Palma

From budget to boutique, Palma de Mallorca has a host of fantastic accommodation. Gain a sense of traditional Majorcan chic at the Hotel Can Cera, a classy boutique escape in the Old Town. The classically styled Gran Mélia Victoria is a good top-end option in the city centre. For a real ‘wow factor’, head 11km out of the city to Castillo Hotel Son Vida. Set within a 13th-century estate, this opulent offering has obvious elegance and sweeping views of the bay. Those wishing to save their Euros need not miss out on the historical charm, however, with a stay at character-filled former palace Hotel Born.

Most shoppers head straight for Avinguda Jaume III, Palma’s main shopping street where international names jostle for attention. But the tree-lined Passeig des Born is also a good place for luxury boutiques. Brands can also be found at the Porto Pi Centro Comercial, a shopping centre 2km from the centre. For more unique items and traditional Majorcan design, wander around the Plaça Mayor district, which has a weekly market and a plethora of independent shops. Nearer the port, Rialto Living Lifestyle Store is a treasure trove of interior design and art. Foodies will delight at discovering Mercat Olivar, a buzzing food market on Plaça Olivar.

Palma has a range of bars and restaurants to suit most tastes, whether simple tapas or cutting-edge cuisine. Café culture is big in Palma, with the atmospheric Bar Bosch a perfect place to try ensaïmada, a coil of light dough sprinkled with icing sugar. For more substantial fare, sit down to a meal at Café C’an Toni, a lively eatery serving traditional Majorcan dishes, such as succulent roast meats cooked in its wood-burning oven. Another mid-range option, Restaurant Toque, serves Belgian-influenced cuisine. Among the most fashionable restaurants is Simply Fosh, a gourmet eatery in the Old Town.

As Majorca’s capital, Palma has lots of spectacular events that make the perfect centrepiece for any holiday:

February: Sa Rua Carnival

Also known as Darrers Dies, this carnival is celebrated at the start of Lent and features colourful floats, masked dancers and lively musicians in a lively procession along La Rambla.

March: Maundy Thursday parade

The largest parade during Semana Santa (Holy Week) sees different brotherhoods of the city hold aloft statues as they make their way to the cathedral.

May: Palma International Boat Show

This glitzy show featuring millionaire toys, luxury yachts and humble boats encompasses all things nautical in Palma Marina.

June: Nic de Foc (Night of Fire)

A feast of bonfires and fireworks signals the eve of midsummer in Parc de la Mersignal, an illuminating event that attracts both locals and visitors.

December: Festa de l'Estendard

This New Year celebration in honour of the Christian conquest of Palma in 1229 involves a popular parade from the town hall to the cathedral, where mass is held.