Tree-lined promenades, appealing boutiques and vibrant market stalls are just some of the charming areas you can peruse for gifts and goods. Whether it’s authentic, hand-made crafts, embroidered linens, or popular designer brands, Mallorcan shopping caters for the most enthusiastic shopaholics.
Mike GogginMy Destination local expert onMallorca
The island’s capital, Palma, is firmly placed as Mallorca’s shopping Mecca, selling the latest in high-street fashion, as well as boasting more localised boutique stores renowned for selling the island’s signature pearls, leather goods and shoes. Journeying further afield, discover speciality towns dotted throughout the island’s interior and coastline, offering a welcome relief from the ubiquitous tourist areas of the capital.
Palma de Mallorca
Tree-lined promenades and elegant avenues knit together Palma’s most popular shopping region. Selling jewelry, high-end gifts and sophisticated clothing, Avinguda Jaume III is a fitting place to display the quality and beauty of the products on offer here. The nearby Passeig del Born makes for a more relaxing shopping experience with its traditional architecture housing vintage boutiques. For those wishing for home-comforts, 2km south-west of the capital is the Centro Comercial Porto Pi shopping mall.
Famous for its pearl-making, the large town of Manacor is well-worth a visit if you are on the look-out for fine jewelry. Started by the locals over 100 years ago, trips to the factory are a must to fully appreciate the skilled craftsmanship.
Inca
Not only the geographical centre of Mallorca, but indeed the centre of Spain’s shoemaking, Inca is the place to go for a new pair of heels. Shopping like a celebrity is easy here, with A-list brands, such as Camper, Carmina and Farrutx displayed proudly in many shop windows. Also regarded as the home of leather, bags, wallets, belts and jackets are just a few of the locally-made items available. The market, held every Thursday, is also a great opportunity to haggle for a bargain or two.
Consell
Located north-east of the Capital, every Sunday the small town of Consell plays home to one of Mallorca’s most popular mercadillos (flea markets). From humble beginnings, this market has grown dramatically over the years and attracts both locals and tourists in their droves. Selling everything from door handles to the odd rare antique, rummage hard enough and you may walk away with more than you bargained for.
Sóller/Arta/Capdepera
Speckled throughout much of the island are rural towns and villages specialising in authentic crafts, such as hand-woven baskets, intricate woodwork furniture and decorative pottery. Proud in their local traditions, you can expect to pick up lovingly made gifts and souvenirs for a fraction of the price that they’re sold at in the capital. What’s more, venture far enough off the tourist trail and you are likely to stumble upon some hidden gems.
Mallorca shopping tips
Escaping the mid-day heat has long been the routine for the Spanish and the tradition is followed in Mallorca. Shops tend to close from 2pm-5pm for siesta. However, if you desperately require some retail therapy, the larger shopping malls can accommodate your needs in all their air-conditioned comfort.
