Basilica de Sant Francesc

Enter the Basilica de Sant Francesc via its Gothic cloister and garden. Inside, highlights include the vast nave with its side chapels, the high-vaulted Gothic ceiling, and the Gothic choirs and baroque altarpiece. Another treasure is the tomb of 13th-century poet Ramón Llull, a revered figure in Mallorca. Most visitors spend about an hour touring the basilica and grounds.

The basilica is on the itinerary for various Palma tours, including guided walks that also stop at landmarks like Palma Cathedral and other, hidden historical gems. For a more casual look at the basilica, join an e-bike, e-scooter, or Segway city tour. You also can find tours oriented toward families, including some that combine a scavenger hunt with sightseeing.

The basilica will appeal to those interested in architecture, history, art, culture, and religion. A small entry fee is required to look around the basilica and its cloisters. Out of respect for local customs, avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops and speak quietly when inside the basilica.

Located in Old Palma’s Placa de Sant Francesco, the basilica is best reached on foot, as the streets around it are mostly pedestrianized. From Palma Cathedral, it’s a roughly 8-minute walk northeast to the basilica. Alternatively, catch Palma’s free CC bus to Placa d’En Coll. Buses also leave from Palma’s Intermodal station for 360-Sindicat (#8, #6) and d’Alexandre Rossello (#35, #23, #25, #A1), both about 10 minutes’ walk away.

The basilica is generally open Monday–Saturday from morning to evening, with a break from about 3–6pm and is open on Sundays and holidays in the morning only. Times can vary, so check the exact opening hours before arriving if you can. The church is busiest in summer, especially in the mornings on Monday, Friday, and Saturday. If you’re in Palma come December, check timings for the basilica’s Christmas concert—a magical experience.

Take care not to overlook the basilica’s three standouts. Wander its beautiful Gothic cloisters, with slender columns that frame a tree-filled garden and central well. Then, head inside to see the alabaster sarcophagus of Ramón Lllull (1232-1315), considered the father of the Catalan language; and the resplendent altarpiece, carved with statues of Llull and St. Francis of Assisi.