Top attractions in Palma de Mallorca

Lined with palm trees and an enormous harbour, Avenida Gabriel Roca (otherwise known as Paseo Marítimo) is the main road where Palma meets its beautiful bay. The avenue stretches for over 5 kilometres of coastline and boasts a popular promenade encompassing separate paths for cyclists, roller skaters and other wheels, away from pedestrians. If you've come to Palma to enjoy the sunny weather, take a stroll or cruise along the seafront on wheels whilst soaking up the sea air and impressive scenery. You are guaranteed to work up an appetite for the tapas and cañas later.

Passeig des Born offers a sophisticated shopping experience thanks to top end international designers like Mulberry, Luis Vuitton and Hugo Boss alongside some of the most famous Spanish high-street brands like Zara and Massimo Dutti. In the bustling streets of Jaume III and Sant Miquel the list of shops is endless, with a mish-mash of high street designers and some beautiful boutique shops. There are also various department stores to be explored, El Corte Inglés and Rialto Living are the two biggest names in the city centre.

For a more cultural experience, there’s plenty of traditional Mallorcan produce to get your hands on. Sweeten your afternoon with an "ensaimada", or pick up some "sobrassada", a soft cured sausage that is delicious on bread with a drizzle of olive oil and honey. The island is producing top-notch wine and olive oil, so be sure to sample some if you can. Mallorca is also famous for its fine leather goods, long-lasting artificial pearls and beautiful hand-woven baskets, so there’s plenty of shopping to be done.

If you have spent the day in Palma’s old town, then try the neighbourhood of Santa Catalina in the evening. With its authentic charm and lively atmosphere, it’s a great place to spend a few hours indulging in some delicious food and drinks. This is the trendy area of town with some first class international and local cuisine which attracts a whole host of people from locals and expats to the jet-setting type.

L'Olivar is a vibrant market offering a mouthwatering array of fresh seafood, meat, fruit and vegetables. A little pricey for a weekly shop, but definitely worth stopping by to give your taste buds a treat. Why not try some lemon and tabasco covered oysters and a glass of chilled fizz? Take the weight off your feet and indulge in some people-watching while you enjoy the freshest tastes from the island.

In a beautiful 16th-century fort, the Bastion de Sant Pere, the Museum of Spanish Contemporary Art (also known as Es Baluard) is an oasis of calm on the busy pedestrianised street of Sant Miquel. Free to enter and with a permanent collection which includes big names such as Picasso and Mirò, it's a wonderful place to take a moment and recharge your batteries. Don't forget to visit their rooftop bar and enjoy drinks with a view.

Palma’s stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma (La Seu), a Gothic masterpiece begun in the 13th century with later contributions from Gaudí and Barceló, is an iconic city landmark best visited early to enjoy morning light streaming through its stained-glass windows. Nearby, the circular Castell de Bellver rewards visitors with panoramic views over the city and bay, plus a small history museum. Adjacent, the Royal Palace of L’Almudaina, originally a 10th-century fortress, showcases historic tapestries, artefacts, and beautiful gardens.

How can you resist the allure of Mallorca’s idyllic coastline? Simply, don't! 
Catch the number 3 bus to Illetas from Palma’s city centre and you'll find a tranquil sandy beach in a picturesque town less than half an hour away. Alternatively, hire bikes and head east to the beaches of Portixol, Molinar and Playa de Palma. This is a popular activity for all age groups wanting to get out of the city and explore the coastline full of beautiful scenery and superb restaurants.

If you prefer to explore the coastline from a completely different angle, then why don’t you take to Mallorca’s waters on a boat trip? Book the popular catamaran excursion to Illetas, which leaves from Palma’s harbour. It’s a great way to work on your tan whilst viewing the epic coastline. Alternatively, if you are a large group or willing to spend a little more, why don’t you charter your own boat? With various options available at different prices, there is sure to be something to accommodate your needs.