World Of Wanderlust

Sun-soaked beaches, rich history, and charming architecture blend beautifully in Palma, the vibrant capital of Mallorca, Spain. With its unique allure, Palma is hard to resist when you’re visiting Mallorca. Picture yourself meandering through ancient alleyways, lounging on pristine beaches, and indulging in delicious tapas. Whether you’re a beach aficionado or a nightlife enthusiast, Palma offers something for everyone. Let’s explore the top activities in Palma, where every turn brings a new delight.

### Things to Do in Palma de Mallorca – Overview:

1. **Visit La Seu Cathedral**:
Located in the heart of Palma, La Seu Cathedral is a stunning landmark with its impressive Gothic facade, intricate carvings, and large pillars. Dating back to the 13th century, this architectural marvel from the medieval Kingdom of Aragon is both visually striking outside and breathtaking inside. The vast chamber inside is filled with intricate pillars, beautiful chandeliers, and colorful stained glass windows. Don’t miss this must-see attraction, with an entrance fee of €9, open Monday to Saturday.

2. **Explore the Royal Palace of La Almudaina**:
Feel like royalty as you wander the Royal Palace of Almudaina, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family since the 14th century. The palace’s Moorish-styled facade and Gothic towers look stunning against Palma’s waterfront. Inside, you’ll find a mix of Moorish, Gothic, and Northern European styles, with beautiful gardens, Renaissance paintings, and sophisticated chambers.

3. **Visit Castell de Bellver**:
Delve deeper into Palma’s history with a visit to Castell de Bellver, built in the 14th century. Unique with its circular design, this castle now hosts the History Museum, showcasing the lives of Mallorca’s medieval kings and the castle’s past as a military prison. Explore its sturdy defense walls and the chapel dedicated to Saint Alphonsus Rodriguez.

4. **Discover the Arab Baths**:
Experience a piece of Palma’s multicultural history at the Arab Baths, a relic from the 11th-century Muslim occupation of Mallorca. The dark, stone-filled chambers with elegant arches and ancient pottery give a mysterious, Indiana Jones-like vibe. Located in Palma Old Town, the baths are a popular spot for travelers keen on capturing its photogenic scenes.

5. **Wander Around Palma Old Town**:
Take a step back in time by exploring Palma Old Town, filled with earthy-hued buildings, cobblestone streets, historical arches, and ancient churches. This area beautifully illustrates Palma’s cultural diversity, with European-styled houses alongside Moorish structures. It’s a perfect spot for history buffs and casual explorers alike. Relax at a café in Plaza del Mercat or soak up the evening charm at Placa Major.

6. **Stroll Through Santa Catalina**:
End your day with cocktails in the lively Santa Catalina neighborhood. Known for its buzzing bars, bustling restaurants, and chic boutiques, this area blends modern vibrancy with its historic facade of old boat houses and flower-adorned buildings. Santa Catalina is the place to be for a true taste of Palma’s nightlife and culinary delights.

7. **Admire Art at Es Baluard Museum**:
Discover Mallorca’s artistic heritage at Es Baluard Museum. The museum houses around 800 art pieces, including works by Joan Miro and Pablo Picasso. With its Moorish-style architecture, the museum also serves as a venue for emerging local artists and frequently hosts temporary exhibitions.

8. **Savor Flavors at San Juan Mercado Gastronomico**:
Delight your taste buds at San Juan Mercado Gastronomico, an indoor market featuring a variety of food stalls offering everything from traditional Spanish tapas to Japanese fusion dishes. Known for its fresh seafood, this market is a paradise for food lovers and a favorite among locals and tourists.

9. **Relax on the Beaches**:
A sunny day in Palma is best enjoyed on its beautiful beaches. The City Beach, close to the city center, is popular for its golden sands and clear waters, peppered with beach clubs and eateries. For tranquility, visit Playa de Mago, a hidden cove, or Cala Major, a serene resort beach.

10. **Experience Nightlife**:
Palma’s nightlife is vibrant, with clubs and bars that keep the party spirit alive. La Lonja neighborhood stands out with its mix of jazz clubs and techno nightclubs. Another hotspot is the Social Club in Paleo Maritimo, known for its sophisticated atmosphere.

11. **Enjoy Seafood at Seafront Restaurants**:
Seafood in Mallorca is a treat, best enjoyed with a view of the Mediterranean Sea. Head to Paseo Maritimo, a sea-side promenade lined with seafood restaurants and cafes. Don’t miss the local fish market for fresh catches at reasonable prices.

12. **Check Out Gordiola Glass**:
For a unique souvenir, visit Gordiola Glass Factory, renowned for nearly 300 years of Venetian glassmaking tradition. Here, you can see a variety of artistic glassware and even watch the glass-blowing process.

13. **Take a Boat Excursion**:
Enjoy the Mediterranean by setting sail on a boat excursion. Whether it’s on a sailboat or a catamaran, there’s nothing like spending a few hours on the open sea, soaking in the sun, enjoying music, and possibly catching a stunning Mediterranean sunset.

Palma de Mallorca is a city of countless wonders, where every experience is memorable and every corner has a story to tell. Enjoy your adventure!