Palma de Mallorca
03.03.2025

Discovering the bohemian heart of Palma

Mallorca & Menorca Guide

Palma de Mallorca is a city of many facets, constantly evolving and reinventing itself to become one of the most captivating destinations in Europe.  

 

Recognised by readers of National Geographic’s Viajes magazine as one of the cities with the best weather in the world, Palma enchants every single visitor for a number of different reasons.  

 

But if there’s one things that makes Palma truly irresistible, it’s its bohemian soul. Strolling around its most authentic districts, uncovering hidden ateliers and savouring a coffee on a terrace steeped in history is an experience that must be enjoyed at the most leisurely pace. 

 

Index 

[index]

 

 

The Santa Catalina area 

 

Santa Catalina is one of the most fashionable districts in Palma, home to numerous bars and restaurants that you’ll love, not only for their menu, but also for their beautiful decoration. Its streets are lined with cafés, designer shops and vintage boutiques where you can always find treasures from another age. The neighbourhood is particularly lively at the weekend, when many locals gather to eat, dance and generally have a great time. 

 

Santa Catalina has its own historical charm. Once home to fishermen, it still preserves its small, white houses with colourful Mallorcan shutters that reflect its authentic Mediterranean character. 

 

Our recommendation: 

 

If you visit in the morning, don’t miss the market stalls in the square in the heart of the area. Alongside stalls selling fruit, vegetables, fish and local produce, you’ll also find a choice of traditional Mallorcan tapas bars. Try the tapa called a variat, a classic island dish that the locals really love. 

Cort, Plaça Quartera and La Calatrava 

 

The real centre of Palma. Cobblestone streets, historic buildings and shops of every kind. Home to the large Plaza Mayor, the Plaça de Cort with the City Hall, and to some of Palma’s best-kept secrets - places rich in tradition and artistic charm.  

 

The area is also home to the studios of local artists, basket shops selling traditional senallas (woven palm baskets used for shopping or as beach bags), art shops, and lively bars with terraces which are perfect for an aperitif before a meal. 

 

Our recommendation: 

 

As you explore the area, you’ll come across some of the most beautiful Mallorcan patios in the city. And if you’re looking for something truly traditional, be sure to visit Ca'n Joan de S'Aigo. With over 300 years of history, this iconic café transports you to another era with its famous ensaimadas and artisan ice creams. You’ll find it on a side street off the path leading to the Plaza de Santa Eulària - a hidden treasure where every bite feels like a trip back to childhood. 

 

 

Plaça del Mercat, Passeig del Born and Carrer Sant Feliu 

 

Nestled in the heart of the old town, among narrow streets steeped in history, you’ll find the Plaça del Mercat, the Church of Sant Nicolás and, just beyond the Passeig del Born, the charming Carrer Sant Feliu. This area is a must-visit for fans of art and creativity, home to museums, some of Palma's most intriguing galleries, and boutiques showcasing unique designs where local craftsmanship take centre stage. Inspiration is everywhere you look. 

 

If you continue exploring, the Paseo del Borne offers a different kind of experience. Often considered the most beautiful avenue in Palma, this tree-lined promenade is flanked by majestic historic buildings and houses some of the city’s most luxurious boutiques. From renowned international brands to local designers, each store is decorated with exquisite taste, turning every visit into a unique and stylish experience. 

 

Our recommendation: 

 

Take a break and enjoy a coffee on one of the inviting terraces along the promenade, the perfect spot to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. It’s an ideal way to combine the art of living with the pleasure of shopping. Here, you’ll also find one of Palma’s most iconic cafés: Bar Bosch, an institution in the city, famous for its traditional llonguets, Palma’s signature sandwiches. Be sure to try the one with sobrasada and Mahón cheese - a true delicacy!

Palma de Mallorca

Palma, capital of art 

 

As the capital of the Balearic Islands, Palma also stands as a cultural landmark. Every September, the city hosts the Nit de l'Art (Art Night), an event that kicks off the artistic season and turns the streets into an open-air museum. Art galleries stay open until late into the night, offering a vibrant mix of exhibitions, performances and glasses of cava. 

 

Among the city’s most notable museums are: 

  • Es Baluard, the city's Museum of Contemporary Art.  
  • The Miró Mallorca Foundation, where the famous artist had his studio. 
  • The Joan March Foundation, home to a remarkable collection of 20th-century Spanish art. 

 

 

A city to explore and discover 

 

Although this post has only touched on a few highlight’s of the more artistic and bohemian side of Palma, it’s very clear that the city never ceases to surprise us.  

 

Its unique blend of tradition and modernity, alongside the balance between exclusivity and bohemian charm, makes it a perfect destination for anyone who appreciates art, history and the good life. Whether wandering around its most creative areas, exploring its markets or surrendering to the energy of its Mediterranean nights, each visit offers a fresh opportunity to fall in love with this jewel in the Mediterranean.

Palma de Mallorca
Mallorca
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

Mallorca on film: a journey through its iconic film locations

Step into the island's most cinematic corners—Palma’s vibrant streets, the majestic Serra de Tramuntana mountains, hidden coves and storybook villages that have enchanted filmmakers and audiences alike. So you can live your own movie, scene by unforgetabble scene. 

Read more
La Seu
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

Discover Mallorca following in the footsteps of our royal family

Discover the most picturesque corners of the island following in the footsteps of the Spanish royal family. A guide to exploring the island with your family.

Read more
Beach Club
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

Mallorca’s must-visit beach clubs for summer

Discover all the must-visit beach clubs in Mallorca to be enjoyed this summer. 

Read more
Llaüt
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

The most typical Mallorcan boat, the llaüt

A little wooden boat that has been dancing across turquoise waters in the Mediterranean for decades. All you need to know about the llaüt, the most characteristic boat on Mallorca: its history, its tradition and the best sailing routes.

Read more
Llaüt
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

Heavenly coves and beaches near Andratx

Discover the best beaches and coves of Andratx and enjoy luxury at Zafiro Palace Andratx, the perfect 5-star hotel for your Mediterranean getaway.

Read more
La Seu
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

Discovering the bohemian heart of Palma

Discover all the most bohemian and charming locations in Palma. Areas with so much soul that you definitely must not miss. 

Read more
Son Sabater by Zafiro
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

Travelling solo in Mallorca - essential activities and experiences

If you’re travelling on your own in Mallorca, discover all the activities and experiences that you really must not miss. 

Read more
Mallorca
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

The 7 most amazing beaches in winter in Mallorca

Discover the 7 most stunning beaches to visit and enjoy if you’re travelling to Mallorca in winter.

Read more
Zafiro Club
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

4 experiences to enjoy in the new year

See 4 experiences we think should be on your bucket list for 2025. For travellers looking for something really special.

Read more
Zafiro Hotels
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

Lonely Planet names Palma among the 10 top cities in the world to visit in 2025

Palma, one of the top 10 cities to visit in 2025 according to Lonely Planet. Discover the most authentic and sustainable side of the city.

Read more
World Tourism Day
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

World Tourism Day: taking better care of the natural paradise in the Balearic Islands

At Zafiro Hotels we celebrate World Tourism Day by admiring the beauty that surrounds us and reflecting on what it means to travel.

Read more
Luxury stores
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

Shopping for luxury while on holiday in Mallorca

Discover the luxury stores in Mallorca you must not miss when youre on holiday with Zafiro Hotels. 

Read more
Alcudia, Mallorca
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

Alcudia: a paradise for birdwatchers

Mallorca, and especially the area around Alcudia, is a great place for birdwatching, and home to a wide range of native, protected and migratory species.

Read more
Zafiro Hotels
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

4 ways to enjoy the meteor shower in Mallorca

The night of the Perseids is one of the most highly anticipated events of the summer. And Zafiro Hotels would like to help you make this very special event even more unforgettable.

Read more
Menorca
Mallorca & Menorca Guide

Menorca: stunning beaches, historic towns and extraordinary natural beauty

Discover all the immense natural beauty of Menorca, its stunning beaches, delicious cuisine and fascinating history. 

Read more