The small town of Sineu is located in the heart of Mallorca, away from the large tourist crowds. However, every Wednesday, the tranquility is interrupted, and the place fills with people for a few hours.
Wednesdays are market days in Sineu. For more than 700 years, stalls have been offering fresh products and providing a glimpse into Mallorcan life. Yes, for 700 years, the market has symbolized tradition and permanence. A celebration that attracts both visitors and residents throughout the year.
Sineu – Map and Location
The city of Sineu is located in the center of the island of Mallorca, about 35 km northeast of Palma.
About the Market
Every Wednesday, Sineu experiences a unique atmosphere. The Sineu market, which takes place from 8 AM to 1:30 PM in the heart of the town, is more than just a collection of vendor stalls: it is a vibrant meeting point that lies at the center of local life.
The market of Sineu is something special; the vibrant atmosphere makes the visit well worth it.
Agostina Marzullo
The weekly market is distinct from other markets in Mallorca due to the variety of local products offered. From fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade artworks, you’ll find everything here. Since the Middle Ages, every Wednesday, vendors have had permission to offer their products, thanks to the authorization of King Jaume II in 1306.
What makes the Wednesday market so special is its unique atmosphere. The vendors often know their regular customers by name, and new visitors are greeted with Sineu’s typical warmth. One must experience (and enjoy) this authentic atmosphere for oneself.
Advice:
Palma’s train line 390 offers a direct connection to Sineu, which is especially reinforced on Wednesday mornings to handle the influx of visitors.
About Sineu
The small town of Sineu, located in the center of the island on the Es Plà plain, has its roots in the Middle Ages. The historic architecture is well preserved, as seen in the passages and traditional buildings that give the place a timeless charm. Far from the major tourist centers, Sineu offers a peaceful refuge and an authentic experience of Mallorcan culture.
The infrastructure in Sineu is surprisingly well-developed and offers everything needed for daily life. There are several small supermarkets, a gas station, and other essential services like a bank and a post office. This makes the place appealing to both short-term visitors and long-term residents.
Historically, Sineu has always been respected in the Balearic Islands, which is still reflected today. This small town was the administrative seat and the center of power for the rulers. Sineu’s position as a strategic point in the center of the Balearic island was strengthened by the influence of King Jaume II of Mallorca.
It is fascinating to stroll peacefully through the old town and imagine what life was like there hundreds of years ago. Noteworthy are the Church of Santa Maria of Sineu, the elegant manor houses, and the old royal palace, the Palace of the Kings of Mallorca, which showcase the splendor of times past.
One must not forget the characteristic windmills scattered across the gentle hills around Sineu. As part of Mallorca’s cultural and architectural heritage, they beautify the landscape and attract tourists.
Every time I walk through Sineu, I feel like the city’s history is within reach. The streets and buildings bear witness to the rich past: peasants, merchants, and nobles who once populated these streets.
Interesting fact:
There was a long debate about the geographical center of the island. After precise measurements, it was determined that it is not Sineu, as many thought, but Lloret de Vistalegre holds this title.
Attractions
In Sineu, the architecture stands out, deeply rooted in the city’s history.
Parish Church of Santa Maria of Sineu
The Parish Church of Santa Maria of Sineu, a Gothic masterpiece, serves as the cultural and spiritual center of the town. Here, you can admire the architecture while experiencing the rich religious history of the place.
A curious local legend tells how the inhabitants of the nearby village of Sant Joan tried to steal the church tower, highlighting the deep local traditions and the rival stories between the towns of Mallorca.
Convent de la Concepció
It’s also worth visiting the Convent de la Concepció, formerly known as the Palace of the Kings of Mallorca. The building showcases the historical significance of Sineu as an old administrative center and capital of the island.
Curious detail: King Jaume II ordered the transformation of an existing building from the Arab era into this fortified palace. In the 16th century, this building became a convent (Convent), where nuns still reside today.
The old train station of Sineu
We must not forget the old train station of Sineu. It has been out of service since 1975 and now only serves as a nostalgic reminder of the past. The station recalls the times when the railway played an important role in transportation on the island.
Today, it houses a restaurant. However, if you turn around with the station at your back, you’ll discover the discreet Tomassini Pizzeria across the street, where they offer fantastic pizza at a reasonable price.
Old hospital of Sineu
Another historic building is the old hospital of Sineu, the oldest in Mallorca, founded in 1240. Today, it functions as an employment center for people with disabilities and stands as a symbol of both the island’s long history of healthcare and the modern use of historic buildings.
Anyone visiting the old hospital shouldn’t miss a stop at the adjacent café. Behind the hospital, local drinks and snacks are served under trees that provide shade. The café is run by delightful people with disabilities. You can see the passion with which each one works there. The prices are incredibly low. On my last visit, I paid only 3 € for a delicious Pa amb Oli with cheese and scrambled eggs. It’s not only affordable but also incredibly tasty. It’s an absolute recommendation from me.
Next to the hospital, there is a small and charming chapel. Unfortunately, it seems to have no name. It’s not even marked on maps. It appears to be a true hidden secret. I suspect it belongs to the old hospital.
Attractions near Sineu
8 km
Restaurants in Sineu
The culinary scene in Sineu is a true treasure for those who wish to experience authentic Mallorcan cuisine. The “Celler” restaurants are especially popular and offer a traditional dining experience in historic cellars. Here you can savor classic dishes like “tumbet” (a Mallorcan vegetable dish) or “sobrassada” (Mallorcan sausage).
In Sineu, I tried some of the best Mallorcan dishes I’ve ever had. At the restaurant “Celler Son Toreo” I enjoyed an “Arroz Brut,” a rice stew with meat and vegetables that I highly recommend. The rustic atmosphere, complemented by traditional decorations and artwork on the walls, makes the experience special.
For those who appreciate a modern twist on traditional dishes, I recommend “Sa Fàbrica.” This restaurant is located in a converted factory and offers an innovative dining experience. The open kitchen, where you can watch the chefs in action, adds a special touch to the atmosphere.
Another highlight is the “Molí d’en Pau.” The atmosphere there is warm and welcoming, enhanced by the thoughtful decor and the friendly staff who speak German. A must-try dish is the “Lomo con Col,” a Mallorcan pork tenderloin wrapped in cabbage leaves, known for its tender texture and rich, spiced sauce. This restaurant is popular not only with cyclists but also with many Germans. The blend of tradition and tourism is very well achieved there.
Festivals
En Sineu, el patrimonio cultural se mantiene vivo durante todo el año a través de diversos festivales tradicionales que atraen tanto a residentes como a turistas.
Sa Fira
On the first Sunday of May, the traditional Sineu market transforms into a vibrant event that attracts visitors from all over Mallorca.
The fair, which has its roots in medieval times, transforms the city into a bustling center of shopping and culture. Vendors offer everything from crafts to local delicacies, and there are numerous performances such as folk dances and musical shows.
The Feast of the Assumption of Mary
The Feast of the Assumption of Mary, in August, is another cultural highlight. This festival in honor of the patron saint of Sineu features an impressive procession in which the statue of the Virgin Mary is carried through the streets. The festival is also known for its colorful fireworks and lively street parties that last long into the night.
Much
In August, the Much is celebrated in Sineu. This festival originated from a spontaneous idea. It was born out of the desire to create a celebration that stood out from the often formal and traditional local festivities. It was inspired by a spontaneous idea from some young residents. Thus, they invented the Much, which is celebrated every year in a fun way. It is not yet a traditional festival, but what it isn’t now, it might be in the future.
With its unique Glow Run, where participants covered in fluorescent colors and lights dance through the night, the festival exudes a joyful and almost surreal atmosphere. Surrounding all this, spontaneous performances and artistic displays bring the streets to life, turning every corner of Sineu into a spectacle of light, color, and creativity. This uniquely crazy festival offers an unparalleled mix of fun, art, and Mallorcan culture. Here, the residents of Sineu show that not everything has to be taken so seriously. Personally, I love this festival.
Living in Sineu
Sineu offers very good connections to other places in Mallorca thanks to the railway network. This makes the small town especially attractive to those who prefer a quiet life but still want to explore Mallorca without relying on a car. Although Sineu may seem isolated, it’s never far from urban infrastructure, allowing residents to enjoy the best of both worlds.
The residents—a diverse community of locals and international newcomers—enjoy the genuine small-town atmosphere, complemented by essential services such as supermarkets, banks, and a post office.
Property prices in Sineu reflect the growing popularity of the area. However, for Mallorca, it remains relatively affordable compared to more touristy areas. This makes Sineu an attractive destination for buyers and investors looking for a permanent residence or a vacation home.
Hotels in Sineu
For those who wish to spend the night in this small town after an active day at the market, I recommend these accommodations:
| Hotel | Price (per nichte) | Features | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Son Cleda | From €100 | Located in the center, offers elegant rooms in a historic building. | Terrace, Bar |
| Hotel Can Font | From €85 | Charming traditional-style hotel near the market square. | Garden, Restaurant, traditional architecture |
| Agroturismo Sa Casa Rotja | From €95 | Rural hotel, ideal for nature lovers. | Pool, spacious gardens, natural trails |
How to get there
Sineu is easily accessible by car and is located about 35 kilometers northeast of Palma de Mallorca. The journey takes between 30 and 40 minutes, depending on traffic. From Palma, you can reach the town via the Ma-13 highway or the Ma-3011 road. I prefer the secondary road. The scenery is much more beautiful and, although the drive takes a little longer, the distance is shorter.
Alternatively, public transportation can be used. Sineu train station regularly receives trains from Palma de Mallorca and other cities.
Tickets are sold at the station or online and cost between 3.2 and 7.5 euros (depending on the departure location).
Additionally, there are bus connections from the capital and other places, like lines 311 and 312.
Parking in Sineu
Parking in Sineu can be a real challenge on market days. Especially along Forners Street and Bous Street, you can find small parking lots, where the rates usually range from 1 to 2 euros per hour.
On the outskirts of town, there are larger parking lots, often free, like those at Camí de Son Creixell and Camí de Son Fangos. These are just a short walk from the main square and offer a quieter alternative to searching for parking in the bustling center.
Tip: If you want to park downtown in the morning, try to arrive before 9. At that time, the chances are better, as many of the market stalls are just opening and most of the customers are still at home. This way, you can start the day more relaxed and have more time to explore charming Sineu.
The surroundings
The landscape around Sineu is ideal for hiking and cycling. Well-maintained paths traverse picturesque olive groves and traditional Mallorcan estates.
Among the popular routes are the “Camí de Muro,” which takes hikers and cyclists through the heart of the island, and the “Ruta de Lloret,” which offers spectacular views of the Serra de Tramuntana.
The Ethnological Museum of Mallorca at Els Calderers, just 10 minutes from Sineu, offers a fascinating insight into the history of Majorcan life. During my visit, I was particularly impressed by the well-restored rooms, which provide an authentic glimpse into life in the past. The entrance fee is 10 euros, but in my opinion, it’s worth it. Especially with children, it can be a nice excursion.
Those who want to explore more should visit the town of Sant Joan, located about a 10-minute drive from Sineu. There, you can visit the Church of San Juan Bautista, known for its impressive Gothic architecture. This small town also has lovely restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local dishes.
Conclusion
Sineu is worth visiting, even outside of market day. With its impressive 700 years of history and its vibrant atmosphere, this historic place in Mallorca captivates all visitors.
Sineu has a lot to offer. Its magnificent festivals, authentic atmosphere, and wonderful infrastructure make it a charming place.
The historic buildings and local cuisine are the finishing touch in this charming town.
Places near Sineu
12 km
14 km
15 km
15 km
18 km
