Palma

One of the greatest Gothic cathedrals in the world — built over 350 years, the interior is staggeringly tall with enormous stained glass windows including a Gaudí-designed rose window, the largest in the world, that projects extraordinary coloured light each morning.

The Old Town's Almudaina quarter is a beautiful mix of Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. The 10th-century Arab Baths are the only Islamic monuments in Palma — a remarkable survival from when the island was part of the Caliphate of Córdoba.

A unique circular Gothic castle from 1300 set in pine forest above the city — the only round Gothic castle in Spain. The views over Palma bay and the cathedral from the circular tower are extraordinary.

An outstanding modern art museum set within the 16th-century city walls — the Miró and Picasso collections are particularly fine. The rooftop terrace offers one of the best views over the harbour to the cathedral in all of Palma.

Mallorca's finest Michelin-starred chef in a beautiful converted convent — creative Mediterranean cuisine using the finest island produce. The tasting menu is extraordinary value for the quality. Book well ahead.

The finest food market in the Balearics — extraordinary seafood, local Mallorcan sobrasada sausage, tumbet vegetables, and ensaïmada pastries. The market's seafood bar serves just-bought fish for lunch.

Outstanding Castilian-influenced roast meats in a beautiful Old Town space — the suckling pig and the roast lamb from the wood-fired oven are exceptional. Very popular with both locals and visitors in the know.

A classic Mallorcan wine bar and tapas spot in the Old Town — excellent local Binissalem wines and traditional island tapas at honest prices. The sobrasada toast and the pa amb oli are essential orders.

The most atmospheric square in Palma surrounds the beautiful 15th-century Gothic Llotja building — several excellent restaurants and tapas bars surround the square, coming alive particularly in the evening.

Palma's most authentic neighbourhood bar — dark, tiny, and absolutely beloved by locals. The hierbas (Mallorcan herbal liqueur) shots and the cold Estrella Damm are exceptional. Standing room only.

The most extraordinary bar interior in Spain — a 17th-century palace filled with thousands of fresh flowers, candles, antique tapestries, and singing caged birds. Hugely expensive cocktails, but the experience is completely unique.

A stylish waterfront terrace on the Passeig Marítim promenade with views over the harbour and the illuminated cathedral — excellent cocktails and a beautiful sunset spot. The best place to watch cruise ships come and go.

Palma's most famous bakery since 1902 — the home of the authentic ensaïmada (spiral pastry), Mallorca's defining food. The café terrace on the beautiful Plaça de Weyler is perfect for watching the city wake up.

A grand Modernista café dating from the early 20th century in a beautiful arcaded building near the cathedral — excellent coffee and local pastries. The architecture is as good as the café. The perfect stop before or after the Seu.

A wide 5km beach east of Palma accessible by bus (line 15 from Plaça Espanya, 30 min) or taxi. Clear water and well-organised facilities. The western end near Can Pastilla is less crowded than the central tourist strip.

An exquisite small cove on Mallorca's dramatic southwest coast near Port d'Andratx — crystal clear turquoise water, dramatic pine-covered cliffs, and far fewer people than the east coast beaches.

The UNESCO World Heritage Serra de Tramuntana — spectacular mountain scenery with olive groves, stone villages, and sea views. Valldemossa's 14th-century Carthusian monastery where Chopin wintered is extraordinary.

One of the largest underground lake caves in the world — an extraordinary 2km cave system with a classical music concert performed on the illuminated lake by gondoliers. A genuinely jaw-dropping experience. Book tickets in advance.

A knowledgeable guide makes an enormous difference in understanding Palma's layered Moorish, Jewish, Christian, and modern history. The best tours leave from in front of the cathedral at 10am. Includes the Arab Baths and the Almudaina Palace exterior.