Things to Do at Palma Old Town
Complete Guide to Palma Old Town in Palma de Mallorca
About Palma Old Town
This remarkable destination stands as an example of Palma Old Town's rich cultural heritage, featuring architectural elements and historical significance that attract thousands of visitors annually seeking authentic local experiences. Entry fees typically range from $8-25 USD equivalent, with guided tours available for an additional $10-15 that provide insider knowledge about hidden details and local legends not found in standard guidebooks. The site showcases distinctive design elements including hand-crafted stonework, traditional building techniques, and decorative features that have been carefully preserved through generations, creating photo opportunities that capture both historical grandeur and artistic craftsmanship. Plan to arrive during early morning hours (8:00-10:00 AM) or late afternoon when golden light enhances architectural details and temperatures remain comfortable for extended exploration, wearing sturdy walking shoes as many historical sites feature uneven surfaces and stone pathways that can become slippery during rainy conditions.
What to See & Do
La Seu Cathedral
The Gothic cathedral dominates the skyline and is genuinely breathtaking, especially Gaudí's wrought-iron canopy above the altar and the massive rose window that floods the interior with colored light
Royal Palace of La Almudaina
A fascinating blend of Islamic and Gothic architecture that served as a royal residence for centuries - the courtyards and royal apartments give you a real sense of how the island's rulers lived
Plaça Major
The main square that feels like the town's living room, surrounded by arcaded buildings and usually buzzing with street performers, market stalls, and people-watching opportunities
Arab Baths (Banys Àrabs)
One of the few remaining examples of Moorish architecture on the island - the small domed chamber and peaceful garden courtyard offer a quiet escape from the busy streets
Carrer del Sindicat and surrounding streets
The narrow shopping streets where you'll find everything from traditional ceramics to contemporary boutiques, plus some of the best examples of those ornate Mallorcan balconies
Practical Information
Opening Hours
The Old Town itself is accessible 24/7, though individual attractions have varying hours - most museums and churches open around 10am and close between 5-7pm
Tickets & Pricing
Walking the streets is free; cathedral entry is around €8, Royal Palace €7, Arab Baths €2 - consider the combined tourist ticket if you're planning to visit multiple sites
Best Time to Visit
Early morning (8-10am) or late afternoon (5-7pm) tend to be less crowded, and the lighting is particularly beautiful for photos during golden hour
Suggested Duration
You could easily spend a full day here, but 3-4 hours gives you enough time to see the main sights and wander the atmospheric streets
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
The elegant tree-lined boulevard that's perfect for an evening stroll and connects the Old Town to the more modern shopping areas
A diverse food market about 10 minutes' walk away where locals shop for fresh produce and you can grab excellent tapas
A unique circular Gothic castle on a hill overlooking the city - about 20 minutes by bus or a pleasant hour's walk through Bellver Forest
Contemporary art museum built into the old city walls, offering both interesting exhibitions and great views over the harbor