Palma de Mallorca blends history, sea views, and top‑tier gastronomy into one unforgettable city break. If you’re wondering what to do in Palma in a single day, we have the perfect plan: wander through the must‑see sights of the old town and finish with an exceptional meal at Sukalde, the contemporary Basque restaurant hidden in the city’s heart.
1. Start at Palma Cathedral
No guide to what to do in Palma is complete without the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria—known locally as La Seu. Admire its soaring Gothic façade, then step inside to see Gaudí’s interventions and Miquel Barceló’s modern chapel.
We advise you to buy your ticket online to avoid queues and take advantage of the visit to the terraces if you are looking for the best views of the port. You can buy them here.
2. Stroll the Parc de la Mar and Medieval Walls
From the cathedral, head down to the Parc de la Mar. Snap photos beside the salt‑water lake with La Seu as a backdrop, then follow the old city walls for glimpses of the Mediterranean and the historic bastions.
3. Visit La Lonja and Passeig del Born
Next on your what to do in Palma checklist: the Lonja de Palma, a masterpiece of civil Gothic architecture. A few steps away lies the elegant Passeig del Born, lined with high‑end boutiques and leafy plane trees—perfect for a quick coffee stop—before you reach the bustling Plaça de la Reina.
4. Get Lost in La Calatrava and Santa Eulàlia
Dive into the narrow lanes of La Calatrava and Santa Eulàlia. Look out for hidden courtyards, modernist façades, and indie art galleries. Make sure to pop by Santa Eulàlia Church and Palma’s Plaça Major, where craft markets often set up.
5. Lunchtime: Head to Sukalde
After exploring, walk a few minutes to Sukalde (Carrer del Forn de la Glòria 5), part of Grupo La Vasca. The restaurant fuses Basque tradition with Mallorcan produce and modern technique—ideal for foodies searching what to do in Palma that involves serious flavour.
Don’t Miss at Sukalde
- Rabowich: braised oxtail mini‑sandwich with cheese cream and apricot confit.
- Bonito belly tuna prepared by Sukalde accompanied by a trampó.
- Old‑cow entrecôte tataki with Padrón peppers.
- Charcoal‑grilled octopus with crushed potatoes and smoked mayo.
- Zamburiñas au gratin with parmesan cream, garlic and parsley.
- Basque cheesecake with honey and walnuts to finish.
Pair your meal with one of Sukalde’s classic or signature cocktails—from a refined Negroni to a zesty Moscow Mule.
What to do in Palma
Now you know what to do in Palma to blend culture, history, and high‑end dining into a single itinerary. From the Gothic grandeur of La Seu to the cutting‑edge cuisine of Sukalde, Mallorca’s capital promises a day trip that satisfies every sense.
Book your table in advance and enjoy a walking tour that ends with the taste of northern Spain—served right in the heart of the island. See you in Palma, and of course, at Sukalde!