People watching hot spots in Palma

Surrounded by elegant buildings and lined with shops, cafés and hotels, from here you can easily reach the old town, the train station, or catch buses around the island. The square is also a gateway to the city’s cultural highlights and is often used for markets and public events, making it a lively spot day and night.

The centre of Plaça Cort is where the famous 'Olivera de Cort' is located. This six hundred-year-old tree was transported to Palma from the Pedruixella Petit estate in Pollença in 1989 as a symbol of peace. The olive tree is 7 metres high and very popular among visitors who attempt to find faces on its trunk, including an ear, the 'Orella de Mallorca'.

There are a few bars and cafes around the square, with terraces spreading across Plaça Cort, as well as an ice cream parlour, Giovanni's. They deliver to the Spanish Royal House, so get one of their ice creams and enjoy it under the olive tree.

Sit beneath the palm trees gazing up at the cathedral and try to imagine the travellers of days gone by arriving at this same spot from the sea by boat. The park also hosts a number of events, concerts and festivals throughout the year.

The square stands where the San Felipe Neri convent was located. Afterward, it became the see of the infamous Spanish Inquisition in Mallorca until 1823. The current square was built in the 19th century, from 1825 until the start of the 20th century.

When exploring the old town it's natural to end up here since it lies at the heart of the district. The popular shopping street Sant Miquel is one of the four main streets that join the plaza, meaning throngs of people pass through every day. Street performers such as puppeteers, living statues and artists congregate here to entertain visitors. 

The beautiful buildings that surround it feature arches creating a covered corridor on the ground floor where shops could show their products. They now host a great selection of cafes, bars and restaurants with terraces opening onto the square.

Plaça Major hosts a craft market tailored towards tourists looking for souvenirs throughout the year, celebrated every day in July, August, September, Easter and Christmas.

Arguably the most attractive avenue in Palma, its stone benches welcome visitors and locals alike to take a moment to enjoy its beauty. Lofty trees, decorative street lamps and a pulsing fountain make for an uplifting experience. Being so close to the iconic La Seu Cathedral and Almudaina Palace means there's a steady flow of people always passing through. 

Luxury boutiques and the popular chains draw shoppers its way, who are either on their way back or heading towards Avenida Jaume III. If a stone bench doesn't appeal, not to worry, there are plenty of bars and restaurants with comfortable outdoor seating too.

Come here to feel the pulse of Palma from a seat at a pavement cafe.