Palma de Majorca has long been the playground for the rich and famous, including Hollywood celebrities and European Royalty. Over the past few decades, this destination has become just as popular with European tourists in search of a sunny escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life back at home. This perfect destination provides an abundance of sunshine, beaches, nightlife and escapes, and is nothing short of spectacular.
This island, the largest in the Balearic Islands of Spain, is generally known by Britons as the package holiday destination, with resorts pubs and bars that are infamous for their drunken nightlife and full English breakfasts. There is of course far more to this destination, and it is up to the traveler himself to decide what kind of trip they wish to have. Whatever that wish may be, Palma will provide and accommodate pretty much every whim.
With Palma Airport the central point of entry to the island situated just 8km away, getting here is a breeze. Palma city centre is a hive of activity that includes half of the island’s entire population. The architecture includes influences from a variety of periods and eras. One could find gothic cathedrals, medieval buildings and Roman remains. There are also signs of its’ Moorish occupation in the ancient Almudaina Palace (Palau Almundaina)which was restyled by proceeding monarchs and the Arab Baths, both open to the public.
One of the mian attractions in the city is the Museum of Bartolome March (Palau March Museum). This was originally the home of the wealthiest banker in Mallorca, and it now houses some remarkable sculptures from the likes of Rodin and Henry Moore, as well as medieval engravings and a Neapolitan nativity scene from the 1700’s. There is an entrance fee of €4.50 and is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 6.30pm from April to October and 10am to 6pm from November to March. Saturdays are open from 10am to 2pm while Sundays and holidays are closed.
The Castell de Bellver is also worth a visit and is unique among Spanish castles in that it is entirely round and perfectly designed to keep out enemies. Construction of it started in 1300 by King Jaume II. Throughout history it has been used as a prison, though today it serves as a museum to display the city’s history, in the form of artifacts and pottery. There are still plenty of tunnels, secret staircases and lookout points, reminiscent of the structures previous uses. The entrance fee is €2.10 and opening times are 8am-8pm October to March and 8am-9pm April to September. Sunday and bank holidays 10am – 5pm from October to March, 10am-7pm from April to September. Also in the hottest months of July and August it is shut for 2 hours between 2-4pm.
Finally, the island does offer a ridiculous array of bars, restaurants and clubs. For some of the quieter ones, a night along the harbor can be a lot of fun. For a real party, city centre will have some of the rowdiest and craziest nightclubs in Europe. Whether you are looking for a cultural escape, some sun and beaches, partying galore or all of the above, Palma de Majorca is a fantastic destination. To start planning your trip now, press here!
