A typical rookie mistake is to visit Palma on a rainy day. When the city is completely overcrowded you may easily overlook the beauty of the old town. And all the fantastic museums in Palma. It is not only the broad range of great exhibitions but also the unique buildings that house them. Each one worth a visit in itself. There is plenty to discover, for explorers young and old. No matter whether you want to travel back in time, retrace the history of Mallorca or are more interested in contemporary art.

1. Museu de Mallorca

Other than the name suggests, the Museu de Mallorca does not display a classic historical collection but reflects the history of the island through art. From the wooden figurehead of a ship to battle paintings. From the patron of Palma to landscapes in almost expressionist colors. The museum is located in a magnificent city palace in the heart of the old town.

2. Museu de Historia de Palma

If you are interested in the history of the island and the urban development of Palma, you’ll love Castell de Bellver. The castle is famous for the fantastic view over the entire bay of Palma. And the circular shape of the complex is really unique. The interior rooms tell about the city’s eventful history with exhibits and display boards.

3. Museu d’Art Sacre de Mallorca

You find the Sacred Art Museum of Mallorca right next to the cathedral. A noble patio leads to the episcopal rooms where the works of art are displayed. The building itself has a balcony designed by Gaudí. And somewhat hidden away, there is a particularly curious exhibit to discover. The Drac de na Coca which once terrified the old town. And still comes to life every year at Sant Sebastià.

4. Can Balaguer

Have you ever wanted to look behind the walls of the medieval buildings in Palma’s casco antiguo? Return to the 17th century, when aristocrats and rich merchants inhabited the proud mansions that today house museums and fashion stores. If you would like to get an idea of their life and their living rooms visit Can Balaguer, one of the city’s most emblematic buildings.

5. Palau March

The neoclassic terrace alone is home to powerful sculptures from the 20th century. And there is even more to discover inside the museum. A series of paintings by Dalí, an 18th century nativity scene with more than 1000 figurines, or a famous selection of historical maps. But it’s not so much the art displayed but the architecture and interior design that make Palau March special.

6. Es Baluard Museu d’Art Contemporani

Es Baluard is more than the leading Mallorcan museum of contemporary art. It’s a marvelous Renaissance fortress adopted by the 21st century. And while there are extraordinary shows inside, its outside is just as spectacular. The museum is built straight into the remnants of the historic rampart (baluard in catalan) at the southwest corner of Palma’s ancient city wall.

7. Museu Fundación Juan March

The impressive 18th century building houses an extraordinary permanent collection of vanguard Spanish artists. And changing exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. Located in one of the most busy shopping streets of Palma, you encounter an oasis of art once you enter the Museu Fundación Juan March.

8. Miró Mallorca

You’d expect a collection of Miró’s popular paintings at Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró in Cala Major. And be surprised at the rich creative work of the great artist, his private estate and workshop high above the bay of Palma. Which looked as if he had walked out just a couple of minutes ago, leaving his work coat on the backrest of a Thonet rocking chair.

9. Museu Marítim de Mallorca

Not so long ago, only fishermen and seafarers lived on the shore. The Maritime Museum tells stories of the Mediterranean that became an integral part of Mallorca’s maritime heritage. Stories about hard work and poor living conditions, about migration and prosperity, about shipwrecks, pirates and lighthouses. Moreover, it is dedicated to current maritime projects and education.

10. Castillo Museo San Carlos

The peculiar star-shaped fortress has a long and eventful history. Some of which is told in the carefully restored exhibition rooms of the Castillo de San Carlos. Even if you are not interested in military objects and strategies, you’ll enjoy the visit. Explore the plain, often narrow Marès vaults. Or just zigzag on top of the broad wall. The perspective changes with every turn.

Read more about museums on Mallorca, right here.