Traditional and exclusive atmosphere

Palma is always a great place for a day's shopping. And that's because this Mediterranean city offers the charms of exclusive shopping areas in combination with traditional small establishments which are perfect for discovering the craftsmanship handed down over hundreds of years, or to pick up a few typical products. There is a guide translated into six languages (Catalan, Spanish, German, English, French and Italian) with suggestions for four shopping routes around the city.

If you are after top labels and treats from the ultimate in fashionable boutiques, the best idea is to take a stroll around the Plaza Weyler square, Calle Unió, Plaza Joan Carles I and Avenida Jaume III, where shopping is a philosophy of life. You will also find jewellers offering the quality of Majorca's pearls, numerous home décor shops, and art galleries where you can pick up a special souvenir of the city.

A more traditional atmosphere can be found in the streets around the old quarter like the Paseo por la Artesanía ("Artisans' Avenue"), and the Plaza Llorenç Bisbal and Plaza Mayor squares (with its typical open-air market). Here visitors can buy hand-made products in leather, glass, iron, wood... It's also a unique opportunity to see master craftsmen as they work. There are guided tours which offer an original glimpse of Palma's historic commercial activity.

Other useful information

Opening times. Most of the shops and shopping centres are open from 10am-8pm, and on several Sundays throughout the year.

Sales. The winter sales generally begin in the second week of January and go on until the end of February, and the summer sales begin on 1 July and run until the end of August.

How to pay. Most people pay in cash or with a credit card, for which you always need to show your passport or identity card.