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.
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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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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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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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.
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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 Pappa Restaurant
Enjoy the taste of Italy at La Pappa. They serve delicious homemade pasta and Neapolitan pizzas, crafted with care and tradition. Their Italian desserts and ice creams are also made in-house, offering a true taste of Italy.
What to do
Things To Do in Mallorca
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Motor Yacht Trip (Sunseeker Manhattan 55)
Enjoy a fun full-day or half-day boat trip aboard this exquisite Sunseeker Manhattan 55 motor yacht.
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Aqualand Waterpark, S'Arenal
One of the world's largest water funfairs, with enough thrills and spills to keep you happy all day. In addition to the water slides and wave pool, there is a mini-zoo, as well as a children's farm, parrot shows.
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Charming Villages, Legends & Windmills Tour
This is a different way to enjoy a quality guided tour with your own car, and discover little-known hidden places with a local guide using portable radios whilst you drive.
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Caving & sea caving
Choose between inland caving and sea caving - each offers a unique way to uncover the island’s secret subterranean world.
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Sailing Boat Trip (Hanse 458)
Full-day or half-day boat trip aboard the eye-catching Hanse 458 – sure to impress every guest on board
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Private boat trip
Step away from the crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of an unforgettable sailing adventure.
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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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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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.
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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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La Goleta Hotel
This wonderful beach-front hotel has a maritime theme with its name 'Goleta' meaning schooner in Catalan.
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Son Palou Hotel, Orient
This hotel lies in the middle of a private estate of 150 hectares with large plantations of apple and cherry trees, cultivated fields and mountains. It is an ideal base for hiking, riding mountain-bikes or simply strolling around to watch the farmers pick cherries and apples.
