Mercat de l'Olivar: The Ultimate Guide to Palma's Best Market
Mercat de l'Olivar — Palma's most iconic market hall, open since 1951
Mercat de l'Olivar Palma is the beating heart of the city's food culture. Located in the centre of Palma de Mallorca at Plaça de l'Olivar 4, this covered market has been the place where the city feeds itself for over 70 years. It is simultaneously a working food market, a cultural landmark, and one of the best places in Mallorca to taste, shop, and eat.
This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting — from what to buy and what to eat, to the market's history and the best time to go.
Olivar Bistro is located inside Mercat de l'Olivar — fresh Mediterranean food for lunch.
Reserve a Table View Our MenuMercat de l'Olivar Palma: History and Architecture
Mercat de l'Olivar opened in 1951, built on the site of a former convent. The building is a fine example of mid-century modernist architecture — functional, spacious, and flooded with natural light from its large windows and skylights. The name comes from the olive grove (olivar) that once stood on this spot.
Today, the market is one of Palma's most visited destinations — beloved by locals who come to shop for their daily ingredients and by visitors who come to experience the authentic atmosphere of a real working Mediterranean market. You can find more information on the official Mercat de l'Olivar website.
The fish and seafood section — one of the finest in the Balearic Islands
What to Buy at Mercat de l'Olivar
The market is divided into sections, each specialising in different produce. Here is what to look for in each area:
- Fish and seafood — The fish hall is extraordinary. Look for llampuga (dolphinfish), escopinyes (cockles), gambetes (small local prawns), and whatever is freshest that day
- Mallorcan sobrasada — The cured paprika sausage unique to the Balearics. Look for the red IGP seal for the authentic version
- Cheese — Mahón from Menorca and local Mallorcan varieties, from fresh to aged
- Fruit and vegetables — Seasonal and local, sourced from the agricultural heartland of the island
- Ensaimada — The famous Mallorcan spiral pastry, best bought fresh from the market bakeries
- Olive oil — Mallorca produces excellent extra virgin olive oil; the market stalls stock several local producers
- Wine — Mallorcan wines have improved dramatically in recent decades; the market is a good place to discover local labels
Where to Eat at Mercat de l'Olivar
Mercat de l'Olivar is not just for shopping — it is also one of the best places to eat in Palma. The market has several restaurants and bars operating inside and around the building. Olivar Bistro is located inside the market, serving creative Mediterranean food inspired by what is freshest each morning — Monday to Saturday, 12:00–16:00.
For our full recommendations on what to eat in Mallorca, read our traditional Mallorcan food guide.
Practical Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Plaça de l'Olivar, 4, 07002 Palma |
| Market hours | Mon–Thu 07:00–14:30, Fri 07:00–20:00, Sat 07:00–14:30 |
| Olivar Bistro lunch | Mon–Sat 12:00–16:00 |
| Nearest bus | Multiple lines — Plaça de l'Olivar stop |
| Parking | Paid parking in the underground car park below the market |
| Sunday | Market and restaurant closed |
💡 Tip: Go early on a Saturday — the market is at its best and most atmospheric in the morning, and the freshest produce sells out quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, entry to the market is completely free. You only pay for what you buy or eat.
The market opens at 07:00 Monday to Saturday. It closes at 14:30 most days, with extended hours on Friday until 20:00. The market is closed on Sundays.
Yes — the market has several dining options inside and nearby. Olivar Bistro serves fresh Mediterranean lunches at the market Monday to Saturday, 12:00–16:00. Reservations are recommended.