Virgin Voyages' guide to Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Feel the bliss only a secluded Balearic island can offer, biking through lovely villages or visiting a family-owned winery.
PALMA DE MALLORCA
The Palma de Mallorca mindset
Hidden coves, hilltop villages and limestone mountains make the island of Mallorca an irresistible stop in the Mediterranean. Palma de Mallorca (Palma for short) rose from instability — switching between Roman, Byzantine, and Moor rule — and blossomed into an oasis. Today, expats and entrepreneurs populate Palma, living la vida loca with the highest standard of living in Spain.
Palma’s winding streets lead you to Gothic churches and scenic squares. Its central cathedral, the Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma (nicknamed La Seu) is the must-see landmark. The main drag, Passeig del Born, gives way to side streets with shops and art galleries while the nearby ex-fisherman village Santa Catalina is the city’s foodie quarter with up-and-coming bars and cute cafes. To get a full 360-degree view of Palma, visit Bellver Castle, one of Europe’s only circular castles, or gaze out from one of the city’s many rooftop bars.
Tastes & Toasts of Mallorca
Passing through maritime masts, a labyrinth of grand mansions, and galleries filled with magnificent artwork, you’ll make your way to a charming inland empire that’s been producing wine since 1711. With vines for veins, 10 generations of the Ribas family have mastered the art of wine production and will share their knowledge with you on a journey from the soil to the glass. On the estate, a wine pairing will follow with a selection of appetizers and artisanal olive oil produced on the grounds.
Cathedrals & Mysterious Monastery
See Palma’s highlights before traveling across the island and into the Tramuntana mountains. You’ll drive past the city’s striking cathedral and the famous Almudaina Palace as your guide points out sights like the Paseo Born, the Gran Hotel, and the tree-lined Rambla. Visit the small town of Valldemossa and walk down its picturesque alleys to reach the Carthusian Monastery. There, you’ll enjoy an olive oil tasting before making a scenic stop at Bellver Castle on your way back to Palma.
A Sailboat in the Sunlight
Sail the azure waters of the Bay of Palma on a sailboat from the Club Nàutic S’Arenal. Like so many of the glittering yachts that flock to the Balearics, your boat will allow you to sightsee in style, then jump in for swimming and snorkeling. Recover from the sun and relax with an included lunch on board as you sail back into Palma.
The past is always present
The Porto Pí lighthouse was built in 1300 — the third oldest in the world.
Shore Excursions
Culture in Valldemossa
Visit the mountain town of Valldemossa to begin your journey, exploring the narrow streets and shops before touring La Cartuja. Next, you’ll stop at the Son Marroig residence for the panoramic view before finishing at the Belmond La Residencia resort.
DISCOVER MORE SHORE THINGSThe turquoise blue waters, green-clad shutters and orange-spotted trees reflect Mallorca’s vivid energy. It’s not the same wild energy as its Balearic neighbor Ibiza — it’s different. It’s an energy that breathes life back into your soul after hiking through mountains, strolling through historic streets and diving into the Mediterranean deep. Palma continues to grow and thrive as the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Mallorca and the modern capital of the Balearic Islands. After leaving Palma’s port, you’ll be dreaming up creative ways on how to make your way back to Mallorca.
