Palma is home to half the island’s population, with the rest dotted around the coasts and villages inland. This makes it a lively, energetic place, with squares full of locals, a genuine buzz and authentic places to eat.
Outside of the city, the resorts and beaches differ in style and atmosphere, but they all have one thing in common – that divine sea caressing the shore.
Prime Palma
Even if you’re staying elsewhere, spend at least a day in Palma and tick off its main sights. It’s hard to miss the majestic cathedral – La Seu – built on the site of an old mosque from the early days of the 14th century, before it was finished in the 17th century.
As a result, there’s a mixture of architectural styles inside and out, adding up to a stunning and impressive structure. Head inside for wonderfully ornate decoration, including contributions by Modernista master Antoni Gaudi.
Just opposite is another building that went from Moorish to Mallorcan when the Spanish claimed the island. The Palau de l’Almudaina is full of extravagant rooms and flourishes, and remains an official royal residence today.
Less royal, but just as lovely, is the Palau March, once home to the March family and now a museum full of huge collections of art and books. Inside, there’s a rich array of paintings by surrealist Salvador Dali, while outsides sculptures from Rodin, Hepworth and Henry Moore stand proudly in the sun.
Captivating cuisine
Combining traditional classics with cutting-edge flavour, Palma is one of the finest cities in all the Mediterranean when it comes to food.
Marc Fosh has helped transform the culinary scene here, and his eponymous restaurant is a cool and unpretentious place with a Michelin star.
His former protégé, Adrian Quetglas, also runs a Michelin-starred restaurant in the city, offering local dishes and those with roots in London, Moscow and Paris.
But Mallorca is a place that thrives on its tasty snacks and democratic dining too. You’ll find plenty of traditional tapas bars and international eateries across Palma.
Land of sand
There are miles and miles of beaches to discover in Mallorca, and no matter which direction you strike out in, you’ll find a stretch to suit you.
It could be in a major resort, lined with restaurants and shops, or a quiet cove, unspoiled and full of natural beauty.
Palma has its own beach, close to the cathedral, but for alternative places to worship the sun call in at Playa de Alcudia or Playa Oratori de Portals. The latter is at the resort of Puerto Portals, and is a blue flag beach with great snorkelling opportunities and a lively beachfront full of entertainment.
Hire a car from Palma de Mallorca Airport and explore whichever corner of the island you wish, whether you prefer to stick to the towns and cities or head to the quiet coves and stunning rural landscapes.