The draw of Palma de Mallorca, the capital city of the Balearic Islands, is the sun and sand and vibe. Throughout history, the western Mediterranean Island of Palma de Mallorca has been influenced by many groups, from the Talayotic to the Romans, the Byzantine, the Arabs, pirates, and Spanish kings. From the 10th to 13th centuries, the Arabs controlled the area. In 1229, James I of Aragon captured Mallorca. He was responsible for beginning construction of the famous Cathedral of Mallorca, called Le Seu in Catalan, though it would not be completed until the early 1600s. The combination of cultures and geography has created a location that beckons visitors. Unsurprisingly, tourism is Palma de Mallorca’s major economic driver, and tourists have come in droves to this island paradise for more than 50 years.

Ship Location

Most cruise ships dock at Muelle de Pointe, just under four miles from the old city, which also serves as the arrival and departure hub for ferries to other islands and the mainland. Find ATMs and taxi services located outside Estacion Maritima building 2, but the bus stop is outside the cruise terminal. Occasionally if the port is busy or the ship is large, the cruise ship will dock at Dique del Oeste in the commercial port, about five miles from the city center.

Getting Around

Getting around Palma de Mallorca is straightforward. Most often a shuttle bus will transport passengers to and from the terminal to the city center. Also, the Number 1 bus from the terminal to Placa d’Espanya in the city center runs about every 15 minutes and takes about 10 minutes door-to-door. There is a hop on hop off bus, and the round-trip city tour takes about 90 minutes. Taxis are available. Walking is easy in the compact old town center.

Attractions

Things to see and do abound in Palma de Mallorca. A promenade surrounds the expansive harbor area making it ideal for strolling and biking. The most famous tourist attraction is the Cathedral of Palma de Mallorca, Le Seu. The Gothic cathedral was constructed where a mosque had been, which had been built on top of a Roman religious site. The outside is stunning, with a large circular rose stained glass window, one of the largest in the world. Because of its location on the water's edge, the cathedral appears to float like a galleon. The interior includes beautiful work above the main altar by Antoni Gaudi.

Another popular attraction is the Bellver Castle, a round castle dating from the 1300s. The Bellver Castle, located high on a hill, offers striking views of the city and harbor. The Palau de l’Almudaina is an Islamic fortress that became an official residence of Spanish monarchs. Es Baluard is the city’s museum of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by Picasso and Miro, as well as other artists. Excursions include the Caves of Drach, with its underground lake. From sun and beach to architectural treasures, Palma de Mallorca is worth a visit. You’ll want to return.

Staying in Touch

WiFi is available at the cruise terminal and in many cafes and restaurants in town.