Constructed in 1951, the bright Mediterranean-style building comprises two perpendicular halls that meet in the middle like two arms that reach out to embrace an open square, making Mercat de l’Olivar a welcoming gateway to authentic Mallorcan culture. Located in the heart of Palma, in Plaza del Olivar number 4 (between Plaça de Espanya and Carrer Sant Miquel), this traditional market stands as one of the island’s most important food destinations.
The market has been extensively refurbished over the past decade, transforming it into a modern yet authentic shopping experience that maintains its traditional Mediterranean charm. It is the largest indoor market on the island, attracting both locals doing their daily shopping and visitors seeking genuine Mallorcan flavors.
Fresh Products and Local Specialties
It consists of 115 stalls with all kinds of products: seafood, agricultural products, typical Mallorcan specialties, and much more. The market offers an impressive selection of fresh produce that reflects the island’s rich culinary heritage. Visitors can find the finest fruits and vegetables, premium cuts of meat and poultry, freshly caught seafood, artisanal cheeses, traditional cold meats, and local wines.
The seafood section deserves special attention, featuring daily catches from the Mediterranean waters surrounding Mallorca. Local farmers bring seasonal produce directly from their fields, ensuring maximum freshness and supporting the island’s agricultural community.
Dining and Gastronomic Experiences
The market offers tasting and tapas stands, as well as stalls with food to eat in or take away. The market has evolved beyond traditional shopping to become a complete gastronomic destination.
Mercat de l’Olivar also has restaurants in the shopping arcade that even cook the produce you buy downstairs, creating a unique farm-to-table experience right in the city center. This innovative concept allows visitors to select fresh ingredients from the market stalls and have them prepared by skilled chefs in the upstairs restaurants.
Practical Information
The market operates Monday through Saturday with convenient hours for both early risers and regular shoppers. Monday to Thursday from 07:00 to 14:30, Friday from 07:00 to 14:30 and partly from 14:30 to 20:00, and Saturdays from 07:00 to 15:00. The extended Friday hours provide additional shopping opportunities for those with busy weekday schedules.
Parking is available in the surrounding area, though the central location makes it easily accessible by public transportation and on foot from most parts of Palma’s old town.
| Market Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Plaza del Olivar 4, Palma |
| Built | 1951 |
| Number of Stalls | 115 |
| Opening Hours | Mon-Thu: 7:00-14:30 | Fri: 7:00-14:30 & 14:30-20:00 | Sat: 7:00-15:00 |
| Products Available | Fresh seafood, fruits & vegetables, meat, cheese, cold meats, wine, local specialties |
| Dining Options | Tapas stands, restaurants, take-away stalls |
| Parking | Available in surrounding area |
| Access | Between Plaça de Espanya and Carrer Sant Miquel |
