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Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor – updated 14 February 2023.

Plaza Mayor is a bustling and historic square located in the heart of Palma, Majorca. This lively plaza is the center of the city's shopping, dining, and entertainment scene, and is a must-visit destination for any traveller to the island.

The square dates back to the 19th century and has played an important role in the city's history. Once a marketplace, it has since evolved into a hub of activity, with a range of shops, restaurants, and bars lining the square. The architecture of the plaza is particularly noteworthy, with its stunning façade and archways that evoke the traditional Spanish style.

Old Town

Today, the square holds markets and fiestas and is a good place to begin an exploration of the historic Old Town with its cobblestoned streets and old arcaded buildings.

Cultural and festive hub

One of the main attractions of Plaza Mayor is the lively atmosphere that can be felt from the moment you step into the square. The sounds of street musicians and performers fill the air, adding to the vibrant energy of the place. The square is also home to many traditional Spanish festivals and celebrations throughout the year, making it a cultural and festive hub for the city.

Shopping

Plaza Mayor is also a great place to shop, with a range of boutiques, souvenir shops, and artisanal stores selling everything from clothing to handicrafts. Whether you're looking for a unique souvenir or a new outfit, you'll find it all in the stores around the square.

Cuisine

For those looking to experience the local cuisine, Plaza Mayor is home to a range of restaurants and cafes that serve traditional Spanish dishes, as well as international cuisine. From tapas to paella, you can taste a variety of flavors while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the square.

At night, Plaza Mayor is transformed into a vibrant nightlife destination, with a range of bars and clubs catering to all tastes. Whether you're looking for a quiet drink or a night of dancing, you'll find it all around the plaza.

Artist's Quarter

In addition to being a social and cultural hub, Plaza Mayor is also a creative centre and is known as the “artist's quarter”. You will find art galleries, street performers and mime artists in abundance.

Market

The artisan market is held on Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday each week from 10 am to 2 pm with the exception of a few weeks per year. You’ll find local crafts and produce at the market.

Plaza Mayor is rectangular in shape and is framed by 3 & 4 story buildings. The first floor has covered passages supported by columns with arches. This is where you will find the cafes, restaurants and shops. Underneath the square is underground parking and a shopping gallery.

Palma

Plaza Mayor is a good starting point to explore Palma. From the square, you have access to Carrer de Sant Miquel, Carrer de Colom, and Carrer del Sindicat, three streets packed with an abundance of shops.

Overall, Plaza Mayor is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Palma, Majorca. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere, it's the perfect place to experience the best of the city. So, grab a coffee, do some shopping, or simply soak up the energy of the place and enjoy all that Plaza Mayor has to offer.

Things to do in Palma

Palma Plaza Mayor

The Mallorca Insider

September 22, 2020

Tranvia de Soller

Tranvia de Soller – updated 18 October 2022

The Tranvia de Soller (Tranvía de Sóller) is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in Mallorca. It is a tram nicknamed ‘red lightning’; which connects the beautiful town of Sóller with the Port de Sóller district. The tramway was built in 1913 and has been in continuous operation since then, making it one of the oldest tramways in the world.

Red Lightning

We’re not sure why the tram is referred to as ‘red lightning’, it is neither red, nor very fast. The trams are orange in colour with wooden framed windows, open-sided wagons and wooden benches. The tramline opened in 1913 and some of the railcars and carriages used today date back to this period of time.

Picturesque route

The Tranvia de Soller is known for its picturesque route, which passes through the heart of the scenic Serra de Tramuntana mountains. The tramway runs along a 12-kilometer track and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including orange groves, olive groves, and the Bay of Soller.

Plaza de la Constitución

The journey from Sóller to the port takes around 15 minutes and passes through Plaza de la Constitución; which is the main square in Sóller and is a very popular meeting place for both locals and tourists. The tram passes cafes and bars with outside seating areas, and you are so close to the tables, it is possible to see what people are eating and drinking.

From the square, Tranvia de Soller passes by numerous orange groves and the old port facilities before reaching its destination.

History

The tramway is also famous for its historic rolling stock, which includes original tramcars from the early 20th century. The tramcars are equipped with wooden seats and overhead fans, giving passengers a glimpse into the past.

The history of the Tranvia de Soller is closely linked to that of the Tren de Sóller (the railway line that has connected Sóller with the island’s capital Palma de Mallorca since 1912 with the tramline opening in 1913 as an extension of the route.

Dual function

Initially, the rail cars served the dual function of transporting both people and goods. Freshly caught seafood was transported one way with coal and ammunition being transported in the other direction to resupply the former submarine and naval base at Port de Sóller.

One of the most unique features of the Tranvia de Soller is its hybrid power system, which allows the tramway to operate both on electricity and on diesel fuel. This system was introduced in the 1980s and allows the tramway to operate even when there is a power outage.

Tourist attraction

In addition to its scenic route and historic rolling stock, the Tranvia de Soller is also popular for its cultural significance. It is a symbol of the town of Soller and its rich history, and it is also a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from all over the world.

The Tranvia de Soller is not just a mode of transportation, but it is also an experience. The scenic ride, the historic tramcars, and the unique hybrid power system all contribute to the overall experience of riding the Tranvia de Soller. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a unique and memorable experience, the Tranvia de Soller is definitely worth checking out.

Port de Sóller

Port de Sóller is a very pretty coastal village located in a large and protected horseshoe bay separated from the rest of Mallorca by the Tramuntana mountain range.

For further information about the tram, please visit the official website.

Tours & Experiences

orange groves Plaza de la Constitución Port de Sóller Red Lightning Sóller Tranvía de Sóller

The Mallorca Insider

September 17, 2020

Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina – updated 14 February 2023.

Santa Catalina is a vibrant and trendy neighbourhood located in the heart of Palma, the capital city of the Spanish island of Majorca. This charming district is situated to the west of the city centre and is bordered by the Paseo Marítimo, the seafront promenade that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean sea.

Santa Catalina or ‘Santa Cat’ as the locals like to call it is a former fishing village, which was once a home to fishermen, flour millers and rope makers and is now referred to as the ‘Soho of Palma’ due to its fashionable mix of cultures.

Bohemian & artistic vibe

Santa Catalina has evolved into a hip and fashionable area that attracts locals and visitors alike. The neighborhood is characterised by its narrow streets and colorful buildings, which give it a bohemian and artistic vibe. It is also home to a wide range of restaurants, bars, and cafes that serve delicious food and drinks, making it the perfect place to enjoy a night out.

Uber-chic

Named after a former hospital dedicated to Santa Catalina of Alexandria, the area is now one of Palma’s most appealing areas and an uber-chic enclave with painted cottages, art nouveau town houses, designer boutiques, bars and music cafes.

Location

You will find Santa Catalina west of Avenida Argentina and north of the harbour. It still retains a village atmosphere but with an arty, bohemian feel and this is where the locals come when they want to chill and enjoy a beverage or a meal.

Bars & restaurants

You’ll find all kinds of bars and restaurants in Santa Cat, from dive bars to trendy and contemporary establishments offering cuisine from all over the world and every type of drink.

Indoor market

The area is well-known for the Mercat de Santa Catalina, an indoor market and the oldest food market in Palma. Built in 1920, the market is packed with stalls selling fish, fruit, vegetables, meat & other gourmet products.

Chefs from all over the island come to this market to purchase produce alongside local residents and restaurant & bar owners. The market is open from 08:00 hrs to around 14:00 hrs Monday through Saturday. Saturday is the busiest day because locals have a tradition to remain at the market after they have finished shopping to enjoy drinks and tapas.

Restaurants & bars

Santa Catalina has many restaurants and international bars and is usually very busy with locals and expats alike. There are a few venues that are always busy such as Hostal Cuba Bar with its rooftop terrace Sky Bar, La Havana Club and LAB Cocktail Bar. If you enjoy Indian food, then we highly recommend Basmati Indian Restaurant, the Basmati menu changes every day, so anyone who goes two days in a row will be able to taste a different selection.

Property

Property prices in Santa Cat are extremely high and buyers tend to be international clients. A typical 2 bed, 81 square metre apartment will cost around 550,000 €.

Santa Catalina is very popular for yachties. Being close to the harbour, you’ll often see yacht crew relaxing in one of the many bars.

Overall, Santa Catalina is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Palma de Mallorca. With its charming atmosphere, delicious food, and lively nightlife, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, a beach lover, or a party animal, this vibrant neighborhood is sure to delight and inspire.

Things to do in Palma

Palma Santa Catalina

The Mallorca Insider

September 17, 2020

Plaza de la Constitucion

Plaza de la Constitucion – updated 04 February 2023.

Sóller is a charming town on the island of Majorca, Spain, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. At its heart lies the Plaza de la Constitucion, a bustling square that serves as the town's main gathering place and a hub of activity for tourists and locals alike.

Church of Sant Bartomeu

Constitution Square is one of the most scenic main squares in the Balearic Islands and is surrounded by modernist buildings and dominated by the Church of Sant Bartomeu, which dates from the 16th Century. The square was built in 1813 and was once used as a bullring with the balconies of the fringing town houses rented out to spectators.

Sant Bartomeu Church was famously renovated in 1904 by a disciple of Antoni Gaudi named Joan Rubió who gave the largely baroque church a beautiful new modernist façade.

Weekly market

One of the most popular attractions in the Plaza de la Constitucion is the weekly market, which takes place every Saturday and is a great opportunity to pick up local products, such as fresh produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner at one of the many cafes and restaurants that line the square, or simply sit and people-watch, soaking up the lively atmosphere of this charming town.

Passeig de ses Fonts

The Plaza de la Constitucion is also a great starting point for exploring the rest of Soller, with its narrow streets, charming buildings, and beautiful gardens. Visitors can take a stroll along the Passeig de ses Fonts, a lovely promenade that winds its way through the town and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Alternatively, they can take a scenic train ride to the nearby town of Port de Soller, where they can enjoy a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Tranvía De Sóller

Plaza de la Constitucion is Sóller’s social hub and is lined with tapas bars, cafes and bars. The Tranvía De Sóller (tram) which travels from Sóller to the port passes directly through the square at regular intervals, which just adds even more charm to this already picturesque main square.

Tren De Sóller

Tourists arriving in Sóller from Palma on the Tren De Sóller (a vintage wooden narrow-gauge train) amass at Plaza de la Constitucion to enjoy the atmosphere and partake of refreshments. At times, it can be difficult to find a free seat at one of the many cafes and bars.

Even if you are only on the island for a short time, the narrow-gauge, Tren de Sóller journey from Palma to Sóller should be close to the top on your things-to-do list. One of the most rewarding excursions on the island, the vintage train to Sóller is a very popular attraction with a journey time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Orange Express

Sometimes known as the Orange Express, the wooden train was originally introduced to transport oranges and lemons from the Sóller valley to the capital, replacing a stagecoach service, which crossed the high mountains via the Sóller pass on a steep, narrow dirt track, which was exhausting and tediously slow.

In conclusion, the Plaza de la Constitucion in Soller is a must-visit for tourists and locals alike, offering a charming and historic setting for a day of shopping, dining, and exploring. So, if you're planning a trip to Majorca, be sure to add Soller and its beautiful square to your itinerary.

Tours

Full day Majorca Tour with Port de Soller and Sa Calobra

There's something really special about this trip to northern Majorca – the way in which you go sightseeing is part of the adventure. That's because you'll travel by coach, train, tram and boat during our exclusive excursion through Soller, Port de Soller, Sa Calobra and Lluc. What's more, you'll have an in-the-know local to show you around. Juan, one of our guides, says, ‘I was born and bred in Majorca, and have lived in the Soller region for years. You'll see special places that most visitors miss out on.'

Hop on the century-old Soller train – think antique wooden carriages with brass fittings – and zigzag your way through the pine-clad Tramuntana Mountains, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's an experience oozing nostalgia. And as the train is electric, it's a more sustainable way to travel. There's also a trip on a tram linking Soller and Port de Soller, during which you'll pass through orange groves and narrow tracks behind homes. And if you want some insider tips, your local guide can recommend the top restaurants for a real taste of the island's cuisine.

With free time to find lunch, it's a great opportunity to sample the produce Soller is famous for – oranges, ice cream and the highly regarded red Soller prawns. The journey from Port de Soller to Sa Calobra is by catamaran. You'll have a little while to unwind on this impossibly beautiful beach, which is hemmed in by cliffs. Further in is the rocky gorge of Torrent de Pareis – nature at its rawest – Book now

The website for Ferrocarril de Sóller is very informative and provides a detailed history about the train and its route, you’ll also find a timetable there with a list of up-to-date prices – trendesoller.com

The Mallorca Insider

September 17, 2020