In traditional markets, it’s about more than just shopping: locals take the opportunity to maintain their social connections, while tourists gain a fascinating insight into the daily lives of residents. This is probably why historical markets are considered tourist attractions in travel guides. And, of course, because a visit to the market promises a complete sensory experience.
Especially in autumn, the displays at the markets in Palma are a true feast for the eyes! At no other time of the year is the range of products so colorful and abundant. The metropolis of Mallorca offers no less than three markets: Santa Catalina, Olivar, and Pere Garau. Let’s start with the Mercat Olivar:
Mercat de l’Olivar
The markets of Palma are probably the most well-known on the island. The largest of them, the Mercat de l’Olivar, is located in the square of the same name and is open from Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 to 14:30. Some stalls remain open until 16:00.
It is, by far, the largest and most famous for its fresh fish and seafood. More than 40 stalls offer marine specialties. From the large fish market, through a section of fruits and vegetables, to the meat and sausage section, everything your heart desires can be found here. In the fruit and vegetable and meat section, there are four bars where you can recharge with freshly prepared tapas. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere for dining, you’ll find a restaurant on the second floor. At the fish market, you can taste and buy fresh fish and other seafood delights.
The market opened its doors in 1951, making it a place of great tradition and highly recommended for gourmets.
Access is easy even for those traveling by car, as Olivar has an underground parking lot, whereas finding parking at its two competitors can be a problem, especially on Saturdays.
A detailed portrait of the Mercat de l’Olivar in Palma de Mallorca.
Santa Catalina Market
The Santa Catalina Market is located in the old fishing district of Palma, at Plaça Navegació, and is open Monday through Saturday, from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The vendors here specialize in their products. The culinary delights at Santa Catalina Market are popular not only among tourists but also with local residents.
Before, mainly the residents of the old fishing neighborhood would do their shopping here, but nowadays there are numerous stalls with Spanish and international delicacies for discerning customers. Although Santa Catalina is much smaller than the Olivar market, it is considered high quality and specialized. If you want to take a break, I recommend the oldest bar in the market, “Frau,” where the atmosphere is very authentic and the traditional Mallorcan tapas are delicious.
Wine lovers are in luck, as an old tradition has been revived at the Santa Catalina market: some wineries offer wine directly from the barrel, known as “bulk”. This method of sale not only evokes beautiful memories of times past, but also ensures very economical prices. Winemaker Andreu Villalonga, with his Bodega Ca`n Novell from Binissalem, was the one who initiated this trend.
Pere Garau Market
The Pere Garau market opens its doors on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays in the square of the same name starting at 6:00 in the morning. The outdoor stalls are ready to sell from 8:30.
Wine, cheese, fish, meat, fruits, and vegetables: the delights here come mainly from the island and are seasonal. However, compared to the delicacies at the Mercat de l’Olivar and Santa Catalina, here they are much more affordable. Bargain hunters will find their ideal spot in the unpolished Pere Garau. It is not as stylized as Olivar or Santa Catalina, but it is much more authentic. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, farmers sell their freshly harvested products outside the market.
That’s why many residents and local restaurants shop at this market, away from the tourist hustle and bustle.
Among the stalls, there are also clothes and various other items. There is no clear structure; everything is somewhat mixed. The multicultural atmosphere is evident due to the large number of immigrants in the neighborhood.
Tips for Visiting the Market
There’s no perfect time to stroll through the halls of Palma’s markets without much hustle and bustle. By 8:00 in the morning, hearty meals are already being enjoyed. Therefore, the time doesn’t matter much, but for an extensive walk through the market stalls, you should plan for two to three hours. While enjoying tapas in one of the many bars, marveling at the fascinating varieties of national and international fish and seafood, and savoring a coffee in the opposite corner, time will pass faster than you think.
Shop at the markets in Palma for an authentic Mallorcan specialty for your loved ones back home, as a delicious souvenir is often preferred over a simple keepsake that collects dust. For instance, the decorative strings of peppers from Sa Pobla or Pòrtol. A bunch costs between five and seven euros.
