What to see in Mallorca in 2 days
Two days in Palma de Mallorca can give you a very accurate picture of the island’s essence, its history and the reasons why it has become one of the most coveted destinations in the Mediterranean. One of the main advantages for travellers is that the Balearic capital is not a large city, so they can practically walk everywhere while becoming familiar with its architectural features.
The must-see sights are the Cathedral, which the locals call La Seu, the Almudaina Royal Palace, La Lonja and Bellver Castle. Since the island has inspired great artists, we can now enjoy large art centres such as the Juan March Foundation, the Miró Mallorca Foundation and the Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum.
Our recommendation for two days is to visit the tourist attractions but also take time to improvise and fully enjoy Majorcan cuisine showcased by internationally prestigious chefs.
Itinerary day 1
10.00-10.30
S’Hort del Rei
Start the day by strolling through this beautiful garden created in the 14th century during the reign of King Jaume II. Originally it had fruit trees, vegetables and flowers. When Majorcan architect Gabriel Alomar restored it in the 1960s, he added typical items from the island such as the pergola and other elements of Andalusian inspiration such as the water fountains.
11.00-12.00
Almudaina Royal Palace
Also known as Castell Reial or Alcázar Real, this building with the appearance of a fortress is the result of modifications to a 13th century Muslim fortress. It was the seat of the independent Majorcan kingdom in the 15th century. Inside, you can admire tapestries, paintings and furniture from different periods of history.
12.30-12.45
Plaza de Cort
Plaza de Cort is the heart of Palma, and even has a plaque that states this. The plaza is dominated by the town hall, where the large wooden eaves overhang the impressive 17th century façade. It houses a valuable art collection, dominated by the picture gallery of the illustrious sons of the Kingdom of Majorca.
13.00-14.00
Cathedral/La Seu
La Seu is the city's iconic monument and dominates its skyline. If you think that it draws attention from the outside, just wait and visit it to find out its secrets. Remember to visit the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, where the artist Miquel Barceló left his mark in 2007, and the altar where Gaudí also made additions.
14.30-16.00
Aromata restaurant
It is located in the courtyard of a 17th century palace and managed by the chef Andreu Genestra. The restaurant provides exquisite dishes using quality raw materials and local products. The afternoon menu provides light meals and the evening one is more sophisticated. You should try both.
16.30-18.00
Bellver Castle
It is around 3 kilometres from the historic centre and you can reach it on foot or by bus. You can see all the bay and part of the Tramuntana mountain range from the castle, which is located at over 100 metres above sea level. This 14th century Gothic construction is one of the few circular castles in Europe.
18.30-20-00
Es Baluard Contemporary Arts Centre
An extensive range of art from the 20th and 21st centuries is exhibited at this cultural centre. The building is nearly as interesting as the content: modern installations have been adapted to its Renaissance bastion. It has been conceived as a living space, where you can walk along the walls, attend events and enjoy its terraces and courtyards.
20.30-21.30
Puerto Portals
After the cultural visits, you should go to Puerto Portals in Calviá, 9 kilometres from Palma. It is the best nautical and leisure centre on the island. You can admire the luxury yachts, go shopping, drink something on a terrace and even enjoy DJ sessions.
22.00-23.30
Marc Fosh restaurant
The well-known chef Marc Fosh provides delicious Mediterranean dishes at his 1-Michelin star restaurant. Without losing sight of the Balearic essence, his cuisine provides simple tastes with local ingredients. It is located in a beautiful 17th century building.
Itinerary day 2
10.00-11.00
Parc de la Mar/Promenade
In a city which has a port, like Palma de Mallorca, it is wonderful to start the day by strolling through the promenade and visiting Parc de la Mar, which also provides a beautiful reflection of the cathedral on its artificial saltwater lake. It was built in the 1970s as a reminder of the past when the sea reached the walls.
11.30-12.30
La Lonja
The former maritime trade exchange enjoys a privileged location next to the sea and its architecture is worthy of admiration. Inside, there is a beautiful nave with spiral columns and rib vaults, where temporary art collections are usually exhibited.
13.00-14.00
Bishop’s Palace
It is located behind the apse of the cathedral and houses the Diocesan museum. It began construction in the 13th century and has expanded over time. Check out the Gothic entrance
of the former San Pablo oratory, the main Modernist-style façade and the sundial in the courtyard.
14.30-16.00
Ombú restaurant
It is located downtown and you can have tapas in the afternoon. The range goes from delicious squid croquettes to oysters from Peru. It has a modern decoration and rooms for private functions. If there any tables available, sit outside on the terrace and do not miss any of the street life.
16.30-17.30
Marivent Palace
Although you cannot visit the summer residence of the Spanish royal family in Majorca, what you can do is stroll through its beautiful garden. When the royal family is not staying there, the garden is open to the public. It is worth walking along the paths and admiring Joan Miró's sculptures here and there.
18.00-20.00
Juan March Foundation
This is a must for all contemporary art lovers. An extensive collection of 20th century Spanish art is exhibited at this museum located in a former manor house. The works are from well-known artists such as Salvador Dalí, Juan Gris, Joan Miró and Pablo Picasso.
20.30-22.30
Quadrat
Soft lighting and music, a luxurious decoration but without fanfare. High quality Mediterranean cuisine, which can also be enjoyed at the tables in the interior garden. And then, to prolong the good feelings, nothing like a cocktail with views from the terrace.
23.00-01.00
BrasClub cocktail bar
If you decide to have a night on the tiles, this cocktail bar is the best option since it is managed by Rafa Martín, one of the best cocktail professionals in the Balearic Islands. It is located downtown and you will love its atmosphere.