If you truly want to get to know a city, you need to look beyond its headline attractions. Meet the locals, wander through neighborhood markets, sample regional dishes and, just as importantly, explore its historic shops. Not the cookie-cutter chain stores that make every city look the same. But independently owned businesses, centuries-old bakeries, cafés steeped in history, basket weavers, or hat makers that have been family-run for generations. Fortunately, there’s still an impressive variety of emblematic stores in Palma, a rare treasure in today’s globalized retail landscape. Here is a guide to the 13 most iconic Comercios Emblemáticos in town.
Mimbreria Vidal
The neighborhood was once known for rope makers and wicker artisans. Today, Mimbreria Vidal stands as a living testament to this heritage. Founded in 1915, the shop still offers everything imaginable in woven goods: baskets, traditional Mallorcan senallas, hats, mats, trunks, and more. Step inside, and you’ll find not just handcrafted products but a tangible connection to Palma’s artisanal past.
Can Joan de s’Aigo
Just around the corner you’ll find Can Joan de s’Aigo, one of the oldest emblematic stores in Palma. And certainly one of the most beloved iconic cafés. According to tradition, its founder brought ice down from the Tramuntana mountains to make early versions of ice cream. Meanwhile, regulars and visitors alike flock here for hot chocolate, ensaimadas and other baked goods. There are now two more Can Joans, yet most travelers still seek out the original café.
Casa Julià
Located in historic Sindicato, once the street of hatters, Casa Julià is now the last remaining hat shop in the area. And the oldest on Mallorca, run by the founding family since 1898. Silvia Estela and her brother Daniel make sure you find the perfect headgear. Just as their great-grandfather did more than a century ago. Fedora or panama, boater or beret, there’s a hat for every head.
Imprenta Nueva Balear
Founded in 1913, Imprenta Nueva Balear is far more than a traditional printing house. Over time it has evolved into a unique poster gallery where art, typography, and local history come together. The beautifully preserved workshop still houses original machinery, offering visitors a glimpse into the craft of early 20th-century printing. Of course, state-of-the-art techniques are also used here for private or business printing needs.
Xurrería Rosaleda
Few aromas are as comforting as freshly fried churros dipped in thick hot chocolate. Since 1950, Xurrería Rosaleda has been serving this beloved Spanish classic. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, made according to time-honored family recipes. For many locals, the iconic café is more than a place for a sweet treat. It is a taste of childhood and a delicious reminder of Palma’s everyday traditions.
Alpargatería La Concepción
You know it’s summer when socks become optional. At Alpargatería La Concepción, almost all shoes are summer shoes. Founded in 1940 by a young woman from Menorca, the narrow shop overflows with handmade espadrilles and sandals. All are crafted in workshops across the Balearic Islands or mainland Spain. A must-visit for footwear lovers.
Ca’n Miquel
Now in its third generation, Ca’n Miquel is one of Palma’s most cherished ice cream parlors. Chocolate lovers will find it hard to make a choice, there are so many different flavors. Same goes for the fruit sorbets that taste like they had packed summer in the freezer to serve it chilled. Homemade daily from fresh seasonal fruit. You’ll taste the difference.
Terra Cuita
Strictly speaking, Terra Cuita is a ceramics manufacturer based in Pòrtol. Hence listed as an emblematic store in the municipality of Marratxí. A visit to the workshop is definitely recommended. But you will also find a beautiful selection of handmade pottery in their store in Palma. Characterized by cheerful Mediterranean colors and traditional patterns, each piece reflects Mallorca’s vibrant artistic heritage.
Forn Fondo
Mentioned as early as 1740, Forn Fondo is one of the oldest bakeries in Palma. Its stunning modernist façade alone makes it worth a visit. Inside, you can savor all kinds of traditional Mallorcan baked goods. From cuarto embatumat, a traditional dessert in Palma to ensaimada. Filled with apricots or figs, with chocolate or marzipan, depending on the season. In fact, even other emblematic stores are loyal customers. Such as Ca’n Miquel, which sources its ensaimadas here.
Fornet de la Soca
Although Fornet de la Soca is not as old as it looks, it plays a vital role in preserving Mallorca’s culinary traditions. Founders María José Orero and Tomeu Arbona are dedicated to reviving historical recipes and forgotten flavors. They sell their pastries in the beautifully restored former Forn des Teatre right in the heart of Palma. A heaven for foodies.
La Pajarita
The bright red storefront of La Pajarita has been featured in many guides and travel books. Originally founded in 1872 as a grocery store, it now consists of two neighboring shops that retain their historic design. In the charcutería, you’ll find traditional savory delicacies, while next door, La Pajarita Bombonería offers handmade sweets. Together, they create a delicious journey through Mallorcan culinary history.
La Industrial
With its iconic green neon sign, La Industrial instantly transports visitors back in time. The traditional toy store has been putting smiles on children’s faces for nearly a century. Inside, wooden shelves are lined with classic board games, tin toys, dolls, and timeless treasures. For generations of Palma families, a visit to La Industrial has been a cherished childhood memory.
Paraguas
As the name suggests, Paraguas specializes in umbrellas and sunshades. However, the emblematic shop offers much more than rain protection. There are fine leather gloves, elaborate walking sticks, and an exceptional selection of fans. In Spain, the fan is a cultural accessory with a long tradition. So you’re not just fanning yourself. Playing with the fan is also a game of looks and gestures.
Why Emblematic Stores in Palma Matter
Most of these traditional businesses were founded by families and continue to thrive thanks to the dedication of their owners. They shape Palma’s identity, making the city both livable and lovable for residents and visitors alike.
However, their survival depends on loyal customers. In December 2025, Mallorca’s oldest shop Ca Donya Àngela, a 340-year-old haberdashery, closed its doors, serving as a reminder of how fragile such legacies can be.
By visiting and supporting these emblematic stores in Palma, you are doing more than shopping. You are helping preserve centuries of craftsmanship, culture, and community. Ensuring that Palma’s living legends continue to thrive for generations to come. 
