Palma de Mallorca: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Exploring Mallorca’s capital by bus offers a surprisingly relaxed and comprehensive way to see the city’s main attractions without the hassle of navigating on foot or arranging separate tickets. For around $40 per person, you can choose a 24-hour or 48-hour ticket, giving you plenty of flexibility to hop on and off at 16 different stops, from the Palma Cathedral to the Spanish Village and Bellver Castle. The tour is operated by City Sightseeing Europe, and the included audio guides in eight languages make it accessible for most travelers.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines convenience with the chance to see more of Palma than you could on foot. We loved that you can get a broad overview of the city from the open-top bus, with stops at major sights like the Palau de La Almudaina and Poble Espanyol, all while enjoying the stunning views. Plus, the included visits to Bellver Castle and Museo Es Baluard add a cultural depth that makes this tour feel like a well-rounded introduction.

A possible consideration is that, during peak times or busy seasons, buses can be crowded, and some reviews mention waiting times or limited service. Also, since there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off included, you’ll need to be comfortable getting to the starting point on your own. This tour is perfect for those who want a flexible, cost-effective way to see Palma without the stress of planning every detail.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic sights and enjoys learning as you go, this tour offers an excellent blend of guided narration and independent exploration. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors eager to get their bearings or those with limited time but a desire to see the highlights comfortably.

Key Points

• Flexible Ticket Options: Choose between 24 or 48 hours, ideal for customizing your Palma experience.
• Comprehensive Route: 16 stops, including major sights like Bellver Castle and Palma Cathedral.
• Included Attractions: Entry tickets to key sites like Museo Es Baluard, Bellver Castle, and Spanish Village.
• Audio Guidance: Multilingual audio guides enhance understanding and enjoyment.
• Additional Perks: Free self-guided audio tour, discounts at local restaurants, and a drink included.
• Possible Crowding: Buses can be busy during peak times, and wait times may occur.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Get for Your Money

At $40, this tour offers what many other city sightseeing options can’t match: convenience, variety, and value. The supreme ticket covers a 24-hour hop-on hop-off ride, with the option for a 48-hour pass if you opt for the Ultimate experience—adding entry to Palma Cathedral, Palau March, and Arab Baths. The ticket includes a city map, a cap to shield you from the sun, and audio guides in eight languages, making it accessible whether you speak English, Spanish, or even Mandarin.

We love that the tour includes entry tickets to several attractions, turning a simple bus ride into a mini cultural tour. Visiting Bellver Castle is a highlight — a unique circular fortress perched atop a hill offering sweeping views of Palma and beyond. The Museo Es Baluard, showcasing both international and local art, is another cultural gem that’s all part of the package. The Spanish Village provides a lively, miniature cross-section of Spain’s diverse architectural styles, perfect for a quick, vibrant visit.

The Itinerary and Stops: What to Expect

The route spans 16 stops, starting from the Antoni Maura stop, which we recommend as the best starting point for a smooth experience. From there, the bus takes you through Palma’s historic and modern districts, with stops at:

• Placa Mercat: A lively market square where you can wander and soak in local life.
• La Rambla: Palma’s famous promenade lined with cafes and shops.
• Plaza de España: The city’s main transport hub and a great place for photos.
• Avenida Alexandre Rosselló: A bustling street with shops and eateries.
• Porta des Camp: The old city gate.
• Passeig Maritim: A scenic waterfront promenade perfect for a leisurely stroll or sunset views.
• Poble Espanyol: A charming miniature village representing different Spanish architectures.
• Bellver Castle: A must-see for history buffs and those wanting panoramic views.
• Plaça de Gomila: Known for nightlife and tapas bars.
• Avenida Joan Miró and other stops like Estacio Maritima and Avenida Gabriel Roca: Offering a mix of local neighborhoods and views of the marina.

At each stop, you can hop off, explore, and hop back on a bus when ready. The audio guide provides context about what you’re seeing, making the experience more enlightening than just riding around.

Highlights and Authentic Experiences

Bellver Castle

As one reviewer pointed out, Bellver is “one of the few circular castles in Europe,” and it’s particularly striking at sunset. The castle’s well-preserved structure and views over Palma make it worthwhile, especially if you’re interested in history and architecture. The opening hours vary seasonally, and on Mondays, it’s closed during winter, so plan accordingly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Palma Cathedral

Included with the Ultimate Ticket, visiting the Cathedral of Mallorca is the tour’s crown jewel. Its Gothic architecture and sea-facing position make it one of the most iconic buildings in the Mediterranean. Reviewers recommend early visits to beat crowds, and the audio guide helps explain its history and artistry.

Museo Es Baluard

The museum offers a mix of contemporary pieces and local art, housed in a former fortress overlooking the sea. It’s an excellent spot to appreciate Mallorca’s artistic side and enjoy breathtaking views.

Spanish Village (Poble Espanyol)

This attraction is a lively spot for snacking, shopping, and people-watching. It offers a miniature Spain, with distinct architectural styles from different regions, making it a fun and colorful stop.

Practical Advice for the Tour

Timing and Duration

The buses run from 10 am to 6 pm every 20-25 minutes, which offers enough flexibility to start early or take your time. The 90-minute full loop gives you a good overview, but you’ll likely want to hop off at certain stops to explore deeper.

Crowds and Comfort

As some reviews mention, crowding can be an issue, especially during peak season. If you prefer more space and a quieter experience, consider going early or late in the day. The buses are wheelchair accessible, which is a plus for travelers with mobility needs.

Food and Drink

The tour includes a free drink at cafes like Cafe Maura or Bodega Mayor with a minimum purchase of €15. This is a good opportunity to relax and try local Spanish wines or sangria. Several stops, such as Dalili Restaurant and Tablao Flamenco Alma, offer discounts for tour participants, which can enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

Additional Considerations

Since hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, you’ll need to plan how to get to the starting point. Palma’s city center is well-connected, so most likely you can walk or use local transportation to reach Stop 1 at Antoni Maura.

Authentic, Balanced, and Practical

This tour strikes a nice balance between guided sightseeing and independent exploration. The audio guides and multiple stops allow you to customize your day, soaking in both historic sites and modern city life. The included attractions like Bellver Castle and Museo Es Baluard make the ticket feel like good value, especially since entry fees are typically extra.

We loved that the bus route covers both cultural landmarks and scenic spots, with plenty of opportunities to hop off and discover hidden corners of Palma. The friendly staff and organized service help avoid some of the common frustrations like crowding, though during busy times, patience may be needed.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys learning on the go, appreciates scenic views, and prefers not to walk miles in a new city, this hop-on hop-off bus tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially ideal for those with limited time or who want a broad overview before diving deeper into specific sites.

This Palma de Mallorca hop-on hop-off bus tour offers a convenient and flexible way to see many of the city’s highlights. The inclusion of several attractions at no extra cost adds real value, making it perfect for first-time visitors who want an overview without feeling rushed. The audio guides and well-planned route** ensure you’re both informed and entertained as you explore.

While crowds can be an issue during busy periods, this tour’s multiple stops and included tickets make it a practical choice for travelers who want a stress-free, comprehensive introduction to Palma. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy authentic sights, scenic views, and cultural highlights at a relaxed pace.

If you’re someone who values flexibility, good value, and authentic experiences, this tour is a smart way to maximize your time and impressions in Palma de Mallorca.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the buses are wheelchair accessible, making the tour feasible for travelers with mobility needs.

Can I hop on and off at any stop?
Absolutely. The ticket allows unlimited hopping on and off at all 16 stops within the validity period, providing flexible sightseeing.

What is included in the Ultimate Ticket?
The Ultimate Ticket includes all standard features plus entry to Palma Cathedral, Palau March, and Arab Baths.

Do I need to start at the first stop?
While starting at Stop 1 (Antoni Maura) is recommended for the best experience, you can board the bus at any designated stop along the route.

What are the bus operating hours?
The buses run from 10 am to 6 pm, with departures every 20-25 minutes throughout the day.

Are food and drinks included?
The tour includes a free drink at select cafes with a minimum €15 purchase. Food and additional drinks are at your own expense.

Is there a guided commentary?
Yes, the audio guide provides commentary in eight languages, enhancing your understanding of each site.

What if the buses are crowded?
During peak times, buses can be busy, and waits may be longer. Consider starting early or later in the day for a more comfortable experience.

Can I visit Bellver Castle on the tour?
Yes, Bellver Castle is one of the stops, and entry is included with the tickets, but check the seasonal opening hours as it may be closed on certain days.

You can check availability for your dates here: