Palma De Mallorca
Editor's Rating - 4 Stars
Palma has all the ingredients of a great port of call, with a variety of interesting sights withing walking distance of the cruise port. Two things let it down - the town beach, C'an Pere Antoni, is a little nondescript, and a tidal wave of Northern Europeans on cheap holiday package deals have given parts of the town a distinctly holiday apartment look.
Editor's Top Tip
If you're planning to travel on the Palma to Soller railway, be sure to do this at the start of your day to allow for any unscheduled delays.
Location Of Palma De Mallorca's Top Attractions On A Map
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Things To See
La Seu
Palma’s splendid cathedral la Seu is the city’s most popular draw. Building started in the early 13th century, and continued for over 3 centuries. A significant remodeling scheme commenced in the the 20th century, with the famed architect Gaudi making some contentious alterations. Website at www.catedraldemallorca.info.
Almudaina Palace
The signature Moorish architecture of the Almudaina Palace tells of its initial history as a Moorish castle. After the conquest of Mallorca by James I in the 13th century the fort was rebuilt to become a palace for the Mallorcan monarchy. Today it is a museum with works of art like middle eastern carpets, Flemish tapestries and a superb selection of paintings.
Bellver Castle
The imposing Bellver Castle contains the Palma History Museum and the Despuig Classical Sculpture Museum. There are magnificent views from the castle’s ramparts across the turquoise blue Palma Bay. Bellver Castle is a short hike upwards from the Muelles de Poniente. Website at http://www.cultura.palma.es/.
C'an Pere Antoni Beach
The seafront below the city center has a thin ribbon of sand, which, if you walk for a short distance in an easterly direction, broadens into the expansive C'an Pere Antoni beach. The golden sands shelve gently into the water. Several palm trees set back from the beach give shade, and nearby stalls sell beach gear and refreshments.
Cala Mayor Beach
An alternative to C'an Pere Antoni is Cala Mayor, which is conveniently close to the cruise port. The water is normally nice and calm, perfect for swimming, as the sands are protected both sides by rocky promontories.
Palma To Soller Railway
This quaint electric train links Palma with the small village of Soller, a trip of 27km. The route crosses a wide plain, then climbs up through 13 tunnels to reach Soller. The excursion, which takes little more than an hour, is a great way of seeing the delightful interior of the island. The Palma station is located in the center of the city, next to the modern train station. Website at http://www.trendesoller.com.
Cruise Information
Cruise selection guide Palma Cruises
