First Time In Palma De Mallorca? Follow This Guide

You have arrived at Palma de Mallorca! However, it is crucial to understand that for a new tourist, this beautiful city on the Spanish island of Mallorca might prove to be rather confusing. In case you have never been to this beautiful region, you will find it quite hard to determine where to begin: stunning beaches, historical landmarks, delicious restaurants, and vibrant clubs. Check out this easy-reference guide that will ensure that you get to get the best out of your first visit to Palma.

Getting Your Bearings

Palma is situated on the island’s east coast and is not just the largest city in Mallorca, but also the island’s capital. The Old Town extends to the coastline of the Bay of Palma, and the attractive Gothic structure of the Cathedral La Seu is located on the shore. You will what a network of small streets with cobbles, which are lined with shops, restaurants, and other attractions. To the West is the Paseo Marítimo boulevard, where various bars, restaurants, and yacht amenities are located. The southern part of the city has become more posh and commercialized and contains boutiques and restaurants. The area of Santa Catalina is even further northwest and contains trendy stores and food outlets.

Don’t Miss the Cathedral

No first-time traveler’s handbook to Palma is going to be correct if it skips on the Cathedal-La Seu. This gigantic cathedral was under construction for more than 300 years, but in my opinion, it was worth it – it is a spectacular example of Gothic style. Look at the high arches, fine sculptures on the outer surface, and the large circular window known as the rose window. Inside you should not miss the little greenery of a small court with palm trees and intricate chapels. Go to the Bell Tower where you get the bird’s eye view of the whole Palma and the sea. Devoting 1-2 hours will allow a visitor to absorb the atmosphere of this architectural wonder.

Relax at the Beach

What would a visit to an island be without some amount of time on the shore you ask? Palma has an extensive city beach that is located along the promenade, although the better beaches are within the neighboring resort towns. After twenty minutes by train take a visit to Illetas Beach and explore two bays with lounges, beach clubs, watersports facilities, and forested cliffs. Or take a bus to the port of Sóller, a beautiful horseshoe-shaped bay sandwiched between two mountain ranges. Oh and one more thing, do not leave your swimming costume and sunscream at home.

Shop till You Drop

On the Spanish island of Mallorca, they have good leather products that are shoes, purses, jackets, and many others. Fashion accessories such as belts, bags, and shoes are readily availed in the shops along the Paseo de Born pedestrian street at affordable prices and from the leading brands. There are also other shops with locally made arts including artisan ceramic ware, blown glass, and silk scarves among others. It is also important not to leave out a traditional Mallorcan pearl farm that offers a peep into how the sparkling gems are raised and then polished into ornaments.

Explore Santa Catalina

To get a bit more contemporary Palma feeling, continue going northwest to the district called Santa Catalina. What used to be an industrial area has now become the most popular area of the city that features small designer shops, art galleries, Spanish-style eateries and taverns as well as cafes. In the same area do not lose the street El Jonquet with restaurants and taverns with terraces serving very fresh fish and seafood. Head a little away from the harbor to discover Plaça de la Navegació – this is a picturesque piazza lined with 19th-century buildings that are now shops and cafes.

Tastings Travel the Paseo Tapas Hop

Hey food lovers, no trip to Spain would be complete without a night of bar hopping for delicious and colorful tapas. Palma has a very picturesque view of promenade Paseo Marítimo located along the harbour where it is perfect to try portions of Spanish tapas and wine. Move from bar to bar and from restaurant to restaurant have some of the tasty tapas such as patatas bravas, pulpo gallego octopus, and gambas al ajillo garlicky shrimp among others. Choose an outdoor sitting and get to enjoy the breathtaking Yacht harbor view scenery while you savor the cuisines and cocktails.

Dine on Seafood

Well, being an island city, Palma knows how to excel in frutti di mare, for instance. Residents can find restaurants that offer the freshest seafood by going to the Lonja de Mar fish market which focuses on the day’s seafood. The seasonal fish variety comprises lubina (sea bass), dorada (bream), and salmonetes (red mullet) which are best served grilled with olive oil and lemon. There are three must-try dishes on the island: paella with shellfish, zesty caldereta stew, or fideuà noodle paella.

Party the Night Away

Nightlife in Palma starts as soon as the sun sets and the city becomes alive with people going out to party. Both the Santa Catalina and Plaça de la Llotja areas cater to the younger generation with packed beer gardens and nightclubs that keep playing music right through till late into the night. If you are more into a classy scene, then check out the gin bars and jazz clubs in the Old Town. Preliminary drinks can be taken at a casual bar on the renowned street of Passeig de Mallorca before moving from bar to bar throughout the night.

That completes some of the most vibrant attractions for an incredible first trip to Palma de Mallorca. This convenient plan will enable you to enjoy the pulsating city of islander flavor as if you are a true resident. 

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