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- Destinations
- Europe
- Spain
- Mallorca
- Palma de Mallorca
Palma de Mallorca
Palma, capital of the autonomous region of the Balearic Islands,
is a lively, cosmopolitan city in true Spanish tradition, its
centre forming a bustling montage of shopping centres, a maze of
narrow lanes and restored buildings surrounded by ruined ancient
city walls, and modern boulevards. Like mainland Spain, Mallorca
and Palma itself was under Moorish control between the ninth and
13th centuries until the re-conquest by Jaume I of Aragon.
The Moorish heritage is still evident, as are the remnants of
Palma's golden years when it rose to wealth and prominence in the
15th century as the main port of call between Europe and Africa.
Later the city, set on the beautiful bay Bahia de Palma, became the
favoured Royal retreat for Fernando and Isabel, which helped it to
become the popular Spanish beach holiday haunt and favourite
weekend city break destination of the rich and famous. Despite the
invasion of foreign tourists, Palma has kept its local flavour,
particularly in its old quarter lined by cafés and tapas bars.
Often the native dialect of Mallorquin is the only language heard
in the backstreets, a fine Palma de Mallorca trait.
Information & Facts
Activities
Palma de Mallorca key activities centre around its nightlife and
the town is well known for its foam parties, discos, bars and
nightclubs. The Aqualand theme park, a short drive away from the
city, is great fun for the whole family. There are several
excellent golf courses around town, as well as good hiking trails
in the rocky Majorcan hills.
Language
Spanish is the official language, but English is widely
understood in areas frequented by tourists. Catalan, Galician and
Basque are spoken in the relevant areas.
Money
Spain's official currency is the Euro (EUR). One Euro is divided
into 100 cents. Money can be exchanged at bureaux de change and
major hotels, but banks give the best rates. All major credit cards
and travellers cheques are widely accepted at most hotels,
restaurants, and shops. ATMs are widespread and are generally the
cheapest and most convenient method of obtaining money.
Negatives
The city itself does not have a main beach. When exploring be
sure to carry a map as the streets are not well signposted. Palma
is the largest town in the Balearics and a magnet for clubbers; it
is generally not suited for those wanting a quiet, family oriented
holiday.
Night Life
Some of Spain's biggest clubs are in Palma de Mallorca. Some of
the most popular Palma nightlife hotspots include Pacha Mallorca,
which is built into the Cliffside overlooking the marina. Nearby
Tito's also enjoys dramatic views over the yachts mooed below, and
don't miss a visit to the extravagantly decorated ABACA. There are
also several decent clubs lining the Carrer del Apuntadors.
Restaurants
The biggest concentration of restaurants is in the centre of
town at El Terreno, and around the Paseo Maritimo. For some of
Spain's best Basque food head to Koldo Royo.
Shopping
The best places for shopping in Palma de Mallorca are in the
atmospheric streets of the old town. The daily Mercat Artesanal is
a lively craft market worth visiting for local curios and holiday
souvenirs, while the Rastro flea market sprawls over the Villalonga
ring road. Those on a health kick should visit the colourful Santa
Catalina fruit and vegetable market, open every day on Placa
Navegacio. Local produce markets generally open early in the
morning and close around mid-day: bargaining is expected.
Time
Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 between the last Sunday in March
and the Saturday before the last Sunday in October). The Canary
Islands: GMT (GMT +1 in summer).