Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands, is a stunning city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and beautiful Mediterranean landscapes. From its Gothic architecture to pristine beaches, Palma is a vibrant destination for all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re here for the beach, the historic sights, or the local cuisine, Palma has something to offer everyone.
Catedral de Mallorca: Known as La Seu, this impressive Gothic cathedral is one of Palma’s most iconic landmarks. It stands majestically overlooking the harbor and features a stunning interior with works by architect Antoni Gaudí.
Palacio de la Almudaina: This royal palace, originally an Arab fortress, offers visitors a fascinating look into the island's history and features beautiful views over Palma Bay.
La Lonja: A historic building that once housed the stock exchange, La Lonja is a great example of Gothic architecture and now serves as a center for art exhibitions.
Parc de la Mar: A lovely park located by the sea with panoramic views of the cathedral. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic.
Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: This museum showcases works by both local and international artists, and the building itself offers stunning views of the city and coastline.
Ensaimada: This traditional Mallorcan pastry is a must-try. Light, fluffy, and often dusted with powdered sugar, it’s the perfect breakfast treat or afternoon snack.
Tumbet: A typical Mallorcan dish made with layers of vegetables like potatoes, aubergine, and peppers, usually served with a tomato-based sauce.
Paella: While paella is originally from the mainland, Palma offers many excellent versions of this iconic Spanish dish, featuring fresh seafood or local meats.
Local Wines: Mallorca is home to many vineyards, and trying a glass of Mallorcan wine, particularly a red made from local varieties like Manto Negro, is highly recommended.
Flamenco Performances: While Mallorca is more known for its vibrant local culture, you can still catch an authentic Flamenco show in Palma’s intimate venues.
Festivals: Palma is home to numerous celebrations, including the renowned La Nit de l’Art (Art Night) in September and the colorful Festes de la Mare de Déu de la Salut in August.
Palma’s Old Town: Wander through the narrow streets of Palma’s historic center, where you’ll find hidden gems like traditional markets, charming cafes, and ancient buildings.
Public Transportation: Palma has an efficient network of buses that can take you around the city and to other parts of the island. There are also trains that connect Palma to other cities like Inca and Manacor.
Walking: Palma’s compact city center makes it ideal for walking. Most of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other, allowing for an easy and scenic exploration of the city.
Biking: Palma is becoming more bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and public bike rentals available to explore the city and its surrounding areas.
Rental Companies: Palma offers a wide range of car rental options, including international companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar, as well as local providers. Most rental offices are located at Palma Airport (PMI) or in the city center.
Driving License: A valid driver’s license is required, and non-EU drivers may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Parking: Parking in Palma can be challenging, especially in the city center. Look for underground parking garages or use the public parking areas outside the old town and take public transport into the center.
Traffic Rules: Drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, and 120 km/h (74 mph) on highways.
Insurance: Most rentals come with basic insurance, including Third-Party Liability and Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). Additional coverage such as Zero Excess Insurance is often available for extra peace of mind.
Language: Spanish is the official language, though English and German are widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases will be helpful, especially in more remote parts of the island.
Currency: The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always useful to carry some cash, particularly for small purchases or in more rural areas.
Weather: Palma has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summers (June to September) can get very hot, so be sure to pack sunscreen and light clothing.
Safety: Palma is generally a safe city, but like any tourist destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busy areas or on public transport where pickpockets may operate.
