What to see in Mallorca in 3 days
Palma de Mallorca has an exceptional quality of life, which entices you to enjoy, at your own pace, a historic centre full of monuments, a seafaring atmosphere and traditional neighbourhoods such as Santa Catalina. Do not miss its Cathedral, the Almudaina Royal Palace, La Lonja, Bellver Castle and the magnificent eaves of its town hall. Take a stroll and become one more resident, finding out about its culture and food references.
You will also have time to go on an excursion during these three days. Our recommendation is to take a trip to the quaint town of Sóller, which you can visit by taking the historic train, and enjoy good Majorcan food overlooking the sea. In the evening, you can visit Son Marroig, an estate with one of the most romantic viewpoints in the Mediterranean.
This itinerary will help you choose what to see and do in Majorca in three days. We assure you that, after this getaway, you will want more because the island has a lot of good things to offer.
Itinerary day 1
10.00-11.00
Parc de la Mar/Promenade
In a city which has a sea 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
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 hidden 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.
13.00-14.00
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 the tapestries, paintings and furniture from different periods of history.
14.30-15.30
Forn de Sant Joan restaurant
It is located in a former bakery from the 19th century and is a perfect hotspot for eating traditional food with a creative touch. It usually has exquisite lunchtime menus. The customer service of this family-run business is on a par with its menu.
16.00-17.30
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 artists such as Salvador Dalí, Juan Gris, Joan Miró and Pablo Picasso.
18.00-20.30
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.
21.30 - 23.00
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.
Itinerary day 2
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.
11.00-11.30
Plaza de Cort
It 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.
12.00-13.00
La Lonja
The former maritime trade exchange enjoys a privileged location next to the sea and its architecture, with towers, sculptures and gargoyles, is worthy of admiration. Inside, there is a beautiful nave that has spiral columns and rib vaults, where temporary art collections are usually exhibited.
13.30-14.00
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 you can, sit outside on the terrace and do not miss any of the street life.
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 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. It is a must in Palma de Mallorca.
18.30-19.30
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.
20.00-21.00
Santa Catalina neighbourhood
It has become one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in the last few years; some even call it the SoHo of Palma de Mallorca. Its street life is both cosmopolitan and traditional at the same time. Another time you must visit the market, which has over 50 food and craft stalls. Remember that it closes at 17.00!
21.30-23.00
Aromata restaurant
It is located in the courtyard of a 17th century palace and expertly 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.
23.30-02.00
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.
Itinerary day 3
09.00-09.30
C’an Joan de S’Aiguade
Our recommendation is to get up slightly earlier and have delicious traditional ensaimadas for breakfast at this historic establishment which dates from 1700. C’an Joan de S’Aiguade (address: calle de Can Sans, 10) is one of the most traditional establishments, so it is a good place to buy food souvenirs to take back home.
10.00-12.00
Palma de Mallorca courtyards
From there, you can wander around the streets to admire the city's beautiful courtyards. Some of the manor houses are open to the public but many of them can only be visited if you are on an organised tour. Try not to miss the most beautiful ones such as Can Oms, Can Bordils and Can Olesa.
12.30-13.45
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. The garden is open to the public when the royal family is not staying there. It is worth walking along the paths and admiring Joan Miró's 12 sculptures dotted around the garden.
14.30-16.00
Es Canyís restaurant
Our recommendation is to have lunch at this family-run restaurant in Sóller port, where you can enjoy paella and delicious fish stews while feeling the sea breeze. Fish, seafood, salad and delicious desserts are the main dishes on its menu.
16.30-17.30
Pueblo de Sóller
Take a stroll through the nearby town of Sóller, considered to be one of the most beautiful in Spain. In addition to its historic quarter, Sóller has a quaint fishing port, which is where you ate. You can then take the trip back to Palma de Mallorca using the historic Sóller train.
18.00-19.30
Son Marroig
This estate located between Valldemossa and Deià, around 27 kilometres from Palma, was declared a Cultural Heritage Site. It belonged to Archduke Ludwig Salvator of Austria, who left his mark on the garden and on the appearance of the estate. It represents a sublime image with its marble temple which has become the best viewpoint in the Mediterranean.
21.00-23.00
Adrián Quetglas restaurant
This Argentine chef with Majorcan blood provides exquisite dishes with an impeccable presentation at this restaurant which bears his name. His cuisine is aimed at ‘democratising haute cuisine and bringing it to everyone’. The afternoon five-course menu has an affordable price.