A stroll through Palma
Plaza Major – a good start
This is the hub of Palma's cultural and social life. Four five-story buildings frame the square with its stores, bars, and restaurants and acts as a backdrop for street performers. The Plaza Major is also known for its artisan market which takes place almost all year round. From here you can reach Mercat de L'Olivar, the largest indoor market in Palma.
Mercat de L'Olivar - a culinary journey
Fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, seafood, cheese, and spices - everything your heart desires can be found in the traditional market hall. Let yourself be guided by the smells and tastes, try typical Mallorcan and international delicacies, and discover the new culinary trends in the many restaurants that belong to Mercat de L'Olivar.
Cathedral of Mallorca
Built in the Gothic-Romanesque style, the 6600 square meter cathedral has two names: "La Seu" - the bishop's seat - and Cathedral of the Holy Mary. The foundation stone was laid in 1230, however, it was not finished until the 16th/17th century. It received its present shape by the Spanish architect Gaudí. From July to October, you can reach the roof terrace via 200 steps.
Palau de l’Almudaina
Opposite of the cathedral is Palau de l'Almudaina. This palace now serves as summer residence of the Spanish royal family and is mainly used by the military as headquarters. Nevertheless, royal chambers can be visited, and antique furniture and Gothic architecture can be admired. The Spanish King still holds receptions in the Gothic hall.
Castell de Bellver
The Gothic fortress was built in 1300 and is located three kilometres west of the city center. The first floor has been home to the history museum of the City of Palma since 1936. The terrace on the 2nd floor was used for strategic surveillance during wartime. Today, visitors have an excellent view of the land, sea, and the whole Balearic capital Palma.
Es Baluard Museu d'Art Modern i Contemporani de Palma
Built on the inner-city walls of the Renaissance, the museum has been displaying contemporary art since 2004. Here, you can find everything from Art Nouveau merged with avant-garde represented by Picasso to art trends of the 21st century. Also offered are recreational, musical, and educational activities on contemporary art. A visit to the terrace is worthwhile: it offers a beautiful view of the city of Palma, the Cathedral, Castell de Bellver, and the Mediterranean Sea.
Paseo del Borne – not just for shopping queens
The car-free street separates the busy part of Palma from the old town. Not only luxury labels are represented on the "golden mile" of Palma, but also well-known fashion chains of the lower price range. However, a stroll through this street is not just simply recommended for those who need new apparel, for the fashion chain Zara is housed in Palma's former municipal cinema, the city's architecturally most valuable building.
Santa Catalina - the fishing village with bars, cafes, and restaurants
In the corner house of the Paseo del Borne is the Bar Cuba. Just turn into the street and you're in the middle of Santa Catalina, where you can find one of the last typical Mallorcan windmills. The former fishing village has become the hipster district of Palma. During the day, the narrow streets invite you to stroll while restaurants and cafes offer refreshment. After sunset, it is the nightlife hotspot of the locals, far from the tourist crowds.
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