Are you looking for the best way to explore Palma de Mallorca in just one day from a cruise ship? You’ve come to the right place!
Palma, the capital of Mallorca, is a stunning Mediterranean city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. Although time is limited during a cruise stop, you can still pack in plenty of amazing sights and experiences with a well-planned itinerary. Let’s dive in and make the most of your day in Palma!
FAQ: About the Palma Cruise Port
Can you walk into Palma de Mallorca from the cruise ship?
Yes, but it depends on your fitness level and the terminal your ship docks at. The main cruise port in Palma is about 3-4 kilometers (1.9-2.5 miles) from the city center. While the walk along the waterfront is scenic, it can take 30-45 minutes.
How to get to the city center from Palma’s cruise port?
There are a few convenient options to reach Palma’s city center from the cruise port:
Taxi: A short 10-minute ride will take you directly to central attractions like the Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma (La Seu). Local taxis can be found at the cruise terminal. There is also Uber on the island.
Shuttle Bus: Many cruise lines offer shuttle services to central Palma, often dropping passengers near La Seu or Plaça d’Espanya.
Public Transport: Local buses (EMT), such as Line 1, connect the port to the city center at an affordable cost.
Is one day enough to see Palma de Mallorca?
While one day isn’t enough to fully explore everything Palma has to offer, you can still see many highlights. Focus on must-visit sites like La Seu Cathedral, the Almudaina Palace, and Bellver Castle. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Old Town, and if time permits, head to a nearby beach or explore a local market.
What to Do in Palma de Mallorca in One Day from a Cruise Ship: Overview
When Palma is a stop on your cruise, you have multiple ways to spend your time based on your interests, the weather, and how much walking you’re comfortable with.
Here are some great options to explore Palma in a day:
Self-Guided Walking Tour (free!)
Guided Tours of the City and Cathedral (around €50-€80)
Excursion to Valldemossa and Deià (around €150)
Beach Day at Cala Major (accessible by taxi or bus)
Bike Tours or Segway Tours (starting at €30)
Boat tour with departure right next to the main cruise and ferry terminal. More info here.
This guide will focus on a self-guided walking tour, which is budget-friendly and hits the major highlights of Palma.
1-Day Walking Tour in Palma de Mallorca
Walking Time: Approximately 2–3 hours (without stops)
Distance: About 5 kilometers (3 miles)
Start/End Point: La Seu Cathedral (Palma Cathedral)
Here’s an overview of the itinerary:
Start at La Seu Cathedral
Explore the Royal Palace of La Almudaina
Stroll through the Old Town
Visit Plaza Mayor
Lunch at a Local Tapas Bar
Check Out Es Baluard Museum and Paseo Marítimo
Relax at Palma Beach or Paseo del Born
La Seu Cathedral
Start your day at La Seu Cathedral, the crown jewel of Palma. This stunning Gothic cathedral overlooks the sea and offers breathtaking architecture, including its impressive rose window and intricate detailing.
Tip: Purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance to save time. Admission costs about €9, and it opens at 10:00 AM.
Don’t miss the views of the bay from the cathedral terrace!
Royal Palace of La Almudaina
Adjacent to the cathedral is the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, a historic Moorish fortress turned royal residence. It offers a fascinating mix of Islamic and Gothic architecture.
Admission: €7 (discounted rates for EU citizens).
The peaceful courtyard is perfect for a quick photo stop.
Old Town and Plaza Mayor
From the palace, wander through Palma’s Old Town, a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with boutique shops, cafés, and historic buildings. Make your way to Plaza Mayor, a lively square surrounded by restaurants and street performers.
Look out for the Can Forteza Rey, a stunning Modernist building with intricate mosaic details, reminiscent of Gaudí’s style.
Lunch at a Local Tapas Bar
Stop for lunch at one of Palma’s many tapas bars. Some local favorites include:
Bar España: Known for its authentic tapas and cozy vibe.
Quina Creu: A stylish restaurant offering creative takes on Mallorcan dishes.
Order classic tapas like patatas bravas, croquetas, and fresh ensaimadas for dessert!
Es Baluard Museum and Paseo Marítimo
After lunch, head to Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Located in a former fortress, the museum offers fantastic views of Palma’s harbor.
Admission: €6
Even if you skip the museum, take a walk along the Paseo Marítimo, a vibrant promenade lined with palm trees, luxury yachts, and outdoor cafés.
Palma Beach or Paseo del Born
If time permits, relax at Palma Beach, just a short taxi or bus ride away. This sandy stretch is perfect for a quick dip or a stroll by the water. Alternatively, explore the chic Paseo del Born, a tree-lined avenue filled with high-end shops and stylish cafés.
Tip: Grab a gelato from Rivareno Gelato or sip a coffee at Cappuccino Grand Café.
Heading Back to the Cruise Port
End your day by returning to the port via taxi or shuttle. If you walked to the city earlier, enjoy the waterfront views on your way back.
Conclusion: One Day in Palma de Mallorca
Palma de Mallorca is a delightful blend of history, culture, and seaside beauty. From the grandeur of La Seu Cathedral to the charm of the Old Town and the relaxed vibe of the waterfront, this city has something for everyone. Whether you’re savoring tapas, admiring Gothic architecture, or strolling along the beach, Palma is sure to leave a lasting impression.
I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your cruise day in Palma. Buen viaje!