Exploring Palma’s Mercat de l’Olivar

Shopping at a local farmers market is one life’s true pleasures. Meeting the people who grow the food, and hearing their passion and dedication to their trade, really warms the heart.

There’s no better way to get to know locals in the country you are visiting than to feast your eyes, ears and taste buds on the fruit of their labour. 

Palma’s Mercat de l’Olivar is one such market that is not to be missed. Originally an open air market, it is now housed in a large impressive building. The market hall is stuffed to the brim with fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and meat, cured meats and cheeses, olives, bread, pastries, sweets - even an oyster and wine bar, and sushi restaurant. 

You could easily spend most of the day wandering around tasting the delights on offer. Start with a coffee and pastry, move onto a fresh juice, grab some tapas at several stalls, then pick up fresh produce to cook for dinner later.

Don’t forget to bring your own shopping bags, or drop by Xamba, a stall run by Catí Rotger, who makes beautiful Mallorcan straw shopping baskets. They’re the perfect souvenir to remember your time at Palma’s Mercat de l’Olivar when you are shopping back home.

Lastly, for a bit of fun, make sure to look for Bar Paco. If you leave a tip, they’ll perform a Spanish tradition by ringing a bell as a thank you. Now that’s appreciation!

Looking for hotels in Palma? Here’s some suggestions:

• Hotel Tres - stylish and contemporary 
• San Lorenzo - traditional with character
• Palau Sa Font - chic boutique hotel