Whenever I visit Palma, I’m reminded why it’s one of my favourite cities in Europe. There’s just something special about this beautiful Mediterranean gem — a perfect mix of culture, history, shopping, and amazing food, all wrapped up in glorious sunshine.
Whether I’m strolling through charming old streets, relaxing by the marina, or sipping a café con leche in a sunny plaza, Palma always feels alive and full of character. Over the years, I’ve discovered some incredible spots that I keep going back to, and in this guide, I’m excited to share my personal picks of the absolute best things to do in Palma.
If you’re heading here soon, these are the must-see places and experiences that will make your visit truly unforgettable.
There is always something going on in Palma, whether it be cultural events, festivals or the chance to enjoy outdoor activities. If you are planning a trip and need more inspiration for the top things to do in Palma, then we can assist as we have put together our top recommendations below for this vibrant city.
One of my favourite ways to unwind in Palma is by heading to La Rambla. If you love picturesque boulevards and colourful flower markets, you’ll be completely charmed by this spot.
Tucked between the Teatre Principal and Calle de los Olmos, La Rambla is such a lovely place to spend a laid-back afternoon. It’s designed just for pedestrians, so you can enjoy a peaceful stroll without worrying about traffic, while cars pass quietly on either side. I always love stopping to admire the beautiful flower stalls that line the centre — it’s a burst of colour and scent that just feels so uplifting.
It reminds me a little of La Rambla in Barcelona, but much quieter and far more relaxed. You can take your time exploring the little boutiques and cosy cafés that border the boulevard, soaking up the laid-back Palma vibe without the crowds.
Whenever I travel to Palma with family, a trip to Palma Aquarium is always a must.
It’s such a fun way to spend a few hours, especially when you want to escape the midday heat. With 55 tanks and over 700 fascinating species of marine life, it’s genuinely impressive. I love how spacious it feels, stretching across a huge area just 500 metres from Playa de Palma beach.
Even during busy summer days, it never feels too crowded. It’s not just entertaining — you actually learn a lot about the incredible sea life in the Mediterranean and beyond. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to stay cool while still making the most of your day out in Palma.
One of my absolute favourite ways to spend a sunny afternoon in Palma is hopping on a bike and heading to Portixol. This charming little former fishing village, just outside the city centre, has been transformed into such a cool and stylish area.
The flat promenade here is ideal for a relaxing bike ride, following the beachfront with the sea glistening alongside you the whole way. I always find it’s the perfect combination of gentle exercise and sightseeing. Along the way, you’ll pass so many inviting restaurants, cafés, and little shops — I can never resist stopping for a snack or drink.
Portixol doesn’t have a typical town centre; it’s all about that peaceful seafront stretch, where you can cycle, stroll, or just sit and enjoy the views. It’s my go-to spot when I want to get out of the city for a few hours but still enjoy the best of Palma.
Whenever I’m in the mood for a bit of retail therapy without the hectic crowds, I head to Via Veri. It’s a smaller, more intimate street compared to some of Palma’s main shopping areas, but that’s exactly what I love about it.
There’s a real charm to this little corner, with pretty boutique shops, lovely jewellery stores, and a handful of designer finds. It’s also just a stone’s throw away from the bustling Borne, so it’s easy to explore both in one outing.
I always admire the beautiful greenery too — many of the storefronts are adorned with vines and plants, making it a surprisingly picturesque spot for shopping. Honestly, it’s worth visiting even just for a wander and a few Instagram snaps.
One thing I always tell people about Palma is — come hungry!
The food scene here is absolutely incredible. Whether I’m in the mood for tapas, fresh seafood, or local delicacies, Palma never disappoints. I love exploring the Palma’s Old Town for dinner; the leafy plazas and cosy squares create the perfect setting for an al fresco meal.
For lunch, I often find myself in Genova, a charming little neighbourhood just outside Palma, where you can enjoy rustic, authentic Spanish cuisine in a peaceful setting. And if you’re in the mood for something more vibrant, Santa Catalina is my go-to. It’s bursting with trendy restaurants, bustling street food markets, and great places to people-watch while enjoying a fresh, delicious meal.
Honestly, there’s something for every taste, and every meal feels like a highlight of the day
One of the things I absolutely love about Palma is how versatile its nightlife is.
There’s something for every mood — whether you’re up for dancing until dawn or just fancy a chilled evening with live music.
Some nights I’m all about the vibrant bars where the atmosphere is electric, and other evenings I prefer a quieter vibe, enjoying live tunes over a leisurely meal. Many of the restaurants here double up as great evening venues with live entertainment, so it’s easy to turn dinner into a fun night out.
Palma really knows how to do nightlife well — relaxed, exciting, and always full of energy.
If you ever get the chance to experience a festival in Palma, I highly recommend it.
The energy in the city during these celebrations is absolutely infectious. One of my favourites has to be Festes de Sant Sebastia in January — the whole city comes alive with bonfires on the beach, lively parades, and fantastic street food everywhere you turn. In the summer, I love the unique experience of the Night of the Pilgrims, where thousands of people walk 50km from Palma to the Lluc Monastery.
It’s an incredible mix of tradition, community spirit, and adventure. Palma’s festivals really give you a glimpse into local life and culture — it’s something that always sticks with me long after the trip.
No matter when you decide to visit Palma, you won’t be disappointed with the many things to do in this wonderful city. Whether you are looking for a tranquil and relaxing break or something a little livelier, there’s enough to do to suit a range of holiday itineraries.
If you are planning a trip to Palma and require accommodation, Vida Villas has a beautiful range of rental properties that can be browsed here. Alternatively, you can contact the team, who will be happy to assist with any more information you may need.
