Discover the best markets in Palma: A local’s guide
Being in Mallorca is also about exploring the markets, and the markets in Palma offer a truly authentic and unique experience. While many of us shifted to supermarkets, Mallorcans have kept the tradition of shopping at local markets for their ingredients.
Even if you’re just hanging out in Palma, staying at a hotel in the city, or preferring to eat out, The markets in Palma are still worth a visit. You can build up an appetite and satisfy it at one of the cozy little eateries.
Remember, the markets in Palma are where locals shop from morning to early afternoon, a remnant from the days when men worked outside and women stayed home to care for the house and children.Â
The markets are vibrant hubs of local culture, offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and traditional Mallorcan delicacies. Each market provides a unique, authentic experience, showcasing the island’s rich culinary heritage. Remember to explore the markets in Mallorca – we have a guide to the markets in the villages.Â
Please take a moment to watch the brief presentation in the video below:
Mercat de Olivar – Palma’s Largest Market
Located in the heart of Palma at Plaza de l’Olivar, Mercat de Olivar is Palma’s largest market, built in 1951. Time flies as you wander through the stalls, admiring the beautifully presented products: towers of fruits and vegetables, hams hanging in layers, cheeses of all sizes, and wines from across Spain.
Even if you don’t have a kitchen during your stay, you’ll wish you did. Fresh fish, shellfish, nuts, dried fruit, coffee, spices, and even oven-roasted chicken abound. The butcher stalls offer a variety of meats, including whole skinned rabbits and sheep’s heads, alongside classic cuts.
Mercat de Olivar also has many dining options, such as oysters and bubbles in the fish section or sushi. You can find various kitchen utensils and local wine and a great cup of coffee.Â
Opening hours are 7-15, Mon-Sat.
The local tip: Bar des Peix at Mercat de Olivar, Palma
One of the standout stalls in Mercat de Olivar is Bar des Peix. Known for its fresh seafood, this stall offers a delightful selection of tapas and dishes prepared from the market’s daily catch. You can enjoy oysters, shrimp, and various fish, perfectly paired with a glass of local wine or cava. The lively atmosphere and delicious offerings make it a must-visit spot within the market.
Mercado Santa Catalina – Palma’s Oldest Market
In the old fishing quarter of Santa Catalina, you’ll find Palma’s oldest market, offering all sorts of food items, small tapas bars, and a health food stall with gluten-free products. The area around the market is filled with cozy eateries, perfect for a stroll.
Opening hours are 7-16, Mon-Sat.
Must visit: Bar Joan Frau at Mercado Santa Catalina, Palma
Bar Joan Frau is a beloved spot within Mercado Santa Catalina. Known for its traditional tapas and hearty Mallorcan dishes, this bar offers an authentic taste of local cuisine. Enjoy dishes like tumbet, fresh seafood, and flavorful pa amb oli, all served in a friendly and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to relax and savor the flavors of Mallorca while soaking in the bustling market environment.
More about the markets in Palma after the Video section
Video (will be updated)
Mercado Ecologico – Organic Market in Palma
Twice a week, an organic market takes place at Plaza del Bishop Berenguer de Palou. It’s a small, authentic market where organic farms sell fruit, vegetables, nuts, cheeses, and bread. The atmosphere is cozy and local, making it a great spot to rest and enjoy the city.
Opening hours are Tuesday and Saturday, 8-14.
Mercado Pere Garau – local market in Palma
Located about 1 km from the center, Pere Garau has been operating since 1943. It offers the cheapest food prices, as local farmers sell their goods here. It’s the only market in Palma that sells small live animals like birds, rabbits, and chickens, giving it a true local working-class feel. Outdoor stalls are open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for clothes and shoes, and Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday for fruits, vegetables, animals, plants, and flowers.
Opening hours are approximately 6-15.
Local butcher: CarnicerÃa Juanita at Mercado Pere Garau, Palma
A notable stall at Mercado Pere Garau is CarnicerÃa Juanita. This butcher shop is renowned for its high-quality meats and traditional Mallorcan cuts. From succulent pork and beef to specialty items like sobrassada and botifarró, CarnicerÃa Juanita provides a wide range of options for meat lovers. The knowledgeable butchers offer excellent service, helping you choose the best cuts and providing cooking tips to enhance your culinary experience.
Mercado de Municipio Llevant
This small market on C/ de Manuel Azaña is primarily used by local Mallorcans. Built in the 1980s, it’s near Pere Can Antoni beach and primarily sells meat, fruits, vegetables, cheese, and fish.
Opening hours are 7-15.
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Want more than the best markets in Palma? Palma has a lot more to offer; visit Palma and read about shopping in Palma, museums in Palma, and sightseeing in Palma.
Discover culinary experiences starting at Mallorca’s markets in our articles on Mallorcan wine where you can read about the loacal kitchen, specialties, tapas, and wines.
Need help finding a good restaurant in Mallorca? We’ve got you covered.
Top picture to the article Explore the vibrant markets in Palma: © Nemesio Jimenez Jimenez | Dreamstime.com
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