Plaça Major travel guide

Plaça Major, located in Palma, is an iconic square rich in history. This bustling hub was originally the site of the Convent of San Felipe Neri until 1823.

Post this period, the square underwent significant transformation and was converted into a public square, inspired by Madrid's Plaza Mayor.

The square has witnessed the evolution of Palma city, with its architecture mirroring the changing styles and influences over the centuries. In the late 19th century, Plaça Major was redesigned by architect Joaquín Pavía Birmingham, who introduced the neo-gothic style buildings that now envelope the square.

In the heart of the square, you'll find a captivating sculpture by Eulàlia Fàbregas de Sentmenat, which was installed in 1990 to honor the victims of Spanish Civil War. Being a central public space, the square has also been a significant site for political events and protests. Today, Plaça Major is a vibrant mix of past and present, offering a unique blend of history, culture, entertainment, and gastronomy.

Plaça Major is the heartbeat of Palma, a vibrant square surrounded by ochre-coloured buildings that house an array of boutiques, cafes, and art studios. Its distinctive rectangular shape, unlike most Spanish plazas that are usually square, adds a unique charm to the area. The plaza is also home to a bustling open-air market, where you can find a variety of local goods from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

The plaza takes on a different character in the evening with the crisscrossing fairy lights illuminating the space and creating an enchanting ambiance. Street performers, ranging from musicians to mimes, add a lively touch to the plaza's atmosphere. Perhaps the most intriguing feature of Plaça Major is its underground network of passages which once housed the city's prison. Now, these cellars host a range of exhibitions and cultural events, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the plaza. This combination of architectural uniqueness, bustling market life, evening charm, and historical significance sets Plaça Major apart as a must-visit location in Palma.

Located in the dynamic Palma de Mallorca, the popular Plaça Major is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Palma or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Spain.

Palma is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Palma offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Palma and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca, Plaça d'Espanya, Castell de Bellver, Cala Major, and Train Sóller.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Palma has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Palma, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Spain!

Plaça Major is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Palma, Spain. If you're flying in, Palma de Mallorca Airport is approximately 4.8 miles (7.8 km) away from Palma. From there, you can easily reach Plaça Major by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Palma, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Plaça Major, which is located 0.2 miles (0.2 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Plaça Major, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Pl. Major, s/n, 07003 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Plaça Major!

The best time to explore Plaça Major is during the late spring and early autumn months, particularly from May to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather in Palma is comfortably warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor exploration. These months also see fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season, offering a more relaxed experience. The Plaça Major area hosts various exciting events throughout the year, but one of the highlights is the summer's 'Nit de l'Art' in September, a vibrant celebration of art and culture that transforms the square into a lively exhibition space. Another notable event is the bustling Christmas market that takes over the square in December, offering a unique festive atmosphere. However, be aware that these events can attract large crowds, so plan accordingly. Regardless of the season, Plaça Major is most vibrant in the early evenings when the square is alive with street performers and open-air cafes.

To truly enjoy your visit to Plaça Major, joining a tour that features this popular plaza mayor in Palma is highly recommended. As one of Spain's most iconic attractions, Plaça Major draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Plaça Major starting at just 8.23 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Plaça Major and Spain's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Palma de Mallorca Airport and the city of Palma, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Spain cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Palma and beyond.

Conveniently explore Plaça Major and plenty more captivating attractions in Palma by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Plaça Major and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Palma has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Plaça Major below.

Aside from Plaça Major, Palma is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Palma, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca, Plaça d'Espanya, and Castell de Bellver.

Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca is a bucket-list church and top attraction in Palma, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 43,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca is Plaça de la Seu, s/n, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain.

Another appreciated attraction in Palma is Plaça d'Espanya. Like Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars among 17,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Plaça d'Espanya, s/n, 07002 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain.

Castell de Bellver is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Palma. This museum and top attraction in Palma has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 15,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Carrer Camilo José Cela, s/n, 07014 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Palma below.