Top monuments in Palma de Mallorca
A dazzling journey through historical gems
Planning on spending an ideal holiday in Palma de Mallorca, the capital city of the Balearic Islands? It’s no secret that this vibrant city offers tons of things to do and see. You will relax by the beach, drink cocktails and party until dawn….But there is also a side of you that won’t rest until you have learned everything about this new place.
The beautiful city of Palma is full of history and art that are waiting for you to jump in and explore them.
On Ferryhopper, we have made a list of the 5 most interesting monuments you can visit in Palma de Mallorca:
Lush palm trees in front of the La Seu Cathedral, in Palma de Mallorca
1. La Seu Cathedral
This is Palma de Mallorca’s major architectural landmark. The imposing golden sandstone building is located right in front of the sea, greeting visitors with its grandeur as they arrive in Palma by ferry.
When you enter the Cathedral you’ll understand why many call it the ‘Cathedral of Light.’ There are 61 stained-glass windows in La Seu, with the central one being the largest in Europe.
But La Seu's story is one of artistic evolution. In the early 20th century, the famed Catalan Modernist architect Antoni Gaudí and renowned contemporary artist Miquel Barceló added their unique touches, blending the original Renaissance style with neo-Gothic flourishes.
The true magic, however, awaits you above. Ascend the 280 steps (don't worry, it's worth it!) and gain access to the breathtaking cathedral roof terraces. Explore the bell tower, marvel at the intricate buttresses and walk the hallway nestled between the 2 main towers. The panoramic view of Palma will take your breath away.
Helpful info: planning your trip to Mallorca and looking for the best way to travel to the island? Check out our complete guide on the ferry ride from Barcelona to Mallorca.
Street view of the Cathedral, in Palma de Mallorca
2. Almudaina Palace
Located opposite the main facade of Palma´s Cathedral, the Almudaina Palace (Palau de l’Almudaina) is also a must-visit landmark. This 13th century royal palace, originally an Islamic fort, is the official residence of the King and Queen during their stays in Mallorca. It is mainly used, however, as the headquarters of the military.
What makes this palace stand out is the captivating blend of Gothic and Moorish architectural styles. It was converted into Gothic style under Jaume II but elements of Islamic architecture remain, such as the Moorish arches you can see from the seafront.
Step inside and be transported through time as you explore the magnificent royal apartments, adorned with tapestries, paintings and furniture whispering stories from different chapters of the palace's rich history.
Tip: we recommend visiting the Almudaina Palace late afternoon, when it’s less busy and the sun sets over the cathedral towers overhead.
Spanish flag and statue on the roof of the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, in Palma de Mallorca
3. Castell de Bellver
The Bellver castle, the only circular castle in Spain, is located on a hill on the west of the city, known as Puig de Sa Mesquida. Built in the 14th century, the castle was conceived above all as a residence of the Kings of Mallorca, but afterwards it became a military prison.
Bellver Castle is now home to the City History Museum, where you’ll find artifacts from Roman, Arab and Spanish periods to help give you a picture of the development of the city of Palma. Moreover, during summer, a variety of concerts are frequently held in the castle’s impressive courtyard.
You can reach Castell de Bellver by car or taxi, or though a public bus, but keep in mind that you’ll have to walk up the hill from the bus stop. You can also take a Palma City Sightseeing open top bus tour, which stops at the castle.
Tip: climb onto the roof of the Bellver castle and look out over the city and the bay for one of the most spectacular views in Palma (Bellver means 'lovely view' in Catalan, after all). From there, you can also check out the prisoners’ graffiti, etched into the stonework.
The Bellver castle, the only circular castle in Spain
4. Porto Pi Lighthouse
The Porto Pi lighthouse, located at the harbor of Palma, is the second oldest lighthouse in Spain and one of the oldest still in service in the world. It is undoubtedly one of the most emblematic symbols of the city.
In 1983, the lighthouse was declared a Historical - Artistic Monument. It has a height of 38 m and is 41 m above sea level. It also emits 2 flashes of light every 15 seconds. Inside the lighthouse someone can find one of the best collections of optical and maritime signaling instruments in Europe.
Appointments are essential in order to visit the Porto Pi Lighthouse.
The busy harbor of Palma de Mallorca, where the Porto Pi Lighthouse is located
5. Arab Baths
Immerse yourself in history at the captivating Arab Baths (Banys Arabs), dating back to the 10th-12th centuries. Located in the old town of Palma, just a stone's throw from the majestic Cathedral, the Arab bathhouse is virtually all that remains of Moorish architecture in Mallorca.
A tranquil courtyard which leads to the Arab Baths and is adorned with cactus, palm and orange trees, offers a peaceful prelude to your historical journey. As you enter the bathhouse, marvel at the intriguing columns, believed to be recycled from a Roman building. Then step into the small, vaulted chamber, with 25 round shafts and 12 sturdy pillars, and contemplate life in medieval Mallorca.
Open from Monday to Friday, the Arab Baths offer an affordable glimpse into the island's fascinating past for only €2.50. So, ditch the beach for an afternoon and embark on a captivating adventure through time!
The well-preserved horseshoe-arched and domed chamber, in Palma de Mallorca
Ready to learn all about Palma de Mallorca’s history? Choose your favorite museum, and book ferry tickets on Ferryhopper, without any hidden fees!
Tip: are you interested in visiting more islands in the Balearic archipelago after your visit to Mallorca? Check our complete guide to island hopping in the Balearic Islands.
