Summer is the time of year when Palma de Mallorca truly comes into its own. The Balearic capital combines an exceptional historical heritage with world-class cuisine, beaches with crystal-clear waters, a vibrant cultural calendar, and a Mediterranean atmosphere that invites you to enjoy the city from early morning until late at night.
Whether you’re visiting Palma for the first time or returning to rediscover it, the city offers something for every type of traveler. From strolling through its medieval streets to watching the sunset by the sea, sampling the local cuisine, or relaxing at exclusive beach clubs and terraces, every day can be a unique experience.
In this guide, you’ll find the best things to do to enjoy Palma de Mallorca in the summer and make the most of your stay in one of the Mediterranean’s most charming cities.
Discover the Charm of the Old Town
Palma’s historic center is one of the best-preserved in Spain and is the best starting point for exploring the city. Its narrow cobblestone streets hide stately courtyards, small squares, historic buildings, and a wide array of shops, art galleries, and charming cafés.
The tour usually begins at the Cathedral of Mallorca, popularly known as La Seu. Its imposing Gothic architecture, situated right on the seafront, makes this monument one of the island’s greatest icons. Inside, the work by Antoni Gaudí and the artist Miquel Barceló stands out, adding a contemporary dimension to a building steeped in centuries of history.
Nearby are the Almudaina Palace, a former royal residence, and the S’Hort del Rei gardens, a perfect spot to take a break during your stroll.
As you venture deeper into the old town, you’ll come across streets like Sant Jaume, Can Verí, Sant Feliu, and the Born district—ideal for a leisurely stroll to discover the city’s essence.
Visiting markets and exploring the local cuisine
One of Palma’s greatest attractions is its culinary scene, which combines traditional Mallorcan cuisine with signature dishes and a growing international scene.
The Mercado de l’Olivar is a must-visit for anyone wanting to explore local products. There you’ll find fish fresh from the fish market, traditional cured meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and gourmet products that reflect Mallorca’s rich culinary heritage.
During the summer, it’s especially worth trying some local specialties such as:
● Pa amb oli made with dark bread, olive oil, and local ingredients.
● Mallorcan vegetable coca.
● Tumbet.
● Sobrasada with honey.
● Salads made with seasonal ingredients.
● Artisanal ice cream and traditional desserts.
The city also boasts numerous restaurants where Mediterranean cuisine blends with contemporary techniques, offering dining experiences to suit every taste.
Stroll along the Paseo Marítimo and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere
As evening falls, one of the best things to do is stroll along Palma’s waterfront.
The Paseo Marítimo offers spectacular views of the marina, where traditional boats, sailboats, and large yachts are moored side by side. During the summer months, the atmosphere is especially lively thanks to the presence of visitors, outdoor cafes, and cultural activities.
The walk allows you to admire the silhouette of the illuminated cathedral as the sun sets over the bay—one of the city’s most photographed moments.
It’s also an excellent area for exercising, renting a bike, or simply taking a walk while enjoying the sea breeze.
Relax at the Best Nearby Beaches
Although Palma is a city with a distinctly urban character, it boasts excellent beaches very close to downtown.
Among the most popular options are:
Can Pere Antoni Beach
Located just a few minutes’ walk from the historic center, it’s perfect for those who want to combine cultural visits with a swim in the Mediterranean.
Cala Major
A short distance from the center, it offers calm waters and numerous amenities, making it a favorite beach for both residents and visitors.
Ciudad Jardín
A wide, family-friendly beach connected by a pleasant boardwalk that’s also ideal for cycling.
Illetas
Just a few kilometers from Palma, you’ll find several coves with crystal-clear waters that stand out for their beauty and exclusive beach clubs where you can spend a relaxing day.
Experience the City from Its Terraces
Summer temperatures make terraces one of the highlights of Palma’s social life.
Many hotels and historic buildings feature spaces with spectacular views of the Old Town or the bay—perfect for enjoying a cocktail at sunset.
These spots let you watch the light change over the city as the atmosphere grows increasingly lively, especially during the months of July and August.
Discover Palma’s cultural side
Beyond its beaches, Palma boasts a vibrant cultural scene.
The Juan March Foundation Museum houses an outstanding collection of contemporary Spanish art, while Es Baluard Museu d’Art Contemporani offers temporary and permanent exhibitions in a building integrated into the ancient Renaissance city walls.
During the summer, it’s also common to find outdoor concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and cultural activities taking place throughout the city.
The combination of historical heritage and contemporary offerings makes Palma a particularly attractive destination for those who want to balance leisure and culture.
Take a trip along the coast
If you have several days, it’s worth spending a day exploring some nearby spots.
Boat trips let you discover coves that are inaccessible by road and enjoy the Mallorcan coastline from a different perspective.
You can also take short trips to nearby towns such as Valldemossa, Deià, or Sóller—villages that have preserved much of the traditional architecture of the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Shopping at Boutiques and Local Stores
Palma has established itself as one of the Mediterranean’s top shopping destinations.
The streets of El Born, Jaime III, and Sant Miquel are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, international brands, and local shops where you can find handmade goods, natural cosmetics, Mallorcan design, and gourmet food items.
It’s also worth getting lost among the small independent shops in the historic center, where craft workshops and art galleries abound.
Enjoying a Relaxed Summer
One of Palma’s greatest attractions is its laid-back pace of life.
Although the city welcomes thousands of visitors during the summer, there are always quiet spots where you can unwind: a coffee in an interior courtyard, a morning stroll before the heat sets in, a terrace with a view, or dinner by the sea.
It is precisely this combination of heritage, nature, cuisine, and the Mediterranean lifestyle that makes Palma a destination you’ll always want to return to.
Where to Stay in Palma de Mallorca
Choosing the right accommodation makes all the difference on any trip, especially during peak season.
Puro Hotels offers one of the best options for discovering Palma from a prime location, combining contemporary design, personalized service, and an experience tailored for those seeking to enjoy the city in comfort and style.
Puro Grand Hotel offers an elegant atmosphere right in the heart of the historic district, perfect for exploring the main monuments, restaurants, and shopping areas on foot.
Meanwhile, the 5-star Palacio Can Marqués Grand Luxury by Puro has become one of Palma’s most renowned boutique hotels, offering the unparalleled experience of an authentic 18th-century Mallorcan palace in the heart of Palma.
Both properties provide easy access to the historic center, the waterfront promenade, and some of the best summer experiences the city has to offer, making them excellent choices for an unforgettable stay in the Mallorcan capital.
FAQs
How many days are recommended for visiting Palma de Mallorca in the summer?
Ideally, you should spend between three and five days exploring the historic center, enjoying the nearby beaches, discovering the local cuisine, and taking a day trip along the coast or to the Serra de Tramuntana.
What’s the best area to stay in Palma during the summer?
The Old Town and its surroundings are one of the best options, as they allow you to explore the main monuments, restaurants, shops, and entertainment areas on foot. Staying at Puro Hotels also offers a prime location and a boutique experience that combines design, comfort, and the authentic Mediterranean lifestyle.