How to Get From the Palma Airport Like a Boss
Palma’s airport (Son Sant Joan, PMI) is conveniently close to the city, which means you won’t have to embark on a multi-hour trek just to reach your hostel. Taxis cost around €20–25, but why waste your precious euros when you can take the A1 public bus for just €5? It runs every 15 minutes and gets you straight to the city center in 20 minutes. Pro tip: Buy a return ticket to save a few extra cents for snacks later.
Public Transport: Surprisingly Solid for a Beach Town
Palma has a decent public transport system (shocking, right?), and a single bus ticket costs €2. If you plan to move around a lot, grab a T20 travel card (20 rides for €16) or a T40 (40 rides for €30)—ideal if you’re staying a while or just hate walking in the heat. Also, biking is a thing here! Palma’s bike lanes are great, and you can rent a decent ride for around €5–10 per day. Or be extra savvy and check out the city’s public bike system, Mou-te Bé, where rentals start at €1 per hour.
Free (or Cheap) Things to Do in Palma
Explore the Old Town (For Free, Obviously)
Get lost in the maze-like streets of Casco Antiguo, where every corner screams “take a photo of me.” Admire the stunning Gothic buildings, peep into hidden courtyards, and try not to walk into a cyclist.
Stroll through the charming Carrer de Sant Miquel, a pedestrian-friendly street filled with quirky shops, local bakeries, and vibrant street musicians. Stop by Banys Àrabs (Arab Baths), a small but fascinating relic from Palma’s Moorish past, with entry at just €3.
For a breathtaking view, climb up to Mirador Dalt Murada, a hidden spot offering panoramic views of the city and sea. And don’t skip a visit to Plaça Cort, where you’ll find Palma’s iconic ancient olive tree—a perfect place to sit and soak in the city’s laid-back atmosphere.
Don’t miss:
- La Seu Cathedral – This gigantic masterpiece is best admired from the outside (free), but if you’re willing to splurge €9, the interior is totally worth it.
- Parc de la Mar – Right in front of the cathedral, this chill spot has the best views of La Seu, plus plenty of space for people-watching and snack-eating.
- Plaça Major – The heart of Palma, filled with street performers, cute cafés, and market stalls (window-shopping counts as a free activity, right?).
Hit the Beach (Because Duh)
Why pay for a beach club when nature is free? Here are the best spots to soak up the sun without spending a cent:
- Can Pere Antoni – Closest to the city center, so expect some tourists, but it’s still a solid choice. It has golden sand, clear water, and a scenic promenade perfect for a sunset walk. Grab a supermarket sandwich, lay back, and enjoy the warm Mediterranean breeze.
- Cala Major – A slightly quieter cove with crystal-clear water (take Bus 3 to get there). This small but charming beach is a great escape from the city buzz, offering calm waters and a few rock formations that add to the picturesque setting. Great for a quick dip or an afternoon siesta under the sun.
- Es Trenc – If you’re feeling adventurous, take a bus and hike a bit for that Caribbean-like experience. Known for its powdery white sand and shallow turquoise waters, Es Trenc is one of the most beautiful beaches in Mallorca. The extra effort to get here is totally worth it, and if you’re up for an extended visit, bring a picnic and make a day of it. Just be aware that parts of the beach are unofficially clothing-optional—so don’t be surprised if you see some extra sunshine.
El Molinar Promenade Walk
If a long, scenic coastal walk with endless sea views sounds like your vibe, then El Molinar is your place. This seaside promenade stretches along the coast, connecting Palma with Portixol and Molinar, and is perfect for a leisurely sunset stroll, a morning jog (if you’re feeling productive), or just people-watching while sitting on one of the many benches. Expect to see locals skating, cycling, and walking their outrageously cute dogs, all while soaking up the salty breeze. And the best part? It’s completely free—unless you’re tempted by one of the charming seaside cafés along the way.
Mirador de Na Burguesa
For those who love a good viewpoint (or just want a cool place to chill for free), Mirador de Na Burguesa is your go-to. Perched above Palma, this hidden gem offers a jaw-dropping panoramic view of the entire city, the coastline, and the shimmering Mediterranean. Getting there requires a bit of a hike (or a car ride if you’re feeling lazy), but the payoff is 100% worth it. Pro tip: Head up here for sunset, bring snacks, and turn it into an impromptu picnic with a million-dollar view—for zero euros.
Hunt for Street Art in Santa Catalina
Santa Catalina isn’t just about trendy brunch spots and overpriced cocktails. It’s also home to some of Palma’s best street art. The neighborhood’s vibrant walls are a canvas for both local and international artists, featuring everything from massive murals to tiny, hidden doodles.
Start your street art adventure around Carrer de Sant Magí, where striking large-scale murals contrast beautifully with the area’s historic charm. Then, make your way towards Plaça de la Navegació, where some of the most Instagrammable graffiti pieces can be found tucked away in unexpected corners. The artwork changes frequently, making each visit a unique discovery.
Keep an eye out for the works of Joan Aguiló, a renowned local street artist whose pieces often depict heartwarming and nostalgic scenes of Mallorcan life. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a new piece in progress! Wander through the alleys and snap some graffiti gems—bonus points if you manage to photobomb a hipster influencer in the process. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for cool backdrops for your travel photos, Santa Catalina’s street art scene is an absolute must-see.
Castell de Bellver – Free on Sundays!
Normally €4, this round castle (yes, ROUND) has insane panoramic views of the city and the sea. If you’re in Palma on a Sunday, waltz in for free and feel like medieval royalty.
Eating on a Budget: Yes, It’s Possible
Food in Palma can be expensive if you’re not careful. Here’s how to eat like a king on a pauper’s budget:
- Ensaimada (€2–4) – A traditional Mallorcan pastry, light, airy, and often dusted with powdered sugar. For a richer experience, try the versions filled with cream, chocolate, or pumpkin strands (cabello de ángel).
- Bocadillos (€4–6) – A fresh baguette loaded with cheese, ham, or tortilla—basically a meal in itself. Check out Bar Bosch, famous for its lomo con queso (pork loin with cheese) bocadillo.
- Menu del Día (€10–15) – Three courses, plus bread and a drink? Sign us up. Lots of local spots offer these budget-friendly lunchtime deals, often featuring seafood paella, grilled meats, or hearty stews.
- Tapa hopping – Hit the San Juan Gastronomic Market, grab a couple of cheap tapas, and pretend you’re fancy. Try pimientos de padrón, croquetas, or jamón ibérico for the ultimate experience.
- Supermarket picnic – If all else fails, hit up Lidl or Mercadona for cheap snacks and have a beach picnic like the budget hero you are. Pick up some local cheese (Mahón), sobrasada (spreadable cured sausage), and fresh baguettes for a true Mallorcan treat.
Mercat de l’Olivar
If food markets are your thing (and let’s be real, they should be), Mercat de l’Olivar is a must-visit. This vibrant indoor market is a feast for the senses, with stalls overflowing with fresh seafood, cured meats, colorful produce, and local cheeses that you’ll desperately want to smuggle home. Even if you’re not buying, wandering through the aisles is an experience in itself—just beware of the irresistible smell of freshly baked empanadas. If you do want a budget-friendly snack, grab a cheap bite from one of the tapas stands and pretend you’re a gourmet critic.
Museums & Attractions That Won’t Break the Bank
- Museu Fundación Juan March (Free) – Love modern art? This place has works from Picasso, Dalí, and Miró, and it costs exactly €0 to enter.
- Miró Mallorca Fundació (€9, free Saturdays after 3 PM) – A must-see if you’re into surrealism (or just like weird, colorful art).
- Arab Baths (€3) – One of Palma’s oldest hidden gems. Small but fascinating. Also a great place to imagine you’re in a historical drama.
- Pueblo Español (€6) – A tiny, quirky version of Spain in one place. Think mini Alhambra, Sagrada Familia, and Seville’s courtyards.
- Museu de Sa Jugueta (€5) – A nostalgic and slightly eerie toy museum showcasing antique dolls, wooden trains, and vintage playthings from different eras. A quirky stop for anyone who enjoys a bit of childhood history (or just finds old toys kind of creepy in a fun way).
Nightlife That Won’t Empty Your Wallet
You don’t have to hit up overpriced clubs to enjoy Palma’s nightlife. Instead, try:
- Plaza de la Lonja – This lively square is packed with bars offering cheap beers, great vibes, and an unbeatable mix of locals and travelers. Grab a drink, find a spot outside, and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere as street musicians add to the charm.
- Café Atlantico – A cool indie spot with free live music, an eclectic crowd, and reasonably priced drinks. The vibe here is laid-back, making it a great place to start the night before heading elsewhere.
- Jazz Voyeur Club – A cozy venue for jazz lovers with an intimate setting, cheap(er) cocktails, and live music that never disappoints. If you want to feel classy without breaking the bank, this is the place to be.
- Bar España – A hidden gem known for its authentic tapas, affordable beer, and lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to grab a bite and mingle with friendly locals.
- Buy drinks from a supermarket and enjoy them at the beach – Because nothing beats the price of a €2 supermarket beer under the stars. Grab some snacks, find a quiet spot on the sand, and enjoy the sound of the waves while sipping on your budget-friendly beverage.
Palma on a Budget: The TL;DR Breakdown
- Public transport: €2 per ride, €16 for 20 trips.
- Food: Cheap eats from €2, Menu del Día from €10.
- Beaches: Free (duh).
- Museums & attractions: Free – €10.
- Nightlife: €2 beers if you know where to go.
- Accommodation: Hostel dorms from €20, budget hotels from €50.
Final Thoughts
Boom! You’re now fully equipped to slay Palma like a true budget warrior. Whether you’re beach-hopping, devouring tapas, or sneaking into free museums on Sundays, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable time—without going broke. Now go forth, embrace the Mediterranean sunshine, and don’t forget to send a postcard (or, let’s be real, a fire Insta story). Salut i força!