Situated on Mallorca's south-west coast in the bay of the same name, the bustling capital of Palma has a population of nearly 400,000 and is easy to get around. A simple to navigate road network makes it the perfect place to get out and see the rest of this beautiful Mediterranean island by car.

The city's ring road (Via Cintura) offers a route to most destinations within the city, and links Palma to the south-west (via Ma-1), the north (via Ma-13) and the south-east (via Ma-19). The centre is a simple 15 minute drive from the airport on the Autovia Autopista de Levante (Ma-19) motorway.

Towards the outskirts of the city lies Portixol, a former fishing village that's undergone significant rejuvenation and is now one of Palma's most sought-after suburbs, lined with contemporary bars and restaurants.

Avenida Gabriel Roca takes in the coastal views along Palma's seafront, and eventually links up to the Autovia de Llevant, which will take you directly to Palma Cathedral and the neighbouring marina.

Motorways carry a speed limit of 120kph, roads with more than one lane in each direction 100kph, speed limits are 90kph on single carriageways and 50kph in built-up areas.

Parking is restricted with blue pay zones dotted around the city. Avoid red and yellow lines, and keep an eye out for underground and open air car parks – these will display tariffs. Wearing seatbelts is compulsory, and children under the age of 12 are not permitted to ride in the front passenger seat. For more information about driving around Palma, take a look at some key advice.

Thanks to a varied landscape and a year-round mild climate, Mallorca's charming capital is much-loved by tourists, business visitors and locals alike – and the city is home to half of the island's population.

History and the old town

The historic quarter, in the south-east, is where you'll find some of the city's most important and awe-inspiring landmarks. The dramatic Gothic Palma Cathedral, La Seu, towers proudly over the city. The cathedral is the stand-out major architectural landmark and is steeped in history, having been built between 1230 and 1601 on the site of a mosque.

More recently it has seen additions to the inside by Modernist icon Antoni Gaudi and contemporary artist Miquel Barcelo, so you might want to spend a morning admiring its beautiful interiors. Directly behind the cathedral you'll find the atmospheric old town, home to some of the best restaurants in the Balearics (including the Michelin-starred Simply Fosh), meaning you'll have plenty of opportunities to sample all the locals' favourite tapas dishes.

The town's maze of streets offers a real taste of authentic Mallorca and you can easily spend an afternoon or two exploring. Situated opposite the cathedral, you'll find the magnificent Palau de l'Almudaina, a royal palace, and the S'Hort del Rei gardens beneath it, which offer a tranquil an attractive spot from where to watch the world go by.

Galleries and great shopping

If museums and galleries are on your radar, you won't be disappointed by Palma's ample offering. The iconic Es Baluard museum, which is home to works by Miro, Dali and Picasso, is one of the island's finest, while the Museo de Mallorca depicts the history of the island and Palau March houses sculptures by 20th century icons, including Henry Moore and Rodin, and an 18th century nativity scene.

Palma is a renowned shopping destination, with designer labels, Spanish brands and boutique items all available. The city's most prestigious shopping areas can be found along Avenida Jaime III and Paseo del Borne or you can explore the cobbled side streets for a more authentic shopping experience.

Beaches and beyond

There's an urban beach to the east of the city, a short journey beyond the cathedral, so rest and relaxation is never far away. If you're after a quieter spot, you'll be rewarded for heading a little further east to Playa de Palma– and your hire car will help you move around the city in comfort while taking in the sights at your own pace, as well as getting out to explore the rest of the island.

Festivals and fun

January is a busy month for festivals in the city with the annual celebrations of the Procession of the Three Kings and San Sebastian (the patron saint of Palma). If you're visiting in June, you'll catch Nit de Foc, one of Palma's most popular festivals, which marks the beginning of Mallorca's summer fiestas. If you're in the city at this time, expect a thrilling atmosphere that includes street parties, bonfires, fireworks and music concerts.

Underneath a seemingly ever-present sun, Palma de Mallorca is a joy for the senses and for visitors of all kinds.