Plaça de Cort
The small and charming square of Plaça Cort, located in the heart of the city, is famous for the ancient olive tree ('Olivera de Cort') that stands in the centre.
Gothic Heritage of Palma de Mallorca Walk
See Palma's Gothic churches & historical buildings
Palma is a city with Medieval origins and hidden amongst some of the more ramshackle parts of the city are some architectural gems from the 14th century.
Start at Placa Espana and head down Carrer Oms towards the church of Santa Margalida where the old gateway to the city, the Babalcofol stood, and also where an ancient monastery used to exist. Continue down Carrer Oms until you reach Las Ramblas, cross over to Misericordia where you will find the Church of the Hospital, or de la Sang, an example of a Medieval hospital. Follow carrer Sant Marti and then turn left on to Carrer Sant Jaume past the church of Saint Jaume (parish church) until you reach Placa Joan Carles.
From here, you need to navigate through the tiny lanes behind Passeig Born to find Placa Cort (follow Carrer Can Brondo, the Carrer Sant Nicolau, then up some steps to reach Carrer Sant Bartomeu and straight on to Placa Cort). Beyond Placa Cort is Placa Santa Eulalia, a beautiful sandstone Gothic church with origins in the 13th century. This was the site where King Jaume I was coronated in 1229 after he conquered the then-ruling Moors. Construction of the church was not completed until the 16th century and its distinctive Gothic steeple was actually built in the 19th century. Look out for the gargoyles and the highly decorative main entrance.
Continue down Carrer Convent Sant Francesc to the imposing Basillca Sant Francesc from the 13th century. Be sure to visit the pretty cloisters inside. From here, head down to the cathedral, La Seu. You can take a little detour to visit the monastery of Santa Clara (Carrer Santa Clara) and the Museum of Mallorca (Carrer Portella) before you reach La Seu. You will also find the Episcopal Palace, home to the Diocesan Museum and the Royal Palace Almudaina.
After the Almudaina, turn right on to Passeig Born before turning left on to Carrer Sant Feliu. This tiny street has a number of shops and galleries to explore before you reach the church of Sant Creu. This Gothic church was was built on top of the crypt of Sant Llorenc and was one of the first Gothic churches built in Palma in the 14th century.
The final Gothic building in Palma that is recommended is Bellver Castle, but this is a bus or taxi ride away (or a couple of miles walk, it is at the top of a hill). Bellver Castle offers a wonderful example of a round defensive fortress from the 14th century and provides great views over the city.
Read about Palma's Sights & Attractions.
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What to see
Sights in Mallorca
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Museu de Sa Jugueta
Based on the collection of Antoni Roig Clar, this museum showcases over 3,000 toys from all around the world and from different eraas.
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Palau March Sculpture Gallery
Just next to the cathedral is the impressive Palau March (Bartolome March Foundation) with a great collection of 20th century sculpture.
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Fundacio La Caixa
The Gran Hotel was Palma's first luxury hotel when it opened in 1903. Designed by the Catalan architect Lluis Domenech I Montaner, it was the building that began the craze for modernists (art nouveau) architecture in the city.
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Plaça Major
The Plaça Major is Palma's main square. This rectangular space surrounded by traditional yellow buildings with green shutters has been the centre of the city life throughout the centuries.
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Basilica de Sant Francesc
The facade of this 13th-century church in Palma (remodelled after it was struck by lightning in the 17th century) is typically Mallorcan - a massive, forbidding sandstone wall with a delicately carved postal and a rose window at the centre.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Mallorca
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Noir Mallorca Café
Welcome to Noir, your go to food bar in the heart of Cala D'or, Mallorca. Open from 09:00 to 23:00, they offer all-day breakfast, brunch, and a great selection of coffee, tea and wine.
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Barretes Restaurant at Ca's Xorc
Ca's Xorc Luxury Retreat is home to an abundance of delicious fresh and local food such as a selection of fruit and vegetables, fish, red shrimp, lamb and Iberico pork. The chef at Ca's Xorc interprets this local, Mediterranean cuisine in a modern and creative manner.
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Sa Magrana Restaurant
This award-winning restaurant offers creative, fresh-from-the-market cuisine.
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Diferent Restaurant
Restaurant Diferent truly stands out. Beyond its eccentric and fun decor, it offers a vast international menu, a wide selection of wines, cocktails and fantastic, friendly service.
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SoY Asian Kitchen and Bar
The little Asia of Mallorca, where the spices of Asia meet the local products of the nearby surroundings.
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La Bodega Restaurant
This traditional Spanish restaurant is situated within the heart of Cala d'Or and has a phenomenal reputation for providing fantastic food, service and a welcoming, friendly atmosphere.
What to do
Things To Do in Mallorca
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Private boat trip
Step away from the crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of an unforgettable sailing adventure.
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Marineland
Entertainment here is provided by the performing dolphins, sealions and parrots. There is also a penguin pool, a reptile house and a large collection of sharks and tropical fish, plus flamingoes, monkeys and an impressive aviary.
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Romantic Sunset Dinner Boat Trip
This exclusive sailing tour for two is the perfect way to enjoy a romantic evening watching the sunset over the Mediterranean with the one you love.
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Canyoning & dry canyoning
Whether you prefer plunging into crystal-clear pools or climbing sun-drenched rock faces, there’s an adventure waiting in the island’s stunning Sierra de Tramuntana mountains.
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Stand Up Paddle Board Hire
Discover the southwestern coast of Mallorca on a stand-up-paddle board at your own pace, and enjoy the stunning scenery while practising an outdoor sport.
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Coastal boat trip
Enjoy a fantastic day at sea and exploring secluded coves and beaches aboard a typical yacht from the Balearic Islands, "El Gordito".
Where to stay
Cycling Hotels in Mallorca
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Son Julia Country House Hotel
If you're looking for a perfect hideaway from your usual routine, then this lovely 15th century Mallorcan manor is the place to escape to.
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El Encinar de Arta Hotel
Restored with love in every detail, the 18th century country house lies on a hill approximately 5 km from the picturesque village Artà. Beautiful landscape, close to 4 golf courses, lovely beaches and nature reserves.
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Son Pons Agroturismo Hotel
Situated in a magnificent country estate of 150.000 m² located in the North of Mallorca, the building dates from the 16th century.
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La Goleta Hotel
This wonderful beach-front hotel has a maritime theme with its name 'Goleta' meaning schooner in Catalan.
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Castell Son Claret
First mentioned in 1450, this site consists of various properties united in the 18th century to form a 132-acres estate. The current buildings, reformed in the 19th century, have been lovingly restored in 2013 to open as a luxury hotel that includes beautiful gardens.
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Feliz Boutique Hotel
Find peace and tranquillity in this chic, modern hotel just off the harbour promenade, with a bustling nightlife. With a friendly atmosphere that invites you to be happy.
