Welcome to Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca, the capital of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is a stunning Mediterranean destination known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and lively cultural scene. With its grand cathedral, picturesque old town, and vibrant seaside promenades, Palma offers a perfect blend of history, relaxation, and modern attractions. With 6-10 hours to explore, cruise passengers can wander through charming streets, visit historic sites, or soak up the sun at a nearby beach.

Cruise Docking Information

Cruise ships dock at the Port of Palma, one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean. The terminal is located about 5 km (3 miles) from the city center, with easy transport options available. During peak season, Palma welcomes multiple cruise ships daily, making it a bustling hub for visitors.

Transportation Options

Palma offers a variety of transportation options to help visitors explore the city and surrounding areas:

• Walking: The city center is pedestrian-friendly, with most attractions within walking distance of each other.
• Shuttle Buses: Many cruise lines provide shuttle services from the port to the city center.
• Public Buses: EMT buses run frequently between the port and major city locations.
• Taxis: Readily available at the cruise terminal and throughout the city.
• Bike Rentals: Palma has scenic cycling paths, particularly along the waterfront.
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: A convenient way to see major sights with flexible stops.

Top Attractions and Nearby Destinations

Palma de Mallorca offers a mix of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and stunning natural beauty. Here are the must-visit places:

• La Seu Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral overlooking the sea, featuring a masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí.
• Palau de l'Almudaina: A historic Moorish fortress converted into a royal palace.
• Bellver Castle: A unique circular castle with panoramic views of Palma.
• Paseo Marítimo: A lively waterfront promenade lined with restaurants and bars.
• Plaza Mayor: A vibrant square filled with shops, cafés, and street performers.
• Es Baluard Museum: A contemporary art museum housed in an ancient fortress.
• Palma Old Town: A charming district with narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and boutique shops.
• Castell de Sant Carles (7 km/4 miles): A small fortress with military history exhibits.
• Valldemossa (17 km/10 miles): A beautiful mountain village famous for its monastery and Chopin’s legacy.
• Port de Sóller (28 km/17 miles): A scenic coastal town accessible by vintage train or tram.

Local Foods

Mallorcan cuisine is a delightful mix of Mediterranean flavors. Be sure to try:

• Ensaimada: A traditional spiral-shaped pastry dusted with powdered sugar.
• Pa amb oli: Bread rubbed with garlic and tomato, topped with olive oil and local ham or cheese.
• Sobrassada: A cured sausage made with paprika-spiced pork.
• Tumbet: A delicious vegetable dish similar to ratatouille.
• Frito Mallorquín: A hearty dish made with meat, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables.

Interesting Facts

Palma de Mallorca has a fascinating history and unique cultural features. Here are some interesting facts:

• The city’s cathedral, La Seu, has the largest Gothic rose window in the world.
• Chopin and George Sand spent a winter in Valldemossa, inspiring some of Chopin’s best compositions.
• Palma’s Old Town features underground Arab baths, a remnant of the island’s Moorish past.

Geographical Position and Surroundings

Palma de Mallorca is located on the southwest coast of Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands. The island enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The surrounding landscape includes rolling hills, turquoise waters, and beautiful sandy beaches.

Local Customs and Culture

Mallorcans take pride in their culture and traditions. Visitors should keep in mind:

• Siesta Time: Many shops close in the afternoon and reopen in the evening.
• Dining Hours: Lunch is typically served between 1-3 PM, and dinner starts late, often after 8 PM.
• Language: Spanish and Catalan are spoken, with Mallorquín being the local dialect.
• Tipping: A 5-10% tip is customary in restaurants and cafés.

Family-Friendly Activities

Palma is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities for children of all ages:

• Children up to 6 years old: Visit Palma Aquarium for an up-close look at marine life.
• Children 7-12 years old: Ride the vintage wooden train to Sóller.
• Teenagers 13-18 years old: Explore Bellver Castle or try watersports at Cala Major beach.

Google Maps

Palma de Mallorca

Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure.