc Forteza

S'Hort del Rei (Royal Garden), Palma

S’Hort Del Rei Royal Garden, Palma
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sigismund von Dobschütz
The Almudaina Palace in the 14th century once housed the Royal Gardens, which were designed in the Andalusian style and featured a variety of elements including fruit trees, vegetables, medicinal herbs, ornamental plants, and flowers. These gardens were enclosed by walls, the seashore, and the gardener’s house until 1847. Between 1847 and 1918, significant changes […]
Location: S'Hort del Rei, Avinguda d'Antoni Maura, Palma, Spain | Distance: 1.00km
Visiting S'Hort del Rei (Royal Garden), Palma

La Llotja (The Market), Palma

Lonja, Palma De Mallorca, España
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Diego Delso, delso.photo
La Llotja, the former Maritime Trade Exchange, stands as a remarkable example of bourgeois Gothic architecture. Situated adjacent to La Seu, or Palma Cathedral, on the Avenue Gabriel Roca, this historic institution has a rich and diverse history. Originally founded in Barcelona by a privilege granted by King Marti I in 1403, the Maritime Trade […]
Location: Llotja de Palma, Plaça de la Llotja, Palma, Spain | Distance: 1.10km
Visiting La Llotja (The Market), Palma

Es Baluard Centre

Es Baluard, Palma
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Olaf Tausch
One of the primary objectives of the museum is to acquaint its visitors with the world of modern and contemporary international art. Within the Es Baluard Centre, you will find a diverse and carefully curated assortment of paintings, drawings, and sculptures created by artists who have shaped the most significant global artistic movements since the […]
Location: Es Baluard Museo de Arte Moderno y Contemporáneo, Plaça de la Porta de Santa Catalina, Palma, Spain | Hours: Winter-time (until 31 May): Tuesday - Sunday 10:00 - 20:00. Summer-time (1 June - 30 September): every day 10:00 - 24:00. Closed on the 26 of December & 1st of January. | Price: €6,00 | Website | Distance: 1.20km
Visiting Es Baluard Centre

Pueblo Español - Spanish Village, Palma de Mallorca

Pueblo Español, Palma De Mallorca
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Martin Furtschegger
Spain’s rich architectural heritage takes center stage at this unique ‘village’ located on the outskirts of Palma. Here, you’ll find reproductions of iconic buildings from cities like Cordoba, Toledo, and Madrid, alongside traditional houses representing various Spanish regions. A visit to this site offers a whirlwind tour of Spanish architecture, showcasing its evolution through the […]
Location: Pueblo Espanol, Carrer del Poble Espanyol, Palma, Spain | Hours: Opening hours (summer): From Monday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00.Opening hours (winter): From Monday to Sunday from 09:00 to 17:00 | Price: €10 Adults | Website | Distance: 2.20km
Visiting Pueblo Español - Spanish Village, Palma de Mallorca

Castell de Bellver (Bellver Castle)

Mallorca - Palma De Mallorca - Castell De Bellver
Copyleft / Taxiarchos228
Bellver Castle, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, was constructed in the 14th century on the orders of King James II of Majorca. This unique castle, one of the few circular castles in Europe, has a rich history that includes serving as a long-standing military prison. Today, it is a prominent tourist attraction on the […]
Location: Castell de Bellver, Carrer Camilo José Cela, Palma, Spain | Hours: From October to March: Monday: CLOSED - From Tuesday to Saturday: from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. - Sundays and public holidays: from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. From April to September: Monday: CLOSED - From Tuesday to Saturday: from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. - Sundays and public holidays: from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Price: €4 | Website | Distance: 3.20km
Visiting Castell de Bellver (Bellver Castle)

Joan Miró Museum

Joan Miró Museum
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Pensierarte
Born in Barcelona in 1893, Joan Miró, the renowned painter, exhibited a natural talent for drawing from an early age and aspired to become an artist. However, at his father’s insistence, he pursued a high school education and embarked on a career as an accountant. It soon became evident that the life of an accountant […]
Location: Fundació Miró Mallorca, Carrer de Saridakis, Palma, Spain | Hours: Winter ( 16-09 / 15-05 ): Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 to 18h Sunday and holidays from 10 to 15h; Monday closedSummer ( 16-05 / 15-09 ): Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 to 19h Sunday and holidays from 10 to 15h; Monday closed | Price: €10 | Distance: 4.40km
Visiting Joan Miró Museum
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Palma Aquarium

Palma Aquarium
CC BY-SA 2.0 / palma aquarium
Palma Aquarium, situated in Palma, Mallorca, Spain, is a prominent commercial aquarium and park that initially opened its doors in 2007. This captivating establishment is owned by Coral World International and is conveniently located just 500 meters (1,600 feet) away from Playa de Palma beach. It boasts an impressive collection of 55 tanks, showcasing an […]
Location: Palma Aquarium, Carrer de Manuela de los Herreros, Palma, Spain | Price: From €31.50 | Website | Distance: 8.00km
Visiting Palma Aquarium
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Royal Carthusian Monastery (Real Cartuja), Valldemossa

Cartoixa, Valldemossa
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Vicenç Salvador Torres Guerola
A visit to the Valldemossa Monastery is a journey into the past, where the famous composer Chopin and writer George Sand spent the winter of 1838-1839. Originally a royal residence, known as the Real Cartuja or Royal Carthusian Monastery, this historic site served as a home for Carthusian monks from 1399 until 1835. The origins […]
Location: Carthusian Monastery Valldemossa, Plaça Cartoixa, Valldemossa, Spain | Hours: Hours: I 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturdays | Price: €12.00 | Website | Distance: 15.30km
Visiting Royal Carthusian Monastery (Real Cartuja), Valldemossa

Es Pontàs

Es Pontàs Cala Santanyí
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tnv Fotografie (Vinh Tran)
Es Pontàs, known as “the grand bridge” in Catalan, stands as a remarkable limestone natural arch nestled in the south-eastern region of Mallorca, Spain. This awe-inspiring arch graces the coastal area that stretches between Cala Santanyí and Cala Llombards within the Santanyí municipality. Rising to a height of roughly 20 meters (66 feet), Es Pontàs […]
Visiting Es Pontàs

Cuevas del Drach

Cuevas Del Drach
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Sergiy Galyonkin
The Cuevas del Drach stands as one of Europe’s largest cave systems, conveniently situated on the eastern coast within walking distance of Porto Cristo. Although knowledge of the cave dates back to the Middle Ages, it wasn’t comprehensively mapped until the arrival of the French geologist E.A Martel in 1896. In his honor, the expansive […]
Location: Cuevas del Drach, Carretera de les Coves, Porto Cristo, Spain | Hours: 01 November to 12 March: 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. 13 March to 31 October: 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. | Price: €16,50 | Website | Entrance, Music Concert and Boat Trip Tickets | Distance: 58.10km
Visiting Cuevas del Drach
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Capdepera Lighthouse

Far De Capdepera
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Frank Vincentz
The Capdepera Lighthouse stands proudly on the Punta de Capdepera coastline, marking the easternmost point of Mallorca. Often referred to as a “Symbol of the 19th Century,” this lighthouse sits at an elevation of approximately 55 meters above sea level and was commissioned by Isabel II in 1861. Its construction was primarily intended to aid […]
Visiting Capdepera Lighthouse

Best Time to Visit Palma

The most favourable time to visit Mallorca is during the shoulder seasons, particularly in May, early June, late September, and October. These months offer a perfect harmony of pleasant weather and fewer crowds, with the advantage of either avoiding or post-summer crowds while still enjoying warm and sunny conditions.

Palma in the Spring

During spring, which includes the end of April, May, and the beginning of June, Mallorca experiences warm temperatures ranging from 20 to 27 degrees Celsius. This season is conducive to outdoor activities, making it an excellent time for activities like hiking. It’s worth noting that if you plan to visit the beaches, timing your trip for June or September may be more suitable, as May can vary in terms of warmth.

Palma in the Autumn or Fall

Autumn, spanning the end of September, October, and the beginning of November, is another appealing time to explore Mallorca. With reduced crowds, warm temperatures persist, and the water remains inviting enough for a swim. Additionally, fall brings lower prices, offering better deals on flights and accommodations. The grape harvest season from August to October adds to the attractions, providing an opportunity to explore vineyards and indulge in the local wines.

Palma in the Summer

Conversely, July and August mark the peak of the summer season, attracting a significant influx of tourists. While the atmosphere is lively, these months come with downsides such as long lines, crowded streets, and elevated prices. Visitors who prefer a more relaxed experience may find it beneficial to avoid Mallorca during this period.

Palma in the Winter

Finally, winter, from December to February, is the quietest time on the island. However, this tranquillity is accompanied by potential closures of tourist attractions and restaurants, particularly in beach towns. While winter offers a peaceful and budget-friendly visit, it may not be suitable for those seeking vibrant nightlife or cultural events due to possible closures.

Average Temperatures in Palma

  • January 17°C 5
  • February 17°C 4
  • March 19°C 4
  • April 21°C 5
  • May 26°C 3
  • June 32°C 2
  • July 35°C 1
  • August 34°C 2
  • September 30°C 6
  • October 27°C 6
  • November 21°C 7
  • December 18°C 4

How to get to Palma

Travelling to Palma by Plane

Palma Airport, also known as Son Sant Joan Airport, is located 8 kilometres east of Palma. As a major international airport, it stands as the third largest in Spain, following Madrid and Barcelona. Particularly during the summer, it ranks among the busiest airports in Europe, well-equipped to handle the millions of tourists passing through annually. The airport is efficiently connected with excellent bus services linking Palma and various destinations across the island.

While certain international flights are seasonal, operating between May and October, there is a growing trend of airlines extending their services throughout the year. Mallorca is evolving into a year-round destination, with increasing international routes available even during the winter months. Notably, major airports in the UK, Germany, and Scandinavia are seeing more frequent connections. Additionally, domestic travel to mainland Spain remains accessible year-round, with destinations including Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Ibiza, Menorca, and Seville.

Upon arriving at the airport, various transportation options are available to reach your accommodation:

  • Bus: Exit the airport from the “Arrivals” area, where you’ll find the bus stop (blue buses). Line A1 of the EMT connects to the city for 5€, and line A2 connects to the El Arenal area. In the summer, Aerotib (yellow buses) provides connections to other parts of the island (lines A11, A32, A42, and A51). Additional information can be found [here](link to information).
  • Taxi: The taxi rank is also located in the “Arrivals” area. The approximate cost of a ride from the airport to Palma is €20. If you’re heading to another part of the island, be sure to confirm the price with the taxi driver before departing.
  • Private Transfer: For a comfortable and fast option, you can book a shuttle from Mallorca Airport to your accommodation. This service eliminates concerns, picking you up at the airport and transporting you directly to your hotel. It’s a recommended alternative, especially if you don’t plan to travel around the island extensively or if you intend to use alternative means of transportation, such as a bicycle, later on.
  • Car Rental: Renting a car is the optimal choice to ensure you don’t miss anything in Mallorca. Public transport on the island is limited, making a car essential for discovering all the island’s secrets and beautiful corners, away from purely touristy areas.

Travelling to Palma by Ferry

For those considering travel to Mallorca by car, coach, or train, ferry transportation to the island is often a part of the journey. The primary ferry companies serving Mallorca include Baleària, Trasmediterranea, and Corsica Ferries. The main departure points in Spain are Barcelona (with a sailing time of 7.5 hours), Valencia (8 hours sailing time), Dénia (near Alicante, with an 8-hour sailing time), as well as the nearby Balearic islands of Ibiza (4 hours sailing time) and Menorca (1.5 hours sailing time). Express services are available to reduce travel time.

Additionally, Corsica Ferries offers a route from Toulon, located in southern France near Marseille, to Port d’Alcudia in approximately 10 hours. These ferry options provide alternative and scenic travel choices to reach the picturesque island of Mallorca.

 

Tours and Activities from Palma