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This Balearic Island Is Spain's Most Exciting Arts Destination--Here's Where to Shop and Stay

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, September 14th 2025 at 14:54 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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The Ultimate Guide to Shopping in Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands, is far more than a postcard‑perfect beach town. Its winding streets and vibrant plazas conceal a thriving retail scene that blends international chic with local artisanal flair. Whether you’re hunting for haute couture, hunting for handmade accessories, or simply looking to splurge on a few souvenir treats, the city’s shopping districts offer something for every budget and taste.

1. The Heart of Palma: Old Town Boutiques and Luxury

The island’s historic center—where the Cathedral of Santa María rises like a gothic sentinel—hosts an eclectic mix of high‑end and independent boutiques. Passeig de la Mar, the main shopping street that runs parallel to the waterfront, is lined with designer shops, trendy concept stores, and a handful of luxury department stores such as Zara, H&M, and Massimo Dutti.

The La Riera de Ribes neighborhood is a haven for fashionistas. Here you’ll find the local luxury label Meliá—a Palma‑born brand known for its sophisticated Mediterranean aesthetic—alongside the avant‑garde label Sonia Roca. The boutique atmosphere is intimate, making it easy to try on the latest collections and chat with the shopkeepers about the island’s fashion scene.

A short walk north of the cathedral brings you to Plaza Mayor, a bustling square surrounded by small specialty shops. It’s the perfect spot for a coffee break while browsing through artisanal leather goods, hand‑woven scarves, and locally produced soaps.

2. Market Culture: Fresh Produce Meets Fashion

No trip to Palma is complete without a visit to its vibrant markets. While the island’s farmers’ markets (such as Mercado de la Serralada and Mercado del Puerto) serve fresh fruit, seafood, and regional cheeses, the city also offers dedicated fashion and accessories markets.

• Mercat de l'Art: Though its name suggests art, the market is a hub for up‑to‑date streetwear, accessories, and handmade jewelry. The stalls are frequented by young designers and students looking to keep the island’s fashion scene cutting edge.

• Mercat de la Reina: Located near the harbor, this market blends traditional food stalls with a section of local designers selling leather handbags, bespoke shoes, and organic cosmetics. A popular lunchtime stop is the Café de la Reina, where you can sample a small plate of tapas while window‑shopping.

If you’re a fan of vintage fashion, the Mercat de l’Almacén on Calle Llacuna offers a curated selection of pre‑loved garments from the 60s to the 90s. The stall owners, many of whom are lifelong Palmen locals, often have a personal story behind each piece—making each purchase a tiny piece of the island’s history.

3. Designer Districts: Where Global Meets Local

Palma’s designer scene is a blend of international labels and boutique brands that celebrate the island’s heritage. A quick trip to Paseo del Mar leads to a range of upscale shops featuring names such as Dior, Chanel, and Prada. These flagship stores are perfect for those who want a touch of Parisian glamour while soaking in the Mediterranean breeze.

If you prefer to discover emerging talent, head over to Mercado de la Esmeralda, a trendy district where local designers such as Elio Sorribes and Pablo Goya showcase their latest collections. The area is also home to the annual Palma Fashion Week, a must‑visit event for those who want to see the island’s creative energy on full display.

4. Unique Finds: Handcrafted Souvenirs and Artisan Gifts

For travelers who want to bring home something truly Palma‑specific, the Banyalbufar district offers a treasure trove of handmade souvenirs. Here you can find artisanal ceramics, locally produced olive oil, and a range of hand‑woven baskets and textiles. The artisans are often willing to personalize items on the spot—making your purchases a unique conversation piece.

Another hidden gem is the Ribera neighborhood, where a handful of independent boutiques sell Palma‑made jewelry featuring native pearls and the island’s famed glass. A brief stroll around the Ribera gives you a glimpse into a small, intimate world of craftsmanship that is rarely touched by mass tourism.

5. Practical Tips for the Savvy Shopper

• Timing: Many markets close for lunch from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., so plan to visit them either early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

• Cash vs Card: While larger shops accept credit cards, many smaller stalls only take cash. Carry a modest amount of euros in small denominations for easier transactions.

• Tax Refund: EU residents can claim a VAT refund on purchases over €90. Be sure to ask for a “Tax Refund” form at the time of purchase and keep your receipts handy.

• Seasonal Sales: Palma’s off‑peak seasons (late spring and early autumn) feature substantial discounts in department stores and boutique shops alike. If you’re traveling during these months, you can snag designer pieces for a fraction of the price.

• Online Follow‑Up: Many local designers have a growing online presence. Following them on Instagram or their own e‑commerce sites can give you a preview of upcoming collections and special promotions.

6. Where to Learn More

If you’re eager to delve deeper into Palma’s fashion landscape, Travel + Leisure offers several follow‑up pieces:

• “Where to Shop for Sustainable Fashion in Palma” highlights eco‑friendly boutiques and local designers committed to ethical production.
• “The Best Streetwear Finds in Mallorca” takes a closer look at the island’s hipster‑inspired shops and hidden gems.
• “Mallorca’s Top Luxury Brands” provides an inside look at the island’s most coveted designer labels and where to find them.

Bottom Line

Palma de Mallorca is a shopper’s delight, offering a curated mix of high‑fashion luxury, independent design, and artisanal craftsmanship. From the polished streets of the old town to the vibrant, sun‑kissed markets, the city invites you to explore a retail landscape as varied and colorful as its coastline. Whether you’re a fashion aficionado or simply on the hunt for a unique keepsake, Palma’s shopping scene is sure to exceed expectations and leave you with a treasure trove of memories—and a few extra bags.