My last stop on this exploration of southern Spain leaves me with ideas to pass along to you. As always, these are places that stand out to me, and are of course costing nothing to see. Here are 6 free things to do in Palma de Mallorca that I hope you will enjoy as much as I have.
Basilica de Santa Maria
There is a fee to enter the basilica, but for me the exterior is worthy of a visit all on its own. Today, it is tucked in amongst narrow cobblestone streets which makes it tricky to see up close. Construction began in the 13th century and continued for the next 500 years!
Walk around all sides and take in as much detail as you can. The gorgeous Gothic architecture is stunning, especially in the warm glow of sunrise. For a more complete view, walk towards the sea, past the man-made lake and park, and look back. Now you have a complete view of her in all of her glory. There are some interesting statues to see in this park too. A larger-than-life football helmet perhaps?
Paseo des Borne
This wide avenue is actually a pedestrian only boulevard that runs down the centre of the street. Lined on both sides with tall shade trees, this is the place for an afternoon stroll.
At this time of year, there are millions of fairy lights, strung in the trees for the holidays, giving the atmosphere a glamorous appearance. At one end find Placa de la Reina with a large picturesque fountain. This is a romantic place to be at any time of year and the perfect spot for people watching and busker activity.
Windmills
Did you know that the island has over 3,300 windmills? There are multiple places to view them, but this grouping at the Es Jonquet barrio are an easy and close walk from the old town. These windmills were the first to be restored.
There are about 700 of this type of windmill that were built between the 17th & 19th centuries. They were used for milling wheat and have six blades. Originally, they were constructed right on the ground but later ones were built on a platform and the millers house was underneath.
Playa Can Per Antoni
This beach surprised me, it is beautiful for a city beach. I couldn’t resist dipping my feet into the cold Mediterranean sea. The sand is coarse to pebbly is spots, and there are periodic piles of the prettiest shells.
To reach this beach, walk along the promenade from old town. Beautiful views of the harbour are at your right and the cathedral and palace are on your left. You really couldn’t get a more picturesque stroll. At sunrise, it’s a dream.
Don’t miss part of the medieval wall that remains around old town. There is a turret here and another more complete section further down towards the marina in the opposite direction.
Street Art
Probably the biggest surprise for me here in Palma is the amount of street art. I was not expecting anything close to this. So creative are these mostly smaller pieces. Along with loads of graffiti, these bright and vibrant images fill my camera roll.
Walk down through the oldest parts of Palma, let yourself get lost in those little alleys and streets, and keep your eyes peeled. Early in the morning is best, before there are too many people about. The images are not large bold murals, but instead, small intimate pieces that provoke thought and will have you standing there saying ‘hmmmm’.
Llotja de Palma
One of my favourite buildings that I stumbled onto quite by accident is the Llotja de Palma. This is a Gothic marvel from the exterior, build in 1448 and was the original stock exchange building. I hope it is open when you visit. When I approached, the main entrance was wide open to the public, and an art installation was inside, completely free.
Its magnificent, two large faces made of bent wire, both with their finger up to their lips, shushing each other. Those are the only two things inside this massive and cavernous space at the moment. When you visit, there will quite possibly be something else to see.
Palma did not end up growing on me. There is a feeling here that kept me a little on edge for the duration of my visit. I’m glad I gave the city a try. If I ever return to Mallorca, it will be for the beaches and beautiful coastline elsewhere on the island. Should you find yourself in Palma, this might offer a few ideas. Safe travel my friends.
