How to Spend THREE DAYS in Palma de Mallorca, Spain: 3-Day Itinerary

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Dreaming of a sun-filled three-day getaway to Palma de Mallorca? We’ve got the perfect plan!

Palma blends Gothic architecture, sparkling coastlines, and vibrant food culture, making it one of Spain’s most irresistible island cities. After exploring its historic streets, sailing its turquoise bays, and tasting our way through its markets and restaurants, we’ve crafted an itinerary that captures Palma’s best without feeling rushed.

This three-day plan combines history, culinary experiences, and outdoor adventures for a well-rounded trip. You’ll wander centuries-old landmarks, sip drinks at sunset, and explore both land and sea, leaving with a true sense of Mallorca’s charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, this guide will help you make every moment count. Let’s get into it!

Itinerary Overview

Getting around Palma is straightforward in the city center—you can easily walk between major sights without needing transport. For getting across town, the local bus system, EMT, is reliable and inexpensive. However, if you’re planning to explore beyond the city limits, renting a car is the most convenient choice. Taxis are widely available but can be pricey, and public buses to further destinations can be slow and infrequent, making driving the best option for flexibility.

Over the next three days, you’ll dive into Palma’s rich history, explore beautiful coastal spots, and enjoy island-hopping adventures. Each day balances sightseeing and relaxation, so you can make the most of your time without feeling rushed.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll experience on this three-day Palma de Mallorca itinerary:

Day 1: Start by exploring Palma’s historic center on a guided e-bike tour, then visit the Bellver Castle. In the evening, set sail on a sunset yacht cruise with swimming and charcuterie.

Day 2: In the morning, tour the stunning Palma Cathedral and learn to cook traditional dishes in a centuries-old windmill. Spend the afternoon exploring Old Town or relaxing at a nearby beach, before enjoying an aperitivo and dinner.

Day 3: Start your day sailing the coast on a luxury catamaran with swimming, snorkeling, and tapas. After lunch, head into the Serra de Tramuntana for an evening quad biking adventure. Return to Palma for dinner and drinks.

Day 1

Breakfast – Bombon Boss

Start your morning in Palma with a caffeine kick and a sweet or savory bite at Bombon Boss, a cozy local café just a short six-minute walk from today’s 10 am tour meeting point. With its early 8 am opening time, you can sip on a rich café con leche or opt for their namesake bombón coffee—sweetened with condensed milk—for an indulgent start to the day. 

Morning – Explore the historic center on an e-bike

After breakfast, trade walking shoes for two wheels and see more of Palma in a few hours than you could on foot all day. This small-group e-bike tour runs from 10 am to about 1 pm and blends history, sightseeing, and coastal views without breaking a sweat. It’s worth noting that tours aren’t always available on Sundays and Mondays, so plan your days accordingly so you don’t miss out.

Starting from Plaça Major, Palma’s lively central square, you’ll glide through narrow streets lined with centuries-old buildings. Stops at Santa Eulalia, the Convent of Santa Clara, and the Palau de l’Almudaina are far more than quick photo ops—your guide brings each site to life with fascinating stories about the knights, kings, and merchants who once passed through.

From there, the route opens up to the seafront, where the sparkling Mediterranean serves as a stunning backdrop. The highlight is Palma Cathedral (La Seu), whose intricate Gothic details are just as captivating up close as they are from afar. The ride finishes with a climb to Bellver Castle, where panoramic views reveal the entire city, the curving coastline, and the rugged Tramuntana mountains.

With smooth e-bikes, a knowledgeable guide, and a thoughtfully planned route, this tour is a must-do for first-time visitors. Check out HUNDREDS of glowing reviews here to see why so many travelers rave about it!

Don’t miss out—book this popular e-bike tour in advance here!

Lunch – Barmenia

After your morning of exploring Palma by e-bike, head to Barmenia for a well-earned lunch. It’s just a 4-minute drive or an easy 10-minute bus ride from where the tour wraps up, and conveniently only a 10-minute walk from Bellver Castle, your next stop. This makes it a perfect mid-day break before you dive back into sightseeing.

Barmenia is known for its relaxed atmosphere and fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The menu offers everything from crisp salads and flavorful tapas to heartier mains, so you can go light or indulge depending on your energy level. Pair your meal with a refreshing signature beverage, and save room for one of their homemade desserts—they’re worth it! The outdoor seating is a bonus if you want to linger a little longer and soak up Palma’s warm afternoon air.

Afternoon – Tour the Bellver Castle

After lunch, make your way to Bellver Castle, one of Palma’s most popular and distinctive landmarks. You’ll have passed by it earlier on your e-bike tour, but it’s worth coming back to explore in full. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the castle’s unique circular design sets it apart from most medieval fortresses in Europe. 

Built in the 14th century for King James II of Mallorca, it served as a royal residence before being used as a military prison for centuries. Today, it houses the city’s history museum and offers some of the best panoramic views in Palma.

Admission is just €4, and there’s no need to book ahead. You can purchase tickets upon arrival for any day of the week except Monday, when the historic site is closed. Plan to spend about 1 to 1.5 hours wandering through the castle’s open-air courtyards, climbing its towers, and learning about Palma’s past in the museum’s exhibits. The views from the top are especially breathtaking, with the city, harbor, and Tramuntana mountains stretching out before you. 

Evening – Relax on a sunset cruise

Start winding down your first day in Palma with this 4-hour yacht tour along Mallorca’s gorgeous coastline. The meeting point is about a 17-minute bus ride or walk from Bellver Castle, making it easy to get here after your afternoon sightseeing. We recommend booking the 4, 4:30, or 5:30 pm time slot, depending on how long you plan on spending exploring the castle, and arriving 15 minutes early to get settled on board.

From the moment you step onto the yacht in central Palma, the crew makes you feel instantly at home. As you leave the marina behind, Palma’s skyline fades into the distance, replaced by endless shades of blue. There’s plenty of space to lounge in the sun while sipping drinks and enjoying a charcuterie board piled with local cheeses and cured meats. It’s the perfect prelude to an evening at sea!

The captain steers toward secluded coves where you can dive into crystal-clear water for a swim or snorkel among colorful fish (gear included). Paddleboards are also available if you want to explore further, though many guests simply relax on deck, soaking up the warm sea breeze.

Choosing the evening tour means you’ll be treated to a spectacular sunset as the sky transforms into vibrant pinks and oranges over the water. For an extra-special touch, consider upgrading to a private tour. Just be sure to book early—this one often sells out!

Reserve this yacht adventure here and enjoy free 24-hour cancellation!

Dinner – KAIZEN Restaurant

End your first day in Palma with a delicious change of pace at KAIZEN Restaurant, one of the city’s top-rated spots for sushi and Japanese cuisine. Located in Palma’s charming Old Town, it’s about a 20-minute drive or bus ride from the marina where your yacht tour ends. They’re closed on Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly if sushi is a must on your list.

KAIZEN takes pride in using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and it shows in every bite. The menu is a mix of artfully plated sushi rolls, sashimi, and Japanese-inspired small plates, along with a thoughtful selection of beverages to pair with your meal. For something memorable, try the chef’s tasting menu, which offers a curated progression of their best creations. The intimate setting and attentive service make it a great spot to unwind after a full day of sightseeing and adventure.

Day 2

Breakfast – CAFÉSPHÈRE Specialty Coffee

Start your second day in Palma with a perfectly brewed cup at CAFÉSPHÈRE Specialty Coffee, a cozy café known for its expertly sourced beans and skilled baristas. Opening at 9 am, it’s ideally located just a five-minute walk from the iconic Palma Cathedral, making it a convenient first stop before the day’s activities.

Since you’ll be diving into a cooking class at noon, keep breakfast light—think a silky flat white paired with a fresh pastry or a slice of banana bread. The atmosphere here is relaxed yet refined, with a minimalist design that lets the quality of the coffee shine. It’s the kind of spot where locals linger with a laptop or a good book, but it also works perfectly for a quick caffeine boost before heading out to explore.

Morning – Tour the Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca

You may have passed by Palma Cathedral (La Seu) on your e-bike tour yesterday, but this is the moment to step inside and experience the city’s most iconic landmark in full. Dominating the waterfront with its intricate Gothic facade, the cathedral was commissioned by King James I of Aragon in the 13th century and took nearly 400 years to complete. It stands not just as a place of worship but as a symbol of Mallorca’s history, blending Gothic architecture with later additions by Antoni Gaudí in the early 20th century.

We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance online here for the 10 am opening time to make the most of your morning. The €10 ticket includes entry to both the cathedral and its museum, which fits well into this timeframe. If you have a little more flexibility and don’t mind moving quickly, the €25 ticket includes access to the terraces as well, offering sweeping views over Palma’s Old Town and the Mediterranean. 

Inside, the soaring vaulted ceilings, vibrant stained glass (including one of the largest rose windows in the world), and ornate chapels make it clear why Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca is considered one of Spain’s most beautiful cathedrals. Whether you linger over the details or take in the grandeur at a brisker pace, this is a Palma must-do!

Afternoon – Take an authentic Spanish cooking class

Skip the restaurants for lunch today and step into a centuries-old windmill for this hands-on Spanish cooking class you won’t soon forget. It’s just a short trip from the cathedral—about 15 minutes by bus or 8 minutes by car/taxi, and starts at noon. 

However, this is the most popular time available, so if you need to switch to the evening session (based on availability), you can swap it with tomorrow’s quad biking tour instead to balance things out.

With aprons tied and glass in hand, you’ll dive straight into Mallorca’s culinary traditions. The menu changes with the seasons, but you might find yourself making dishes like sobrassada suquet, a rich seafood-and-sausage stew, or a golden tortilla española that will test your pan-flipping skills. Your host and chef, Luis, isn’t just there to teach recipes—he weaves in history, humor, and the kind of cooking tips usually passed down through families.

Of course, the centerpiece is the paella. As saffron-scented steam rises from the pan, Luis will guide you through building flavors layer by layer, reminding you to be patient as the prized crispy socarrat forms on the bottom. Dessert is just as memorable—a creamy, caramel-topped Catalan cream that’s the perfect sweet finish.

By the time you sit down at the long wooden table to enjoy your creations, it feels more like sharing a meal with friends than attending a class. With stellar five-star reviews here, travelers consistently rave about this experience, praising both the food and the warm hospitality!

Secure your spot for this private Spanish cooking class here!

Late Afternoon – Your choice!

After your cooking class ends at 3 pm, how you spend the rest of your afternoon is entirely up to you. If you’re feeling energized, you can keep exploring the city. If you’d rather slow down, there are plenty of places to simply relax and enjoy the island vibe. Here are two great options to choose from.

Explore Old Town Palma

For a laid-back yet culturally rich afternoon, wander the charming streets of Palma’s Old Town. The medieval architecture is a feast for the eyes, and the maze-like lanes are dotted with locally owned shops, inviting cafes, boutique bookstores, and lively plazas. While exploring, make time for the Arab Baths, one of the city’s most significant remnants of its Moorish past. 

Another worthwhile stop is Mercat de l’Olivar, Palma’s historic market, where stalls overflow with fresh produce, cured meats, seafood, and artisan goods. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a vibrant spot to soak in the local atmosphere. Just note that the market is closed on Sundays.

Relax at a beach

If a laid-back afternoon is calling your name instead, there are a ton of beaches accessible from Palma de Mallorca, each offering its own unique vibe and scenery. Whether you’re looking for lively promenades, hidden coves, or soft sands perfect for a slow afternoon, you’ll find an option that fits your mood. 

Here are some of the best beach stops in Palma de Mallorca:

• Platja de Palma – This long stretch of golden sand is lined with palm trees and a lively promenade filled with cafes, bars, and restaurants. It’s a great choice if you want plenty of amenities nearby, plus it’s perfect for people-watching with a drink in hand. The atmosphere here is lively, making it a good fit if you’re after a more social beach vibe.

• Cala Major – A smaller, more sheltered cove surrounded by cliffs and dotted with colorful umbrellas. The calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming or just floating away the afternoon. This is a local favorite, so expect a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere with a touch of charm.

• Palmanova Beach – Known for its soft, powdery sand and gentle, shallow waters that are ideal for wading or a leisurely swim. You’ll find plenty of beachside eateries and facilities, making it easy to spend hours here without needing to head back into the city. The tranquil setting is perfect if you want a slower-paced beach day.

Fundación Juan March Palma Museum

If you’re up for one more cultural stop before dinner, make your way to the Fundación Juan March Palma Museum, a small but impressive modern art museum in the heart of the city. Its collection includes works by some of Spain’s greatest 20th-century artists—Dalí, Miró, and Picasso among them—displayed in a beautifully restored 17th-century mansion. 

The space is intimate and easy to explore in under an hour, making it perfect for a late-afternoon visit. Best of all, entry is free, and the museum stays open until 6:30 pm during the week, giving you just enough time to wander through before the evening sets in.

Aperitivo – La Rosa Vermuteria & Colmado

After a day filled with history, cooking, and exploring, it’s time to ease into the evening with a proper aperitivo at La Rosa Vermuteria & Colmado. This cozy, stylish spot is known for its extensive vermouth selection, but you’ll also find classic drinks, other regional specialties, and a menu of small bites that nod to traditional tapas with a modern twist. 

Grab a seat at the bar for the best atmosphere, and pair your drink with something simple yet flavorful—like marinated olives, anchovies, or a slice of tortilla. It’s the perfect transition from sightseeing to dinner.

Dinner – La Bodeguilla

Just a five-minute walk from La Rosa, La Bodeguilla offers a warm, inviting setting for your final meal of the day. Known for its refined take on traditional Mallorcan and Spanish dishes, the restaurant combines top-quality local ingredients with elegant presentation. 

Standouts include melt-in-your-mouth Iberian ham, fresh seafood, and perfectly cooked meats, all paired with an impressive wine list. The attentive service and cozy ambiance make it a fitting end to a day that’s balanced culture, cuisine, and a touch of indulgence.

Day 3

Breakfast – Capa Brunch Palma

Fuel up for your final day in Palma at Capa Brunch Palma, a bright and modern café known for its hearty portions and fresh, flavorful dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic eggs-and-bacon plate, avocado toast, fluffy pancakes, or a colorful smoothie bowl, their menu has plenty of options to start your day right. Coffee lovers will appreciate the quality brews, while fresh juices offer a lighter alternative if you want something refreshing.

Best of all, it opens at 8 am during the week and is only a seven-minute walk from here to the departure point for this morning’s tour, so you can enjoy a relaxed breakfast without worrying about the clock. The casual, friendly vibe makes it easy to linger, but you’ll want to leave just enough time to get to your activity with ease.

Morning – Sail along the Mallorca coast on a luxury catamaran

Start your last day in Palma with a dose of sea air on this small-group catamaran sailing trip. You can choose the 9:30 am or 10 am departure, each lasting about four hours and wrapping up around 1:30 or 2 pm—just in time for a late lunch. The moment you step on board, you’re greeted by the friendly crew and a cool drink, instantly setting the tone for a laid-back day on the water.

With only a handful of guests, the experience feels more like a private outing than a typical boat tour. Plus, our skipper, Andres, and host, Isaac, kept the vibe laid-back while ensuring we didn’t miss a single highlight.

The best part is anchoring in a secluded bay, where the water shimmers in impossible shades of blue and hovers at a perfect 25°C (77°F). Jump in for a swim, snorkel to spot colorful fish, or test your balance on a stand-up paddleboard (spoiler: it’s trickier than it looks!). Prefer to relax? There’s plenty of space to lounge in the sun or shade with a drink in hand.

Freshly prepared tapas served on board bring the morning to a perfect close. Sitting there with a plate of Spanish flavors and the gentle sway of the boat, it’s hard to imagine a better way to experience Mallorca!

For an amazing Palma de Mallorca adventure, book this sailing tour here!

Afternoon –  OMBU Passeig del Born

After a morning on the water, you’ll probably be ready for something more substantial than the light tapas served aboard the catamaran. Just a seven-minute walk from where the boat docks, OMBU Passeig del Born is a lively, upscale tapas bar that’s perfect for a late lunch. Known for its creative twists on Spanish classics, the menu features everything from fresh seafood dishes to inventive small plates bursting with flavor. Just go easy on the drinks, as you’ve got another adventure coming up soon!

The meeting point for your next tour is outside the city, about a 20-minute taxi ride or over an hour via public bus. Depending on your transportation choice, you may want to use the time between tours to head back to your accommodation for a quick outfit change and a bite to eat, then make your way out for the evening.

Evening – Go quad biking

Trade the coastline for mountain trails with this quad biking adventure through the Serra de Tramuntana, one of Mallorca’s most stunning natural landscapes. We recommend the 5 to 8 pm time slot—it’s cooler, the lighting is gorgeous, and the sunset views are unforgettable.

From the moment we arrived, our guides, Pedro and Severin, made it clear this isn’t just a slow, follow-the-leader ride. After a quick briefing on the controls, you’ll be revving your engine and heading out along a mix of narrow country roads and rugged off-road paths. Group sizes are kept small for a more personal feel, and just keep in mind that you’ll need a valid driver’s license to take the handlebars yourself.

The scenery shifts constantly—one minute you’re winding through quiet stone villages, the next you’re skirting jagged cliffs with the sea far below or bouncing over trails framed by green hills. There were moments we wanted to slow down just to take it all in, but the thrill of the ride kept us moving.

As the sun begins to dip, the mountains are bathed in shades of orange, pink, and gold, turning an already epic ride into something truly special. Whether you’re here for the adrenaline or the scenery (or both), this tour delivers in spades. And judging by over 400 five-star reviews here, it’s an experience that sticks with you long after the dust settles!

Check availability and book this incredible ATV adventure here!

Dinner – El Camino

After your quad biking adventure, you’ll have about a 20-minute drive back into Palma—just enough time to build up an appetite. For your final dinner, make your way to El Camino, a sleek, lively spot that’s earned a reputation as one of the city’s must-visit restaurants. 

The long marble bar is the heart of the space, where chefs prepare fresh, seasonal dishes right in front of you, making dinner here feel like part meal, part show.

The menu changes regularly but always leans into high-quality ingredients and bold flavors—think perfectly grilled meats, vibrant seafood, and inventive small plates that are perfect for sharing. The energy is contagious, and sitting at the bar gives you a front-row seat to the action in the open kitchen. Just note they’re closed on Sundays and Mondays, so plan ahead. Because it’s such a popular spot, it’s best to make a reservation online here well in advance.

Night – Clandestino Cocktail Club

Since it’s your last night in Palma, keep the evening going with a stop at Clandestino Cocktail Club (closed Sunday and Monday), just a five-minute walk from El Camino. This stylish, intimate bar specializes in creative, expertly crafted drinks, with a menu that blends classic recipes and inventive originals. The bartenders here are as much entertainers as they are mixologists, often adding a bit of flair to your drink-making experience. 

Whether you choose something smoky, citrusy, or spirit-forward, each drink is beautifully presented and balanced. It’s the perfect spot to toast to three incredible days in Palma de Mallorca before calling it a night!

Related Read: Find yourself with extra time? Check out our 10 best things to do in Palma de Mallorca blog for even more epic activities!

Where to Stay in Palma de Mallorca

Now that you’ve got your Palma de Mallorca itinerary sorted, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! Trust us, the accommodation you choose can make or break your trip, so we want to make sure you’re choosing wisely. To help you out, we’ve rounded up our top hotel recommendations for every budget below!

Luxury – $$$

For a luxurious stay in the heart of Palma, Hotel Saratoga is a top pick. Just a five-minute walk from the Contemporary Art Museum, the port, and Palma Cathedral, this 4-star hotel boasts a prime location. Guests can unwind at the stunning rooftop pool, dine at one of four on-site restaurants, and enjoy modern, stylish rooms with balconies. Whether you’re relaxing at the spa or taking in the city views, this hotel is perfect for an upscale Mallorca getaway!

Prices vary by season but usually start around €250 – €300 per night. Check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

The Catalonia Majórica Hotel is a fantastic mid-range choice in Palma de Mallorca, offering a prime location with stunning views of the bay. Guests can relax in the outdoor pool or hot tub, while the on-site restaurant serves delicious Mediterranean cuisine. The hotel also features a terrace bar, a gym, and comfortable rooms—many with private balconies overlooking the sea. Plus, its location near Porto Pi Shopping Centre and Paseo Marítimo makes it a great base for exploring!

Prices start at around €150 – €200 per night. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.

Budget – $

Hotel Abelux is a solid budget-friendly option in Palma de Mallorca, offering simple yet comfortable rooms in a quiet location. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge, and a private bathroom, making it a great base for exploring the city. The hotel is also within walking distance of Plaza de España, where you’ll find great public transport connections to the rest of the island.

The room-only rates start as low as €100 per night, and you can check prices and book your stay on Booking.com.

For even more options, check out all the hotels in Palma de Mallorca here!

Renting a Car in Spain

Renting a car in Spain is the perfect way to explore beyond the cities—think small villages, coastal towns, and hidden gems impossible to reach by public transit! The roads are well-maintained, and driving here is generally pretty relaxed, making it ideal for a road trip.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Spain

• Drive on the right: Like most of Europe, you’ll be driving on the right-hand side in Spain. And make sure you stick to the speed limit, speed cameras are common here!
• Pick the right car: Some of Spain’s smaller towns and villages have narrow streets and tight parking, so I recommend going for a compact car. Also, most rentals here are manual, so if you need an automatic (like me!), be sure to filter for it on Discover Cars when booking.
• Insurance is a must: I always add full coverage insurance, whether it’s a ding in a parking lot or a chipped windshield on a rural road, having full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable with Discover Cars!
• Toll roads: Spain has both toll and toll-free roads. Toll roads are usually marked with “AP” and can be paid using cash, credit card, or electronic devices like VIA-T. Plan your route accordingly and have a payment method ready.
• Parking tips: In urban areas, parking can be challenging. Look for designated parking zones and be aware of local regulations to avoid fines. Some areas may have restricted parking zones or require a resident permit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Spain

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Spain on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

We hope this three-day itinerary was helpful as you plan your trip to Palma de Mallorca! Between the history, incredible scenery, friendly locals, and amazing food, we had the best time exploring this city. If you stick to this itinerary, I know you will love it as much as we did!

Check out our other Spain blogs for more helpful resources as you plan your trip! Whether you’re looking for more city itineraries, where to stay guides, or lists of top things to do, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!

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