Palma de Mallorca^{[dead link]} is the island's only true city. A city on the island of Mallorca, one of the Balearic Islands off the Spanish east coast. Mallorca is one of Europe's major holiday destinations, with many tourists coming from everywhere, every year. Palma is a city of modern hotel chains, and flashy shops, yet, is dated and still retains much of the old architecture, with the Old Town having narrow streets, and showing the restored cathedral standing proud in the centre of town.

Understand[edit]

Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands, is the largest city in Mallorca. The population of Palma municipality was approximately 410,000 in 2018. Half the population of Mallorca lives in the city of Palma.

The city occupies the northwestern end of a bay in the southwest of the island of Mallorca. The city council also has jurisdiction over the sub-archipelago of Cabrera including the islands of Cabrera, Conejera, Estells, Imperial, Rodon, Foradada, Plana, and Pobra.

The name Palma dates back to the Roman settlement on the site of the present city, although the area had been settled during the Bronze Age. In the early Middle Ages it was conquered by Arabs, who named it Madina Mayurqa. In 1229 it was conquered by King Jaime I, ruler of Valencia and Aragon, and became an important trade city. Palma saw its Dark Ages in the 16th century, when a significant decline was caused by attacks from Turkish and Berber Pirates and through plague. Lasting until the 18th century, Felipe V changed the government which made Palma the capital of the Balearic Islands. Later, Carlos III established a free trade pact with the Indies, which had a huge impact on Palma's economy.

The city became a tourist destination in the 1950s, and tourist numbers have continually increased in the subsequent half century. Palma is a busy commercial and cultural center of Mallorca. This independent region of the Balearic Islands of Spain has over half of the island's population.

The holiday season lasts from the end of April until October. Temperatures range from 20–28 °C (68–82 °F) and may require a jacket in the evenings.

Palma de Mallorca, during the 19th century, more sea traffic would come in bringing in much economic growth for the island.

Get in[edit]

By plane[edit]

• 39.5516752.7388081 Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI  ^IATA), 07611 Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain (9 km (5.6 mi) from the centre of Palma), ☏ +34 913 21 10 00. The major airport in Mallorca, and has daily flights from many European cities on national and budget carriers. (updated Mar 2023)

EMT's Line 1 bus service runs between the seaport, the city centre and the airport every fifteen minutes between 06:15 and 02:30. As of October 2016, the fare is €5. There's a ticket machine that sells return tickets for €8 but it only accepts notes up to €10.

A taxi ride from the airport to the city centre costs €20-25 and takes maximum 15 minutes without traffic.

Modules[edit]

There are four modules at the airport: Module A, Module B, Module C and Module D.

Module A, in the north of the airport, has 28 gates, of which 8 have air bridges. This is the only module that has double air bridges attached to gates. The Pier is mainly used by flights to non-Schengen destinations including the UK and Ireland. This part of the terminal building is closed during winter months and is only used in the summer.

Module B, the smallest module, is in the north east. It has 8 gates on the ground floor, of which none have air bridges. It is used by regional aircraft of Air Nostrum, mainly operating intra-Balearic flights.

Module C, in the east, is the largest of the modules. It has 33 gates, of which 9 have air bridges. It is used by Condor and by EasyJet flights to Schengen destinations. Module C is also the meeting point for transfers, taxi pickup and groups.

Module D, in the south, has 19 gates of which 10 have air bridges. All odd-numbered gates have a bus transfer.

From the airport by private transport[edit]

You can go from Mallorca Airport to your hotel. This type of companies offers a door to door service. They will be waiting for you at the meeting point, and you and your group will go directly without waiting until the place you have agreed. Also, the price is closed. The average price for each sense of travel is €78 for eight people. The cost varies according to distance, passengers and luggage.

Without a doubt, if your only intention is to go from the airport to the hotel and you are a group from 5 people to 14 people, it is a great option to take into account. You can move around Mallorca hiring a transfer service, such as Palma Airport Transfers.

By train[edit]

• 39.5762932.6541122 Estacio Intermodal – The main train, bus, and metro station. It is underground at Plaça d'Espanya in Palma. TIB runs train services between Mallorcan towns. There is no train service to the airport.
• 39.57662.653923 Ferrocarril de Soller. It operates the quaint wooden electric train from Plaça d'Espanya in Palma to Soller town, northwest of the island, and from where you can continue your relaxing scenic journey to Puerto Soller on the companion Electric Tram. €18 single and €32 return (cash only). (updated Sep 2022)

By car[edit]

There are no bridges or any road links from mainland Spain or other islands. Most cities and towns in Mallorca have road links directly to Palma.

There are several companies in Mallorca that offer transfer facilities from the airport to any destination on the island. Balearic transfer services, Fleet and Goo^{[dead link]}, BookTaxiMallorca and Ourtaxi4you are examples of these companies.

By bus[edit]

EMT runs the local bus service in Palma. Regional buses to destinations around the island are operated mainly by TIB (Transport de les Iles Balears). All EMT buses are equipped with onboard screens and loudspeakers that state the current and next stop, in both Spanish and Catalán.

EMT's line number 1 will take you from the airport through Palma downtown and to the outer dock of the main harbor (where most large cruise ships dock). Arrivals/departures every 15 minutes from 07:00 until 20:00. They operate once every 30 minutes from 06:00 to 22:00. The fare is €5 (as of October 2016). There is only one fare, so you don't need to specify your destination to the driver/conductor. All other local EMT destinations within Palma cost €1.50 so you must tell the driver "no aeroporto, por favor.".

In an effort to reduce drunk driving and get fewer people driving on the weekends, Palma offers a bus de nit bus service (Catalán: night bus). It is full of locals and Spaniards from the peninsula and runs from 22:00 to 06:00 every 20 to 30 minutes. It goes all the way down the infamous Paseo Maritimo, which is where all the best clubs are in Palma. The price is that of a regular ticket.

By sea[edit]

Any number of cruise ships berth at Palma, and there are also a number of ferry services to other Balaeric Islands and to the Iberian peninsula:

• Baleària, ☏ +34 966 42 87 00. Ferries from Denia, Valencia, and Ibiza. 
• Acconia Trasmediterranea, ☏ +34 902 45 46 45 (non-geographic number). Ferries from Barcelona, Valencia, Ibiza and Mahon. 
• ^{[dead link]} Iscomar Ferries, ☏ +34 971 43 75 00. Ferries from Barcelona, Valencia, Ibiza and Denia. 

The all-year-around Baleària and Acconia Trasmediterranea ships travel to and from the mainland (Barcelona) once a day, each. They both usually leave Barcelona at night (23:00) and arrive in Palma very early the next day (06:00). And they both usually leave Palma for Barcelona at 12:30 and arrive at 19:30.

Palma's port has a small office on the west end of the port where customers must check in at least one hour before departure. The line can grow long so travellers may want to arrive a couple hours in advance. Please be aware that the ship may depart from the east end of the port, and that a bus will transport the customers from the check-in building to the ship.

• 39.55282.62664 Palma de Mallorca port. (updated Feb 2022)

Get around[edit]

39°33′52″N 2°38′20″E

Map of Palma de Mallorca

By public transport[edit]

Buses and trains are the two forms of shared public transport in Palma de Mallorca. The local buses are run by Empresa Municipal de Transportes Urbanes de Palma de Mallorca (EMT) and are very frequent. They have particularly good coverage of the beaches and the centre of the city. The main train system is operated by Serveis Ferroviaris de Mallorca (SFM), Mallorca Railway Services.

The Palma City Sightseeing bus (which is numbered line 50 on the EMT bus maps) does a circuit of Palma that includes tourist attractions like Pueblo Español and major shopping centres like Av. Jaume III and Porto Pi, as well as the ferry and commercial ports. The buses are double-decker and the top floor is open air. A basic audio tour is free with the tickets. The tickets are €15 adults and €6.50 children for one day (24 Hours) which is much higher than the other city buses, but they are valid for reboarding as many times as you like within 24 hours, and this is the only bus route that visits the Castell de Bellver. The two-day fare is €16.25 for adults and €8.13 for children from the age of 8 to 16. The first bus in the winter season starts from Cathedral at 10:00 and the last bus in winter starts from the same place at 18:00.

By bicycle[edit]

Cycling is a great way to get around Palma and along the coastline near Palma. Excellent bicycle paths have been made.

• 39.53742.71561 Rent A Bike, Can Pastilla, ☏ +34 971 26 64 25. Good quality bicycles for rent, from €5 full day, €3 half day. 

Talk[edit]

Like much of the Balearic Islands and the Catalonia region of Spain, the locals speak Catalan and Spanish. In addition, the island of Mallorca has its own version of Catalan called Mallorcan. For this reason, fewer locals learn to speak English. English-speaking Westerners should be aware that it will be more difficult to get around without learning basic Spanish. However, the nearby communities of Magaluf and Palma Nova are home to UK citizens, Germans, and other Europeans.

See[edit]

• A total solar eclipse on 12 Aug 2026, starting at 20:31 and lasting 90 seconds. The chances of a clear sky are 65%, and you need a clear view to the northwest horizon, as the sun will be setting over the sea. The Palma area is the last viewing point for this eclipse before sunset ends the show.

City centre[edit]

• El Casco Antiguo is the historical centre, encompassing most city sights such as the cathedral and Royal Palace. It's a pleasant area to stroll, with narrow shady streets and glimpses of private courtyards. It's bounded by city walls (Dalt Murada) with an inner elevated plaza, while the ring-road outside zig-zags past the Vauban fortifications.
• 39.56762.64811 Palma Cathedral (La Seu), Plaça de la Seu, ☏ +34 971 713133, [email protected]. M-Sa 10:00-17:00. Huge ornate cathedral, impressive outside and within. It was started in 1229 but only completed in 1601, in mostly Gothic style; Gaudí had a go at improving it but quit in a strop. The Royal Chapel is the resting place of kings Jaime II and III. You can ascend the tower for an extra €15, but it's a lot of steps. The standard ticket includes Museo de Arte Sacro (aka Museu Diocesà), with religious paintings and silverware; this has a separate entrance east. Adult €10. (updated May 2024)
• Ses Voltes is the plaza south side of the cathedral. It has views over Parc de la Mar and sometimes hosts events.
• Royal Palace of La Almudaina (west side of cathedral). Tu-Su 10:00-18:00. The fortress dates back to Roman times but what you see now is a rebuild from 1309. The ground floor is medieval while the upper floor, added in the 16th century, has the grand state rooms and suites. It was a seat of the kings of Mallorca and is still used as a residence by the Spanish royal family. Adult €7. (updated May 2024)
• S'Hort del Rei are Moorish gardens just west of the palace.
• Banys Àrabs, C de Can Serra 3 (200 m east of cathedral), ☏ +34 637 046534. Daily 10:00-17:30. Sauna baths built in the tenth century, with under-floor heating; it's the only building in Palma dating to the Arab settlement. Only two or three small rooms are open, but there's a pleasant courtyard garden. Adult €3, child free. (updated May 2024)
• Convent of St Clara is east side of Banys Àrabs. The "Poor Clares" (Hermanas Pobres) were founded in 1212 and the church is from 1671. The nuns make cookies, remaining in seclusion as you pass your money through a hatch and they push out the goodies.
• Museum of Mallorca, C de la Portella 5 (block north of Banys Àrabs), ☏ +34 971 597995. Tu F-Su 09:00-14:00, W Th 09:00-19:00. Small museum of city heritage, crowded with artworks. (updated May 2024)
• 39.56882.65292 Basílica de Sant Francesc, Plaça de Sant Francesc 7, ☏ +34 971 712695. Church and cloister founded in 1281, in similar style to the cathedral but without the tourist hordes. The Franciscan nuns moved in with the Poor Clares in the 19th century. (updated May 2024)
• Santa Eulàlia is an attractive gothic church 100 m west of Sant Francesc, but many visitors feel it's not worth the €5.
• 39.57222.6523 Fundación Juan March Palma, C de Sant Miquel 11, ☏ +34 971 710428. M-F 10:00-18:30, Sa 10:00-14:00. Museum of modern art, a branch of the Madrid foundation of financier Juan March Ordinas (1880-1962). Big names on display here include Picasso, Miró and Dalí, and the building is a stately 17th century mansion. Free. (updated May 2024)
• Basílica de Sant Miquel is 100 m north of the Foundation. It was a mosque converted to a church in 1229, but re-built in the 14th century and expanded in the 17th.
• 39.57132.64894 Plaça del Mercat is a leafy triangle in the west of Casco Antiguo with many interesting Art Nouveau buildings. The church of San Nicolás just south was completed in 1712.
• 39.5683332.6443065 Llotja de Palma (Sa Llotja). Medieval era mercantile building with impressive architectural features, near the waterfront. It is occasionally used as event space but stands empty most of the time. (updated Apr 2024)
• 39.57032.64116 Es Baluard Museu d'Art Contemporani, Plaça de la Porta de Santa Catalina10, ☏ +34 971 908200. M-Sa 10:00-20:00, Su 10:00-15:00. Three-storey collection of 19th-20th century works by artists from the Balearic islands. Adult €6, conc €4.50, under-12 free. (updated May 2024)

Further out[edit]

• Paseo Marítimo is the promenade, flanked by busy Av de Gabriel Roca. Its east end is under the town walls, with Parc de la Mar and the artificial lake. It continues past Llotja and the marina, then the coast trends south to the ferry pier and main harbour. This south end is a pub and club strip, with discos thumping music till dawn, and the floodlit cathedral in the background.
• Transilvania Cafetería-Museum is a schlock-horror waxworks. It's at C de Jaume Ferran 38, 200 m north of Jacint Verdaguer railway station, and open Tu-Sa 17:00-00:00.
• Plaza de Toros (bull ring), located on Avinguda de Gaspar Bennazar. If you are not into animal cruelty then just have a look around the arena. It is open when there are no events taking place. It is a fairly impressive structure.
• 39.57242.6277 Pueblo Español, C del Poble Espanyol 55, ☏ +34 971 731062. Daily 10:00-18:00. "Village" containing replicas of notable Spanish buildings. In season there are artisan shops, restaurants and bars within, and it's an events venue, but it's a bit hollow at other times. Adult €10, child €5. (updated May 2024)
• 39.56382.61938 Castell de Bellver, C de Camilo José Cela (Bus 4, 20, 50), ☏ +34 971 735065. Tu-Sa 10:0-18:00, Su 10:00-15:00. An unusual circular castle enclosing a courtyard, built in the 14th century over a Moorish fort. A circle is not the best design in the age of artillery, but there's an outer ravelin and it withstood two sieges. Within is a museum of archaeological finds and classical sculptures. Its hilltop site commands good views of the city and the bay. Adult €4, conc or child €2. (updated May 2024)
• 39.55492.60969 Pilar and Joan Miro Foundation, C de Saridakis 29, Cala Major, ☏ +34 971 701420. Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, Su 10:00-15:00. Joan Miró lived mostly in Barcelona and Paris but had extended spells in Palma. His two former studios display 6000 works, and there's a sculpture garden. Adult €10. (updated May 2024)
• 39.54652.623410 Museu Històric Militar de Sant Carles, Castillo de San Carlos, Cala Major, ☏ +34 971 402145. Tu-Su 10:00-14:00, Su 10:00-15:00. Military museum in a 17th century Vauban-style bastion by the harbour. (updated May 2024)
• 39.53232.728411 Palma Aquarium, C de Manuela de los Herreros 21, ☏ +34 971 746104. Daily 09:30-18:30. Aquarium focused on Mediterranean and coastal ecosystems, with a huge shark tank and vast collection of live corals. Resrvations advised. Adult €32.50, child €22. (updated May 2024)

Do[edit]

• Platja de Can Pere Antoni is the most central beach, starting 500 m east of Parc de la Mar beneath the cathedral. Some traffic noise, the east end is a little quieter. There are showers and lockers here.
• Ciudad Jardín is 2 km east of Platja de Can Pere Antoni. It's a white sandy strip 450 m long, seldom crowded, with a series of jetties to curb erosion.
• Ca'n Pastilla beach starts further east near the aquarium and airport, and stretches 4 km to become Playa S'Arenal.
• Cala Major is a suburb 4 km southwest of Palma de Mallorca with lots of high-rise hotels. The beach is 200 m long and 80 m wide and can get busy at the height of summer, but the water is crystal clear and suitable for kiddy-bathing.
• Aqualand El Arenal (Palma – Arenal motorway, Exit 13 at km 15), ☏ +34 696 158177. May-Oct daily 10:00-17:00. This water park has slides and pools for kids of all ages. Adult €35, conc or child €27. (updated May 2024)
• Marineland: see Magaluf for this marine zoo to the west near Costa d'en Blanes beach.
• Football: RCD Mallorca play soccer in La Liga, Spain's top tier. Their home ground is Estadi de Son Moix or Visit Mallorca Stadium (capacity 23,000), 2 km northwest of city centre.
• Golf: the closest courses are Son Muntaner and Son Vida, together in the hills 3 km northwest of city centre.

• Mallorca Live is a rock and pop music festival in mid June.
• Festival de Pollença is classical music, throughout August.
• Evolution Film Festival is first week in November. Fonart Short Film Festival is no longer held.
• Smooth Jazz Festival is likewise first week in November.
• Festa de l’Estendard is a civic end-of-year event in December, with a Mass at La Seu.

Buy[edit]

• El Corte Ingles. Two large branches of the Spanish national department store, in Palma at The Avenidas and at C/ Jaime 111. (updated May 2019)

Work[edit]

All EU citizens have the legal right to work. Getting a job, even temporary ones, for non-Spanish speakers is hard to find in a Spanish speaking environment (most Spanish do not speak English). So you may try looking for temporary jobs as bartending or waiting at English, Irish or German owned bars and restaurants, mainly in cities outside Palma like Magaluf, S'Arenal and Peguera (for German speaking travellers). In Palma you may try getting day-work washing boats at Palma's Marina. There are several boats and some of the owners may need a hand. Be around 8AM at the Marina and start asking for "day work" to people around the big boats. If you're lucky you'll be making around €100! If you are seeking a career aboard one of the many superyachts in Palma de Mallorca a good place to register and start looking is Crew Central.

Eat[edit]

Typical food is:

• Pamboli - traditional "sandwich", made with Majorcan bread, plenty of oil and tomato, and then with the topping of your choice.
• Ensaimada - literally translated as "made from pork fat" - traditional pastry here, sometimes it just has powdered sugar on top, other times it is filled with chocoloate, cream or fruit filling.
• Sobrasada - Raw, cured sausage that is typical of Mallorca.
• Bunyols - (sweet pastries)- they are typical only in autumn. Bunyols are commonly made of boiled potatoes, flour, eggs, butter or lard, yeast and sugar; they are fried in hot oil and then sprinkled with sugar. (A fried Donut)

Budget[edit]

City centre[edit]

There are several budget-friendly restaurants in the city center.

• 39.5706472.652421 La Cuadra del Maño, Carrer del Miracle, bajos. Lovely little restaurant in the heart of Mallorca, with a small menu but a heavenly variants of flavours. The staff is nice and friendly. The waiters patiently explaines all dishes even when the restaurant is crazy busy. The waiters give a perfect recommendation on how much to order for a big group. A small place suitable for its character. (updated Jan 2023)
• 39.569982.6472132 Es Badulake, Carrer de les Minyones, 2. The sandwich are tasty. Very nice vegan alternatives. Friendly couple who run the place. This small kind of “rotiseria” place is to be loved. The veggie burger is delicious. Best baguettes, it is ideal to enjoy them in the shade on the adjacent Passeig del Born. (updated Jan 2023)
• 39.568222.6455793 Ca n'Ela Vegan Restaurant, Carrer de la Mar, 16. One of the best vegan restaurants. The service is excellent and the food is perfect too. They have only vegan food and some of them are gluten-free. Healthy,fresh and absolutely delicious. The lunch menu has 4 sets: starters, soup, main dish, desert (every day menu is changing). The dinner menu (also changes every day) has a lot of drinks to choose, also they have local kombucha and many great wines. So cool atmosphere (updated Jan 2023)
• 39.5717392.6438074 Restaurante A Estribor., Carrer de Berenguer de Tornamira, 5. A small palm bar run by Chinese that offers Chinese dishes cooked in the western way. They are very professional and kind. Quick to attend and to serve the dishes. Tasty breakfast. Very good quality food. (updated Jan 2023)
• 39.5697732.650885 Restaurante Casa Julio, Carrer de la Previsió, 4. Friendly neighborhood restaurant. It is full and you have to queue quite a bit if you don't go early. The food is homemade. Very abundant. It is always a hit and that is why it is always full. That's why you're pretty close to people. Reservation is recommended. (updated Jan 2023)
• 39.572662.6523296 Es Raconet, Carrer dels Moliners, 3. Fantastic natural home cooked food, and very good treatment. Excellent service, an insider tip. In the heart of Palma. A totally recommendable little corner. So unassuming, so great. The attention of the staff is 10. (updated Jan 2023)
• 39.5715172.652727 CALIXTO, Plaça, Carrer del Banc de l'Oli, 14. Paella specialty restaurant just sells paella. Meat, fish, vegetables or mixed. Quiet and very friendly welcome. Very pleasant place on a small square. It is delicious. Here you can enjoy a really good meal while sitting under the lemon trees. (updated Jan 2023)

Around the Marina Port[edit]

• 39.5654392.6267168 Oh Mallork Bar de Tapas, Francisco Roselló Pintor 4. A cozy and familiar place. A lovely little tapas restaurant. Very good and homemade food. Attention 10. The owner is so friendly and attentive, he makes the experience amazing. A very casual and relaxed atmosphere. (updated Jan 2023)
• 39.563732.6258669 Restaurante Turco "Urfa", Joan Miró 38, (Local 13). Favorite pizza. Delicious kebabs. Very varied. A popular and busy place. Friendly service. Visited by locals. Rather simple atmosphere. (updated Jan 2023)

Mid-range[edit]

Plaça d'en Coll is a veritable plethora of bars and cafes, vying with each other on quality and price: the ideal place to visit for a 3-course menu del dia for less than €15 (2011).

• 39.568632.6423710 Pesquero, Moll de la llonja (at the marina), ☏ +34 971 715 220. This portside restaurant is a seafood specialist, and also serves local specialties like tapas and platos mediterráneos. It is popular with locals and tourists. Mains €14-20 (Nov 2017). (updated Aug 2022)
• 39.57262.638411 A Ma Maison, Carrer Soler 18A (Santa Catalina), ☏ +34 971 919 697. Tu-Sa 13:00 - 15:30 & 19:30 - 23:30. French Tunisian homemade dishes. Recipes can be changed to cater for any dietary requirements vegans, gluten-free, diabetic etc. Average a la carte price €30 (Feb 2018). (updated Apr 2022)
• 39.5732382.66141312 Boira Restaurante, Plaça Francesc García i Orell, 8. They specialize in local fresh food and have something for veggies and also for meat lovers. Nice typical Spanish breakfasts with good fresh orange juice. The dishes are beautifully presented. Nice interior terrace. The 3-course menu is for €15.95. (updated Jan 2023)
• 39.5734132.64794413 La Mirona, Carrer de Sant Jaume, 21. Recommended are the squid with artichokes, the artichokes, Parmesan salad and pork ribs. The menu is not written down and only in the owners head following market’s best raw food available. Keep in mind to book in advance as the tables are quite few. €30-40. (updated Jan 2023)

Splurge[edit]

• 39.5735572.65140614 Marc Fosh Restaurant, Carrer de la Missió, 7. Fine dining. (updated Aug 2022)

Drink[edit]

• 39.5687162.6471951 Cappuccino Palau March, Carrer del Conquistador, 13 (in a palace near the cathedral), ☏ +34 971 717 272. Good breakfast till 12:00. Then cocktails and salads. Nice, romantic and comfortable. But not cheap. Various breakfasts including "full English" ("Desayuno London") at €12. (updated Jan 2017)
• Jah Garden - Reggae Bar, Joan Miro (the road up to Castell de Bellver leads of this one). This bar plays non-stop reggae DVDs on a wide-screen TV. The drink prices are a bit steep (€5 for a bottle of Heineken) but they don't seem to put any one off as people keep disappearing into the toilets at frequent intervals. There is an electronic lock on the front door so you won't get in if the barman doesn't like the look of you. 
• 39.5688962.6451562 Abaco, Carrer Sant Joan 1, La Llonja, ☏ +34 971 71 49 39. The world-famous cocktail bar, set in a magnificent old-town former coaching house, where every Friday at 23:30 (-ish), the classical background music rises to a crescendo and fresh rose petals fall from a hidden balcony above the imposing open stone fireplace. A ceremony not to be missed. Ignore the killjoys who tell you it's a rip-off: true, the bar only serves drinks (no food), frowns even on using the Cappuccino machine, and pushes an expensive cocktail menu on you as soon as you walk through the daunting entrance door. But the cocktails are all made with fresh fruit juices and are huge - or just have a cerveza or a copa de Vino. (updated Jan 2017)

Sleep[edit]

The Mallorca high season is between July and September. Book especially early during any holiday weeks or weekends in the United Kingdom or Germany, as Mallorca and Palma in particular are popular holiday spots for people from these countries. Many hotels close in winter so that booking is also advised then.

Budget[edit]

• 39.56272.6261 We Hostel Palma, C Germans Schembri 1, ☏ +34 871 209244. Clean hostel by the marina. Dorm €33. (updated May 2024)
• 39.5689932.6457282 Hostal Ritzi, Apuntadors, 6, ☏ +34 971714610. Open in winter, English owned and conveniently placed near the cathedral and with numerous cheap tapas bars around. Single room with shared bathroom €40. Twin room €65.. (updated May 2019)

Mid-range[edit]

• Hotel Amic GALA, C/ XABEC , 5 Can Pastilla, ☏ +34 902 400 661, fax: +34902 888 769, [email protected]. Check-in: 13:00, check-out: 11:00. Reviews describe this three-star hotel as in a good location near the beach and not far from the airport. It is described as an ideal family hotel with plenty of entertainment and a good distance from local restaurants and activities. Double rooms €69 per night (high season, 16 July - 15 Sept), €49 per night (low season). Cheaper single occupant rooms also available. 
• 39.568962.627853 Hotel Isla Mallorca, Plaza Almirante Churruca, 5, ☏ +34 971 28 12 00, fax: +34 971 45 65 03, [email protected]. Well equipped and close to the commercial centre of the city. The facilities are oriented towards business travelers and include Internet access and a fax service for guests. Double rooms with breakfast only €100 per night (high season, July - Sept), €80 per night (low season). Double rooms with all meals €140 per night (high season), €120 per night (low season).. 
• BG Java at C de la Goleta 7 is comfy enough but sits at the end of the runway, needs better soundproofing.
• Hotel Ilusion Calma is near the airport and Can Pastilla Marina at C d'Horaci 5. Mostly good reviews.
• 39.53472.72214 Hotel THB El Cid, C del Vaixell 2, ☏ +34 971 260850. Good beachfront hotel, geared up for cyclists. B&B double €180. (updated May 2024)
• Alua Leo is a Hyatt hotel a short block east of El Cid.
• HM Tropical at C de Marbella 16 and HM Gran Fiesta at #28 get mixed reviews.
• HM Ayron Park further south at Trasimeno 7 gets better reviews but rooms are cramped. Adults only.
• HM Dunas Blancas adjacent is similar.
• BG Hotel Pamplona, C de Neopàtria (block north of Iberostar Selection), ☏ +34 971 264900. Value-for-money midrange hotel. B&B double €100. (updated May 2024)
• BG Caballero next door has similar price and quality.
• HM Balanguera Beach is an arty place next to BG Hotel Pamplona, at C de Marbella 35.
• 39.52352.74845 Iberostar Selection Playa de Palma, C de Marbella 36, ☏ +34 971 266450. Bright welcoming beachfront hotel. B&B double €300. (updated May 2024)
• Iberostar Bahía de Palma is next to Iberostar Selection, similar price and quality.
• Iberostar Christina is inland next to Iberostar Selection, slightly cheaper but similar quality.
• Tent Capi Playa is an inexpensive hotel south side of the Iberostar complex.
• THB Maria Isabel is a clean well-run place east side of the Iberostar complex.
• Copaiba by Honne is another block east at C de Villagarcia de Arosa 24. Comfy enough, the main gripe is that the restaurant doesn't accept cards or room-credit, you have to pay everything in cash.
• 39.521142.741466 Hotel Leman, Avda. Son Rigo, 6 07610 Playa de Palma (About halfway between Ca'n Pastilla and S'Arenal, very nice location), ☏ +34 971 260 712, fax: +34 971 492 520, [email protected]. Check-in: 13:00, check-out: 11:00. Nice, family-owned 4-star hotel, with a very good breakfast and dinner (no lunch) buffets. Indoor and outdoor pools. Only 1 block away from the beach with unobstructed sea views from the 4th floors up. Bus to Palma stops only 70 meters away. Value for money 
• 39.52032.74127 Pure Salt Garonda, C de la Mar Negra 2, ☏ +34 971 014040. Pleasant beachfront hotel and spa with rooftop pool. Adults only. B&B double €200. (updated May 2024)
• Aubamar Suites, C Misión de San Diego 17 (100 m north of Hipotels Gran Playa), ☏ +34 971 724347. Slick comfy hotel set back from the beach. B&B double €250. (updated May 2024)
• 39.5152.74898 Hipotels Gran Playa de Palma, Prolongación C de las Canyes, ☏ +34 971 268045. Good all-round hotel. B&B double €180. (updated May 2024)
• Universal Hotel Neptuno is at C del Llaüt 34, on the beachfront by Gran Playa. Mostly good reviews but some gripes, and noise from the nearby Megapark. Adults only.
• Hotel Paradiso Garden, C de la Perla (block south of Gran Playa), ☏ +34 971 260616. High standard of comfort and service. B&B double €160. (updated May 2024)
• Hotel Amic Miraflores, C/ XABEC , 4 (close to Hotels Leo and Linda in Can Pastilla, really nice area and one of the best sandy beaches of Majorca.), ☏ +34 902 400 661, fax: +34902 888 769, [email protected]. Check-in: 13:00, check-out: 11:00. Family atmosphere 5 min to the airport PMI by bus or taxi. 
• 39.591892.59649 Castillo Hotel Son Vida Palma, Calle Raixa 2, Urbanizacion Son Vida. Surrounded by an 18-hole golf course called Son Vida Golf. This beautiful, 171 room high rise setting over the city of Palma de Mallorca has private bathrooms, air conditioning, cable television, Wi-Fi, coffee makers, a minibar, spa facilities, laundry, tennis, swimming pool, game room, fitness centre, lounge, salon, and offers parking available on-site. 
• 39.537822.7165810 ^{[dead link]} Linda Hotel Can Pastilla, Carrer Octavi August 2, Can Pastilla (At the airport). A more poular hotel in Can Pastilla. This 189-room hotel, close to the beach, shopping, bars, restaurants, water sports, gold and an aquarium. This hotel offers a lounge, bar, restaurant, swimming pool, sun lounging areas, parking, internet access, 24 hour reception, game room, tennis, laundry service, and currency exchange. Rooms consist of en-suite bathrooms, balcony, satellite TV, telephone, etc. All of these amenities make this hotel an ideal spot for a holiday vacation in Mallorca. 
• Whala!fun is a simple clean place at C Terral 23 in S'Arenal, part of HM chain.
• Tent Bahia de Palma is adequate for what you pay. It's at C Trencadors 74 in S'Arenal.
• Bahamas I & II are further inland along Av Europa in S'Arenal.

Splurge[edit]

• Palacio Ca Sa Galesa, C de Miramar 8 (east side of cathedral), ☏ +34 971 715400. Small 16th century palace converted into a hotel, and very plush. Some found it fusty, but most rate it highly for atmosphere and service. B&B double €350. (updated May 2024)
• Portixol Hotel (Portixol Hotel), C/ Sirena 27, 07006 Palma (At the end of the Paseo Marítimo on the way to highway, follow the right side by sea. After first traffic light in the small fishing harbour, turn right twice), ☏ +34 971 27 18 00, fax: +34 971 27 50 25, [email protected]. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. A small 4-star hotel facing the sea and the small harbour of Portixol, mixing Scandinavian decoration with Mediterranean style. Nothing pretentious but offering high standard accommodation. Rooms with views to the sea. €200. 
• 39.563542.6265811 Gran Melia Victoria, Avenida Joan Miró, 21 (Paseo Maritimo in the heart of the bay of Palma), ☏ +34 971 732542, [email protected]. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Five-star hotel offering guestrooms, Suites, and Junior Suites are affixed with state-of-the-art technologies and accentuated by furnishings that combine both traditional and island-luxury styles. (updated May 2019)

Connect[edit]

As of June 2022, Palma has 4G from MasMovil/Yoigo, and 5G from Movistar, Orange and Vodafone.

Stay safe[edit]

• Be aware of pickpockets when walking around the centre. They can even steal loose change from your back-pocket!
• If you do stop at any of the many terraces in the centre, keep an eye on your valuables and never leave them alone.
• You will probably find women offering flowers around the cathedral. They will do their best to take what ever they can from you. If you see them, pass on.
• The people on Mallorca are Catalan, not Spanish. Do not make any jokes about "Catalan just being Spanish spoken with a lisp" or any remarks that could be construed as support for the Madrid government.
• Italian troops were stationed on Mallorca during the 1930s. The Franco regime named a road and erected monuments in their honor. However, the local population were less hospitable and there is still some residual resentment. If you are of Italian origin and this comes out during conversation then don't be surprised if it comes to an abrupt end.

Most areas of Palma are safe to wander around even after dark. Visitors should refrain from wandering alone after dark through the empty narrow streets of the Old Town and El Terreno. The gay and lesbian area of town, the Latter, can be rather sleazy in parts and known to attract drug users.

Remember Palma de Mallorca (as well as the other Baleric islands) is full of club drugs. Extasy, cocaine, marijuana, and more can be found especially in the club scene. Be cautious of drugs like GHB, ketamine, and others which can be slipped into drinks (especially in Sangría found in restaurants). Personal drug possession in Spain is legal (considered to be less than 500 doses), but trafficking is illegal.

Keep all valuables out of sight when sightseeing, such as wallets and purses to be kept in front or hidden in pockets. Any excess cash, cards, passports, and valuable documents are best left in the hotel or wherever visitor is staying to stay safe. It is always safe to take a taxi during late hours, especially if you are alone. Use your common sense to stay safe.

Go next[edit]

• Take a journey on a vintage train from the Plaza d'Espanya to Sóller. Sóller is a beautiful small-town getaway, and the slow train journey through the citrus groves has magnificent views of the western mountains. Groups can get a deal for about €10, but depending on the day of the week, tourists can make the round-trip day adventure for about €17.
  You can then take a tram from Soller train station to the Port de Sóller, located on a large bay. The journey takes about 15 minutes and costs €4 (one way). The port of Sóller is full of tourists attractons and shops, and has breathtaking views from the top of the hill on the island.