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Spain : Palma de Mallorca - October 2008

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Although the baking heat of high summer’s now a distant memory, October in Palma is still pleasantly warm – perfect for exploring the maze of streets in the old town before feasting on food, wine and local culture. Scott Adams soaks up the last of the sun

Getting around

Son Sant Joan Airport is about 8km east of the city.

Bus: The line 1 bus links the airport to Palma. It runs every 15 minutes from 6am to 2am, and costs €1,85. For island-wide bus connections, alight at Plaza España.
Taxi: A taxi from the airport to the city centre will take about 15 minutes and cost around €20.
Tourist information: The main office is at 2 Plaça de la Reina (tel. , illesbalears.es).

CASCO ANTIGUO

Dominated by the majestic Gothic cathedral, Palma’s old town is packed with bars, restaurants and hotels, both traditional and ultra chic.

Sleep soundly – Sit on the rooftop terrace of the Hotel Tres, taking in the views of the cathedral and the marina, before slipping into the pool. The white rooms here are quiet havens.

Culture vultures – Discover some of Mallorca’s great contemporary artists at the Fundación Juan March (11 Calle Sant Miquel). Don’t miss ‘The Distance of Drawing’, an exhibition of works by Joan Hernández Pijuan which investigate space and form, on until 18 October.

Must eat – Once a bakery, Restaurant Forn de Sant Joan (4 Calle Sant Joan, tel. ) is now a fashionable restaurant serving up delicious meat and fish as well as home-made pasta.

Must drink – Soak up the hedonistic atmosphere at Abaco (1 Calle Sant Joan) This extravagant 18th-century mansion, filled with flowers, is one of Palma’s most decadent nightspots, and comes complete with an extensive cocktail list and an inviting courtyard.

Dance the night away – Go wild at Tunnel (2 Plaza Gomila).

PASEO MARITIMO

Sweeping around the Bay of Palma this tree-lined promenade is the perfect place for people-watching by day, while in the evening, the bars and clubs teem with life.

Sleep soundly – The Melia Palas Atenea has views of the marina, a stunning pool and spa and large, comfortable rooms.

Must eat – Set high on the 5th floor, Bahia Mediterraneo (33 Paseo Maritimo, tel. ) has spectacular views and does excellent fish dishes – try the seafood fettuccine in almond sauce, or the sea bream with butter, lemon and capers.

Must drink – Start off the night with an exotic cocktail at Bahia Lounge (21 Paseo Maritemo).

Dance the night away – Palma’s biggest and best nightspot, Tito’s (30 Paseo Maritimo) does crazy themed nights with international DJs at the helm.

Shop til you drop – Along the Paseo Maritima you’ll find dozens of places to buy beachwear and jewellery.

PLAZA SANTA CATALINA AND AROUND

This small green square is a great starting point for discovering the city’s history, art and food.

Culture vultures – Housed in part of Palma’s old walled fortifications, the Museum of Modern Art (10 Plaza Santa Catalina) is well worth a visit.

Must eat – A gourmet deli and restaurant with a pretty courtyard out the back, Es Rebost d’es Baluard (9 Plaza Santa Catalina, tel. ) is perfect for a leisurely meal.

Must drink – Kick things off at the Corner Bar (9 Plaza Drassana) – relax with a beer at the outdoor tables.

Shop til you drop – Pick up exciting contemporary pieces from Aba Art (21 Plaza Santa Catalina)

SON VIDA AND AROUND

Just a short taxi ride behind Palma, the mountains offer spectacular views and welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Sleep soundly – Enjoy golf, tennis, swimming or simply relax in the extensive gardens at the Arabella Resort. The large rooms and suites are luxuriously decorated and the restaurants serve good local food.

Culture vultures – Palma’s beautiful medieval Bellver Castle (Bosque de Bellver) sits high on a hill overlooking the city and the bay. Climb the battlements to get the best views before spending a bit of time in the museum.

Must drink – A real favourite with in-the-know locals, Shyam (Calle Garcia Lorca corner S’ai Dolca) is the place to go if you want to chill out with a cocktail while listening to jazz, blues and funk.

Compiled by Scott Adams