Palma de Mallorca: La Ciutat (The City)

Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands, is a beautiful destination combining historical charm with vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and excellent cuisine. Traditional is referred by locals as “La Ciutat” (The City), emphasizing its importance as the main urban center of Mallorca. Historically, Palma was the only major city on the island, and the name “La Ciutat” is still commonly used in local conversation.

Here’s a guide to help you explore the best of what Palma has to offer:

Top Attractions to See

1. La Seu Cathedral (Catedral de Mallorca)
   • A stunning Gothic cathedral that dominates the Palma skyline. Its design features influences from Antoni Gaudí and boasts a beautiful rose window and intricate chapels inside.
     Tip: Visit around sunset to see the stained glass windows illuminated by the natural light.
2. Palacio Real de La Almudaina
   • Located right next to the cathedral, this is the official residence of the Spanish royal family when they are in Mallorca. The palace combines Moorish and Gothic architectural styles.
3. Castell de Bellver
   • This circular castle is one of the few of its kind in Europe. It offers incredible panoramic views of Palma and the surrounding areas, making it perfect for a scenic walk and photo opportunities.
4. Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
   • If you’re an art lover, Es Baluard is a must-see. The museum showcases modern and contemporary art with a focus on artists from the Balearic Islands.
5. Pueblo Español
   • A charming open-air museum that replicates some of Spain’s most famous architectural landmarks. It’s a lovely place to walk around, and there are shops and cafés scattered throughout.
6. La Lonja de Palma
   • This 15th-century maritime trade exchange building has a beautiful Gothic facade. It often hosts exhibitions, but even if there is no exhibition, the architecture alone is worth seeing.
7. Arab Baths (Baños Árabes)
   • One of the last remnants of the Moorish occupation of Mallorca, the Arab Baths are a peaceful and historic spot to explore and imagine the ancient city.

Things to Do in Palma de Mallorca

1. Stroll Through the Old Town
   • Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Palma’s old town, filled with traditional Mallorcan architecture, charming squares like Plaça Mayor, and lots of great places to stop for tapas or shopping.
2. Explore the Waterfront and Marina
   • Palma’s marina is one of the best in the Mediterranean, filled with yachts and boats of all sizes. It’s a pleasant place to walk, especially at sunset, and you can stop at one of the waterfront cafés or restaurants.
3. Relax at Cala Major Beach
   • A short distance from the city center, Cala Major offers clear turquoise waters and sandy shores. It’s perfect for a day of sunbathing or swimming.
4. Visit Mercat de l’Olivar
   • This vibrant indoor market is a great place to experience local culture and cuisine. You can sample fresh seafood, local cheeses, meats, and traditional dishes like ensaimada.
5. Take a Boat Trip
   • There are various boat tours available from Palma’s harbor, ranging from sunset cruises to full-day excursions to hidden coves and beaches around the island.
6. Ride the Tren de Sóller
   • This charming vintage train ride takes you through the mountains and countryside from Palma to the picturesque town of Sóller. Once there, you can explore the town or take a tram down to Port de Sóller.
7. Taste Local Wines
   • Mallorca has a growing wine scene, and there are several wine bars and bodegas in Palma where you can sample local wines. Consider a wine-tasting tour if you’re interested in learning more about the island’s winemaking.

Dining and Nightlife

1. Tapas and Pintxos
   • Palma is filled with tapas bars, especially in the La Lonja district. Try gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), croquetas, and jamón ibérico. For pintxos, head to the Santa Catalina neighborhood.
2. Traditional Mallorcan Cuisine
   • Don’t miss dishes like sobrasada (a type of cured sausage), frito mallorquín (fried vegetables with meat), and tumbet (a layered vegetable dish).
3. Cocktails and Bars
   • The nightlife in Palma is diverse, with trendy rooftop bars, classic Spanish bodegas, and modern cocktail lounges. Areas like La Lonja and Santa Catalina are popular spots for evening drinks.
4. Nightclubs and Music
   • For those looking for lively nightlife, there are plenty of clubs in Palma. Tito’s and Social Club Mallorca are among the most popular venues for dancing and live music.

Best Day Trips from Palma

1. Valldemossa
   • A beautiful mountain village known for its stunning stone streets and cultural heritage, including the former home of composer Frédéric Chopin.
2. Port de Sóller
   • Take the vintage train or a scenic drive to this coastal town, known for its beautiful harbor and surrounding mountains.
3. Cabrera National Park
   • A nature reserve consisting of a small archipelago, Cabrera is perfect for a day of hiking, swimming, and spotting wildlife. Boat trips leave from Palma’s marina.
4. Cap de Formentor
   • A stunning peninsula with dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views. If you’re a nature lover, this is a must-see, and it’s only a short drive from Palma.

Practical Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
• Getting Around: Palma is very walkable.
• Shopping: For unique finds, visit the local boutiques in the old town or the modern shopping areas like Jaime III.

Palma de Mallorca offers something for every type of traveler, blending history, culture, and leisure beautifully.