Mercat de l’Olivar, Palma – Market Culture at Its Best
The Beating Heart of Palma’s Food Scene
Just a few steps from Plaça d’Espanya, the Mercat de l’Olivar is Palma’s largest and most vibrant food market. Since 1951, locals have come here for fresh produce, seafood, meat, cheese, and flowers. Today, it’s also a favorite with visitors who want to taste Mallorca through its ingredients, tapas stalls, and lively atmosphere.
🛍️ What You’ll Find
- Fresh Produce: Seasonal fruit, vegetables, and herbs from across Mallorca.
- Fish & Seafood: Some of the freshest on the island, straight from Palma’s port.
- Meat & Charcuterie: Sobrasada, cured hams, and sausages.
- Cheese & Dairy: Local specialties like Mahon and artisan goat cheeses.
- Flowers & Spices: Bright displays add color and scent to the market.
🛎️ Services at Mercat de l’Olivar
| Service | Details |
| Parking | Underground parking garage with direct market access |
| ATMs | Several inside and near main entrances |
| Toilets | Clean facilities available inside the market |
| Wi-Fi | Free public Wi-Fi in main hall |
| Tourist-Friendly | Many stalls speak English and German |
| Takeaway Packaging | Vacuum-packing for cheeses, sobrasada, and cured meats |
🍴 Eat at the Market
One of the highlights of Mercat de l’Olivar is its ready-to-eat tapas bars and food stalls:
- Oysters & Champagne stands – Treat yourself to fresh seafood with a glass of cava.
- Tapas corners – Small plates of tortilla, pimientos de padrón, jamón ibérico.
- Sushi & Fusion – Modern stalls with international twists.
💡 Palma Weekly Tip: Come hungry, sampling is part of the experience.
🗺️ Practical Information – Mercat de l’Olivar
| Detail | Information |
| Opening Hours | Monday–Saturday: 07:00–15:00 |
| Closed | Sundays |
| Location | Just behind Plaça d’Espanya, 2 min from Estació Intermodal |
| Accessibility | Indoor hall, fully covered, wheelchair-friendly |
🏛️ History & Atmosphere
The market was inaugurated in 1951, taking its name from the olive groves (olivar) that once grew in the area. While modernized, it has retained the feel of a community gathering space, where Palma residents shop, socialize, and grab a morning coffee.
📅 Best Time to Visit
- Morning (9–11am): Bustling but not overcrowded — best for shopping and photos.
- Late Morning (11–13:30): Perfect for tapas and a glass of wine.
- Saturday: Livelier atmosphere, with more locals stocking up for the weekend.
⏱️ Suggested Visit Itinerary – Mercat de l’Olivar
| Time | Activity | Palma Weekly Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 09:00–10:00 | Explore the market stalls – browse fresh produce, seafood, and local products | Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best selection |
| 10:00–11:00 | Enjoy tapas & drinks at the food stalls (oysters, cava, or classic tapas plates) | Grab a table at the seafood bars before the lunchtime rush |
| 11:00–11:30 | Pick up take-home goods (cheese, sobrasada, olives) – most can be vacuum-packed for travel | Ask vendors for storage/transport advice |
| 11:30 onwards | Continue your Palma discovery – head to Plaça Major, the Old Town, or nearby Plaça d’Espanya for onward buses/trains | Perfect way to combine food culture with sightseeing |
Is it only for shopping?
No, many visitors come just to eat, drink, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Can I buy food to take away?
Yes, stalls sell vacuum-packed sobrasada, cheeses, olives, and more, ideal for gifts.
Is it expensive?
Prices vary, basic produce is affordable, while oysters and champagne are a treat.
🛒 What to Buy at Mercat de l’Olivar
| Category | Examples | Palma Weekly Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Seafood | Oysters, prawns, fresh fish from Palma port | Try oysters with cava at one of the stalls |
| Charcuterie | Sobrasada, jamón ibérico, cured sausages | Ask for vacuum-packed portions to take home |
| Cheese | Mahón, goat cheeses, artisan specialties | Pair with local wine for a picnic |
| Tapas & Ready-to-Eat | Tortilla, pimientos de padrón, sushi | Perfect for a late-morning snack |
| Produce | Seasonal fruit, olives, tomatoes | Ideal for self-catering visitors |
| Flowers & Spices | Fresh bouquets, saffron, paprika | Easy souvenirs for travelers |
🛍️ Discover More Markets in Palma & Mallorca
If you enjoyed Mercat de l’Olivar, there are plenty of other markets worth exploring nearby and across the island:
- Santa Catalina Market – Palma’s trendiest food market, with a lively atmosphere and international dining options.
- Best Weekly Markets in Mallorca – From Alcúdia to Sineu, discover traditional open-air markets across the island.
🔗 Related Palma Weekly Guides
