Palma Cruise Port Guide: What to Do During a Cruise Stop in Palma

Top Things to Do During a Cruise Stop in Palma

If your cruise ship stops in Palma for a few hours, you might be wondering what places are really worth visiting.

The good news is that Palma is a very easy city to explore in a short time. Many of its most famous landmarks are located close to the cruise port, especially around the historic centre and the waterfront.

Even with a short stop, you can easily visit the Cathedral, the Royal Palace of Almudaina and some of the most beautiful streets of the Old Town.

On the other hand, Mallorca is one of the four Balearic islands that is included in many cruises stops through the Mediterranean Sea. During your stop in Mallorca, there are lots of things to do and places to visit and some of them are a “must”. Now, we explain to you what to do and what to see in Mallorca during your cruise stop. 

Visit Palma Old Town and the Cathedral.

A visit to Palma’s historic centre is the best way to start your stop in the city. The Old Town is compact, full of history and very pleasant to explore on foot.

One of the first places you will notice when arriving in Palma is the impressive Cathedral of Mallorca, also known as The Cathedral of the sea.

In Palma de Mallorca you will find the main and the most important monuments, such as the Cathedral. La Seu, as it is known here, is one of the biggest religious buildings of Spain. This masterpiece was built in a Gothic style near the walls of Palma. It has 3 aisles, in the main one (the central one and the tallest one) is located the Trinity Chapel. The Holy Sacrament chapel, its stained glass windows and its huge fresco are worth it.

From the nearby Parc de la Mar you can enjoy one of the most famous views of the cathedral with the sea in the background.

Just in front it is located the Almudaina Palace, known as the Royal Palace. It is a monument where Muslim and gothic style combines perfectly. Visiting the palace helps you to understand the history of the Balearic Islands from prehistory time up to nowadays. During your visit, you can contemplate the King’s patio, the throne room, the Saint James chapel, an Arab bath, Saint Anne Chapel and the Queen’s patio.

The Royal Palace of Almudaina reflects the long history of Mallorca, from the Muslim period to the Christian kingdom

Visit Bellver Castle

Another interesting place to visit in Palma is Bellver Castle, located on a hill just a few minutes from the city centre.

It is formed by the main tower or Torre Major and 3 smaller towers. It is a round shape gothic castle. From the castle the views are stunning, you can contemplate Palma de Mallorca and its bay. From the top you can enjoy one of the best panoramic views of Palma, the harbour and the bay.

Moreover, walking through the streets and alleys of Palma de Mallorca discovers small and picturesque squares such as the Plaza Mayor (the main square). It is located in the centre of Palma and the main cobblestone streets end there. This square is a nice place for the craft markets, musicians, street artists and more. Another beautiful square is Plaza de Cort (the City Hall square) where is located one of the most stunning buildings of Palma: the City Hall. In the centre of that square, you will find a huge olive tree moved there in 1989.

 Best Excursions from Palma for Cruise Passengers

If your cruise stop in Palma is long enough, you may also consider visiting places outside the city. Mallorca offers beautiful villages, beaches and natural landscapes located a short distance from Palma.

One of the most popular excursions from Palma is the village of Valldemossa, located in the Tramuntana mountains. Valldemossa stands out for the Carthusian Monastery, La Cartuja, and because famous personalities have stayed here for instance: Frederic Chopin and George Sand, Catherine Zeta-Joneses and Michael Douglas, kings and queens and much more!

From Palma it is also easy to reach other beautiful places in the southwest of the island. The area of Calvià offers several coastal towns and beaches that are popular with visitors.

If you prefer to spend some time by the sea during your cruise stop, Santa Ponsa is a good option. It is located about 20 km from Palma and is known for its wide sandy beach and relaxed atmosphere.

Nearby you will also find the Palmanova bay, a pleasant area where visitors can enjoy the beach, restaurants and water activities.

Another place could be Peguera, one of the most beautiful coastline villages. Its golden sand beaches surrounded by Mediterranean plants and trees are worth it. The beaches stand out for their wild and quite isolated features.

Visit the Caves of Drach

Another famous excursion in Mallorca is the Caves of Drach, located near Porto Cristo on the east coast of the island.

The Caves of Drach have 4 rooms placed in 25 m depth and more than 2,5 km long. Therefore inside the caves, you can contemplate some underground lakes, the biggest one is Martel lake (115 meters long and 30 meters wide).

FAQs About Cruise Stops in Palma de Mallorca

Explore Palma with a Free Walking Tour

If you only have a few hours in Palma during your cruise stop, joining a walking tour of the Old Town is one of the best ways to discover the city.

Local guides explain the history behind the Cathedral, the Royal Palace of Almudaina and the hidden streets of Palma’s historic centre.

It is a perfect option for cruise passengers who want to see the main highlights of Palma in a short time.

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