How To Stay Chic In Palma

The elegant heart of the Mediterranean, Palma is proof that Majorca is much more than just a beach destination. Although a popular tourist destination for decades, it is now drawing in a new type of visitor; those attracted by its sophisticated boutiques, its Michelin-starred restaurants, its cool bars and, of course, its long and exciting history.

Take In The History

Palma is a picturesque city from almost every angle but none more so than when viewed from the harbour. Tall palm trees line the waterfront and frame the enormous Gothic cathedral, La Seu. Even if your exploration of Palma’s history goes no further than this cathedral, it is not somewhere to miss. Built from honey-hued sandstone, it is particularly striking at night, when floodlit. Built by the House of Aragon, it was originally intended to impress and intimidate visitors and would-be conquerors alike. Safe to say, it is as impressive now as it was when it was completed in the seventeenth century, 400 hundred years after its foundation stone was laid.

Eat And Drink

The district surrounding La Seu is also home to many bars and restaurants. In the bars, you can enjoy anything from freshly-squeezed orange juice made from the island’s own oranges to Palo de Mallorca, a liqueur that is a bit stronger than the orange juice but no less popular. The restaurants serve as wide a range of cuisines as you would expect from any major city. If pizza’s what you want, you’ll have no trouble finding it. Equally, Palma is the perfect place to enjoy freshly-caught seafood, Pa’amb Oli (a local speciality of bread smeared with fresh tomatoes, crushed garlic and olive oil), paella or some of the tapas dishes that originate from the mainland.

Stroll And Sail

After a meal, the wide waterfront is an excellent spot to walk off your food and take in the view. If you’re feeling energetic, it is also a popular place for rollerblading. You can admire some of the many yachts moored in the harbour and, if you fancy it, even arrange to charter one yourself.

Shop ‘Til You Drop

Palma is rightly renowned for its shopping. As well as two large department stores, it is home to a plethora of smaller boutiques, galleries and craft shops. You might already know it’s famous for its pearls, but its leatherwork is also worth a close look, as is the output of some of its talented artists. The Miró foundation is unmissable for anyone who loves art.

After Dark

Sa Llotja, once the stock exchange back in the fifteenth century, is now the centre of one of the city’s best night spots. Pavement cafes and tapas bars aplenty provide plenty of choice for leisurely after-dark socialising and relaxing. Popular spots include the Abaco Cocktail Bar and the Jazz Voyeur Club.

Climate And Clothing

It’s perfectly possible to arrive at the nearby airport with nothing more than a carry-on bag and buy all that you need – and more – once in the city. However, if you plan to spend less time on shopping and more on sightseeing or relaxing, you’ll want to make sure you bring some comfortable footwear for walking and perhaps something dressier for the evening. Temperatures can really climb in the summer months so loose, natural fabrics are most comfortable and a hat is a must. An umbrella can be useful for spring or autumn visits or, if you prefer, you could always take refuge in a cafe, gallery or bar. For the ultimate relaxation, you might like to plan a visit to one of Palma’s luxury spas and wellness centres, such as the Vital s’Aigua Blava.

Don’t foregt to book your Palma airport transfers with Holiday Taxis when you travel!

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