Palma Cathedral, commonly known as La Seu, is the most iconic landmark of Palma de Mallorca and one of the great Gothic cathedrals of the Mediterranean. Rising directly above the Bay of Palma, its vast sandstone structure dominates the city skyline. According to tradition, its construction was born of a vow. In December 1229, King James I of Aragon was caught in a violent storm while sailing to conquer the Balearic Islands. Facing disaster, the young king swore that if he survived and succeeded, he would build a great cathedral in Mallorca. He survived, conquered the island, and in 1230 construction began on La Seu, on the site of the former main mosque.

Building continued intermittently for around 350 years, making the cathedral a record of evolving architectural styles. The seaward-facing portal reflects early Gothic influences from the 13th century, while the opposite portal dates to the late Gothic period of the 16th century. Elsewhere, Gothic gives way to Renaissance elements, Baroque chapels, and touches of Classicism, particularly in the baptistry. The nave, completed last, ranks among the largest in Europe.

Light is central to the cathedral’s identity. The immense Gothic rose window on the eastern façade measures about 41 feet in diameter and is composed of roughly 1,200 pieces of stained glass. Each morning, sunlight floods the interior with shifting colours. Twice a year, on February 2 and November 11, this effect becomes especially dramatic during the “Light Game of the Eight,” when the rising sun projects the rose window’s image directly beneath the western rose, forming a luminous figure eight. For about twenty days on either side of the winter solstice, sunrise can be seen through both rosettes. The rose window on the eastern façade is positioned directly above the High Altar.

Another highlight to admire is famed modernist architect Antoni Gaudí’s early 20th-century intervention: a massive chandelier suspended above the central altar area. To see it best, stand at the front of the pews in the central nave and look up. You will see a large, illuminated, hexagonal baldachin hanging from chains. Made of wrought iron and cardboard, it features 35 brass lamps.

A natural follow-up after viewing Gaudí’s chandelier is another major intervention, completed in 2007. The Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament was renovated by renowned Mallorcan artist Miquel Barceló, who covered its walls with large, cracked ceramic sculptures representing the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Look for the submerged textures of fish and sea plants, as well as the tall, eerie, monochromatic windows that make the space feel underwater. The chapel is located at the front end of the south aisle, near the main altar.

The Trinity Chapel, which is not open to the public, contains the tombs of Kings James II and James III.

The Royal Palace of La Almudaina is one of Palma de Mallorca’s most important historic monuments, standing directly opposite the cathedral and overlooking the bay. Its origins lie in the Islamic period, when it functioned as the fortified palace of Mallorca. Built on earlier Roman and possibly Byzantine foundations, the complex served as the seat of Muslim governors until the Christian conquest of Mallorca in 1229.

Following the conquest by King James I of Aragon, the palace was adapted for Christian rule. Its most significant transformation came in 1309, when King James II of Mallorca ordered a major reconstruction based on the Royal Palace of Perpignan. This rebuilding established much of the structure and layout that define La Almudaina today. By the 14th century, the palace had assumed its enduring form as a Gothic royal residence, while still preserving traces of its Islamic past, particularly in its courtyards and baths.

To enter the palace premises, look for the arched gateway with a balcony above it. As soon as you clear security, you will walk straight into the King’s Courtyard, easily recognized by the white marble lion fountain at its center. One of the palace’s highlights is the Chapel of Saint Anne, located along the western wall of the courtyard. Its exterior portal immediately stands out, crafted from rose and white marble from the Pyrenees. In contrast to this Romanesque entrance—one of the few surviving examples of the style on the island—the chapel’s interior reflects classic Mallorcan Gothic. Inside, look for the 14th-century alabaster altarpiece and the central rose window, which floods the small space with colorful light.

The most impressive and largest room in the palace is the Great Hall. It is the first major hall you enter after climbing the staircase flanked by two lion statues in the courtyard. Once inside, look up at the massive pointed Gothic arches and the high vaulted ceilings. Along the walls hang Flemish tapestries from the 16th and 17th centuries, depicting intricate mythological and historical scenes. The hall remains the setting for official state receptions when the Spanish royal family is in residence.

Overall, the palace’s interior spaces are clearly differentiated by level. The ground floor maintains a distinctly medieval atmosphere, with art, furnishings, and tapestries dating largely from the 15th century. The upper floor, reserved for official royal acts, is more formal in tone and decorated with artworks and objects from the 17th, 18th, and 20th centuries.

The palace can get quite crowded in the mid-morning when cruise ship tours arrive. For the best experience and to see the Great Hall without the crowds, try to visit during the first hour of opening or in the late afternoon.

Born Passage is one of Palma de Mallorca’s most elegant and historically layered promenades, linking the Old Town with the former port area. Its origins stretch back to the medieval period, when this open space lay just outside the city walls and was used for tournaments, military drills, and public gatherings. The name “Born” is thought to derive from medieval jousting grounds.

In its modern form, the promenade dates largely to the 19th century, when Palma expanded beyond its fortifications. The Born was laid out over the former riverbed of the Riera torrent, which once divided the city. For more than a hundred years, this tree-lined avenue has hosted feasts, demonstrations, public events, and generations of peaceful strollers. A wide central promenade runs between two traffic lanes, originally designed for vehicles moving in each direction. Today, vehicle traffic is strictly limited, giving the entire area the feel of a pedestrian plaza.

Architecturally, the Born is framed by grand townhouses whose ground floors now house galleries, boutiques, and cafés. Landmarks along the promenade include the Solleric Mansion, a former palace turned exhibition space, and the site of the old Born Cinema, now occupied by a Zara store. During the Franco era, the dictator attempted to rename the avenue “Franco Passage,” but locals continued to call it simply the Born.

The passage is ideal for an evening walk. From here, views open toward the Royal Palace of La Almudaina and Palma Cathedral, both especially atmospheric after dark. Cafés and terraces invite lingering, and even small rituals—such as stopping for vegan ice cream at a place called Dolce—fit naturally into the rhythm of the promenade.

Nestled in the heart of Palma’s charming historic centre, the Church of Santa Eulalia (Església de Santa Eulàlia) stands as the city’s oldest parish church. Built in 1236 on the ruins of a former Moorish mosque shortly after the 1229 Catalan conquest, it predates even the iconic Cathedral of La Seu. In the bull of Pope Innocent IV (1248), Santa Eulàlia was recognized as the foremost church in Palma, reflecting its medieval importance during the formative years of the island’s Christian identity.

Historically, the church was the site of major events in Mallorcan governance and royalty: in 1256, the island’s General Council swore loyalty to the heir Jaume, and in 1276 Jaume II was crowned King of Mallorca within its walls. Over the centuries, the church evolved architecturally-from its original Catalan Gothic structure with a central nave flanked by side aisles and chapels between buttresses, to a Neo‑Gothic façade added at the turn of the 20th century, replete with an original 15th‑century rose window.

Inside, visitors will discover a peaceful sanctuary marked by rib-vaulted ceilings supported by elegant octagonal columns, serene stained glass windows, and subtle details in both Gothic austerity and Baroque flourish. Noteworthy features include the Baroque altarpiece by Dominican friar Albert de Burgunyó and the historic pulpit from which Saint Vincent Ferrer preached in 1413. The exterior is adorned with medieval gargoyles-including dragons and harpies-believed to ward off evil, while terraced balconies and façades depict biblical scenes like the Annunciation and the Epiphany.

Despite its proximity to Palma’s larger cathedral, Santa Eulàlia offers a tranquil oasis for reflection. Free from large tourist crowds, it invites visitors to pause, explore the artistry and architecture at leisure, and soak in centuries of history within one of the island’s most evocative spiritual landmarks.

The Convent of San Francisco was built in 1232; in 1281 it was remodeled to what is seen today. Jacques de Mallorca, son of King Jacques II de Mallorca, took his vows here in the 13th century. Today, the Convent of San Francisco and the cloister represent one of the best examples of medieval architecture in Palma de Mallorca.

The church has a Gothic nave which is surrounded by eight side chapels and a polygonal apse. The most recent ones were built between 1445 and 1670. Inside the convent, you will notice a retable, another Gothic masterpiece of the 15th century. To the left of the presbytery, there is the tomb of Ramon Llull, a Majorcan writer and philosopher, logician and a Franciscan tertiary, whose death still remains a mystery.

The façade of the church was rebuilt in the 17th century by Francisco de Herrera. The portal is also of Gothic style. The frontal and the round stained-glass window are the works of glazier Pere Comas.

The cloister attached to the church was built in the 17th -18th centuries. It is a beautiful architectural ensemble with stunning columns and buttresses.

Romans, Byzantines and Arabs had settled one after the other in Mallorca before the Catalans arrived. In the Arab days it was called Medina Mayurqa and they really liked to bath. They built their baths, called hammams, using materials left behind by the Romans and Byzantines. They used old bits of columns and capitals and voila! A bath!

The Arabs built well. The baths in Mallorca are over a thousand years old. One may not vouch for the plumbing, but the building materials are still good. Maybe shabby, but ok. The hot room and warm room of the Arab Baths are still extant but the cold room is no more.

The hot room is a square room. It has 12 columns and a domed ceiling. It is a gallery with a barrel vault. The room has 24 holes for ventilation. The dome has five holes to let in light and fresh air. There is a small well-tended garden attached to the baths. The garden has a jasmine archway, subtropical trees and plants. An afternoon enjoyment.

The baths are only a walk of a minute or so from the Palma Cathedral. They open at 9am to 6pm in the evening in winter and until 7:30pm from April to November.

Paseo Maritimo is a sweeping waterfront avenue along the bay of Palma de Mallorca. Spanning approximately 5.5 kilometers from Porto Pi to Portixol and beyond, it was constructed in the 1950s as a link between the modern port and the historic pier. Lined with elegant palms, wide sidewalks, and dedicated cycling lanes, the promenade invites both strolls and active outings with sweeping Mediterranean views, marina vistas, and city panoramas, including the iconic silhouette of La Seu cathedral rising nearby.

By day, the Paseo Maritimo is beloved by locals and travelers alike as a place to walk, run, or cycle along the harbor. Numerous cafes, casual terraces, and seaside restaurants offer the perfect spot to pause with a coffee, a local seafood dish, or a glass of wine while watching the yachts drift by. For chilling by the water, consider stopping at Portixol, a charming fishing village at the promenade’s eastern end, known for its relaxed vibe and excellent waterfront dining.

As evening falls, the atmosphere shifts. The area blossoms into a lively nightlife district, featuring stylish bars, live music venues, and well-known clubs-such as the famous Tito’s Palace-clustered near Plaza Gomila on the promenade. Whether you prefer dancing the night away or enjoying a quiet sunset drink by the water, the Paseo Maritimo offers something to suit every taste.

In short, the Paseo Maritimo is not just a scenic walkway, but a cultural artery of Palma, where Mediterranean scenery, an active lifestyle, and a vibrant social life converge. Whether you're seeking tranquillity at sunrise, seaside dining at midday, or nightlife after sunset, this promenade captures the essence of Mallorca’s coastal charm.

Olivar Market sits in the heart of Palma de Mallorca and is the city’s largest and most important public market. Opened in 1951, it takes its name from the former Convent of the Olivar, which once occupied the area. Built as part of Palma’s postwar modernization, the market brought together food vendors who had previously operated in smaller open-air settings, creating a central hub for everyday shopping and social life.

If you enjoy food in all its forms, Olivar Market is the place to be. The easiest way to understand its importance is to watch the locals. See where they go for snacks, take-away meals, fresh ingredients, and casual lunches. Follow their lead. Even with a fairly dense network of supermarkets in the city, the market remains the go-to destination for residents as well as visitors.

Inside, the range is impressive. Seafood displays highlight Mallorca’s close relationship with the Mediterranean, while nearby stalls offer meats, cured sausages such as sobrassada, cheeses, fresh fruit, vegetables, dairy products, and gourmet specialties. Sushi counters sit alongside traditional fishmongers, reflecting both local tastes and modern influences. Bars, cafés, and small restaurants throughout the market make it easy to stop for tapas, coffee, or a meal on the spot.

On the ground floor (the first floor in the United States), visitors will find most of the produce, meat, seafood, and gourmet food stalls. Escalators and elevators lead to the upper level, which expands the experience beyond food shopping. Here, you’ll find a small shopping arcade, restaurants and bars, boutiques, a supermarket, a cooking school, a hairdressing salon, a children’s area, and even a library, along with access to the parking area.

Beyond its offerings, Olivar Market provides a vivid snapshot of daily Palma life. Conversations flow across counters, routines unfold naturally, and the pace shifts from busy mornings to a calmer midday rhythm. It’s not just a market, but one of the best places to understand how Palma eats, shops, and lives.

Sant Miquel's Shop (Botigueta de Sant Miquel) is a charming boutique‑style delicatessen beloved by locals and visitors alike. This artisan shop offers a delightful showcase of Mallorcan and Mediterranean gourmet specialties-from golden‑pressed olive oils and hand‑crafted local cheeses to freshly baked breads, sweet pastries, olives, and organic produce. With a cozy interior and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot to explore the flavors of the Balearic Islands on foot.

Located steps away from Plaza Mayor, the boutique lies along one of Palma’s busiest pedestrian arteries. Lined with cafés, boutiques, and historic buildings, Carrer de Sant Miquel forms a lively stretch that beautifully captures the spirit of Palma’s central neighbourhood. Whether you’re strolling the street or exploring nearby landmarks like the Basilica of San Miguel, the shop provides an authentic taste of Mallorcan traditions.

Inside the shop, most products are sourced directly from the island or the broader Mediterranean region, emphasizing local provenance and quality. Expect shelves stocked with artisanal oils bearing the DO “Oli de Mallorca” label, handmade conserves, seasonal vegetables, and Mediterranean favorites from nearby regions like Catalonia or Italy. For food‑loving travellers, it presents a wonderful opportunity to sample or purchase edible souvenirs-think jars of honey, spices, olive blends, or even ready‑to‑eat bites.

Whether you're planning to enjoy a snack right away or bring home gourmet gifts for friends and family, Sant Miquel's Shop offers a taste of Mallorca’s authentic food heritage in an inviting, understated setting. It’s a lovely stop for culinary explorers walking Palma’s charming streets-pair it with a coffee at a nearby café or fold it into a leisurely shopping and sightseeing itinerary through the old town.

Spanish Village (Poble Espanyol) is a cultural and architectural showcase located in Palma de Mallorca. Built in 1965, it was designed as an open-air museum to represent the rich diversity of Spanish architecture, crafts, and traditions. The complex spans over 6,000 square meters and features replicas of iconic buildings, streets, and squares from different regions of Spain, offering visitors a condensed tour of the country’s cultural heritage without leaving the island.

The village is divided into distinct sections, each reflecting a particular style or region, from Andalusian courtyards with whitewashed walls to Gothic arches reminiscent of Catalonia. Walking through its cobbled streets feels like stepping into a miniature version of Spain’s most recognizable landmarks. The attention to detail in the replicas provides both an educational experience and a picturesque setting for leisurely exploration.

Beyond its architectural charm, Spanish Village is also a hub for local craftsmanship and cultural events. Visitors can browse artisan workshops, where traditional ceramics, leather goods, and jewelry are made and sold. Seasonal events, including live music performances, wine tastings, and art exhibitions, add to its vibrant atmosphere, making it a lively destination throughout the year.

For tourists seeking a deeper understanding of Spain’s regional variety, Spanish Village offers an accessible and visually striking introduction. Its combination of historical references, cultural activities, and shopping opportunities makes it a popular stop for families, culture enthusiasts, and those looking to enjoy an immersive experience in a unique setting.

Bellver Castle (Castell de Bellver), perched atop the lush Puig de Sa Mesquida just 3 kilometers west of Palma’s historic core, offers visitors both architectural intrigue and breathtaking vistas. Built between 1300 and 1310 by order of King Jaume II of Mallorca and designed by Pere Salvà (who also worked on the Royal Palace of La Almudaina), this castle is one of the few truly circular fortresses in Europe-its round outer curtain wall, central courtyard, and three surrounding towers seamlessly define its rare form.

Originally conceived as a royal residence, Bellver Castle served the kings of Mallorca only briefly-Jaume II, Sanç I, and Jaume III all stayed for short periods. As political tides shifted, the fortress was repurposed: by the 18th century, it had become a military prison, holding notable figures such as Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos, and continued in this function through Spain’s wars and civil conflicts until the early 20th century.

Today, the castle is a welcoming cultural icon under the care of Palma’s city government. Inside lies the City History Museum (Museu d’Història de la Ciutat), tracing Palma’s evolution from Roman and Moorish times through to the modern era, with displays of ceramics, maps, sculpture, and city artefacts. Visitors can stroll among the Gothic arches of the two‑level courtyard, climb to the rooftop terrace, and explore the structure’s hidden recesses-from former dungeons to a cistern within the courtyard well.

For tourists, Bellver Castle rewards both curiosity and wonder: artfully blending medieval Gothic elegance with formidable military design, it also offers panoramic views across the Bay of Palma, the Sierra de Tramuntana, and the city rooftops. Surrounded by pine‑clad forest and linked to the city via a scenic uphill walk or local bus route, it’s a must-see landmark whose name, meaning “beautiful view,” lives up to every bit of expectation.