Every time I visit Palma, I’m reminded why it’s one of my favourite cities in Europe. It’s not just Mallorca’s capital — it’s a vibrant blend of history, culture, and seaside charm, with something new to discover around every corner. Whether I’m wandering through the cobbled streets of the old town, enjoying a long lunch by the marina, or soaking up the sun on a nearby beach, Palma always delivers that perfect balance of relaxation and excitement. I’ve explored the city many times and always find myself coming back to a few special places that really capture its unique spirit. So, if you’re planning a visit, here are my personal picks for the five best places to go in Palma — spots I’ve experienced first-hand and can’t recommend enough.
If you are seeking a holiday in a beautiful Mediterranean climate with plenty of great sights and attractions, Palma is a must. To help get you started on deciding how to spend your trip, we have put together our top recommendations below for the best places to go in Mallorca's Palma.
Every time I step inside Santa Maria Cathedr, I’m completely blown away, no matter how many times I’ve visited. Locally known as La Seu, this awe-inspiring Gothic masterpiece dates all the way back to the 13th century and really is the crown jewel of Palma.
The sheer size of it hits you before you even walk through the doors — it’s the most important religious monument on the island, and you can feel its history in every stone.
I always recommend people make time to visit both during the day and at night. By day, the golden sandstone glows in the sunlight, and by night, the cathedral is beautifully lit up, making it feel almost magical. Inside, it’s even more stunning, with intricate details and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s also perfectly placed along Palma’s promenade, so it’s an easy stop while wandering the city. Plus, you can explore the ancient Roman Walls nearby, which adds another layer of history to your visit.
Whenever I’m in Palma, I always find myself strolling along the Paseo del Borne — it’s such a beautiful avenue and really feels like the heart of the city. Locals simply call it “the Borne”, and it’s definitely where you’ll find Palma’s most luxurious side.
Think designer boutiques, high-end brands, and polished elegance. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a perfect spot for people-watching — I love grabbing a coffee and just soaking up the atmosphere. There’s something surprisingly peaceful about this wide, tree-lined boulevard, especially considering you’re right in the middle of a bustling city. Whether I’m window shopping, enjoying the shade of the trees, or popping into one of the lovely cafés for a break, the Borne is always a must-visit for me when I’m in Palma.
If you love history like I do, the Royal Palace of La Almudaina is absolutely fascinating. Every time I visit, I feel like I’m stepping back through centuries of Mallorca’s incredible past.
Originally built as a Muslim fortress in the 10th century, it was later transformed by the Christians into a Gothic palace. You can really see the mix of cultures in the architecture and design, which I find so interesting. The palace is still officially a royal residence today, which makes it even more special to walk through the same rooms that have housed kings, queens, and historic figures.
One of my favourite parts is the beautiful S’Hort del Rei gardens just below the palace — it’s the perfect peaceful spot to relax by the fountains after exploring the grand halls upstairs.
Every time I visit Castell de Bellver, I’m reminded why it’s one of my favourite spots in Palma. Perched high above the city and surrounded by fresh-scented pine forests, it offers the best panoramic views over Palma and the sea.
I love wandering around the perfectly circular castle — it’s rare to see a fortress like this, and it’s been standing proudly since the 14th century. It’s incredible how well preserved it is, especially considering it was used as a prison for many years.
Now it’s home to Palma’s history museum, and I always enjoy learning more about how the city has evolved over the years. Between the architecture, history, and views, it’s a perfect combination and one of the places I always recommend to friends visiting Palma.
If you’re after a little culture in Palma, Es Balua is my absolute go-to.
I remember the first time I walked through the doors — I was amazed by the variety of contemporary art on display, all with that unique Mallorcan flair. Opened in 2004, the museum sits inside the old city walls and blends the historic architecture with modern design beautifully. I love how it showcases both local and international artists, and every visit feels a little different because of the rotating exhibitions.
It’s especially nice on a quieter afternoon — I’ll often wander through the galleries and then enjoy a drink at the museum café, which has gorgeous views over Palma. For me, Es Baluard always feels like a perfect blend of history, creativity, and a true love for Mallorca.
There are so many places to go when in Palma that it might sometimes be a little overwhelming when it comes to deciding what to do. Hopefully, the recommendations above will help narrow down the top places to go so that you can visit this wonderful city and get the most out of your trip.
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