Palma - The city that never ceases to amaze you
November 25 2025
Palma is one of the most vibrant cities in the Mediterranean, with its iconic Gothic cathedral, step-back-in-time streets, and palm tree-lined seafront. Cafés, restaurants and bars are dotted all around the city for a drink or spot of tapas when you need a break from all the splendour. The shopping is excellent, and culture lovers will be happy with the wide range of galleries and museums. There are many reasons why Palma is such an incredible place. Ready to find out why?
Reason 1: Location, location, location
Palma is the only major city in the Balearic Islands and is its capital. It is located on the island’s south coast, on the Bay of Palma, in a prime location for the airport and for a visit from Cas Saboners, which is only 25 minutes by car and 45 minutes by bus—you can catch the 104 to Plaza España, the city’s train station. With almost half a million inhabitants, Palma is a lively metropolis that sprawls around its most beautiful part, the Old Town.
Reason 2: History on every corner
Start your city tour at the Cathedral, also known as La Seu, the ornate, honey-coloured building standing proud on a hill overlooking the Parc de la Mar and the waterfront. Built on the site of a former mosque, the Gothic masterpiece was started in 1229 by King James I of Aragon and later saw modifications by renowned artists like Antoni Gaudí and Miquel Barceló. Of course, you can explore the typically Gothic features outside, like its grotesque gargoyles, but you really should venture inside to witness its full grandeur.
The Palau de l’Almudaina is next door, a royal residence from Moorish times, and then head northeast into the narrow lanes with mansions tucked away behind big gates. You’ll also find shops and boutiques selling everything from souvenirs to the latest fashion on your travels.
Reason 3: The food
Palma is a multicultural city with restaurants to match. Most visitors are in the mood for traditional food like tapas, which in Mallorca is known as a “variat”. This is a dish of mixed tapas served in one bowl, usually with “pa moreno” (the island’s brown bread) and “alioli” (garlic mayonnaise). The “variat” can be made up of whatever is available that day, from “pica-pica” (spicy octopus) and “ensaladilla rusa” (“Russian salad”) to “calamares” (squid rings) and “frit mallorquí” (a potato and meat stew).
Try this at Bar Bosch or Bodega La Rambla. There are also plenty of fine dining and Michelin-starred restaurants to choose from if you fancy something more sophisticated.
There is so much more to Palma. Next time you visit Cas Saboners here in Palmanova (“New Palma” in the local language) you’ll have to explore further to see exactly why Palma is such an incredible city. We can’t wait.