Old Town: Tours and Guided Visits

The Old Town of Mallorca is situated in the island’s capital city, Palma. Known as “El Casco Antiguo,” the Old Town is home to some of the city’s most spectacular landmarks and monuments, including its famed cathedral and historic fortress.

Old Town Tours in Mallorca take you on a guided walk through Palma’s history, via its ancient attractions or through its full-bodied wine selection. Whether you’re interested in discovering tapas, participating in a photo shoot or want to hop on the back of a Segway, there’s an Old Town Tour to suit your needs.

Here's all you need to know about Old Town Tours, one of the most captivating sightseeing tours in Mallorca.

What are the best Old Town tours in Mallorca?

Old Town Segway tour in Mallorca

If you’re looking to see the main highlights of Palma in as little time as possible, choose a Segway tour through the Old Town.

Hopping aboard your two-wheeled vehicle, you’ll take off along Palma’s historic streets at a leisurely pace to admire the architectural gems scattered about this part of the city.

You’ll stop at Palma Cathedral — also known as La Seu — to discover almost 800 years of history and be awed by the Gothic exterior of the building.  You’ll then continue to Sa Llotja, which is located on the seafront and dates back to the 15th century. Once the seat of the Maritime Exchange, this monument is now used as an exhibition space and features over a dozen lofty turrets.

Finally, head to Es Baluard Museu d’Art Modern i Contemporani de Palma, which is home to over 700 artworks by artists from the Balearic Islands, before ending your Segway tour in Mallorca.

Old Town Wine Experience in Mallorca

Those  interested in sampling the local vino should opt for a wine tour in Mallorca to get a taste of the island’s famous tipple.

In a small group of four or less, you’ll meet at one of the city’s most esteemed wine shops. Here, you’ll learn the winemaking history of Mallorca, which stretches back to the ancient Roman reign in the 2nd century B.C.

A wine expert will lead you on an explorative journey through a selection of different wines to distinguish different aromas and notes in each glass. Relax as you sip on these fruity wines while enjoying a local cheese plate.

Old Town Tapas Tour in Mallorca

Discover how the Spanish tradition of tapas has shaped the island’s culinary culture over the years on a food tour in Mallorca.

You’ll begin your culinary Old Town Tour in Mallorca at the crowning jewel of Palma — the city’s cathedral. From there, you’ll work your way through the enchanting streets, passing fascinating landmarks, including Almudaina Palace — a royal residence of the Spanish monarchy — and the Consolat de Mar.

Duck into a local tapas bar to sample several traditional snacks before heading to Es Baluard Museu d’Art Modern i Contemporani de Palma, which was once a great 16th-century fortress.

Wander through the Plaça del Mercat, which was formed during the Arabian rule of Mallorca. Stop at another tapas bar to try a different selection of small bites before continuing on to see Consell Insular, which is best known for its neo-Gothic facade. End your walking tour in Palma by sampling sweet treats at one final tapas bar.

Private Old Town Walking Tour in Mallorca

A private tour of the Old Town enables you to enjoy a more personal touch.

With your own dedicated guide, you’ll stroll through Palma side by side, discussing any burning questions you have about the city’s history. You’ll hear intriguing tales about Mallorca as you make your way through Parc de la Mar toward the Jewish quarter, which suffered heavy damage after being burnt by the Christian community in the 14th century.

Explore Art Nouveau architecture on your way to Palma Cathedral where you can choose to step inside and learn about Gaudi’s contribution to the interior. Finally, visit Almudaina Palace, before weaving your way back through the fountains, courtyards and ancient sites that make up the Old Town.

Old Town Photo Session in Mallorca

Create memories that last a lifetime with a photo shoot of your vacation in Mallorca.

Following your photographer along back alleys and twisted streets, you’ll seek out the hidden gems of Palma’s Old Town, which provide the perfect backdrop for your photo shoot.

You’ll discuss your preferences and allow the photographer to help you pose to capture the best shot. Alongside several idyllic settings, you’ll also have photos taken outside Palma Cathedral — one of the most famous Catholic churches in Europe.

Which places are visited?

Palma Cathedral

The building of Palma Cathedral began in the first half of the 13th century at the request of King James I of Aragon, on the site of an ancient Islamic mosque. However, the religious monument wasn’t finished until almost 400 years later. The site is designed in a Catalan Gothic style and its nave is one of the tallest in Europe.

The cathedral underwent serious interior restoration during the 19th and 20th centuries, and the interior developments were led by Antoni Gaudí, who is most famed for his numerous structures across the Spanish capital of Barcelona. The cathedral features a 15th-century bell tower, which has been installed with a platform offering panoramic views across Palma.

Almudaina Palace

Almudaina Palace was modeled after the Royal Palace of Perpignan, which is located in Pyrenees-Orientales, France — and was constructed by King James II of Majorca in the early years of the 14th century. It was built on the site of a Muslim alcázar, which was designed in the 13th century.

The top floor is still used as a royal residence for the kings and queens of Spain, and is decorated with historic furnishings that originated from other royal sites between the 17th and 19th centuries. Almudaina Palace remains the official summer residence of the King of Spain.

How much do Old Town Tours in Mallorca cost?

The most budget-friendly Old Town tours in Mallorca take place on a Segway and cost approximately €40 per person. Wine-tasting experiences cost around €70 each while private photo sessions cost approximately €80 per person.

Private Mallorca Old Town Tours cost around €100 per person and you have the option to upgrade your excursion to include the interior of Palma Cathedral for an additional €10 each. Alternatively, you can opt for a tapas tour, which typically costs €150 per person.

What is included?

Old Town Tours in Mallorca always include a knowledgeable guide to lead you around the destination and share information on each attraction.

If you participate in a wine tasting in Mallorca, you can expect it to include five glasses and a local snack. Alternatively, food tours include at least 11 different tastings of local tapas.

Private photoshoots provide you with 10 photos if you book as a solo traveler or 20 images if you book as a pair.

Where does it start?

Old Town Tours in Mallorca meet at various well-known locations in Palma, such as the city's cathedral. These spots are always easy to reach and the city has a reliable bus service to help you get around. You can see the meeting point of each tour before booking so that you can plan your route in advance.

How long does it last?

Typically, Old Town Tours in Mallorca last between 2 and 3 hours, which gives you plenty of time to explore the main attractions, and learn about the island's history. However, if you're short on time, you can opt for a Segway tour, which lasts just an hour.

When is the best time for an Old Town Tour in Mallorca?

You can participate in an Old Town Walking Tour in Mallorca at any time of day, making it an easy activity to fit into your itinerary. As this part of the city is so important in the island’s history, you should consider booking your excursion for the first or second day of your vacation.

Most Old Town Tours in Mallorca take place on foot, so consider traveling to the Balearic island between June and September when temperatures rise to around 30 degrees Celsius, and the days are long and sunny.

Travel tips

• If your Old Town excursion in Mallorca includes the Palma Cathedral, ensure you’re dressed modestly, covering your knees and shoulders, as you may be denied entry otherwise.
• If your excursion takes place in the summer, be prepared for the heat with sunscreen, a sunhat and plenty of water.
• Old Town tours take place on foot so wear comfortable shoes to make the most out of your experience.