Places
One Day in Palma, Mallorca: Cathedral, Old Town & Santa Catalina
.jpg){kind=link}
Short answerStart at Palma Cathedral and the Royal Palace, wander the old town's narrow streets, then head to Santa Catalina for tapas and the market. Palma is one of the best things about the island, so definitely spend a day there. Use the free Bus CC to get around the centre and avoid driving into limited-traffic zones.
Morning: Cathedral and Royal Palace
Begin at Palma Cathedral, the city's centrepiece, and the adjacent Almudaina Palace. These are the highlights of the old town, which is centred on the cathedral and retains medieval city walls and narrow streets.
Afterwards, explore the nearby museums such as Es Baluard Museum of Contemporary Art of Palma or the Museu de Mallorca. The old town is compact and walkable, so take your time.
Midday: Old Town and Markets
Wander the old town's narrow streets and visit the markets. The main market is Mercat de l'Olivar, but note that specific opening hours should be checked locally. For a coffee break, try Ca'n Joan de s'Aigo, a historic café known for its ensaimadas.
If you're interested in art, the Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró a Mallorca is a bit outside the centre but worth the trip if you have time.
Local tipDownload offline Google Maps of your area so you can GPS while on Airplane mode, as travellers report this is useful for navigation.
Afternoon: Santa Catalina
Santa Catalina is Palma's trendy neighbourhood, known for its market and tapas bars. It's a great place to wander and grab a bite. Travellers report that for groups, Santa Catalina has many restaurants that suit all tastes.
Specific restaurant recommendations in Santa Catalina should be checked locally, but the area is lively and full of options.
Where to Eat
For traditional Mallorcan food, try La Cueva or 13%, both regional restaurants in Palma. For rice dishes, Nimo's is a good option. If you're in the mood for fish, Caballito de mar is recommended.
For a quick bite, Bagel is a Spanish café, and for coffee, Arabay is a coffee shop. Travellers report that Raimundo Burger was voted the best burger in Mallorca, and Ca’n Torrat has wood fire grilled meats for a very good price.
What travellers report
Palma is one of the best things about the island; definitely spend a day there.
ClickRent charged 3x the quoted amount including a 200e deposit and only refunded 50e claiming the car was extremely dirty; user advises contacting 'consumo' (consumer protection office in Palma) to seek a refund.
Getting Around and Practicalities
Palma is very safe, unlike areas in the US and UK. The city centre near the big Cathedral has limited traffic areas; entering without authorization can result in fines. Use the free Bus CC to orbit the city centre on weekdays, or walk.
Buses within Palma are run by EMT and are frequent. Standard fares in 2024 are €2 within the city, €3 to the sea port and €5 to the airport, pay on board, no transfers permitted. A prepaid card for ten trips within the city is €15.
Questions people ask
Is one day enough for Palma?
Yes, one day is enough to see the highlights: the cathedral, old town, and Santa Catalina. Palma is one of the best things about the island, so definitely spend a day there.
What is the best way to get around Palma?
Walking is best for the old town. The free Bus CC orbits the city centre on weekdays, and EMT buses are frequent for longer distances.
Where can I eat in Palma?
Try La Cueva or 13% for regional food, Nimo's for rice, or Caballito de mar for fish. Santa Catalina has many restaurants for all tastes.
Is Palma safe?
Yes, Palma is very safe, unlike areas in the US and UK.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
It's advisable to book tickets for the cathedral and museums online to skip queues, but check locally for current opening hours and prices.
Compiled from OpenStreetMap, Wikivoyage and traveller reports. Confirm prices and opening hours locally. About
Keep planning
3-Day Mallorca Itinerary for First-Timers: Day by Day
A realistic 3-day Mallorca itinerary with transport logic: Palma, Tramuntana, and beaches, using car or bus.
Mallorca Beaches and Swimming Spots: A Local's Guide
What each beach is like, how to get there, crowds and facilities. Insider tips for swimming in Mallorca.
Eating in Mallorca Like a Local: Where, When, and How to Spot Traps
Eat like a local in Mallorca: spot tourist traps, know when locals dine, and find authentic spots from Palma to Alcúdia and Valldemossa.