The Spanish island of Mallorca offers towering mountains and dramatic cliffs rising over clear, blue water — but its hidden gem is Palma de Mallorca, the island’s capital and largest city, where you’ll find quaint historic streets, Gothic castles and gastronomic delights. Cruise to Palma de Mallorca and check out one-of-a-kind Palma Cathedral.
CASTLES AND CATHEDRALS
Palma de Mallorca’s historic places look like something out of “Game of Thrones.” Whether you traipse through the courtyard of 14th-century Bellver Castle or say your prayers inside Gothic Palma Cathedral, Palma de Mallorca can transport you back to medieval times.
INSIDER TIP
If you’re more interested in ocean time than historic sites, book a boat tour to see the coastline of Mallorca from the sunlit waves.
SHOPPING
Palma’s premier shopping is to be had in the Passeig de Born neighborhood. Shop here for upscale brands like Mulberry and Zara. Then, head to Jaume III and Sant Miquel streets for boutiques specializing in fine local goods:
GET YOUR BEACH ON
It’s no surprise that Palma de Mallorca is home to some of the world’s best beaches — what’s astonishing is just how clear blue the water is at Cala Llombards, or how the warm, golden sands of Playa El Arenal will make you wish you never had to leave.
LOCAL CUISINE
Mallorca is technically part of Spain, but Palma de Mallorca’s cuisine is a world unto itself. Savor tombet, a vegetarian stew with sweet potatoes and carrots that’s Mallorca’s take on ratatouille. Cruise to Palma de Mallorca to sample the eclectic coca mallorquina, a kind of crunchy flatbread pizza with an olive oil-rich crust topped with roasted red peppers.
