Getting Around Palma. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation: Efficient City Transit

Comprehensive Overview of Public Transit Systems: Buses (EMT Palma): The Empresa Municipal de Transports (EMT Palma) operates the urban bus network, extending coverage throughout Palma and its immediate suburbs. These modern buses represent a cost-effective way to navigate. Trains (SFM - Serveis Ferroviaris de Mallorca): The SFM operates local train services connecting Palma (from Plaça d'Espanya station) to inland towns across Mallorca, like Inca, Manacor, and Sa Pobla. This is useful for day trips beyond the city. Metro: Palma has two metro lines (M1 and M2). These mainly serve university and industrial areas and hold less frequent use by tourists for central city exploration, but they connect to the main train station.

Route Maps and Important Hubs: Buses: EMT bus routes are numerous, covering most areas of interest to visitors. Plaça d'Espanya serves as the central hub for many bus routes, plus for train and metro connections. Route maps are at bus stops or online. Trains/Metro: The main station for trains and metro also sits at Plaça d'Espanya. From here, connections to different parts of the island are possible.

Ticketing & Accessibility

Single Ticket: Purchase on bus (€2.00); airport bus (€5.00).
Contactless payments increasingly accepted on EMT buses.
Opening hours: Generally 6 AM to midnight, reduced on weekends.
Accessibility: Newer EMT buses and metro stations are generally accessible.

EMT Urban Buses

Extensive coverage, cost-effective city travel.

SFM Trains & Metro

Connects Palma to inland towns plus detailed city zones.

Plaça d'Espanya

Central hub for coaches, trains, and metro.

Tips for Efficient Public Transit

Navigation Tools

Use Google Maps for real-time information.
EMT Palma official app for accurate bus details.
Plan your routes in advance.

Payment & Boarding

Have exact change or small bill for bus fares.
Use contactless bank card if available.
Validate your ticket or tap your card when boarding.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Convenience on Demand

Licensed Taxis

White with red stripe, green roof light.

Hailing

On street, at stands, or by phone/app.

Fares

Metered, fixed airport rates, additional fees for night/holidays.

Ride-Sharing

Cabify and Bolt popular, Uber not as prevalent.

Rental Options: Freedom to Explore

Several options exist, catering to various travel styles and needs.

Car Rental

Major international companies (DiscoverCars.com, Hertz, Avis, Europcar) at PMI.
Requirements: A valid driver's license (IDP for non-EU), credit card, minimum age (21/25).
Booking in advance, especially peak season, secures better rates.
Parking in Palma city center challenging; use paid garages.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Popular for exploring smaller roads and easy parking.
Many rental shops in Palma and coastal resorts.
Similar requirements to car rental, specific licenses for larger bikes.
Excellent for navigating winding mountain routes.

Bicycle Rentals & Cycling

Palma a cycle-friendly city with expanding bike lanes.
Private rental shops feature daily/weekly city, e-bikes, road bikes.
Excellent way to explore promenade and city.

Cycling generally safe on designated paths.
Always use a Helmet, especially on roads with traffic.
Bike lanes along coast and to suburban areas.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Driving Side

Drive on the right-hand side of the road.

Speed Limits

50 km/h urban, 90-100 km/h non-urban, ABOUT 75 mph motorways.

Mandatory Seatbelts

Required for all passengers.

Walking & Cycling: Active Exploration

Palma's layout and public works make walking and cycling appealing ways to experience the city's charm and natural beauty.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Old Town (Casco Antiguo) largely pedestrianized.
Narrow, winding alleys and charming squares invite exploration on foot.
Passeig Marítim along the bay excellent for walks with sea views.
Many guided walking trips emphasize history, gastronomy, or neighborhoods.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Wide-ranging and growing network of cycle lanes.
Cycling generally safe on designated paths.
Always wear a helmet, especially if venturing onto roads with traffic.
Few "no-go" areas, but caution on busy roads without cycle lanes.

Specialized Transportation: Unique Ways to Travel

Tour Buses

Hop-on-hop-off sightseeing buses see major attractions with commentary, allowing flexible stops.

Convenient City Overview

Boat Tours & Cruises

Various boat tours from Port of Palma: catamaran trips, coastal cruises, excursions to nearby coves.

Coastal Views & Excursions

Historic Sóller Train

The vintage wooden train from Palma to Sóller (Tren de Sóller) offers a scenic journey through mountains.

Memorable Mountain Journey

Accessibility Services

Public Transit Accessibility

Newer EMT buses generally wheelchair accessible with ramps.
Metro stations typically have elevators.
Palma's Old Town has challenges due to cobblestones and steps.

Specialized Transport

Specific tour operators or taxi services may offer adapted vehicles.
Inquire directly with providers for specific mobility needs.
Some attractions offer accessibility features; check in advance.

Safety Considerations for Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Always use licensed taxis.
Use reputable ride-sharing apps (Cabify, Bolt).
Confirm meter is on, or agree on fare for longer distances.
Verify driver and vehicle match app details before entering.

Avoid unlicensed vehicles.
Share your ride details with a trusted contact.
Keep local emergency numbers saved.
Report any suspicious activity or concerns to authorities.

Local Travel Insight

Palma's compact Old Town is best explored on foot, allowing discovery of its hidden gems at a leisurely pace.

For exploring the wider island, a rental car or the TIB bus network offers excellent flexibility and reach to various attractions.

Where to Stay in Palma

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