Catherine - Savvy Family TravelPalma de Mallorca, the island’s vibrant capital, is a unique mix of Gothic, Moorish, and Mediterranean influences which creates surprises around every corner for first time visitors.
In this article, you’ll find the best ways to reach the island, top sights to see with 1 day in Palma de Mallorca, and the best day trips if you have more time on your Palma de Mallorca itinerary.
Palma de Mallorca Itinerary
How To Get To Palma de Mallorca
By Plane
The Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) is well-connected to major cities across Europe. Flights are frequent, especially during the high season, and the airport is located just 15 minutes from downtown Palma.
From there, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or hop on the A1 airport bus, which runs every 15 minutes and is affordable and reliable.
By Ferry
Ferries from mainland Spain—including Barcelona, Valencia, and Dénia—arrive at Palma’s port. The journey can take anywhere from 5 to 8 hours, depending on the route and ferry type. If you’re bringing a car, the ferry is your best bet.
From the ferry terminal, you can easily walk to the city center.
By Cruise Ship
Cruise ships dock at the Estación Marítima, about 3 km from the city center. From here, you can take a shuttle bus, a taxi (a 10-minute ride), or even walk if you’re up for a scenic 30-minute stroll along the waterfront. Public buses also run frequently from the port to key areas of Palma.
Cruising with kids? Don’t miss our top tips for family cruises.
How To Get Around Palma de Mallorca
Palma is pedestrian-friendly, with wide sidewalks, smooth pathways, and stroller-accessible ramps.
Public buses and taxis are readily available for longer distances.
If you hope to explore more of the island on your Mallorca itinerary, pick up a rental car near the airport.
What To See: One Day in Palma de Mallorca Itinerary
Below, we’ve compiled a suggested 1 day in Palma de Mallorca itinerary followed by a 3 day Mallorca Itinerary.
You can see the majority of the Palma sights with a 1 mile walking route which you can preview here in an interactive map.
Morning
Have Breakfast at Fornet de la Soca or Ca’n Joan de s’Aigo
Start your day with a local breakfast in the Santa Catalina neighborhood. Definitely seek out a place that serves Mallorca’s family spiral shaped pastries called “ensaimadas.” We recommend Forn Ca sa Camena.
Santa Catalina Urban Art
Enjoy your walk through Santa Catalina as you head to the next stop. Santa Catalina is a trendy area known for its street art so keep an eye out!
Parc de Sa Feixina
Are you traveling to Mallorca with kids? Take your coffee and pastry to go and head over to the playground at Parc de Sa Feixina to start the day with some energy busting.
No kids? It’s still worth a stroll through this public park where you’ll spot a controversial memorial to the sunken battleship Baleares.
Device to Root out Evil
Next up is a quirky art installation called the Device to Root out Evil, a 25′ sculpture of an upside down church.
Walk Passeig d’es Born and Relax in S’Hort del Rei Gardens
Continue your walking tour down Passeig del Born, Palma’s main boulevard, lined with trees and cafes. It’s stroller-friendly and leads to Plaça Major, where we will head later today.
Nearby, S’Hort del Rei Gardens (The King’s Orchard) offers relief on a sunny day with it’s shaded pathways, fountains, and sculptures.
Explore the Royal Palace of La Almudaina
Adjacent to the cathedral, you can tour the lavish and historic Palace of La Almudaina. It’s only €7 for adults and half price for children and seniors. Kids under 5 are free.
Wander Through Palma’s Old Town
While you’re in Old Town, spend a bit of time getting lost in its maze of narrow streets. They’re filled with historic buildings, quaint shops, and hidden courtyards.
Afternoon
Lunch in Old Town
Find a cafe that catches your eye and refuel before continuing your day in Palma de Mallorca.
Don’t miss the pamboli or croquetas.
Visit Palma Cathedral (La Seu)
La Seu is the crown jewel of Palma and a must-see on any Mallorca itinerary. By midday, the lines get pretty long, so we suggest purchasing your tickets online to save time. Tickets are €10 for ages 9-64, €8 for 65+. Kids 8 and under are free You can also add an audio guide for €5.
The lighting inside is nothing short of breathtaking.
The nearby Parc de la Mar offers open spaces for an oceanside stroll and a playground where kids can run around after your visit.
Ice Cream Break
Now we will start walking north toward Plaça Major, but its time to cool off with an ice cream break. RivaReno Ice Cream is a local favorite and there are multiple locations throughout the city – including right next to the Cathedral. Their gelato is smooth, rich, and made with high-quality ingredients.
Plaça Major
Plaça Major is a central square where street performers often entertain visitors.
Kids will enjoy the lively atmosphere while parents can take a break at one of the many shaded seating areas.
If you’re taking a guided walking tour of the city, many start here or in the Parc de la Mar.
Spend Some Time Shopping
A great spot to shop while near Placa Major is La Insular. They have tons of unique finds that would make for a great souvenir or gift.
More of our favorite shops are listed below – all were kid pleasers.
Evening
Sunset at Bellver Castle
Bellver Castle, perched on a hill outside Palma, offers panoramic views of the city and bay. Arrive in the late afternoon to explore the castle’s unique circular design and enjoy the sunset. We suggest packing a picnic if this is where you’ll spend the dinner hours.
Tickets run from €2-4 per person. Admission is free on Sundays. Kids under 14 are always free.
Try Traditional Tapas and Sangria for Dinner
If you skip Bellver, find an eatery serving authentic tapas. Patatas bravas, pimientos de padrón, and fresh seafood are staples. Complete your meal with sangria or a Mallorcan wine.
Rooftop Drinks at Nakar Hotel
End the day with rooftop cocktails at Nakar Hotel. The views over Palma and the Mediterranean pair perfectly with their creative drink menu.
3 Day Mallorca Itinerary
Do you have more time? Add on these beautiful towns to your 1 day in Palma de Mallorca itinerary.
Day 1: Palma Highlights
Follow the Palma de Mallorca itinerary above.
Day 2: Beaches, Coves, and Quaint Villages
There’s so much to discovery beyond Palma while you’re on the island. Choose one or two of the following cities to explore on Day 2 of your Mallorca Itinerary.
- Cala Sant Vicenc + Formentor Peninsula
- Fornalutx
- Cava Tuent
- Basílica de la Mare de Déu de Lluc + Sanctuary de Lluc
Day 3: Day Trip to Sóller and Deià
Historic Train Ride to Sóller
Take the historic Sóller train for scenic views of the Mallorca country side. The ride takes about 1 hour and costs €20 each way.
From Soller you can also hop on a 25 minute bus ride to Deià to visit art galleries and get a glimpse of what the island felt like before travel exploded.
Option 2 for Day 3 of your Mallorca Itinerary
Hike in the Serra de Tramuntana. If you have a car, hiking in the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range is a great way to spend your day!
If the kids are along, they’d love to combine this with a half day at Western Water Park.
Shopping in Palma de Mallorca
Puzzle²
This store specializes in creative puzzles and games, perfect for keeping children entertained. They have loads of them out for demo which had my kids transfixed while we shopped.
La Insular
Offers a curated selection of artisanal goods, including toys and books for younger travelers.
La Industrial
Known for its eclectic mix of items, especially for kids.
Travel Tips for Your Palma de Mallorca Itinerary
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially for exploring Old Town and Bellver Castle.
- Staying Online: Free Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes and public areas.
- Take Cash: Small notes are handy for local markets and smaller establishments.
Save This One Day in Palma de Mallorca Itinerary for Later
Palma is the ideal mix of culture, history, and family-friendly amenities; a destination where every member of the family can enjoy themselves.
Pin for future planning!
