Retail
Arquinesia Perfumes, La Llotja-Born
Located in a former apartment, this shop feels like an art installation. Walk through rooms filled with old apothecary cases and past a small laboratory before you arrive in the retail space that faces a hidden, verdant courtyard. Founders Urs Leuenberger and Romana Durisch have created everything from the island-inspired fragrances to the packaging.
Colom, Cort
A multi-brand shop for men’s- and womenswear with a selection spanning three floors, including brands such as Officine Genéralé, Maison Kitsuné, Universal Works and Barena Venezia. Don’t miss out on the small café by local favourite Rosevelvet.
El Bazar del Libro, Cort
This is a treasure chest of old books and collectables with offerings including vintage posters, postcards and programmes. The shop opened in 1978 in what was once a confectionery store, and some of those old shop fittings are still in place. Be prepared to rummage. (The nearby English Fine Books is also a good spot in which to spend an hour).
Carmina Shoemaker, Sant Nicolau
Mallorca’s shoe industry hit a decline in the 1980s as brands began outsourcing production to China. A few makers pressed on, and wonderful Carmina now has shops from New York to Madrid – and here in Palma. You can find smart shoes for men and women – loafers, monk straps and Oxfords – in this ruby-red gem of a boutique at Carrer Unió 4.
El Corte Inglés, Jaume III
The Spanish department-store chain has two branches in Palma, both with basement treats – tempting food halls that can sort you for a summer beach picnic (we also love a good supermarket, cute product branding included). We’d recommend the smaller location on Avenida Jaime III, right in the centre of town, which can stock you up with all manner of local provisions. It also has a top-floor restaurant with views across the city.
Mercat de Santa Catalina, Santa Catalina
There are several renowned food markets in the city: Mercat de l’Olivar is the largest, while Pere Garau is smaller but with offerings that reflect its neighbourhood’s rich cultural mix. But Santa Catalina is a good place to start, with an indoor space chock full of fishmongers, grocers, florists, wine merchants and small bars for tapas, beer and even sushi. It’s a Saturday go-to.
Monge, Cort
Shoes for men and women made in Mallorca and a small collection of clothing too – all in a handsomely designed shop.
Óptica Santa Maria Boutique, Jaume III
This cool, independent full-service eyewear retailer, founded by Andrés Román Romero, is a handy spot to go if you lose your sunnies or want to head home with a new look. The shop has a line-up of interesting brands including Massada, Moscot, LGR and Cazal. It’s on the ground floor of a building by the acclaimed Mallorcan architect José Ferragut Pou.
Paparkone, La Lotja-Born
This shop and studio – where you can sign up for pottery lessons – founded by potter Roberto Paparcone is tucked away at the end of a charming courtyard, alongside a few other discoverable retail spots. His beautiful plates, vessels and vases marry island folklore themes with an appreciation of Japanese craft. Open on Tuesdays to Saturdays from 11.00 to 14.00.
La Pecera, Cort
Marlene Albaladejo’s shop might be tiny but it has a big impact on the island, working to support local textile weavers, furniture makers and industrial designers. If you’re looking for tables and chairs made in Mallorca, or simply some ikat espadrilles, swing by. You can also find an outlet for famed island glassmakers Gordiola just a few doors down.
La Principal, Sant Nicolau
The best place to shop for menswear in Palma and its offering of womenswear is solid too. It stocks brands such as Rains, Howlin, CDG Play, Close and Common Projects – and you might see a Monocle fragrance or two. The airy space also offers its own line of clothing, Mews, featuring items made in Spain and Portugal.
Paraguas, Sant Nicolau
Run by the fourth generation of the Segura family, this shop sells umbrellas (the original business), canes, traditional hand fans and shawls. A boutique that is recognised as part of the city’s emblematic retail history.
Rapha, Sant Nicolau
An outpost of the popular cyclewear brand with an in-store café. Cycling is a big draw for many of the island’s visitors, and Plaça del Rosari is home to other industry brands such as Café du Cycliste and Tan Line.
DISCOVER THE BEST OF PALMA
Hotels
These converted fortresses and modernist masterpieces await discerning travellers.
Bars and restaurants
Palma has a lot to offer and the best experiences aren’t always in the flashiest joints.
Culture
Museums, galleries and old palaces provide a close-up view of the island’s cultural forces.
Neighbourhoods
Three enclaves that unveil the city’s inner life.
