48 hours in Palma, Mallorca

Mallorca might be known for its spectacular coastline and pretty interior but its capital, Palma, is just as alluring. Much more than simply a gateway to the island, it’s a destination in its own right and one that remains lively all year round.

Its fascinating backstory has created a charming jumble of architecture with Modernisme mansions sitting alongside Gothic churches and Moorish ruins. Meanwhile, as home to an increasingly creative, international community, it’s a real hub for art and design and an excellent place to spend a weekend eating and drinking. Here’s how we would spend 48 hours in the city.

Time for tapas: Pull up a seat at El Camino’s extra-long bar and watch the chefs work their magic in front of you as plates of glossy jamón ibérico, melt-in-the-middle tortilla and crispy goats cheese stuffed courgette flowers fill the counter. The vibe here is loud and lively;  just remember to book in advance.

A nightcap calls: If the night feels young, walk over to Chapeau 1987 with its old-school decor and excellent cocktail list. Whisky is their speciality but these bartenders can whip up any cocktail your heart desires.

Get breakfast: Start Saturday strong with a freshly squeezed orange juice (Mallorca’s much-loved citrus fruit) at Cafe Riutort. Pair it with a tostada, topped with tomato in the local style or something more inventive like ricotta, fruit and pistachio, at this unassuming spot under its Balearic beamed ceilings.

Explore the old town: Head for a wander in the old town with its narrow, winding streets and patchwork of architecture. Marvel at the mammoth cathedral (Europe’s tallest in the Gothic style) and its spectacular stained glass, swing by the royal palace with its Moorish architecture and sea-view terraces and take a moment in the peaceful Arab baths that date back to the 11th century.

Eat in the market: At the city’s main market, Mercat de l’Olivar, there are a number of casual bars amidst the fresh produce stools. Take a wander through and pull up at a counter for some simple, local fare – Can Jaume does some excellent croquetas.

A spot of art: Visit Fundación Juan March and its collection of 20th century Spanish art in a charming 17th-century mansion or Es Baluard and its revolving selection of contemporary exhibitions from international names in the modern structure built into the city walls (don’t skip the view from the roof terrace).

Hit the shops: You might need to increase your luggage with a trip to Rialto Living for its homewares, Antiguitats Bonet has some amazing antiques and Bazaar Palma has a curated selection of decorative objects.  Meanwhile, don’t miss Mallorcan fragrance house Viti Vinci’s beautiful boutique, Alpargatería La Concepción for your fill of local espadrilles and Palma-based Cortana for their breezy sustainable fashion pieces.

Enjoy an evening in Santa Catalina: Just west of Palma’s old town, Santa Catalina’s grid of low rise buildings and colorful facades are lined with independent restaurants and buzzy bars. Stop by El Aquanauta for its superb fish tacos and Mezcal margaritas before wandering down Carrer de la Fàbrica and its many streetside terraces – Agabar makes a good stop for more cocktails.

Grab pastries: Follow the scent of freshly baked pastries to Full Proof Bakery and fuel up for the day with their specialty croissants and coffee.

Follow in the footsteps of Joan Miro: The Catalan abstract artist upped sticks from Barcelona and made Mallorca his home in the second half of his life and chose a serene spot to make his art in the suburbs of Palma. Transformed into a gallery in the nineties by the artist’s favourite architect Josep Lluís Sert (who also designed the Miro foundation in Barcelona), it’s inspiring to see his two former studios and a large collection of his work hung where he used to paint.

Feast on more tapas: Back in town, make your way to La Rosa Vermuteria for a final tapas lunch. The interior is classic with tiled walls and garlic garlands strung across the bar and they serve up quintessential tapas dishes and naturally, a really good glass of vermouth.

Take a stroll (or a cycle): It would be remiss not to have a good look at the water while you spend some time in this seaside city and Palma’s waterfront is great for walking off a large lunch. Or, if you fancy exploring further, you can cycle the path starting in the city all along the coast in an eastward direction, with sweeping Mediterranean views all the way.

If the weekend has you thinking about a longer stay on the island, browse our Mallorca villas for a private base beyond the city.