Three Perfect Days In Palma de Mallorca

Hi everyone! I recently solo travelled to Palma for the first time, and had the most amazing three days. I’m already dreaming of my next Palma Majorca holiday!

In the meantime, though, I need to convince you to visit Palma – because it truly does have it all. And what better way to do that to share the ultimate three day itinerary with you? I’ve slightly adjusted my trip so you can really make the most of yours and avoid some simple mistakes I made, leaving you free to explore the wonderful city that is Palma!

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Day One

(Please note: I arrived in the afternoon, so this schedule is based on similar arrival times.)

I’m a firm believer that the best way to get to know somewhere new is to just head on out there and plunge yourself into the deep end, so day one begins with getting your bearings in the city. Have a look at some of the local speciality shops whilst you’re there – Gordiola and La Pajarita Bomboneria are both worth a visit – and head down to Placa Major, the city’s main square.

Once you’ve wandered around the charming old streets, make sure to pay a visit to the Arab Baths. Entrance is only a few euros and it has some beautiful gardens, making it the perfect place to relax for a while before heading to your hotel. If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay, I stayed at MLL Blue Bay, which has stunning views and direct transport links to the centre!

Make sure to head out for a well-deserved meal and trip to the beach before unwinding – you’ve got a long day ahead of you!

Day Two

Your day begins with a trip back into the centre! Make sure to get there early for some photos without the crowds and a feel of what Palma is all about.

Today’s first stop is Passeig des Borns, the classy shopping street scattered with luxury stores, cafes and souvenir shops. Peruse the shops until your heart’s content before heading to S’Hort del Rei, a nearby garden ideal for a few minutes rest and some lovely views!

Next up is Museu Fundacion Juan March, which boasts some wonderful pieces of art, including an exhibition dedicated to Picasso. The best part? It’s free admission!

Once you’ve had your fill, it’s time for today’s main activity: The Hop On, Hop Off bus. I found it such a great way to see more of the city and it offered access to attractions which are a little more difficult to get to. It’s well worth paying slightly more for admission to Bellver Castle (it saves you one horrible walk) and it even comes with extra freebies!

Simply hop on and off whenever you want – although I would advise only taking the full route once to maximise your time. Some of my personal must sees are:

1. The Jewish Quarter – which is great to explore for half an hour or so.

2. Pueblo Espanol – when doing my own research for Palma I didn’t see anyone mention it but it was one of the highlights of my trip! It’s a really unique architecture exhibition displayed as a village and the perfect place to escape the crowds. Standard entrance is 10 euros and this includes a drink.

3. Bellver Castle – a beautiful castle sitting at the top of a massive hill, with the most beautiful views to go with it. If you opt for tickets included with the Hop On, Hop Off experience remember to activate it at the ticket office first – I learnt that the hard way when I arrived at the gates and had to trek back down!

4. Porto Pi Centro Comercial – which is one of the best ways to see another side of Palma! Do some window shopping and grab a bite to eat before exploring the port. Make sure to take advantage of the cheap ice cream, too – I managed to find two scoops for just over two euros!

After an action-packed day, it’s time to head back to the hotel. I used this time to finally go in the pool before getting ready to head back out. If you fancy something different, go to your nearest supermarket to stock up on supplies before taking them down to the beach for a mini picnic. Is there any better way to end a day in Palma than watching the sunset?

Day Three

Our third day is just as jam-packed as day two! Begin with an early breakfast before heading to Plaza d’Espanya, where you can view the  King Jaime I equitation statue. It’s well worth a visit to Mercat l’Olivar, a local market with various food stalls as well as souvenirs. It’s the perfect way to see a little of how the locals live!

Once your belly is nice and full, head over to Palau de l’Almundia, which was the old home of the monarchy and is now displayed as a museum. Make the most of the views and information signs before moving on to the next stop: Catedral de Mallorca, which is literally right next to the palace.

Make no mistake: this was the favourite thing I did on my trip. There’s a reason it’s been left to last – once you’ve seen the views from the terraces nothing else will compare. It’s quite the climb, but boy, is it worth it.

Before you make the climb, though, make sure to look around the interior, which is just as beautiful. It boasts some truly stunning displays and stained glass windows and honestly? It kind of took my breath away.

Afterwards, be sure to grab a spot of lunch before heading back to Parc De La Mar, which offers numerous little market stalls and stunning views of the cathedral. Wander through the stalls, making sure you pay attention to the various products, and, if you feel like it, get your caricature drawn! I got mine done for just ten euros and it was such a cool experience and memento of my trip. I truly can’t recommend it enough!

This is followed by the gallery street, where you can browse in numerous art galleries, including Gallery Red and The Modern Art Gallery. There are some really unique pieces and be sure to check out any temporary exhibitions whilst you have the chance! Admission to every gallery I visited was free, but do check before you go.

Then it’s time for another break – because after two and a half days of walking, I’m sure your feet are getting tired! Stop in any of the little ice cream parlors and cafes and take in your last couple of hours in Palma before you get going again.

Next up on our tour is Basilica de Sant Miquel Palma, a more local church which has just as beautiful displays as the cathedral. It’s free to enter (although donations are welcome) but do be mindful of your surroundings and respectful of any locals praying.

Then it’s time for Es Jonquet, which is home to some old windmills and part of Santa Catalina! You’ll have to get the bus here (when I visited it was two euros) but it’s definitely worth seeing a more unseen part of Palma. Make sure to wander around the streets before you leave – there’s some beautiful gardens which are not to be missed.

If you have any extra time after this, pay a final quick visit to the beach, before heading home.

And that’s our three days in Palma! I do appreciate that I packed a lot into this schedule so please prioritise places which most interest you. Do take care of yourself – it’s really hot in Palma in the summer so remember to drink plenty of water and apply lots of suncream!

Have you visited Palma before? Have I inspired you to add it to your bucketlist? Let me know in the comments!

Until the next adventure,

Ceri x

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