Palma’s Old Town is a very desirable and sought after area to live in. Here you can find everything from top-renovated palaces with modern amenities to cozy small apartments with roof terraces overlooking Palma’s magnificent Cathedral La Seu. The central location with proximity to the lively city life attracts many, but also the proximity to the sea and Palma’s harbor and the promenade. In the Old Town there are world-class restaurants, five-star hotels and inviting courtyards reminiscent of bygone times. But here you can also find hidden gems in the form of small charming shops, bars and alleys. The Old Town of Palma is actually one of the best preserved historic centers in Europe with architectural and cultural wonders. And best of all is that it is the perfect size to explore the area on foot and allow yourself to get lost in medieval streets and alleyways.
CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST PROPERTIES IN PALMA´S OLD TOWN
What should you not miss to visit
Here we find many of the most attractive places to visit such as the majestic Cathedral La Seu, parts of which were renovated by the Catalan architect Gaudi. Right next to the Cathedral is El Real Palacio de la Almudaina, which is one of the most visited attractions in the Old Town. La Almudaina, which is now a royal palace, is used for official meetings and events during the summer months. Its historical origins date as far back as the Talayotic era during the Iron Age and have since been used by both the Romans and Muslims who ruled the island. One can visit the lavishly furnished palace and enjoy the beautiful garden and courtyard.
Another must on the list is the Es Baluard museum where you can enjoy works by Joan Miró, Picasso, and Magritte among many others. The beautiful building is a work of art in itself and well worth a visit to see the wonderful views of the promenade and wonderful architecture.
Where to eat?
The Old Town offers everything from fine dining to cozy small restaurants. The restaurant De Tokio a Lima is located on the roof of the Boutique Hotel Can Alomar overlooking the street Paseo del Borne where many of Palma’s most exclusive shops are located. The food is a wonderful mix of Mediterranean food with a fusion of Asian. For those looking for an exclusive plant-based restaurant, we can really recommend the restaurant Botanic at the charming hotel Can Bordoy. Botanic offers a sophisticated plant-based menu that provides a sensual and seductive experience that will change your perception of healthy food.
Not far from there, on Calle Concepcion awaits the next gastronomic experience: Fera. Eating here is not the only pleasure as the venue is beautifully decorated with impressive works of art. The menu is based on head chef Simon Petutschnig’s love of Japanese flavors combined with seasonal ingredients found in Spain.
If you want to eat tapas in the Old Town, we recommend trying the classic tapas restaurant La Boveda or Ombu, which offer modern versions of tapas, both in La Lonja. Tast Club can be hard to find, but behind the doors of this hidden gem lies an elegant and intimate tapas restaurant reminiscent of an English club. Not far from there we find Toque de Queda, a champagne bar, and delicatessen shop in the heart of Palma, very close to La Rambla. It is a cozy and affordable restaurant with Italian charcuterie, tapas and pleasant service. Last but not least, we have to mention Rivareno in La Lonja where you can enjoy homemade, wonderful Italian ice cream.
Hotels in Old Town
The variety of hotels is almost endless in the area. Most of the hotels in The Old Town are boutique hotels and it can be difficult to find something more economical. The already mentioned elegant Can Bordoy is located in a historic building tastefully decorated with exclusive objects and offers 24 unique suites.
La Posada de Santa Clara offers a historic charm mixed with modern design. The exceptional location makes Santa Clara Urban Hotel & SPA a unique choice. El Llorenc Parc del Mar is a design hotel created by the Swedish designer Magnus Ehrland with a breathtaking location overlooking the sea and the Cathedral. The three-story roof terrace with infinity pool, a luxury spa and the restaurant Dins where the Mallorcan chef Santi Taura takes the reins is a guaranteed wow factor.
Johanna Andersson
Team Assistant @ BO Mallorca
