From the City of Light to the Balearic Bliss: A 6-Day Journey from Paris to Palma
Embark on an exhilarating adventure that blends the timeless elegance of Paris with the sun-drenched charm of Palma de Mallorca. Paris enchants with its iconic landmarks, café culture, and rich art, while Palma dazzles with crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, historic streets, and vibrant island life. This itinerary captures the best of both worlds — romantic urban exploration and laid-back coastal relaxation — perfect for travelers craving variety, culture, and delectable cuisine.
Day 1-3: Enchanting Paris
Day 1: Arrival and Seine Stroll
Set foot in Paris and feel the buzz of the City of Light. Spend your first afternoon wandering along the Seine’s banks, soaking in views of the Notre-Dame and the sparkling Eiffel Tower. For a relaxed start, hop on a scenic river cruise at sunset — nothing short of magical! End with dinner at the classic Bouillon Pigalle for budget-friendly traditional French fare or indulge at Le Jules Verne inside the Eiffel Tower for a high-end experience.
Day 2: Louvre, Hidden Passages, and Local Eats
Morning at the Louvre immerses you in masterpieces, but don’t overlook the nearby Galerie Vivienne — a glittering 19th-century covered arcade with boutique shops and cafes. Feeling adventurous, I ducked into a tiny bakery there and tasted the most buttery croissant I’ve ever had. For lunch, try a savory crêpe from a street vendor or opt for the trendy Café Pinson for something health-conscious and chic. Afternoon stroll through Le Marais’ cobblestone streets reveals vintage shops and the atmospheric Place des Vosges.
Day 3: Montmartre and a Parisian Evening
Climb up to Montmartre’s Sacré-Cœur for panoramic views and a bohemian vibe. Beware: some souvenir stalls are tourist traps, so shop thoughtfully. At dusk, venture to Le Consulat for a cozy dinner or splurge on exquisite French-Japanese fusion at Kei. Later, if you’re up for it, catch a classic cabaret show at Moulin Rouge — a quintessential Paris experience, though it’s a bit touristy and pricey.
Travel Day 4: Journey to Palma
Preferred: Take a direct flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle to Palma de Mallorca, just 2h 10m. Flights are frequent and budget airlines offer great deals if booked early. Alternative: For the scenic traveler, a train from Paris to Barcelona (6.5h) then a fast ferry to Palma (7h) offers a slower pace with gorgeous coastal views, but it requires an overnight stop and more logistics.
Day 4-6: Radiant Palma de Mallorca
Day 4: Arrival and Old Town Wander
Step into Palma’s warm Mediterranean embrace. The cathedral, La Seu, is a stunning Gothic masterpiece bathed in golden light—don’t miss walking beneath its soaring interior columns. Explore cobbled alleys and stumble upon art galleries and tapas bars tucked away from the crowds. For dinner, savor authentic pa amb oli (rustic bread with tomato and olive oil) at Mercat de l’Olivar’s market stalls, or opt for the elegant Simply Fosh for local Mallorcan haute cuisine.
Day 5: Hidden Beaches and Island Culture
Escape the bustle by renting a scooter and riding to the secret coves around Cala Major. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a refreshing swim. I once spent a blissful afternoon snorkeling near a quiet beach cove, sharing smiles with friendly locals who offered fresh ensaimadas (Mallorcan pastry). Back in Palma, check if there’s a local festival or open-air concert; the island vibes come alive with music and dance, especially in spring and summer.
Day 6: A Day to Remember - The Soul of Palma
Spend your last day deeply exploring Palma’s authentic heart. Start with breakfast at a cafe by Plaza Mayor, sipping café con leche and watching locals set up their shops. Then visit the Museo Fundación Juan March to admire modern art away from typical crowds. Wander the leafy streets to discover quaint artisan shops and stop at a small bakery for almond ensaimadas. For lunch, I recommend tasting tumbet—a local vegetable dish layered like ratatouille at Ca’n Joan de S’aigo, a traditional spot dating back to 1700. The afternoon is perfect for a peaceful walk along the Paseo Marítimo, marveling at the yachts and feeling the sea breeze. Before sunset, climb to Bellver Castle on its hilltop for panoramic views of the city and sea; it’s a bit of a climb but absolutely worth it. For your final dinner, treat yourself at Adrián Quetglas, a Michelin-starred delight blending contemporary Spanish flavors with Mallorcan roots. An unforgettable way to say farewell to this radiant island.
Travel Options Back or Onward
Palma’s airport offers great connections back to Paris or onward European destinations. Alternatively, renting a car for your last day grants flexibility to explore quaint villages like Valldemossa or Deià if your schedule allows extension.
