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How To Spend 24 Hours In Palma

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Written by David Mason | 5th Dec 2023

TLDR: Set off on an exploration of Palma, where the Mediterranean’s beauty intertwines with historical depth. Ideal for solo travellers, Palma presents a mix of stunning coastal views, deep-rooted history, and a relaxed yet engaging city atmosphere.

Highlight

Stroll along Paseo Marítimo, enjoying the harbour’s serene beauty.
Explore the Palma Cathedral, reflecting the city’s historical and architectural significance.
Taste local Mallorcan dishes at lively eateries, including tumbet and ensaimada.
Spend your evening in the Santa Catalina area, a hub for local culture and gastronomy.

About Palma

Palma, the heart of Mallorca, is a city where blue waters meet impressive architecture. Known for its inviting beaches and the iconic Palma Cathedral, the city enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with warm summers and gentle winters. Palma’s blend of Gothic structures, contemporary art, and bustling markets makes it a fascinating destination for solo explorers.

Where to Sleep In Palma

Palma offers a range of accommodations, from hostels with sea views to quaint hotels in the historical centre. Hostels like Youth Hostel Central Palma are known for their friendly atmosphere and central location, ideal for city exploration.

Getting to and From Palma

Palma de Mallorca Airport, about 8 kilometres from the city centre, is the main entry point. The city centre is a quick bus or taxi ride away. Palma also has a well-connected public transport system, linking it to various parts of the island.

Travel Tip

Exploring Palma by bike or on foot, especially around the marina and old town, is a great way to experience its unique character. The city’s manageable size makes it perfect for discovering its hidden spots and architectural gems.

Budgeting for 24 hours in Palma

Experiencing Palma’s Mediterranean appeal can be done within a reasonable budget. Here’s how:

Accommodation: City centre hostels offer beds from €25 to €50, providing a cost-effective and social stay.
Transportation: A day pass for buses, priced around €5, allows unlimited travel and easy exploration of Palma’s various districts.
Food and Drink: Begin with a local breakfast for €4 to €7. Lunch and dinner in markets or local taverns, featuring Mallorcan dishes, average €15 to €25.
Attractions / Entertainment: Visiting places like Bellver Castle or enjoying Palma’s beaches typically costs €10 to €30.
Miscellaneous: Budget €10 to €20 for extra expenses like souvenirs or café snacks.

Total Estimated Budget: A day in Palma can cost between €70 and €150, offering a balance of cultural discovery and relaxed Mediterranean experiences.

1 Day In Palma Itinerary

Morning

Palma, the capital of Mallorca, wakes up to the gentle Mediterranean breeze, offering a calm and inviting start to the day. The morning is an ideal time for solo travellers to explore the city’s rich history and stunning architecture in a more intimate setting.

Begin your day at the majestic Palma Cathedral (La Seu), a Gothic masterpiece with a serene morning atmosphere. No entry fee for early morning visits. Located centrally, easily walkable from most parts of the city.
Stroll to the nearby Almudaina Palace, a former Moorish fort turned royal residence, offering insights into Mallorca’s layered history. Entry fee around €7. Just a few minutes’ walk from the cathedral.
Wander through the old town’s narrow streets, where historic buildings and hidden courtyards reveal Palma’s past. Free exploration. Meandering through the streets costs nothing but offers rich cultural insights.
For breakfast, savour an ‘ensaimada’, a traditional Mallorcan pastry, at a local café, a delightful introduction to the island’s flavours. ‘Ensaimada’ at a local café, approximately €3-€5.

Lunch

As Palma comes alive, its culinary scene takes centre stage. The city’s lunch culture is a vibrant mix of Mediterranean tastes and local ingredients.

Visit the bustling Mercat de l’Olivar or Mercat de Santa Catalina. Around lunchtime, these markets are vibrant hubs of fresh produce and local dishes. Budget around €10-€15 for a fulfilling lunch with local specialties.
Enjoy a leisurely seafood lunch at one of the market’s stalls or nearby restaurants, sampling Mallorcan specialties like ‘tumbet’ or ‘frito mallorquín’.
After lunch, take a walk along the Paseo Marítimo, enjoying the views of the marina and the gentle sea breeze. A leisurely stroll along the marina offers scenic views at no cost.

Afternoon

The afternoon in Palma is perfect for cultural exploration. The city’s blend of historical and contemporary elements is best appreciated at a relaxed pace.

Explore the Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, showcasing a collection that reflects the island’s artistic heritage. Entry fee around €6. Located within a 15-minute walk from the city centre.
Relax in the Parc de la Mar, a green space with stunning views of the cathedral and the sea.
Discover the charming Santa Catalina neighbourhood, known for its bohemian vibe and colourful streets. Free exploration. A short bus ride or a 20-minute walk from the city centre.

Evening

Evening in Palma brings a relaxed yet engaging atmosphere. It’s an excellent time to experience the city’s dining scene and local lifestyle.

Dine in one of the city’s traditional restaurants in the La Lonja area, trying dishes like ‘pa amb oli’ or fresh ‘calamares’. Expect to spend around €20-€30 for a meal with local wine.
Enjoy a stroll through the illuminated streets of the old town, where the city’s mix of Gothic and Baroque architecture creates a magical setting.
Visit a local bar or bodega in the Santa Catalina area to taste Mallorcan wines and tapas.

Night

Palma’s nightlife offers a range of experiences, from laid-back bars to lively clubs, catering to different tastes.

Explore the vibrant bars and cafes in the Santa Catalina or La Lonja districts, popular with both locals and visitors. Drinks priced around €5-€10. These areas are bustling with options and are centrally located.
For a more cultural night out, consider attending a live music performance or a show at the Teatre Principal. Ticket prices vary, generally around €15-€30, depending on the event.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed evening, the terraces along the Paseo Marítimo provide a perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the night air.

Departure Morning

Your final morning in Palma is a time for reflection and relaxation, offering a gentle end to your visit.

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at a café in the Plaça Major or along the Paseo Marítimo, soaking in the tranquil morning ambiance. Around €5-€10 for a relaxed breakfast with a view.
Take a final stroll through the city, perhaps visiting the Arab Baths or the S’Hort del Rei gardens for a peaceful moment.
Depart from Palma enriched by its Mediterranean charm and cultural vibrancy, whether you’re heading to the airport or continuing your journey.

Where Next?

After soaking up the coastal allure and historical treasures of Palma, you might find yourself eager to explore more of Spain’s vibrant cities. Consider extending your journey to Barcelona, where the awe-inspiring Sagrada Família and the lively Gothic Quarter await, offering a deep dive into Catalonia’s rich culture and architecture. Alternatively, Valencia, with its striking City of Arts and Sciences and the charming old town, presents a fascinating blend of the futuristic and the historic. Each city in Spain tells its own unique story, seamlessly blending ancient heritage with contemporary life. For more ideas on solo adventures in Spain, our ’24-hour guides’ provide valuable insights into some of the country’s most enchanting destinations.

Sources

Palma Tourist Office: https://www.visitpalma.com/en/

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