Exploring Palma de Mallorca: Could This Be Spain's Top City Escape on an Island?
Welcome to the dazzling city of Palma de Mallorca, chock-full of vibrant colors, ancient buildings, enchanting squares, and a tasty array of eateries. This isn't your average island destination but a bustling city brimming with history, culture, and style. Here's an unfiltered guide to an action-packed weekend in one of Europe's hidden gems.
Timing Your Visit and Stays
Whether you want a quick taste or an extended holiday, Palma has something for everyone. With frequent flights year-round, a weekend visit is achievable, offering a taste of the city's top attractions. If you're looking for a longer stay, Palma serves as an ideal base for day trips to other parts of the island, boasting picturesque rural villages and pristine beaches.
The decision on when to visit is easy since Mallorca's weather is pleasant all year. However, if sunbathing is your main priority, summer is the recommended time. But, for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere and lower prices, the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) are ideal. Despite being cooler, Palma doesn't shut down during winter, making it one of Europe's best winter destinations (though it's not as tropical as the Canary Islands).
Where to Lay Your Head
Palma is larger than many visitors expect, offering a wide range of accommodations to suit various tastes and budgets. Luxury villas are a popular choice, especially for large groups or families. While there are many villas on the coast, Vida Villas provides a selection of villas close enough to the city to make commuting a breeze.
For solo travelers or those seeking a cozier experience, private rooms at hostels or hotels can be found at affordable prices, as I did during my last visit in November. Places like the New Art Hostel and numerous budget hotels come highly recommended. For a touch of luxury and breathtaking sea views, hotels like the Melia or the adult-only El Llorenc Parc de la Mar are excellent choices for a romantic getaway.
Getting to Palma de Mallorca
With Palma de Mallorca being the main gateway to the Balearic Islands, traveling here is a breeze. The airport is remarkably large, serving numerous budget and flag-carrying airlines from across Europe. Direct flights from the USA are on the horizon. Taxi from the airport to the city center will cost around €20, and there's also an airport shuttle.
Alternatively, you can reach Palma by ferry from Barcelona or Valencia, with numerous operators available for both day and night sailings. I took a budget-friendly overnight sailing on GNV from Valencia, complete with a comfy couch and a sleeping bag, with the oceanic views of Palma Cathedral at blue hour being the highlight. Ferry trips are also useful for island-hopping, allowing you to explore Menorca or party in Ibiza.
Top Things to Do in Palma de Mallorca
The joy of exploring Spanish cities lies in leisurely strolling the colorful streets, admiring historic buildings, and stopping for a drink or bite to eat. Nevertheless, Palma has several impressive attractions that are worth exploring.
Palma Cathedral - the Heart of the City
Standing tall above all else, Palma Cathedral is difficult to miss with its Gothic Roman architecture. Impressive both from the outside and in, the cathedral boasts stunning stain-glass windows and towering pillars inside.
Royal Palace of La Almudaina
Just next to the cathedral, the 14th-century Royal Palace is well worth a visit for its elaborately decorated carpeted rooms and idyllic courtyard setting. History buffs will find plenty to discover within the palace's walls.
Castell de Bellver
A unique-shaped castle offering fantastic views of Palma and the Marina, Bellver Castle is a bargain to enter for just a few euros. The rounded interior is particularly impressive, and the views from the rooftop are especially stunning at sunset.
Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum
Family-friendly and budget-friendly, this modern museum displays contemporary art from Balearic Islands and international artists.
Fundació Miró Mallorca
Featuring a vast collection of paintings by Joan Miró, this museum houses some of the renowned artist's most famous works, along with sculptures and gardens.
Take a Dip at Platja de Can Pere Antoni
No island getaway is complete without a beach visit, and the Platja de Can Pere Antoni is right on the city's doorstep. Though more tranquil bays can be found further along the coast, you don't need to go far to enjoy the sand and Mediterranean waters.
Palma's Culinary Delights
After soaking up the city's sights, it's time to indulge in the island's food scene. From Michelin-starred restaurants to quaint tapas bars, there's something for every taste bud. During my last visit, I found myself drinking more than eating, but here are my recommended foodie spots in Palma:
Mercat 1930
Offering a variety of food stalls surrounded by tables, Mercat 1930 provides a fun and social atmosphere to enjoy small or big plates across various cuisines.
De Tokio a Lima
Fusing Peruvian and Japanese flavors with a Mediterranean twist, De Tokio a Lima serves up an impressive menu of ceviche, Tuna Tartar, and tender meats. The restaurant also boasts great cocktails, wine pairings, and attentive service.
Tapalma Tapas Event
During late November, the Tapalma festival offers coupons that can be exchanged for small plates at various restaurants around the city, allowing you to indulge in local tapas.
Exploring Beyond Palma
Thanks to Mallorca's extensive transportation network, day trips from Palma are easy and rewarding. Here are a few of my favorite spots worth visiting:
Dramatic Scenery: Port de Sóller
Reachable by a vintage wooden train ride through verdant mountains, Port de Sóller offers a picturesque bay and charming village with a small tram taking you to the coastline.
Tranquil Beaches: Caló del Moro
This breathtaking bay is accessible with a car and boasts rock formations, caves, and cerulean waters perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Quaint Village: Valldemossa
Home to a famous Carthusian monastery, Valldemossa is a postcard-perfect village with narrow, flower-lined streets. Explore the local shops, savor delicious food, and marvel at the stunning mountain backdrop.
Active Adventures: Tramuntana Mountains
The rugged Tramuntana Mountains provide ample hiking trails for hikers of various skill levels, along with breathtaking vistas and hilltop towns to explore.
Remember to try local wines on your trip, as vineyards and wine tastings are abundant throughout Mallorca.
So, pack your bags and embrace the delicious food, rich history, and vibrant culture of Palma de Mallorca! With its underrated charm and endless options for adventure, your long weekend in one of Europe's hidden gems is sure to be unforgettable.
Craving more Iberian escapades? Discover Spain's hidden treasures beyond Barcelona with our recommendations for Spanish Hidden Gems.
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- Immerse yourself in the city's vibrant lifestyle during your weekend getaway in Palma de Mallorca, sampling delicious food-and-drink options at local eateries such as Mercat 1930, De Tokio a Lima, and Tapalma Tapas Event.
- After exploring Palma's top attractions and enchanting squares, consider traveling beyond the city to experience the island's tranquil beaches, quaint villages, or take on active adventures in the breathtaking Tramuntana Mountains.
