Palma de Mallorca is a laid back yet vibrant city, where children and families are welcome. Below we’ve given some top tips on what to do in Palma with kids.
The city has a good selection of green spaces and parks to keep kids entertained in-between visiting the sights and wandering the ancient streets. The main area to visit is the pretty and ambient Old Town, which is compact enough for walking around and has numerous pedestrianised areas and wide boulevards for kids to let off a bit of steam.
It’s a great city for seeing the sights and taking in the atmosphere whilst keeping the kids entertained as Palma has been clever and devised kid friendly areas next to some of its highlights:
Cathedral & Parc del Mar. One of the must see places in Palma is the grand Gothic cathedral and the surrounding area. Head inside to look up at the lofty ceilings and intricate work by Gaudi or walk the city walls to see the imposing cathedral (& seafront) from various angles.
Directly in the shadows of the cathedral are two small playgrounds so adults can be up close to the architecture whilst kids take a spin on the roundabout. There are plenty of pedestrianised areas in this part of the city so kids can roam whilst parents stroll and take in the atmosphere. A favourite spot is the Parc del Mar (complete with large playground) which sits beneath the cathedral and across from the seafront. Also popular with families are the old style horse and carriages which set off from outside the cathedral to take tours around Palma.
Another area to spend some time in and around is the Es Baluard Museum. Even if you don’t step inside the museum (which is worth visiting and children love walking around the roof ramparts) the main spacious terrace complete with sculptures, a beautiful café and restaurant has splendid views across the bay of Palma.
Just across the way is the large children’s playground at Parque de la Feixina. This is also close to the Santa Catalina area of Palma where you can find nice relaxed independent cafes and restaurants for a bite to eat.
Take the Palma to Soller train. This is something for all the family and a must do day trip. It’s a beautiful ride through the scenic mountains in a vintage train to the quaint old town of Soller.
Once in Soller, eat icecream in the main square or hop on a vintage tram down to the pretty Port de Soller with its promenade, beach and more icecreams (as well as seafood restaurants and cafes).
Head to Bellver Castle. If you want to marvel at fabulous views across the Bay of Palma, visit this majestic circular castle perched above the city.
Kids will love exploring the castles nooks and crannies whilst you can enjoy the surrounds and stunning scenery.
On certain days actors are there to entertain the children with tales from the castle plus there is a café for snacks and lunches.
If you fancy going indoors try the Aquarium on the edge of the city with all variety of sea life to mesmerise little ones.
The extensive seafront is a popular place for all the family. A great way to see the seafront is to cycle along the specially designated waterfront cycle paths. For bike hire, try Nano Bicycles (with childrens seats & buggies) and Palma Bike and Go.
Also popular is roller blading, which is a perfect choice for teenagers wanting to show off their cool skills. You can go for miles along the seafront stopping off at hip relaxed cafes and beaches.
Try the Portixol area for a good selection of laid back places to eat. If you make it as far as Ciudad Jardi, your efforts will be rewarded with a lovely beachfront playground and cafes.
The beach is always a simple but fun experience and the soft sandy beach is a great place to while away an afternoon, top up the tan and build sandcastles.
There are also numerous beach bars along the way, complete with comfortable beach loungers. We rather like the stylish Nassau Beach but also try Amina Beach Club.
Eating in Palma is fun with numerous delicious icecream shops (try Amorino) and bakeries to keep energy and happiness levels high. If you want to try the Mallorcan thick hot chocolate and churros in old style surrounds head to Ca’n Joan de S’Aigo. Get there early to bag a seat without a wait. For healthier options, the markets in Palma offer an array of locally grown produce so you can pick up super fresh fruit and snacks. Head indoors to the vibrant Mercat de l’Olivar where the local fresh produce, snacks and seafood are in abundance.
For meal times, tapas are perfect as you can order a pile and see what grabs the little ones tastebuds. Try the bustling and friendly La Boveda. If you’re feeling adventurous try one of the excellent value Menu del Dia that many restaurants offer and have your main meal at lunchtime.
Where to stay with families:
The Portixol Hotel, in the area of the same name, is a stylish hotel and restaurant with a pleasant pool and a sandy beach and seafront close to hand.
Opt for a Port House Family Suite or many of the other rooms can accommodate extra beds.
Hotel Palau Sa Font is right in the heart of the Old Town with a plunge pool to cool off in. It’s just around the corner from the seafront and the pretty Placa Drassana. XL & XL with terrace rooms can accommodate a family of four.
Hotel HM Jaime III is in the Old Town and just metres from the Es Baluard Museum & terrace. This is a good value choice and quadruple rooms are perfect for family trips.
The super stylish and luxurious Hotel Calatrava overlooks the seafront and the Parc de Mar, so has quick access to open spaces, play park and the beach as well as the old town and all its cafes, restaurants and shops.
For more information on Palma in general, take a look at our ‘A Girls Guide to Palma de Mallorca’ and for free advice and a free hotel booking service (ABTA bonded), email us via our contact page or call us and speak directly to a travel adviser on 0800 170 1020 or +44 (0) 207 118 1020. Alternatively you can browse all our recommended Palma places to stay here.