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🏖️ Solo Traveller’s Guide to 3 Days in Palma

We take a look at Palma de Mallorca and what you should do if you only have 3 days in this Balearic city. Built with solo travellers in mind, here’s what to do in 72 hours.

📌 Highlights of Palma:

• Stroll through the Historic Centre: Discover the charm of Palma’s historic centre with its Gothic architecture and quaint streets.
• La Seu Cathedral: An architectural marvel with stunning sea views.
• Bellver Castle: Unique for its circular design, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Local Markets Experience: Engage with the vibrant local culture at markets like Mercat de l’Olivar.
• Beach Relaxation: Unwind at Playa de Palma Beach, a perfect spot for solo travellers.
• Nightlife in Santa Catalina: Explore the lively bars and restaurants of this trendy district.

Monthly

1 Night

48 Hours

3 Days

About Palma

Palma, the bustling capital of Mallorca, combines rich historical roots with a modern Mediterranean lifestyle. This city, founded by the Romans and influenced by various cultures over the centuries, is renowned for its stunning Gothic cathedral, vibrant markets, and beautiful beaches. Its small size makes it ideal for exploring on foot or by bike, allowing solo travellers to easily discover its many charms.

🤔 Is 3 Days Enough to See Palma?

Three days in Palma is just right to get a taste of its charms! It’s quite a compact city, making it super easy to wander around and soak up all the sights. Picture this: you’re strolling through the old town, marvelling at the stunning Gothic cathedral La Seu, and maybe losing yourself for a bit in the quaint Arab Quarter. All these fascinating spots are pretty close to each other, so you won’t be spending ages getting from one place to another.

Oh, and if you fancy a bit of beach time, no worries – Palma’s city beach, C’an Pere Antoni, is just a short walk from the centre. It’s the perfect spot to chill out and catch some sun. In short, while you might not uncover every single secret of Palma in three days, you’ll definitely get to see the best bits and have a fabulous time doing it!

Where to Sleep in Palma?

If you’re planning a trip to Palma and looking for a place to stay, there are several great hostel options, each offering a unique experience:

1. Hostel Atlanta: Known as the best overall hostel in Palma, Hostel Atlanta is just minutes away from the coast and close to the airport. It boasts a bar, café, and comfortable lounges, making it perfect for backpackers looking to relax and socialize. It’s situated in a prime location near bars and restaurants, offering an ideal base to explore the city​​.
2. Palma Port Hostel: This is an excellent choice for solo travelers, offering a vibrant and social atmosphere. With spacious dining areas and lounges, it’s a great place to meet fellow travelers and share stories. It’s located downtown, close to the city’s nightlife, making it easy to enjoy the local scene​​.
3. Y Hostel: For those on a budget, Y Hostel is a great choice. It offers affordable dorm beds, privacy curtains, and tours around Palma. The hostel also has lounges and a terrace for relaxation. Its affordable rates make it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers​​.
4. We Hostel Palma Youth Hostel: This is the go-to spot for party lovers. Close to all the main bars and clubs, it also features an onsite bar and a lively rooftop terrace. It’s a great place to enjoy Palma’s nightlife and meet fellow party-goers​​.
5. Hostel Fleming: Ideal for digital nomads, Hostel Fleming offers a unique blend of historic and modern styles. It provides ample space for work, a rooftop terrace, and a bar. Located in the heart of the old city, it’s perfect for those who need a comfortable place to work and relax​​.
6. Sa Fita Backpackers: Located in Esporles, this hostel is perfect for couples and nature lovers. It offers a peaceful and relaxed vibe, ideal for those looking to escape the city bustle. The hostel features a shared kitchen, TV room, reading area, garden, and a small plunge pool​​.
7. Hostel Soller: Situated in Sóller, a short drive from Palma, this hostel is great for families. It offers a range of rooms, including family-friendly options, and is located near the main square and the train station. The hostel also features a fully equipped kitchen and a cozy fireplace​​.

Getting Around

Getting around Palma de Mallorca is quite convenient thanks to its well-structured public transportation system, which includes buses, trains, and a metro service.

Buses: The Empresa Municipal de Transports (EMT) runs the public bus system in Palma, catering to both locals and visitors. A single one-way fare is €1.10, and for frequent travellers, there’s a ten-journey discount card available for €7.50, which can be purchased at tobacco shops and EMT offices. This card is valid only for rides within the city and can be used by more than one person. The bus network extends beyond Palma as well, allowing access to other parts of the island, including scenic areas in northern Majorca​​.

Trains: There are two main train lines in Mallorca, operated by Transports de les Illes Balears (TIB). The first is the tourist Tren de Soller, which offers a scenic route to the mountains. The second, Servicios Ferroviarios de Mallorca, provides service to various destinations including Inca, popular for its leather products. Both these trains operate from the Plaza de España, with the station located underground at the Estacion Intermodal​​​​.

Metro: Mallorca also has a metro service, referred to by TIB as the M1 and M2 lines. These aren’t typical urban mass transit rails as they run less frequently, but they are useful for travel to stops between Palma and Marratxí. The M1 line, for instance, runs from the Estació Intermodal in Palma to the Universitat de les Illes Balears (UIB), making it handy for reaching the university and other stops along the way​​.

For those looking for a more unique mode of transportation within the city, you might consider a galera, an open-top horse-drawn carriage. It’s a romantic way to see Palma, though it’s a bit pricey, with an hour-long ride potentially costing upwards of €40. Just be mindful to negotiate the price in advance to avoid any misunderstanding​​.

This mix of buses, trains, and metro lines, along with other options like the galera, makes getting around Palma de Mallorca convenient for all types of travellers, whether you’re staying within the city or venturing into the scenic outskirts.

72 Hours in Palma

Embark on a memorable 72-hour adventure in Palma, a city brimming with Mediterranean charm, rich history, and vibrant culture. This itinerary is tailored for solo travellers who crave a mix of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and leisure.

Day 1: Exploring Palma’s Historical Heart

Morning: Cathedral and Historic Centre

• Start with Palma’s Gothic masterpiece, La Seu Cathedral. It’s not just an architectural wonder but also a symbol of Palma’s historical layers.
• Wander through the Old Town, a labyrinth of narrow lanes filled with historic buildings and local boutiques.
• Budget: Cathedral entry approximately €7.
• Distance: These attractions are in the city centre, easily walkable.

Afternoon: Arab Baths and Almudaina Palace

• Visit the Arab Baths, a testament to Palma’s Moorish past. These baths offer a glimpse into the medieval daily life of the city.
• Explore the Almudaina Palace next door, showcasing Palma’s royal history.
• Budget: Combined entry around €10-€15.
• Distance: A short walk from the cathedral.

Evening: Santa Catalina District

• Head to Santa Catalina for dinner. This trendy area is known for its culinary scene and vibrant nightlife.
• Enjoy traditional Mallorcan cuisine at local eateries.
• Budget: €20-€40 for dinner and activities.
• Getting Around: A short taxi ride or a pleasant walk from the city centre.

Day 2: Art, Beaches, and Contemporary Palma

Morning: Es Baluard Museum

• Visit the Es Baluard Museum of Contemporary Art, housing a diverse collection of modern works.
• Budget: Entry fee around €6.
• Distance: Centrally located, within walking distance from most accommodations.

Afternoon: Beach Relaxation

• Head to the nearby Playa de Palma for an afternoon of sunbathing and relaxation.
• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside café.
• Budget: €15-€30 for lunch.
• Distance: About 10 km from the city centre, accessible by bus.

Evening: Paseo Maritimo

• Stroll along Palma’s waterfront, Paseo Maritimo, in the evening.
• Dine at one of the many restaurants along the marina, offering a variety of cuisines.
• Budget: €25-€40 for dinner.
• Distance: Easily reachable from the beach area.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Leisure

Morning: Mercat de l’Olivar

• Start your day at Mercat de l’Olivar, a vibrant local market. Experience the local culture and try various Mallorcan specialties.
• Budget: Varies on purchases.
• Distance: In the city centre, easily accessible.

Afternoon: Serra de Tramuntana

• Take a trip to the nearby Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the mountain range.
• Budget: Depends on transportation and activities.
• Distance: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour by bus or rental car.

Evening: Farewell Dinner

• Conclude your trip with a special dinner in one of Palma’s fine dining restaurants, celebrating the end of a memorable journey.
• Budget: €30-€50 for a memorable meal.
• Distance: Depending on the restaurant, most are centrally located.

This 3-day itinerary offers a balanced experience of Palma’s rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful natural settings. Enjoy your solo adventure in this charming Mediterranean city!

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