Parc de la Mar

Parc de la Mar is a wide-open city park in Palma, Mallorca, laid out along the old seafront line right beneath the city walls and Palma Cathedral, known locally as La Seu. It links the historic old town with the waterfront and ranks among the most visited green spaces in the island's capital.

How do you get to Parc de la Mar?

The park sits directly below the cathedral, level with Passeig de Dalt Murada and the Almudaina Palace, so it's an easy walk of ten to fifteen minutes from Plaça Major or from anywhere around the cathedral quarter. From the harbour side, the Passeig Marítim promenade runs straight into it, making it just as accessible on foot or by bike along the coast. City bus routes connecting the old town with the seafront districts stop nearby, and the closest large underground car park is on Avinguda d'Antoni Maura, a short walk from the park entrance.

What will you see there?

The park's centrepiece is an artificial, slightly brackish lake that separates it from the busy coastal road while mirroring the Gothic towers of La Seu on its surface — one of Palma's most photographed views, especially striking at sunset. The park itself dates back to the 1960s and 70s, when construction of the seafront road cut the cathedral off from the bay; after years of debate over how to fix the disconnect, the finished park, lake and gardens were formally opened in 1984 to give the city back its view of the sea.

Among the palm-lined paths and lawns, look out for a ceramic mural by Joan Miró — the Catalan artist gave the city a piece based on one of his final works, and it's a modest but distinctive detail easy to miss if you're cutting through the park in a hurry toward the harbour. Beyond that, the space doubles as an open-air venue: concerts, festivals and outdoor exhibitions are held here regularly, while the broad walkways and viewing terraces suit an ordinary stroll, a run, or simply a bench with a cathedral view just as well.

The park borders the old defensive walls of Palma directly and sits next to the Almudaina Palace, once a residence of the kings of Mallorca, so a visit combines easily with sightseeing in the historic centre without needing extra travel time.

When is the best time to visit?

Early morning and late afternoon into evening are the best windows, when the light hits the cathedral façade at a flattering angle and the heat is less intense than at midday. In summer, the open lawns and lakeside paths offer little shade, so the middle of the day is worth avoiding. In the evening, the park makes a natural starting point for a walk along the waterfront toward the marina, rounding off a day spent exploring the old town.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to Parc de la Mar free? Yes, it's an open public park with no admission fee, accessible at any time of day.

How long does a visit take? Walking the paths around the lake takes about 30–45 minutes, though it's worth allowing extra time for photos of the cathedral's reflection or simply relaxing on the lawns.

Is there shade and seating in the park? Yes, palm trees line the walkways and benches are placed around the lake and terraces, though shade is limited in the open areas during full midday sun.

Can you walk from the park to the cathedral and old town? Yes, La Seu cathedral sits directly above the park, and the maze of streets in old Palma is only a few minutes' walk uphill from there.