Palma de Mallorca Travel Guide

Palma de Mallorca Travel & Tourism Information

Palma de Mallorca, or simply Palma, is the capital and largest city of the autonomous community of the Balearic Islands in Spain. It is situated on the south coast of Mallorca on the Bay of Palma. The Cabrera Archipelago, though separated from Palma proper, is administratively considered part of the municipality. As of 2018, Palma de Mallorca Airport serves over 29 million passengers.

Palma was founded as a Roman camp upon the remains of a Talaiotic settlement. The Moors conquered the city in the 9th century. In 1229, King James I of Aragon conquered the island of Mallorca, and the city was subjected to the Crown of Aragon. After the dynastic union of the Crowns of Castile and Aragon in 1469, Palma became the capital of the unified Kingdom of Spain and the seat of the Spanish Monarch.

The city is the see of the Diocese of Mallorca and the co-cathedral of the Diocese of Majorca. Palma is also home to the University of the Balearic Islands.

Tourism is a major industry in Palma. The city is visited by over 8 million tourists each year, most of whom are from Germany, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Scandinavia. Palma is also a popular destination for cruise ships, which dock in its port. The city is well known for its nightlife, vibrant music, and clubbing scene.

The old town of Palma is an attraction in itself. The maze of streets, lined with cafes, bars, and shops, is a joy to wander. The Cathedral, La Seu, is one of the most iconic buildings in Palma and worth a visit. The Arab Baths, located in the old town, are also a popular tourist attraction.

The Museu d'Història de la Ciutat (Museum of City History) is worth a visit for those interested in history. The museum is located in an old palace in the center of Palma and covers the city's history from its Roman origins to the present day.

For those who want to enjoy the outdoors, Palma has a lot to offer. There are numerous parks and gardens and cycle paths, and walking routes. The beaches of Palma are some of the best in Mallorca, and the nearby Tramuntana mountains offer stunning scenery and great hiking opportunities.

In summary, Palma is a must-visit city for anyone traveling to Mallorca. With its rich history, vibrant nightlife, and abundance of things to see and do, Palma has something for everyone.