Palma de Mallorca - Sightseeing, shopping and beach life in the capital of the island

Palma de Mallorca is located in the southwest of the Island and with around 400,000 inhabitants is by far the largest city on the island. Palma is also the seat of the autonomous government of the Balearic Islands, which include Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera.

Historical old town flair

Palma de Mallorca is the pulsating heart of the largest of the Balearic islands. The historic old town with its winding streets, small squares and passageways make for an idyllic stroll through the city. Street musicians perform on street corners and numerous boutiques, souvenir shops, wine shops and restaurants cram the narrow streets. The historic centre of Palma de Mallorca stretches between Le Seu Cathedral and the Basilica of Sant Francesc. You can get a map detailing useful services and amenities from the local tourist offices or the Mallorca Shop.

In addition, you can join a guided tour. You will get to know the Jewish quarter, where artists, scientists and astronomers used to live until the 14th century, and experience the maritime ambience in the port district. In the centre of the old town the architecture is dominated by magnificent Art Nouveau buildings, most of which were built at the beginning of the 20th century. Horse-drawn carriages are available at various points i the city for people wishing to see the sights in style.

Attractions in Palma de Mallorca

The main landmark of the Mallorcan capital is La Seu cathedral, which stands directly on the coast. The Gothic church is one of the largest religious buildings in Spain. The huge dimensions of the cathedral are prominent from a great distance. The church is 110 metres long and measures 40 metres in width. The east façade is decorated with a 12.55 metre faceted window made up of more than 1,200 pieces of stained glass.

Next to the cathedral stands the Royal Palace Almudaina, which is now used as a military residence and serves as the official residence of the Spanish King when he visits Mallorca. Another significant Mallorcan religious building is the Gothic church of Sant Francesc. The single-nave church was built by the Mallorcan king Jaume II in the 13th century. Outside the old town The Castell de Bellver towers over the El Terreno district as it has since the 13th century. Today, the city museum is located inside the massive ancient castle.

Beach life in the capital

Palma de Mallorca is located on the southwestern coast of the island and has some sandy beaches that are just the trick for a refreshing dip on hot summer days. The most famous beach is the Playa de Palma, which starts around one kilometre outside the built up area. This section of beach is around 50 m and is bordered by a palm-lined and pedestrianised coastal esplanade. The Playa de Palma extends into the resort of Can Pastilla and includes the party haven of the Germans, S'Arenal.

Between the resort and Palma de Mallorca there are smaller bays, which are mainly used by locals. Only a few tourists stray to the bay of Cala Gamba, which runs along the coast in the shape of a sickle. Ciudad Jardin is a wide sandy beach with a width of up to 450 m and is located directly in the approach to the airport so is perhaps not the quietest beach on the island. Ca'n Peratoni is the city beach of Palma de Mallorca. The sandy beach eases flatly into the sea and has a few restaurants and snack bars.

Self-Catering in and around Palma

Self-catering houses just outside Palma de Mallorca or apartments in the city centre are the perfect choice for you if you want to combine beach life, shopping and sightseeing during your getaway in the sun. Charming holiday homes with swimming pools, fully equipped kitchen and comfortable fixtures and fittings can be found in the surrounding villages of Cala Blava, Genova and Can Pastilla. Alternatively, a spacious apartment or studio in downtown Palma might be what you would prefer.

Attractive sandy beaches such as Cala Major or Cala Estancia are easily accessible in a rental car. Accommodation close to the airport is slightly more affordable than elsewhere on the island. In addition, a tourist train runs between Can Pastilla and Palma de Mallorca, so you can safely leave the car for a trip to the centre of the island's capital.

Shopping in the city centre

Palma de Mallorca is a shopping paradise. The Porto Pi shopping mall has two floors, where you will find small fashion boutiques, international fashion labels and a large supermarket. Many designer shops are situated on one of the main shopping streets, the Avinguda Rey Jaume III. There are also two branches of El Corte Ingles department store in the old town. Fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, pastries and local meat specialties are available at Mercat Olivar market. Saturday is market day in Palma de Mallorca. Close to the harbour and in the narrow streets of the historic old town, merchants set up stalls selling ceramics, handicrafts, leather goods and jewellery. Another market is held in the trendy district of Santa Catalina.