10 Sun-Soaked Year-Round Things to Do in Palma Spain

Key Takeaways:

• Palma is a vibrant Mediterranean city with history, beaches, culture, and food you can enjoy all year long.

• From Gothic cathedrals and tapas nights to mountain hikes and art museums, Palma blends relaxation with adventure.

• Whether visiting in summer or winter, there’s always a unique way to explore Mallorca’s capital.

Palma, the capital of the Balearic Islands in Spain, is more than just a summer beach destination—it’s a year-round gem packed with cultural depth, architectural wonder, and coastal charm. Founded by the Romans and later shaped by Moors and Christians, the city boasts layers of history reflected in its cathedrals, courtyards, and cobbled lanes. Its Mediterranean climate means mild winters and sun-soaked summers, making it an ideal place for off-season exploration and festivals that stretch across the calendar. Whether you’re sipping vermouth in a centuries-old plaza or cycling to a hilltop castle, Palma delivers a rich variety of things to do in every season.

Table of Contents

1. Tour the Iconic La Seu Cathedral

2. Stroll the Streets of the Old Town and Jewish Quarter

3. Watch the Sunset from Castell de Bellver

4. Shop and Snack at Mercat de l’Olivar

5. Explore Modern Art at Es Baluard Museum

6. Hike the Trails of Serra de Tramuntana

7. Experience Palma’s Nightlife in Santa Catalina

8. Relax on the Beach at Playa de Palma

9. Visit the Royal Palace of La Almudaina

10. Celebrate Local Culture at the Sant Sebastià Festival

1. Tour the Iconic La Seu Cathedral

La Seu, Palma’s awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral, dominates the city skyline and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Spain. Its intricate façade, massive rose window, and lakeside setting make it a must-visit, and the interior reveals renovations by Antoni Gaudí alongside soaring columns and light-filled chapels.

Open year-round, the cathedral also offers rooftop tours with panoramic views of the sea and city. Whether you’re into history, architecture, or spiritual spaces, La Seu is a powerful symbol of Palma’s layered past. It’s a stunning place to begin your journey into the city’s culture and aesthetics.

2. Stroll the Streets of the Old Town and Jewish Quarter

Palma’s Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets, sandstone buildings, and shaded courtyards perfect for exploring on foot. The ancient Jewish Quarter (Call) reveals centuries of hidden stories with signs of former synagogues, artisan shops, and tucked-away squares.

Wander without a map to discover charming cafés, boutiques, and ornate doorways behind ivy-covered walls. Many homes have patios mallorquines—hidden inner courtyards that reflect Palma’s blend of Moorish and Catalan heritage. It’s a peaceful and romantic way to step into Palma’s past while enjoying modern comforts.

3. Watch the Sunset from Castell de Bellver

Castell de Bellver is a rare circular castle perched above Palma, offering 360-degree views of the city, harbor, and distant mountains. Built in the 14th century, it’s now a museum and a beloved local hangout for picnics and sunset strolls.

The surrounding pine forest provides a scenic, shaded hike or bike ride to the top. Once inside, you’ll find Gothic halls, Roman relics, and open-air corridors that frame the city like a postcard. Visiting at golden hour is especially magical when the sea reflects the orange sky and the bells echo across the bay.

4. Shop and Snack at Mercat de l’Olivar

Mercat de l’Olivar is Palma’s top indoor food market, where locals go to buy seafood, jamón ibérico, cheeses, and fresh produce. Beyond being a shopping stop, it’s also a buzzing social hub—complete with tapas bars, sushi counters, and wine tasting stands.

Whether you grab a coffee and pastry or enjoy a full seafood platter, the market is a flavorful dive into Mallorcan daily life. It’s open year-round and especially lively in the mornings when chefs and grandmothers do their grocery rounds. Make time to browse and sample—it’s a feast for the senses.

5. Explore Modern Art at Es Baluard Museum

Housed inside a restored fortress, Es Baluard is Palma’s top contemporary art museum and a great year-round attraction. Inside, you’ll find works by Picasso, Miró, and local Balearic artists, along with rotating exhibitions of sculpture, photography, and experimental installations.

The museum terrace offers one of the best panoramic views of the harbor and cathedral. Even if you’re not an art buff, the architecture and scenery are worth the visit alone. It’s a calm, creative space perfect for a rainy day or a cultural break between outdoor adventures.

6. Hike the Trails of Serra de Tramuntana

The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, just outside Palma, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers breathtaking hikes with ocean views, limestone cliffs, and terraced hillsides. Trails range from gentle coastal paths to challenging summits, perfect for hikers of all levels. Popular routes include the trail from Deià to Sóller or the ascent to Puig de Galatzó.

Many trails are accessible year-round thanks to the region’s mild climate, with spring and autumn offering the most comfortable hiking temperatures. Along the way, you might pass olive groves, goat herds, and centuries-old stone shelters. This is nature at its best—quiet, beautiful, and deeply tied to Mallorca’s rural traditions.

7. Experience Palma’s Nightlife in Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina is Palma’s trendiest district and the center of its nightlife scene, filled with vibrant cocktail bars, late-night tapas spots, and rooftop lounges. The area draws locals, expats, and travelers for its mix of bohemian charm and cosmopolitan flair.

Start your night with vermouth or sangria at a local bar, then drift into a jazz club or dance to DJs in a converted warehouse. Many venues feature live music, flamenco nights, and themed parties that make any weekend memorable. Whether you’re out to dance or just enjoy a good meal and vibe, Santa Catalina delivers all year long.

8. Relax on the Beach at Playa de Palma

Even outside peak summer, Playa de Palma is a beautiful place to visit. This long, sandy beach stretches for several kilometers along the bay, lined with palm trees, bike paths, beach bars, and volleyball courts.

The water is swimmable most months, and the promenade is lively with joggers, street musicians, and families enjoying the sea breeze. Winter brings peace and space, perfect for reading by the shore or enjoying a seaside lunch without the crowds. It’s a reliable spot to recharge and enjoy Mediterranean beauty at any time of year.

9. Visit the Royal Palace of La Almudaina

Next to the cathedral, La Almudaina is a royal palace originally built by the Moors and later converted into a residence for Spanish monarchs. With its mix of Islamic arches and Gothic architecture, the palace tells a visual story of Mallorca’s complex past.

Inside, you can explore lavish halls, royal chambers, and ancient artifacts that reveal the lifestyle of nobility through the centuries. The views from the palace courtyard over the harbor are stunning, especially during sunrise or sunset. Open year-round, it’s a key cultural stop for anyone interested in Palma’s royal and religious history.

10. Celebrate Local Culture at the Sant Sebastià Festival

Every January, Palma lights up with its biggest cultural celebration—Sant Sebastià, the city’s patron saint festival. It features free concerts, parades, bonfires, fire runs (correfocs), and community BBQs that take over every plaza.

Locals grill sausages in the streets, dance to live bands, and wear traditional dress as fireworks fill the sky. It’s one of the best times to visit Palma and experience its festive soul in full swing. While tourists tend to arrive in summer, this winter celebration offers a deeper, more authentic connection to the island’s traditions.

What to do if you have kids?

Palma is extremely family-friendly, with activities that range from paddle boat rentals at Parc de la Mar to aquarium visits, interactive museums, and soft beaches with calm waters. You can rent bikes for a scenic ride along the coastal promenade or take a short train ride to Sóller for a fun day trip. Many restaurants have kid-friendly menus, and public squares often have play areas and space to run around. Whether it’s hiking, exploring castles, or building sandcastles, kids will love the variety Palma offers year-round.

Where can I find free events in Palma Spain taking place this weekend?

To discover free concerts, art exhibits, local markets, and cultural events happening this weekend in Palma, visit https://planmyweekend.ai. This tool helps locals and visitors alike uncover real-time events based on their interests, so you can always find something fun without breaking the bank. From beach yoga to open-air cinema, Palma is full of hidden gems—and this platform makes sure you never miss out.

Final thoughts

Palma, Spain is much more than a summer holiday destination—it’s a city alive with history, art, flavor, and fun every day of the year. Whether you’re hiking its mountains, tasting your way through a market, or dancing at a local festival, Palma keeps things fresh and fulfilling no matter the season. It’s ideal for slow travelers, cultural seekers, families, and beach lovers alike. So skip the seasonal mindset and discover why Palma is a year-round paradise waiting to be explored.