Palma de Mallorca: The Best 2 Day Itinerary

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Dreaming of a sun-soaked escape to the Mediterranean? Palma de Mallorca, the vibrant capital of the Balearic Islands, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery that can be explored in just two days.

From the breathtaking architecture of La Seu Cathedral to the charming streets of the Old Town, Palma promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a foodie looking to indulge in local cuisine or an adventurer eager to uncover hidden gems, this meticulously crafted itinerary ensures you make the most of your short stay in this captivating city.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Palma de Mallorca. Our action-packed itinerary will guide you through how to get around, where to stay, what food to try, and all the must-see sights in Palma de Mallorca over two days.

Day 1

9am: Visit La Seu Cathedral

Your first stop and main attraction in Palma de Mallorca is the Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, commonly known as La Seu or Palma Cathedral. Constructed in 1601, the Gothic Roman Catholic Cathedral was commissioned by King James I of Aragon.

One of the most striking features of La Seu is its enormous rose window, known as the ‘Gothic Eye.’ In the early 20th century, the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí was invited to restore and refurbish parts of the cathedral, and although his work was cut short due to a disagreement with the contractor, he made significant contributions to the interior.

Inside Palma Cathedral, you will find various artworks and chapels decorated by various artists throughout history. While inside, check out the modernist ceramic mural created by contemporary artist Miquel Barceló. It is located in the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament and depicts biblical scenes with a unique and dynamic artistic approach.

The cathedral’s hours of operation change depending on the time of year and day of the week, but it is always closed on Sundays. If you’re visiting in peak season, we highly recommend booking your skip-the-line entry tickets in advance.

10am:  Walk around Parc de la Mar

Located right in front of the cathedral is the Parc de la Mar, a large park featuring a man-made lake that mirrors the reflection of Palma Cathedral.

The park offers walking paths, seating areas, and small gardens, making it a popular spot to relax and enjoy the stunning views of Palm Cathedral and the Mediterranean Sea.

11am: Wander Through the Old Town

Take a leisurely stroll through Palma’s charming Old Town, where narrow, winding streets are lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and cosy cafés. This is also the perfect place to find somewhere for lunch!

Architecture

Some of the top attractions in the old town are the Ajuntament (Town Hall), Basilica de Sant Miquel, La Llotja (a 15th-century civil building), Sant Francesc church, and the lush Jardí del Bisbe.

Also, make sure to visit Plaça Major, the Old Town’s main square, and check out the local artisans’ stalls. Don’t forget to take a walk on Born de Palma, a tree-lined pedestrian street at the heart of city life and home to fiestas, demonstrations and plenty of cafés, restaurants, and bars.

Museums

Palma is world-famous for its pearls, so much so it is known as ‘the pearl of the Mediterranean,’ so make sure to check out the free Pearl Museum, where you can also shop for the beautiful gem.

Other museums to visit if you have time are Museu de Mallorca, Museu Fundacion Juan March, and Museou Histórico Militar de Carles.

Arab Baths

Step back in time with a visit to the Banys Àrabs (Arab Baths). These ancient baths, dating back to the 10th century, are one of the few remnants of Palma’s Moorish past when the Arab city of Medina Mayurqa was located where Palma de Mallorca is now.

The baths feature a small, well-preserved domed chamber supported by a dozen columns. The small, serene garden surrounding the baths is a perfect spot to relax and escape the heat. They are open from 10am to 6 pm every day except Sunday when they are open until 7pm.

2pm: Take a Snorkelling Adventure

Palma is surrounded by deep turquoise waters that just beg you to jump in! When you visit, it would be criminal not to get into the Mediterranean Sea at least once, and you can book several great trips that add adventure to the swimming!

You can either take a boat tour with snorkelling in Palma Bay or our favourite quad bike tour with snorkelling and cliff jumping, where you get to ride a quad along mountain roads, cliff jump, swim, and snorkel in the beautiful waters along the coast.

If you’re happiest on the water, why not paddle your own kayak and snorkel along the way? Visit local sea caves and snorkel with an experienced instructor with this popular kayaking tour from Palma.

Evening

A perfect way to end the day is with a chilled sunset cruise. You can head out on a catamaran or traditional sailing boat from La Lonja Marina and enjoy the scenic coastline from a different perspective.

All sunset cruises serve cocktails. Some limit the numbers so you’re in a small group, and others have a DJ, making the cruise perfect for a party! Whichever your preference, your perfect sunset cruise should be booked in advance, as catching the glow as the sun sinks below the horizon is a popular activity in Palma!

Day 2

9am: Explore Almudaina Palace

Your first stop today is Almudaina Palace. Adjacent to La Seu is the Palau de l’Almudaina, the royal palace originally built as an Islamic fort in the 10th century. Today, the palace serves as an official residence for the Spanish royal family during their visits to the island and is used for various state ceremonies and events.

The architecture blends Gothic and Moorish styles. Wander through its grand halls, lush gardens, and terraces that offer panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Inside the palace, you will find beautiful paintings, huge tapestries, and furniture from various time periods.

You will also have a chance to see the lavish Royal Apartments. Another highlight of the palace is the Chapel of Santa Ana, a small but beautifully preserved Gothic chapel. The palace is open every day from 10am to 6pm. 

11am: Enjoy a Spanish Cooking Experience

In this highly-rated Spanish cooking experience, you’ll work under the guidance of a local chef, learning the art of crafting a complete menu of traditional Spanish dishes. This welcoming class is designed for everyone, regardless of cooking experience, with the chef tailoring instructions to suit all skill levels.

The culinary journey begins with welcome snacks of cheese and olives, followed by the creation of classic dishes like tortilla española (Spanish omelette), mixed paella, and creme Catalan. As you watch and participate in the preparation, you’ll uncover the secrets of authentic Spanish cuisine.

Once the cooking is finished, you’ll enjoy your delicious creations in a beautiful dining room with complimentary wine, water, and soft drinks. At the end of the class, you’ll receive the recipes so you can recreate these dishes at home, impressing your friends and family with your newfound skills!

3pm: Visit Bellver Castle

Another thing to do in Palma de Mallorca is to visit Bellver Caste. You can take a taxi to this unique circular Gothic-style fortress perched on a hill overlooking Palma, hike the 3km from the city centre, or grab the hop-on-hop-off bus, which includes a ticket to the castle as well!

Bellver Castle was built in the 14th century for King James II of Mallorca. Its distinctive round design, rare among European castles, features a central courtyard surrounded by four large towers. The castle offers stunning panoramic views of Palma, its harbour, and the surrounding countryside.

Inside, it houses a museum showcasing the city’s history, making it an interesting destination for its architectural marvel and historical significance. It will take you most of the morning to see Bellver Castle because it is a bit out of the way and it’s big.

The castle is open every day from 10am to 6pm except Sunday when it closes at 3pm. If you decide to hike to this attraction, make sure you bring water, have sun protection, and wear comfortable shoes.

6pm: Walk Along the Paseo Marítimo

A great thing to do while in Palma de Mallorca, especially in the evening, is to take a leisurely walk along the Paseo Marítimo, the city’s scenic waterfront promenade.

Enjoy the views of the marina, with its impressive yachts and sailboats, and stop for a coffee or gelato at one of the many cafés along the way.

Evening

If visiting the Arab Baths wasn’t quite enough, take a real-life Arab bath at the Hammam Al Ándalus. Find space to disconnect from the day and enjoy reconnecting with your inner self in a place of tranquillity.

With baths, steam rooms, hot stone benches, skin purification, and massages on offer, this is a perfect way to end your two days in Palma de Mallorca.

More Spanish Travel Inspiration

Try the Cuisine of Palma de Mallorca

There are so many delicious and unique foods and drinks to try in Palma de Mallorca, many of which are based on traditional peasant fare made with local and seasonal ingredients. 

Start your day with a fresh ensaïmada, a soft, sweet pastry that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee. For lunch, try pa amb oli, a simple yet delicious dish of rustic bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes and drizzled with olive oil, often topped with local ham or cheese.

Don’t miss the opportunity to savour sobrasada, a unique spreadable pork sausage seasoned with paprika. If you are a seafood lover, you should try a plate of arròs brut, a hearty rice dish cooked with meats and vegetables in a flavorful broth.

Pair your meals with local wines, such as robust reds from Binissalem or crisp whites from Pla i Llevant. Alternatively, try a glass of refreshing Sangria if you are in the mood for a fruity wine-based drink. To end your meal, sip on a glass of hierbas Mallorquinas, a traditional herbal liqueur.

For dessert, try gató de almendra, a light almond cake traditionally served with a scoop of almond ice cream. Or rubiols, sweet pastries filled with jam, cream, or cottage cheese. And, of course, my favourite, crema Catalana, which is essentially the Spanish version of creme brulee but without the torching!

Also, don’t forget to try different tapas, small dishes, or appetizers that originated in Spain. They are typically served as snacks and can include a wide range of options, such as cheese, olives, cured meats, seafood, and vegetables. I recommend trying these tapas: patatas bravas (fried potato cubes served with a spicy tomato sauce), boquerones (marinated anchovy fillets), and jamón Ibérico (the world-famous curated ham).

Take a Day Trip Around Mallorca

To explore the rest of Mallorca you would need two days, but if you do have an extra day, it is definitely worth it. We highly recommend taking the brilliant island tour with boat, tram and train journeys from Palma.

Begin your adventure from Palma and be driven to Sa Calobra. This journey takes you through the stunning Tramuntana Mountains, with its winding roads and breathtaking view, making the drive an experience in itself.

Upon reaching Sa Calobra, you can explore the area, which has steep cliffs and crystal-clear water. Then, board a boat for a scenic ride along the coast to the Port of Sóller. This boat trip offers stunning views of Mallorca’s rugged coastline.

You will arrive at Port of Sóller, a charming harbour town with a lively promenade and beach. Next, hop on the historic tram from Port Sóller to Sóller, a quick journey through orange groves and lush landscapes. 

In Sóller, explore the town’s main square, Plaça Constitució, and visit the beautiful Church of Sant Bartomeu. Finally, conclude your day with a ride back to Palma on the vintage wooden train known as the Ferrocarril de Sóller. This historic train ride, operating since 1912, takes you through the Tramuntana Mountains, offering stunning views of the island’s interior and a journey back in time with its charming, antique carriages.

This day trip offers a perfect blend of Mallorca’s natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural experiences, making it an unforgettable adventure from start to finish.

Getting Around Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca Airport is 8km from the city centre. The easiest and cheapest way to get into the city is by using the airport bus, A1 Airport City Center. The bus has two stops at the airport—the first one is at Arrivals (floor 0), and the second one is at Departures (floor 2). The bus operates every 15 minutes and has ten stops on the route.

For a great way to start your Palma trip, book a private transfer from the airport with Intui directly to your accommodation in the city center – it’s more cost-effective than you think! Intui works with a wide range of local operators to bring the best options and prices for your transfer.

Once in the centre, Palma de Mallorca is a walkable city, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. You will not need to rent a car unless you plan to explore more of Mallorca.

If you are staying in the city centre, you will probably need a taxi or bus only to go to Bellver Castle if you don’t feel like the hike, or you can use the hop-on-hop-off bus to get around.

Where to Stay in Palma de Mallorca

Up-Market: In the heart of the Old Town, the Sant Jaume Design Hotel offers a luxurious and contemporary retreat that perfectly blends modern elegance with historic charm. This boutique hotel boasts stylish, meticulously designed rooms and suites featuring sleek furnishings and upscale amenities. Guests can enjoy a rooftop terrace with stunning city views, an inviting spa, and an exceptional on-site restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine.

Mid-Range: Hotel Palma Bellver, located on the picturesque Paseo Marítimo, offers stunning views of Palma Bay. The hotel features comfortable rooms, many of which have balconies overlooking the sea. Our room faced the water, and the view was beautiful. There is a seasonal outdoor pool, a fitness centre, and a restaurant serving a variety of international and Mediterranean cuisine as well as delicious breakfast. The hotel is located close to Bellver Castle and about a 15-minute walk from the heart of Palma, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.

Budget: Located in a tranquil residential area, Hotel Araxa combines a retro ambience with modern comforts. It features cozy rooms, lush gardens, and a refreshing outdoor pool. Guests can unwind in the hotel’s spa, enjoy a drink at the poolside bar, and savor delicious Mediterranean dishes at the on-site restaurant.

Hostel: Hostal Pons is a charming and budget-friendly option that offers a cosy and authentic Mallorcan experience. Situated in a traditional building with rustic décor and a homely atmosphere, this quaint hostel provides comfortable rooms and communal areas adorned with local art and antiques. Its central location allows easy access to Palma’s historic sites, lively markets, and vibrant nightlife, making it an excellent choice for travellers looking to explore the city on foot.

Mallorca Travel Tips

When to Visit

When to visit: The best time to visit Palma is during the spring months of April to June and the fall months of September to October when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be very hot and crowded, especially in July and August. We visited in October, and the weather was perfect.

Language: While Spanish is the official language, many locals also speak Mallorquín, a dialect of Catalan. English is widely understood in tourist areas.

Dining: Dinner in Spain typically starts late, around 8pm or later. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is customary.

Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites like La Seu Cathedral. Beachwear is appropriate at the beach but should be avoided in the city centre.

Safety: Palma de Mallorca is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any popular destination, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.

Party: Mallorca is not as focused on partying as Ibiza; it is more about relaxation and history.

Conclusion

Palma de Mallorca is a great city to explore, offering its visitors rich history, culture, and natural beauty. In just two days, you can explore its stunning main attractions, such as Bellver Castle, indulge in its yummy food, and immerse yourself in its relaxed atmosphere.

Wander through the historic Old Town, learn about how pearls are created, or marvel at the beautiful tapestries in Almudaina Palace; Palma is sure to provide a memorable experience. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the beautiful Palma de Mallorca!

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