Mallorca’s capital - a Gothic cathedral over a yacht-filled bay.
Palma is far more than the gateway to Mallorca’s resorts - a genuinely beautiful island capital with a vast Gothic cathedral, a maze of an old town, a marina of superyachts and a foodie quarter that rivals the mainland.
A 15-minute drive from a huge, well-connected airport, a walkable historic city, beaches and the Tramuntana mountains within easy reach, and a long season from spring to autumn.
May to June and September to October for warm sea and quieter streets. July-August is peak season; winter is mild and very calm.
A pour-over in Santa Catalina, then the seafront cycle path along the bay before the day boats leave.
Palma is a base for road cycling and running into the Tramuntana mountains; spas hide inside the old-town palace hotels.
Stay in Santa Catalina or Portixol rather than the package resorts east along the bay.
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The historic core around the cathedral - boutique hotels in restored palaces and the prettiest streets to wander.
The foodie district - a buzzing market, cafes and bars in a former fishermen’s quarter just west of the centre.
A relaxed seaside neighbourhood - a former fishing harbour with a sea-view promenade, a short walk or cycle along the bay.
Not sure which area suits you? We compare 5 Palma neighbourhoods — who each one is for, and the honest reason not to book there.
Where to stay in Palma — full area guide →No - UK visitors can stay visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen area.
Just 8km - about 15 minutes by taxi, or a frequent airport bus straight into the centre.
Yes - the city beaches of Can Pere Antoni and Cala Major are close, and the whole bay is lined with sand within a short drive.
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