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Stephanie Murray, Senior Short Break Specialist

"Soak up the cultural attractions and scenery of Palma at your own pace by hiring a bike and cycling down the Passeig des Born, a tree lined promenade at the heart of the city, full of chic shops, cafés and a modern art gallery. Just a short distance away, visit the gothic Le Seu Cathedral, an impressive landmark set against the beautiful backdrop of the Bay of Palma."

Palma at a glance

Palma is a bustling city break destination, home to half of Mallorca's population, with a diverse mix of historic sites and a fascinating Old Town. In this vibrant seaport nestled beside the beautiful Mediterranean you will find an abundance of shops, restaurants and nightlife as well as a thriving art and café scene.

Palma’s diverse past is reflected in its spectacular architecture. An impressive Gothic cathedral, Arabian baths and the Old Town’s charming maze of narrow streets present a diverse collection of interesting buildings and landscapes to explore. Most of the Old Town is traffic free, making it easy to soak up the charming atmosphere and further explore the museums, decorative courtyards and regal palaces of the city at your own pace.

Known to be a strategic seaport in its early history, Palma’s coast offers a vibrant atmosphere as it continues to be one of the leading seaports of the Spanish archipelago. A palm tree lined promenade entertains visitors with excellent views of the colourful marina and is a great location to view many of the popular sights of the city. 

Perfect if you’re looking for:

  • A bustling city break
  • Stunning architecture
  • Beachfront attractions

Getting around

A frequent public bus network runs throughout Palma, with especially good access to the city centre and beaches.

Dining in Palma

Rooted in local ingredients, Palmas cuisine present both traditional favourites such as tapas, seafood and pork alongside multi-cultural cuisines suited for all tastes and budgets.

Must-try local dishes:

  • Lomo con col – pork tender loin wrapped in cabbage
  • Frit mallorqui – pork fried with potatoes, onions and tomatoes
  • Ensaimadas – a sweet or savoury pastry, often filled with pumpkin jam or sausage

Shopping in Palma

Palma is a hotspot for shopping, the compact size is good for walking to different shopping areas such as Passeig des Born, Avinguda Jaume III and the surrounding areas of cobbled streets. The marinas are also destinations for shopping, affordable fashion and gifts can be found in Cala d’Or or Port d’Alcudia and the more designer shops are found in Puerto Portals and Port Adriano.

Nightlife

Experience Mediterranean nightlife in style at a fashionable bar serving up live jazz and cocktails, or join the dance scene along the lit up port at Paseo Maritimo at one of Palma’s famous discotecas. Whether you are looking to chill out and drink in the stunning glowing city views, dance to retro tunes or try your luck at the harbour casino, the night is alive in Palma.

Osprey Holidays top tips

Visit the Museu d'Art Espanyol Contemporani and admire works of art by Picasso and Dalí. Afterwards you can check out the lively bar scene.

Get your tailor-made city break itinerary

Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Palma designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:

  • All travel and transfers on days of your choice
  • Accommodation from our handpicked range of Palma hotels, to suit your budget and requirements

Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.

Important information
Population 407,648
Languages Catalan, Castillian
Currency Euro
Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens
Average temperatures

(monthly highs °C)

Interesting facts

For a great day trip, take the wooden train to the town of Soller, passing through countryside full of orange and lemon groves.

Distance from airports
Palma de Mallorca 8 km
Railway stations
Palma Intermodal

Things to do in Palma

  • Le Seu Cathedral: This mighty gothic cathedral overlooks the harbour, on the edge of the old city.
  • Bellver Castle: This large 14th century castle has beautiful views over the city and houses a museum.
  • Passeig des Born: Lively avenue lined with great bars and restaurants, a perfect spot for peoplewatching.
  • Museu d’Art Espanyol: Enjoy the work of modern masters, such as Picasso, Dalí, Miró and Juan Gris.
  • Plaça Major: A beautiful, bustling town square with a variety of shops and open-air cafes.

Tours and Excursions

Old Town Walking Tour with Cathedral 

Explore the historic old quarter of Palma on this 90 minute guided tour. You will pass by sights such as the Estatua Es Foner by the sculptor Juame Mir, Passeig Dalt Murada and The Royal Palace of La Almudaina, which dates back to the 14th century. Hear how the Gothic cathedral was built and step inside to admire the spectacular stained-glass windows and the features designed by Antoni Gaudi.                                            

Full Day Caves Excursion

Travel by air-conditioned coach to Porto Cristo to explore two of Mallorca’s most famous attractions – the Caves of Drach and Caves of Hams. The Caves of Drach reach a height of 82 feet and have an underground lake to row upon, while the Caves of Hams boast impressive stalactite formations (admission to Blue Cave not included).            

Mallorca's West Coast

Sit back and admire the stunning views of the Sierra de Tramuntana mountain range as you pass by sights such as Lluc Monastery and the Puig Mayor on the stunning road to La Calobra. After some free time to explore this picturesque village, board a boat and sail along the coast to the Port of Soller where you catch a tram to Soller Town. Take a stroll through the historical centre before embarking on the wooden Tren de Soller built in 1912.  Wind your way through the valley full of orange and lemon groves to the end of the line where your coach will be waiting.   

We would be happy to arrange an excursion for you. To discuss options with a member of our knowledgeable team or to book, please contact us on 0131 243 8098.