The capital of the Balearic Islands
Palma de Mallorca is the capital city of the Balearic Islands and the major port on Majorca. The city is situated on the Bay of Palma on the south coast of Mallorca in the western Mediterranean.
Majorca is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe and receives tourists from almost any country in the world, but especially from Germany and England. The airport of Mallorca, Son Sant Joan is very well connected with many European cities and is served by all mayor airlines, including low cost carriers like Air Berlin, Easyjet or Ryanair.
Most tourist resorts are located towards the eastern part of Palma, whilst the southern side of the capital offers a completely different rocky landscape.
One of the most important landmarks of Palma de Mallorca is the cathedral (La Seu). Originally built on the foundations of a mosque the cathedral can be seen from many parts of the bay.
The old city with its maze of small streets can be found behind the cathedral of Palma. The narrow streets and the architecture from Arab past make you feel travelling back in time when you walk along the streets and squares of this part of the capital city of Mallorca. The Old City is also home to the Arab Baths, a remnant of the Moorish past of the Balearic Islands, and the town hall.
Going by foot is certainly one of the most attractive options in the old city, but there are many other ways to get around Palma. For longer distances or travelling to other parts of the island public transport may be a better option. Trains and busses are available at the Plaza d'España, which is the most important transport hub of the island. The tourist office of the city, whcih offers plenty of information about the most important attractions on the island, can be found in the same building.
One of the most visited tourist attractions of the city is the Bellver castle, which is built on the ruins of a Muslim site and offers an excellent view of the Mediterranean. Set high on a hill the fortress has a central courtyard and three large towers and is considered one of the most beautiful castles in Spain. It also houses a museum of classical sculptures and archaeological remains.
If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife during your holiday on the Balearic Islands, don´t miss the Paseo Marítimo de Palma which is the area near the harbour, where boats and yachts are moored. The majority of the bars, cafes, discotecas and pubs of Palma de Majorca are located along the Paseo Maritimo.
