A day in Palma: what to do, and how to eat well, from a finca 25 minutes away

Palma is 25 minutes from the house, which makes it a good morning or a good evening rather than a whole day. The old town is compact, shaded and walkable; the rest of the city is best taken in pieces. This is the shape of a day that works.

Morning: the old town on foot

Start at the cathedral, La Seu, built on the edge of the bay. Go in before the tour groups arrive and look at the rose window. The Almudaina Palace sits next to it, and the lanes behind lead to the old town’s courtyards and the Arab Baths. Wear shoes you can walk in; the paving is old and uneven.

Late morning: markets

The Santa Catalina market is the neighbourhood’s food heart, and the surrounding streets are full of small bars and bakeries. The Olivar market near the centre is larger and busier. Both are good for a snack on your feet and for seeing what the island grows.

Lunch: eat where the locals do

Palma has plenty of restaurants. The ones worth finding are small, cook what the market had that morning, and serve a fixed menu at lunch. We do not name them on the website; our black book does, with notes on what to order and which to book ahead.

Afternoon: the sea or a view

Bellver Castle, a round 14th-century castle in the pines above the city, has a view over the harbour and the bay. For something quieter, the sea promenade to Portixol and Molinar is a gentle walk past small beaches and fish restaurants.

Evening: an early dinner and home

Drive back after dinner, through the dark countryside, with the windows down in summer. In winter, the old town is lively into the evening and the Christmas lights are worth the trip.

Practical notes

• Getting there. Palma is about 25 minutes by car. We do not arrange transport, so most guests drive or take a taxi.
• Parking. Use a public car park at the edge of the old town rather than hunting for a street space.
• Opening times. Many restaurants close between Sunday evening and Tuesday. Book ahead in summer.

Our black book

Every guest receives our black book of the best restaurants, places and itineraries, including a Palma section with the places we use ourselves. See the location or tell us your dates.