Palma de Mallorca

The capital of Mallorca, Palma, represents all the wonderful things about the Balearic Islands. It offers visitors the choice of cultural sites or lively nightlife and is within easy reach of hilltop villages, olive groves and hidden beaches.

Cobblestone streets and tree-lined boulevards make Palma ideal for a leisurely walk around the city. In the winter, Palma hosts a festival to honour the town’s patron saint, San Sebastián. It’s a celebration that shouldn’t be missed.

One of the oldest attractions in town is the Gothic cathedral La Seo, which dates back to the 13^th century. The region’s Muslim history is captured in the castle of L’Almudaina and the Arab baths.

Bellver Castle was built in the 14^th century and overlooks the town. It houses a history museum that gives an insight into the island’s long and diverse history.

A 10-minute drive out of town will bring you to the golden beaches and hotel clusters. Hiking and nature trails, mainly along the ancient path called Deià-Soller, can be explored along the beachfront. Palma is famous for paragliding; those who participate generally fly behind a motorboat or launch themselves from the Sierra de Tramuntana mountain range.

Further out of town, Alcúdia can be reached by car and boasts the excavated remains of the Roman city of Pollètia. You will find an amphitheatre and an excellent museum. A nearby nature reserve has trails for walking and cycling.

Palma has gained a reputation for excitement, and the town centre is full of lively bars and nightclubs. The city centre comes to life well after nightfall, when the shops and restaurants give way to the evening’s nightclubs, bodegas, and tapas bars. Those seeking activities during the daylight hours will fine plenty to do on the beach, along with ample accommodation.

Palma de Mallorca Airport provides flights to numerous international destinations across Europe. It is also possible to charter expensive flights between the Balearic Islands, and some ferries are available for transport to Barcelona on the mainland. Flights connecting first through the Spanish mainland are the most economical means of arriving at Palma. Car hire, which allows for easier travel, is available at the airport.