What to see and do for free in Palma?
Who says exploring the big city has to be expensive? Here are some ideas for free cultural experiences in Palma.
Free art in Palma
Palma is an exciting city to explore on foot. In the old town, the streets are narrow and winding, making it easy to lose yourself in its charm. Start your journey on Sant Miguel, where youāll find the Ā Museu FundaciĆ³ Joan March with free entrance. The museum, housed in an elegant and stylish building adorned with marble, features permanent works by Joan MirĆ³, Salvador DalĆ, and Miquel BarcelĆ³.
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Casal Solleric is free culture in Central Palma
Casal SollericĀ is a magnificent Baroque building from the 18th century, featuring a courtyard and intricate decorative details. It hosts temporary exhibitions specializing in contemporary art and photography. Located right next to Passeig del Born, it is centrally situated in the city, making it an easily accessible cultural spot.
Casal Balaguer in the historic center of Palma
Casal Balaguer, a noble house dating back to the 14th century, was renovated in the 16th and extended in the 18th century. The city council transformed it into a cultural center, making it accessible to everyone. The new layout is intuitive, blending historical architecture with modern design while maintaining its historical complexity.
Casal Balaguer is perfect for those seeking free cultural experiences in Palma. It offers a fascinating study in interior design and architecture, with rooms furnished and decorated from various eras. It beautifully illustrates the evolution of interior design in Palma over time.
Looking for museums in Palma? Read more about art and museums in Palma.
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La Lonja is a must visit in Palma
Just a few blocks from the harbor is the old stock exchange, The LonjaĀ , located in the neighborhood of the same name. Dating back to 1452, this elegant Gothic building offers free admission. Inside, the spacious room can accommodate many visitors. Sit in one of the large windowsills, admire the slender columns that rise like palm trees to the ceiling, and marvel at the patinated marble floor. Imagine the bustling life of traders who once gathered here to exchange goods from around the world.
The food markets: Free cultural experiences in Palma
Palma boasts five permanent food markets. Visit in the morning to see traders and their extensive selection of raw materials. For example, check out Mercat d’Olivarās fish section, the live animal market in Pere Garau, or Palmaās oldest food market in the old fishing quarter of Santa Catalina. Take the opportunity to enjoy some tapas or a glass of wine in one of the market bars.
Read more about Palmas vibrant markets, best markets of Mallorca and the ultimate guide to shopping in Palma.
Architectural wonders in Palma
Explore Palma’s architecture and patios for more free cultural experiences. Visit the first hotel in Palma, Gran Hotel, now a cafe, art shop, and museum.
Admire the modernismo style of Edifici Casasayas and Can Forteza Rey near Plaza Mayor. For hidden architectural gems, visit Plaza Quadradro and enjoy the beautiful buildings and quiet stone benches.
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Town Hall and Plaza del Cort
The Baroque town hall on Plaza del Cort is a small architectural gem. Sit on the stone steps in front and watch people passing by, enjoying the view of Hotel Cort and Hotel MamĆ”. Admire the dark eaves with intricate figures just a few steps away.
La Seu ā The Cathedral
Palmaās grand Gothic Cathedral, La Seu, is an imposing monument. It took nearly 400 years to build, and its exterior features large glass mosaics and various entrance areas. For a different perspective, view the cathedral from below the city wall in Parc de la Mar, where you can spend an hour or two exploring sculptures, playgrounds, table tennis tables, benches, and shady palm trees.
Enjoy the free and green parks of Palma
Palmaās churches
Many of Palmaās churches are open to visitors, while others have specific visiting hours. Be respectful if a mass is in progress. Visit the beautiful church on Plaza Santa Eulalia and the old church of Sant Francesc nearby.
For a unique experience, explore Palmaās cemetery, located about 3 km from the center, a testament to stonemasonry art.
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Street Art in Palma
Palma is teeming with street artists. Classic caricaturists can be found around Plaza Mayor, San Miguel, or below the cathedral at Parc del Mar. For modern street art or graffiti, explore the neighborhoods around C/Syndicate, where gables and abandoned buildings serve as canvases for vibrant works of art.
Read more about street art in Palma.
More free cultural experiences: Shopping Streets
Take a stroll through the cozy bishop’s garden in Palma, a quiet and historic respite in the old town. Enjoy people-watching along Palmaās countless shopping streets, which cater to all budgets. For more information on what different streets and neighborhoods offer, check out our guide to Palmaās shopping.
If you need a coffee break, read more about the best coffee places in Palma.
Top image for Free Cultural Experiences in Palma: Photo Ā© Artesiawells | Dreamstime.com
