I arrived in Palma de Mallorca on a warm May afternoon, the kind where the sun kisses your skin but doesn’t overwhelm. The island welcomed me with its gentle sea breeze, the scent of salt in the air, and the faint sounds of laughter from a nearby café. As a DIY wanderer, I had planned this trip meticulously but left enough room for spontaneous adventures. Palma, the capital of the Balearic Islands, is the perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning Mediterranean beauty. With my backpack and a curiosity for exploration, I set off to discover what this island had to offer.
The first thing that caught my eye was the grand La Seu Cathedral. It dominates Palma’s skyline and is breathtaking both inside and out. The Gothic architecture is stunning, but what truly amazed me were the intricate stained-glass windows, casting colorful light onto the stone walls. Antoni Gaudí even left his mark on the interior, adding a modernist touch to this centuries-old masterpiece. Just a short walk away is the Palau de l'Almudaina, a royal palace with a fascinating history, blending Moorish and medieval Christian influences.
Wandering through the old town felt like stepping into a storybook. The narrow, winding streets led me past charming boutiques, local artisan shops, and hidden courtyards filled with orange trees. I stumbled upon Plaça Major, a lively square where street performers entertained the crowd, and locals sipped espresso at sunlit cafés.
For lunch, I headed to Mercat de l’Olivar, Palma’s bustling market. The seafood section was a spectacle—vividly colored fish, fresh oysters, and prawns the size of my hand. I grabbed a plate of pimientos de padrón, some freshly grilled calamari, and a glass of local white wine. The flavors were simple yet exquisite.
In the afternoon, I rented a bike and pedaled along the Paseo Marítimo, Palma’s scenic waterfront promenade. The view of yachts floating on the turquoise sea, with the cathedral standing tall in the distance, was postcard-perfect. My ride took me to Castell de Bellver, a circular castle perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean.
Of course, no trip to Mallorca is complete without exploring its beaches. I made my way to Playa de Illetas, a short bus ride from Palma. The soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters were an absolute dream. It wasn’t too crowded in May, making it an ideal spot to relax. I spent hours alternating between sunbathing and dipping into the refreshing sea.
As the sun set, I felt the pull of Palma’s vibrant nightlife. For dinner, I went to Celler Sa Premsa, a traditional Mallorcan restaurant where I indulged in sobrasada, a rich, cured sausage spread on rustic bread, followed by arroz brut, a spiced rice dish brimming with meat and vegetables. Everything was accompanied by a glass of local red wine.
Eager to experience the nightlife, I started with cocktails at Abaco, an extravagant bar hidden behind a heavy wooden door in the old town. The decor was unlike anything I had ever seen—an opulent mix of fresh flowers, fruit displays, and classical music playing in the background. Later, I moved on to Tito’s, one of Palma’s iconic clubs, where the music and energy kept me dancing until the early hours.
The next day, I took a bus to Valldemossa, a picturesque mountain village just 30 minutes from Palma. Walking through its cobblestone streets, I understood why it had inspired artists and writers for centuries. The Real Cartuja de Valldemossa, a former monastery where composer Frédéric Chopin and writer George Sand spent a winter, was a fascinating visit. Before leaving, I tried the local specialty, coca de patata, a soft, sweet pastry best enjoyed with a cup of hot chocolate.
Later, I took a scenic train ride to Sóller, a charming town nestled in a valley of orange groves. The wooden train, over a century old, made the journey feel nostalgic. From Sóller, I hopped on the tram to Port de Sóller, where I enjoyed a fresh seafood lunch by the marina.
For another beach escape, I ventured to Es Trenc, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The fine white sand and turquoise waters made it feel like a slice of the Caribbean. It was a bit more remote, but absolutely worth it for its untouched beauty. If you prefer a livelier scene, Playa de Palma is a great choice, with its long stretch of sand and plenty of beachside bars.
As my trip came to an end, I reflected on how Palma had exceeded my expectations. It offered everything—history, culture, food, beaches, and nightlife—all wrapped in a laid-back Mediterranean charm.
Budget Breakdown (Per Day, Excluding Flight & Accommodation):
- Breakfast & Coffee: €5-€10
- Lunch (Tapas or Market Meal): €15-€20
- Dinner at a Local Restaurant: €20-€30
- Drinks & Nightlife: €15-€30
- Local Transport (Bus, Bike Rental, Train to Sóller, etc.): €10-€20
- Attractions (Cathedral, Bellver Castle, Monastery, etc.): €10-€15
- Miscellaneous (Shopping, Souvenirs, Extra Snacks): €10-€20
Estimated Daily Budget: €85-€145
Palma de Mallorca is a city that welcomes all kinds of travelers, whether you're a luxury seeker or a budget-conscious wanderer. With a little planning and an adventurous spirit, you can have an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank. If you’re visiting in May, you’ll get the perfect balance—warm weather, fewer crowds, and a chance to experience the island’s authentic charm.
So, pack your bags, embrace the Mediterranean pace of life, and let Palma’s magic unfold before you.
