A Listing Of The Attractions Of Palma, Mallorca

There is more to Mallorca than its tourist beaches! Capital of Mallorca and the Balearic Islands, Palma is situated to the south of the Bay of Palma. This charming Catalan city has a wide range of attractions to delight the serious tourist but yet continues to attract less tourists than the attractions of S'Arenal and Magaluf.

All of the attractions of the Old Town can happily be covered on foot. There isn't a finer way to explore a city than on foot with lots of peaceful squares and parks around to provide a break from all the sightseeing. Whatever resort you visit, a visit to Palma is generally laid on as a day trip. You will be glad of a change of scenery from the beach and the opportunity to feel the Catalan way of life of Mallorca's capital city.

The cobbled streets of Palma are packed with energetic Tapas bars, craft markets and small workshops used by the local tradesmen. Here you will find the real identity of Mallorca. Recently voted the finest place to live in the whole of Spain, half the population of the island now live in Palma, adding to the lively atmosphere of the Old Town. Palma is where it is all happening and the locals concur enthusiastically by making the most of every opportunity!

The heart of the city is pretty much focussed on the area within the shadows of the Cathedral. Palma is not a dangerous place to wander so you don't need to fear getting lost here and you can spend many happy hours exploring. Expect to find a fair amount of restoration work going on which can sometimes be a bit off putting as all the old buildings are given a much needed facelift. Central Palma serves as a great place to play hide and seek, with countless narrow alleyways to meander along and a plethora of surprises to be found at the other end. It's not unusual to find a wonderful atmospheric square or maybe a further market at the end of each corridor. If you appreciate shopping, Palma will offer you plenty of distractions from your sightseeing agenda. Shops selling local ware such as olive wood, pottery, shoes and wine always tend to be popular with visitors.

An all year round tourist market is steadily increasing in Palma and, the local Tourist Board is attempting to promote Palma as an equal to its European counterparts. Why be constrained to taking city breaks in wet and freezing Paris, Dublin, London or Amsterdam when you might be enjoying the stirring warmth of Palma's Mediterranean climate!

The Romans put Palma on the map hundreds of years ago. Palmeria (as it was known) served its purpose as a useful gateway port to African destinations and continues to do so today welcoming millions of holidaying visitors not only through its sea port but through its busy airport.

Head over to the port for some of Palma's more popular attractions. Be prepared to be stunned by attractions like the circular fourteenth century Castle of Bellver (formerly a prison and now a concert venue), the Almudaina Royal Palace (the residency of the royal family during the Middle Ages) and the Stock Exchange. However, the thirteenth century Gothic Cathedral is Palma's jewel in the crown'. Near to the harbour and dominating the cityscape, this amazing piece of architectural engineering was constructed on the land where once stood the city's main mosque. After a stirring look around the cathedral we suggest a quiet break in the artistic Parc de la Mar which sits on the front. The heart of Palma spreads away from the cathedral via narrow atmospheric streets and cobbled alleyways.

The stunningly well preserved Arab Baths were built in the tenth century during the days of the Moorish occupation. Watch out for them for they are well concealed within the tiny streets that spread out from the cathedral.

Not too distant from all the activity of city life, exists the perfect beach holiday! Playa de Palma offers wonderful beaches, with lots to enjoy and keep you interested all within a stone's throw of the varied offerings of lively Palma.

Finally, a mention of the eating opportunities upon the picturesque harbourside. Very popular in the evenings, the marina here is where it all happens. If looking for a buzzing ambience, a laugh with friends and a beautiful fish supper, this is the perfect spot!