Palma is one of the most popular destinations in Europe for a city break, and it's not difficult to see why. The Mallorcan capital has much to offer, including a superb waterfront setting, historic city centre, excellent shopping, a variety of bars and restaurants, and a number of impressive tourist attractions. Most visitors to Mallorca never set foot in Palma, preferring instead to head straight for the resorts and thereby missing the charms of this lovely city.
Dominating Palma's waterfront is the majestic Gothic cathedral of La Seu. The construction of this huge landmark was begun in 1306 and it wasn't completed for around 300 years. Its interior was remodeled by the Barcelona-born architect Antoni Gaudi in the early 20th century. Note the altar canopy made from wood and cardboard - this was only supposed to be temporary but Gaudi didn't get around to making the proper one. Next to the cathedral is another fine building, the Palua Reial de l'Almudaina. There has been a palace on this site since the 10th century, although the present structure was built during the 13th and 14th centuries after the Moors had been driven out of Mallorca.
To the west of La Seu is the district of Sa Llotja, which takes its name from the 15th century stock exchange which is located in the area. This district of narrow streets and small squares is home to many character full bars and restaurants. One of the most popular bars is La Lonja which has revolving doors, tiled floors and wooden paneling. La Lonja attracts a good mix of tourists and locals and is an excellent spot for an evening glass of wine.
There are some superb views of Palma Bay from the Passeig Maritim which runs alongside the eastern section of the waterfront. This promenade is also a popular night-life spot where the pick of the city's nightclubs are located. A variety of vessels are usually moored in the port overlooking the Passeig Maritim, from large cruise ships to small fishing boats. To the east of the city centre is the trendy marina of Portitxol which still manages to retain its village-like feel. Portitxol is lined with old fishermen’s cottages, cafes and seafood restaurants, making this marina a popular lunchtime spot.
Looking down on Palma from the western edge of the city is the circular-shaped Bellver Castle. Built during the 14th century by King Jaume II, this unusual castle has been used as a royal residence, prison and now houses the City History Museum. A 17th century mansion houses the Museu de Mallorca, which displays an extensive collection of artifacts tracing the island's history. These include prehistoric skeletons, Roman and Moorish relics, and religious paintings from the Middle Ages. Another important museum in Palma is the Museu d'Art Espanyol Contemporani which houses a collection of modern artworks by the likes of Dali, Miro, Picasso and Matisse.
Son Sant Joan airport is located 5 miles (8 km) east of the city. There is regular bus service (every 15 minutes) from the airport to Placa Espanya and Passeig Maritim in the Palma city centre.
Yorkshire Dales Tourist Information
Salou is a family holiday resort situated on the Costa Dorada, around 50 miles (80km) south-west of Barcelona. The town's biggest draw is the main sandy beach, Playa Levante, which is clean and well-maintained. It also boasts calm and shallow water making it ideal for children. Playa Levante has excellent facilities including lifeguards, snack bars, sun beds and a first aid post. Salou has several other good beaches, most notably Playa de Poniente which borders the neighbouring resort of Cambrils, and the pretty little Playa de Capellans which is overlooked by cliffs. If you are into waterspouts there are plenty of choices available at the marina, including scuba diving, water-skiing, windsurfing, jet-skiing and kayaking.
Alongside the beach runs a lovely seafront promenade, Passeig Jaume I, which is lined with landscaped gardens, palm trees and flower beds. At one end of the promenade is the Font Lluminosa, designed by Carles Buida. This beautiful fountain is best viewed at night-time when it becomes the subject of a spectacular light and water show. Halfway along the seafront is the Jaume I monument, built in 1965, which celebrates this famous Catalan king who set sail from Salou in 1229 on his voyage to recapture Mallorca from the Moors.
Another of Salou's important landmarks is the 16th century watchtower of Torre Vella, which was built to help protect this stretch of coastline from attacks by pirates. It now houses a municipal museum and regular art exhibitions, while the tower's gardens contain Adoma Puig's sculpture of the three maidens. For an insight into the area's rural heritage, the Masia Catalana is worth visiting. This is in fact a modern reproduction of a typical Catalan farmhouse, but one that was built using traditional methods. Inside are exhibits which trace the evolution of farming methods through the centuries.
Other notable attractions in Salou include the Old Customs House and Harbour master's Office, both impressive early 19th century buildings which have played an important role in the town's maritime history. The church of Santa Maria del Mar also has links with the sea, having been built in 1766 for use by sailors. Inside the church are Josep Grau Garriga's contemporary-style baptistery decorations which were painted in 1964.
For younger visitors the nearby Port Aventura, regarded by many as one of the best theme parks in Europe, is a must-visit. There is plenty here to keep thrill-seekers happy, including the Dragon Khan rollercoaster and Grand Canyon Rapids, as well as more gentle rides for small children. The park is based on the theme of five worlds: Mexico, Far West, Mediterranean, Polynesia and China. Adjoining Port Aventura is the Costa Caribe water park. There is also a small funfair at the end of Passeig Jaume I with traditional rides such as the big wheel.
The nearest airport to Salou is at Reus, around 9 miles (6km) away. Salou has a train station, with regular services to Barcelona and Valencia. There are frequent bus services from Salou to neighbouring Cambrils and Tarragona, with an infrequent service to Reus Airport.
Gary Marshall has sinced written about articles on various topics from Jamaica Vacations, Travel and Leisure and Property Guide. For more advice and tourist information about Palma, Mallorca please see . Gary Marshall's top article generates over 550000 views. to your Favourites.
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