How to get around Palma de Mallorca

Transport Modes in Palma

Palma is a compact city where the choice of transport depends on whether you are staying in the historic center or exploring the wider island.

• Walking: The most efficient way to navigate the Old Town (Casco Antiguo) and the area around the Cathedral. Many streets are pedestrianized.
• EMT Bus: The city's blue buses cover all urban districts. They are ideal for reaching the beaches of Can Pastilla or the outskirts.
• Taxis: Plentiful and reliable for direct trips, especially when carrying luggage or traveling late at night.
• Rental Cars: Essential for visiting the Serra de Tramuntana mountains or remote coves, but impractical inside the city center due to limited parking.

Tickets and Passes

For the EMT bus network, single tickets can be purchased on board, but contactless payment or mobile apps are more convenient. Multi-trip cards are available for those staying several days. These passes do not suit short-term visitors who primarily stay in the city center, as most main attractions are within walking distance.

From Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) to City Center

The airport is located a few kilometers from the city center. Options include:

• A1 Bus: The dedicated airport shuttle. It is the most cost-effective option with a moderate travel time.
• Taxi: The fastest and lowest-effort option, providing door-to-door service. It falls into a higher cost band than the bus.
• Rental Car: High effort for city center stays due to traffic and parking, but high utility for island-wide exploration.

Practical Notes

• Rush Hours: Traffic peaks during morning and evening commutes, particularly on the main arteries leading into the center.
• Luggage: Buses have limited space for oversized suitcases; taxis are recommended for heavy luggage.
• Accessibility: Most EMT buses are equipped with ramps for wheelchairs, and the main tourist areas are generally accessible, though some cobblestone streets in the Old Town may be challenging.
• Last Services: Bus frequencies decrease significantly after midnight.