Palma de Mallorca is the main city on the island of… Mallorca what a surprise -and it’s also my home. Mallorca is known for it’s beautiful beaches, mountains, and party life. But that’s not all the island has to offer, and in Palma there’s much more. With a beautiful old town still in tact, one of the most incredible cathedrals in Europe, great bars, food and ambience, the city is more than what you might think.

So here’s my top 10 things to do in Palma de Mallorca!

1. Go to La Seu Cathedral

The cathedral is really an iconic part of the city and you can see its grand jutting towers striding skywards from most parts of Palma. During the night, it’s lit up so you can see the beautiful architecture and reflections over the lake below it. Sitting before a lake and then the sea, it’s location is really beautiful. The inside is also very pretty but maybe not worth the effort as the outside is more impressive. However if you want to venture inside, take a look at the columns designed by Gaudi and enjoy the sun shining through the rose window (which is one of the biggest in the world). Open everyday but Sunday when they have mass. See more.

2. Eat and drink in Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina is a neighbourhood of really cool bars, restaurants, music and good vibes. Similar to Malasaña in Madrid, or even Soho, London, but in Mallorca style! On a week night the streets are often full of people which is rare in the main city centre. And on a weekend it’s also buzzing, there are a few streets with no cars and only bars rolling out in the streets and pedestrians taking a stroll. Visit Il Tano  for amazing pizza and wine. Or try Havana Bar for some good cocktails and atmosphere. If you wander the streets you’ll be sure to find more just a few steps away.

3. Walk to Bellver Castle

 

Just out of the centre of Palma (40 min walk) you’ll find a Bellver Castle on top of a hill, another thing you can usually spot standing out from the rest. Surrounding the castle is a huge park which is more of a wild forest, a hub for runners, dog walkers, hikers and cyclists. Despite being used by a lot of people, you can easily get lost in this park and walk for a long time without seeing anyone, this is why I like it. – It’s my place to get away and think, especially to sit high up and watch the views.

Anyway more about the Castle… I’ve been inside twice and it’s pretty, the circular structure is really different and they often have concerts inside. There are regular buses here from the city centre if you don’t fancy the hike. Check out more info and opening times.

 

4. Relax on Palma City Beach

The closest beach to the city of Palma and not bad at all for a city beach! It even has a blue flag for cleanliness, despite the fact that, compared to other beaches on the island it could be one of the worst! The beach is 750 metres with lifeguard and showers during the summer, if you visit in winter, it’s still a great place to enjoy the sunset and check out the beautiful views. There are some really nice restaurantes along the seafront too if you want to go for a meal, and the cycle track also runs along here. I like to run along the promenade, those very few times I have gone for a run.. 😀

5. Explore La Almundaina Royal Palace

This Palace is located right next to the Cathedral so an easy place to stop by. It holds a lot of history and the rooms portray this really well. It used to be the home of Mallorca’s independent kingdom, when the island had it’s own kingdom during the 13th century. You can also see some incredible views of the city and the sea from inside, well worth a visit.

6. Cycle along the seafront 

There is a cycle path running right next to the sea from Palma all the way to S’ Arenal (Playa de Palma) which is a really beautiful beach- even better than the one in Palma! The whole route is completely flat and mostly along a cycle track with amazing views! I love to cycle along here and as the roads aren’t so great for cycling in the city, I’d recommend this route. You’ll also see skaters, rollerbladers and walkers along the way. Rent a bike from Palma Lock and Go from just 6€ per day in Plaza España.  If you want to go all the way to S’Arenal it’s around 30km, or you could stop in any of the small towns and beaches along the way. Thee are plenty of cafes and places to eat and drink, just go for a ride and see where you end up 🙂

7. Visit the Museum of Modern Art

This museum has a collection of over 500 works of modern and contemporary art. Also with a great location, nice views, cafe and courtyards. There are a number of temporary exhibitions inside too which are on throughout the year. Some evenings they have events and shows inside but check their calendar for exact dates. If you come by bike, it’s only 2€!

8. La Ruta Martiana

If you happen to be in the city on a Tuesday or a Wednesday you can enjoy a tapa and a drink (beer or wine) for just 2€ in the Sindicato neighbourhood. This is particularly popular throughout the summer and there are more people on a Tuesday than a Wednesday so it depends if you want a busy night or not! Check out the participating bars where you can enjoy a wide range of Spanish food and enjoy a good atmosphere.

9. Eat breakfast in Ca’n Joan De S’aigo

This famous café in the city centre was established in 1700 and it still feels like going back to this era when you visit today! Go there and eat an Ensaimada which is Mallorca’s typical pastry also created back in the 17th century. You can enjoy it with sugar, fruit, Sobrassada (another of Mallorca’s specialities)  and more. Ca’n Joan De S’aigo also does an amazing hot chocolate, ice cream and cookies. The locals always come here for breakfast or afternoon coffee, so you know it’s a good place!

10. Try all the tapas in Mercado de S’escorxador 

S’escorxador is a little out of the city centre – only 20 min walk.  This place is a big space with buildings, a cinema (with films in English) But the best part in the Mercado San Juan. This is a huge hall full of different kinds of foods from all over Spain and the rest of the world. Most are served in small tapas size so you can try a bit of everything, the food is very good quality and I would definitely recommend it. There is also many types of beer and wine to enjoy with your meal and an area for sweets, coffee and deserts. Sit inside with the atmosphere or go outside to enjoy the sun. After your lunch you may head over to the cocktail bar and enjoy something stronger and good music!

 

And that’s my personal top 10 of my home town Palma de Majorca. Have you ever been? Where did you go? I want to hear it all!