Today: Open Day at Palma's Escuela Oficial de Idiomas – Last Places Available

Try languages in the heart of Palma: Open Day Today

If you stroll through Palma's old town today and suddenly hear a colourful bustle of voices coming from a courtyard — Spanish, Mallorcan, maybe a few Chinese syllables too — you've probably passed the Escuela Oficial de Idiomas de Palma. The official language school opens its doors today and offers an easy entry point for anyone looking for a last-minute course spot or who just wants to have a look around.

When and where

Note: Open today from 9:00 to 13:00 and again from 16:00 to 19:00. The school is centrally located in Palma's old town, just a stone's throw from a small bakery — you can smell the freshly baked ensaimadas in the courtyard. Parking is scarce; arriving by bike or EMT Palma bus information is more relaxed. On a mild morning a light sea breeze often wafts through the alleys, which makes the whole thing feel a little friendlier.

What to expect

On site there is advice on levels, short trial lessons and the possibility to sign up immediately for remaining places. Courses in Catalan and Spanish for beginners are currently particularly in demand — not hundreds, but enough for those who decide quickly. Courses start as early as next week, so be prepared to decide on short notice.

An important practical note: For a binding registration you absolutely need your green NIE card. Staff will check the formalities directly at the registration desk. Those who come without the card can still get information and attend trial lessons, but cannot complete a firm enrolment.

Atmosphere, tips, little extras

Don't expect a stiff information event. There are small international snacks, drinks and relaxed exchanges with the teachers — more like a neighbourhood get-together with a language focus. Textbooks and learning materials are displayed, and the coordinator briefly explains the DELE exam formats and how placement testing works. One tip: ask specifically about evening courses. Many workers in hospitality, tourism and retail appreciate later times.

A few local hints: If you arrive by bike, you will usually find a spot in the side streets; if you come by bus, get off about half an hour before the event starts to avoid the rush. And if the smell of coffee and pastries distracts you too much — nobody minds. In Palma, learning often works best with a small break between two lessons.

Why this matters for Palma

More language courses mean not only more conversations on the plaza, but also better opportunities for people who want to live and work here. Those who know Catalan or Spanish feel at home faster, find it easier to get work in cafés, hotels or the public sector and make contacts across language boundaries. For the city that means stronger neighbourhoods, more integration and a livelier old town — and yes, a bit more life in the cafés in the afternoon.

So if you're curious: pack your NIE card, bring a good mood and a little courage. The classrooms are open today — and sometimes learning begins exactly where you simply start.