A Weekend in Palma de Mallorca – a first flair of summer

Mallorca is an exceptional place in multiple ways: Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches and undiscovered bays, nature, sports, fine wines, gastronomy and a unique but relaxed, slow lifestyle.

We love the Balearic Islands in every season, but there is something special about spending the early summer in Palma de Mallorca: The warm light of soothing sun rays; the luscious greens in full bloom leaving a mild scent in the air, the first stroll around town not wearing even a light jacket… it very much feels like the awakening of summer.

Ideal conditions to create a platform for a redefined independent and conscious luxury.

This is why we have gathered our favorite tips and destinations for you to explore during your stay in Palma.

It is only a short car ride from the airport into town, so you can immediately kick off discovering the old part of Palma.

Gothic churches, picturesque squares and centuries-old courtyards characterize the old town of Palma. Lovers of old and new treasures will enjoy the galleries, interior and design shops, and numerous top-notch restaurants. On the “Golden Mile”, which also belongs to the historic center, all wishes are fulfilled. This includes Passeig del Born, which connects to Avenida de Jaime III and is home to some of the world’s best-known and most luxurious designer brands.

We suggest you start from Plaza Major, a traditional central square. The spacious square once belonged to the former monastery of San Felipe Nerí, which was the seat of the Catholic Inquisition until 1838. On Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, the Plaza Mayor hosts a craft market. Throughout the year, there are also local festivals.

From there, you may just enjoy wandering around the small little streets in the old part of town. With every turn of a corner, you find a new beautiful alley lined with picturesque colorful buildings with quaint little balconies. Of course, you cannot miss the Cathedral.

After visiting the Plaza Major and the Cathedral, you might get a little hungry. For lunch, we recommend a visit to Ca n’Alexandre Cafe. Hidden between sandstone walls is an elegant, light-filled dining room, a unique Arabic cistern, and a cozy outdoor terrace. The cafe offers delicious, creative dishes made from local produce. But it also offers a diverse selection of coffees and teas, which makes it suitable for afternoon tea.

Another option is Casa Gallega which offers Galician cuisine at any time of the day. They serve delicious tapas, fresh fish, and seafood from Galicia, grilled meats, salads, and Mediterranean dishes but also selected Majorcan and Spanish wines.

After lunch, you may feel like a bit of shopping. Make sure to stop by Oma Project. The store curates unique artisan and fashion pieces from Mallorca and beyond. Here you can find a great selection of local and international works, accessories, and designs. A great place to find a special souvenir.

Another place you simply cannot miss is Ca’n Joan de S’aigofor a taste of local specialties.  Run by a small Majorcan family for more than 300 years, they offer homemade traditional products typical of the city for more than three centuries. We recommend their store in Calle Sanç, which still has all the features of the first store from the 1700s. Make sure to try their delicious homemade ice creams and pastries such as the Ensaimada, a Majorcan specialty.

For a change of scenery, head to the beach or enjoy El Terreno, Palma’s eldest residential area at the foot of the Castillo de Bellver. It is characterized by the old colonial-style houses. At the turn of the century, El Terreno was Mallorca’s dawn of modernity and the island’s first tourist community.

Castell de Bellver is located above Palma and is one of the most impressive buildings on the island. Unlike other castles, Bellver Castle was built in a circular shape. In total, the castle has 4 towers, 3 of which are located inside the castle. The fourth tower, “Torre de l’Homenatge” is located outside the circular building and is connected to the castle by a small bridge. From the castle, you have a great view over all of Palma.

Opening hours:
April – September: Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
October – March: Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 6 pm
Monday: Closed | Sundays and holidays: 10 am to 3 pm

To end the day, a good dinner is always recommended.

Forn de sant Joan is a great place for dinner. This former 19^th-century bakery offers creative Mediterranean cuisine, tapas, and cocktails. They use seasonal and local products to offer authentic and delicious food and drinks in a stylish and romantic atmosphere. You can either enjoy a dinner with friends and family or a business or group dinner. The rooms of the Forn de sant Joan are suitable for any occasion.

But if you are willing to drive out of Palma a bit, we recommend the 15-minute drive to the Sea Club of the Hotel Cap Rocat. In the former fortress, you get Mediterranean cuisine with a magnificent view of the bay of Palma.

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