Things to Do in Palma de Mallorca

The symbol of the city, a Gothic cathedral that looks like it's rising from the sea.

• Gothic masterpiece, built by the sea
• Largest Gothic rose window in the world: 46 feet in diameter
• Gaudí’s intervention in the early 20th century
• Light displays created by over 1,200 stained-glass pieces

The Cathedral of Santa Maria, affectionately called La Seu, dominates the Palma skyline. It was commissioned by James I of Aragon in the 13th century on top of an ancient mosque. Construction lasted for centuries. In the early 20th century, Antoni Gaudí directed the renovation and designed the hanging canopy over the high altar. The most admired element is the rose window, nicknamed the "Eye of the Gothic": with a diameter of nearly 46 feet, it's one of the world's largest, made of over 1,200 colored glass pieces that create extraordinary light patterns. Among the oldest parts, the Trinity Chapel houses the tombs of Kings James II and James III of Mallorca. Don't miss the ceramic mural in the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament created by contemporary artist Miguel Barceló.

The official residence of the Spanish royals in Palma, right next to the Cathedral.

• Official residence of the King and Queen during their stays in Mallorca
• Arab origins, followed by Catalan Gothic
• Terraces with spectacular views of the bay
• Entry ticket for €9.50

The Royal Palace of La Almudaina stands right next to the Cathedral. It is one of the oldest buildings in Mallorca: it was already there before the 1229 conquest during the Arab rule. The current Gothic-style building was constructed in the 14th century, converting a former 10th-century Islamic fort. Today, it is the official residence of the Spanish royals when they visit Palma (though they actually stay at Marivent Palace in Cala Mayor). Inside, you can visit various rooms with original relics and furnishings, the parade ground, the Gothic chapel of Saint Anne, the Islamic-era baths, and the terraces with spectacular views of the sea and the Bay of Palma.

A circular castle that dominates the city from a hill.

• Rare example of a circular Gothic castle
• Palma City History Museum located inside
• Spectacular panoramic view of the bay and the Tramuntana mountains
• Used as a prison until just a few decades ago

Bellver Castle rises on a hill not far from central Palma. Built in the 14th century in Gothic style, it surprises visitors with its original circular shape, cylindrical towers, and the surrounding moat. Today, it is home to the City History Museum. Inside, you can visit various exhibitions and read the unsettling messages left by inmates on the walls, as the castle was converted from a royal residence into a prison. A beautiful green park extends around it, perfect for exploring on foot or by bike, ideal for a break from the city's hustle and bustle. The view from the top is particularly evocative at sunset.

A masterpiece of Catalan Gothic that looks like a church but isn't.

• Ancient maritime trade exchange
• Free entry
• Helical columns and perfect arches
• Lively neighborhood with bars and art galleries

La Lonja (or Llotja in Catalan) is the ancient exchange of Palma, a masterpiece of Catalan Gothic designed by Guillem Sagrera. Formerly used as the headquarters for maritime trade negotiations, it is now open for free. Upon entering, you'll be enthralled by the architectural perfection of the arches and the helical columns that create a harmonious sense of movement. One of Palma's most vibrant neighborhoods has developed around La Lonja, featuring plenty of bars, restaurants, and art galleries. It’s the perfect place for an aperitif after your visit.

An urban park with a lagoon that reflects the Cathedral.

• Artificial lake built to recreate the Cathedral’s image on the water
• Tree-lined walks at the foot of the ancient walls
• Markets and events on weekends
• In summer, you can see canoes on the lagoon

Parc de la Mar, literally Sea Park, stretches between the sea and the old city walls, right at the foot of the Cathedral. It was created in the '70s after the sea was "pushed back" with the construction of the seafront promenade. An artificial lagoon, filled with seawater, reflects the Gothic towers of the Cathedral, becoming one of Palma's most iconic views. The park is a landmark for walks, running, morning yoga, markets, and events. With a little luck, you might see the guys from the Balearic Canoeing Federation speeding across the water on their canoes.

The City Hall square, the heart of city life.

• Main square of the center, home to City Hall
• Thousand-year-old olive tree in the center of the square
• Historically the site of the Inquisition
• Full of bars and restaurants for a break

Plaza Cort, also known as Plaza del Ayuntamiento, is one of the main squares in central Palma. It houses the 17th-century City Hall building with its Baroque facade. In the center of the square stands an imposing centuries-old olive tree, which has become a photographic symbol. In the past, the atmosphere here was quite different: the terrible Inquisition was headquartered right in this area. Today, Plaza Cort is full of delightful little bars and restaurants where you can stop for a coffee or a drink. It's a natural hub for the Old Town: from here, you can easily reach the Cathedral, La Lonja, and Passeig del Born.