Palma Hotels Spain from Cheap Hotel Bookings.com

Mini guide to Palma

Around half of Majorca's population lives in the buzzing, vibrant capital of Palma. Bustling by day, lively by night, it combines all the elements of a modern, cosmopolitan city with its own brand of history, charm and sophisticated elegance. By day, you can explore the attractive old quarter, crammed with cobbled lanes, tree-lined boulevards, Gothic churches and designer boutiques. After dark, Palma's famous nightlife rivals that of other Spanish cities.

The odd mix of cobbled lanes and Gothic architecture surrounded by shops, bars and restaurants, along with tree-lined boulevards, provides for a delightful stroll around the old town. Some excellent attractions in this area include: the Gothic cathedral La Seo (dating from 1230); Palau de l'Almudaina (Muslim castle); Banyas Arabas (Arab baths); Bellvar Castle; and La Llotja, the historic market area.

For a further peek into the island's history, visit the Museu de Mallorca. Alternatively, walkers can find some wonderful nature trails along the beachfront; Deia-Soller is a famous ancient path along the west coast.

The most popular way to get around the island is by car as there are so many isolated coastal passes and winding cliff top drives to enjoy. Nearby Alcudia is an historic town where the remains of the Roman city of Polletia have been excavated; the amphitheatre and museum are exemplary.

Majorca's flora and fauna is rich and can be seen all around the island, and in areas within easy reach of the city. Attractive orange and lemon orchards grow around Sóller. The tree heather and wild flowers like hyacinths, violets and gladioli are also stunning. Reptiles, mountain goats, wild sheep, rabbits and toads are all residents of the island. Birds of prey, including ospreys, kestrels and the rare black vulture, inhabit the mountainous northwest.

The city has numerous architectural treasures, including: the 14th century Bellver Castle, unique due to its circular foundation; the Gothic cathedral; the ancient Llotja, or market area; the Archbishops' Palace; and the Monastery of St Francis. Palma also has beautiful old mansions and manor homes, built with the mercantile fortunes amassed by the landed gentry.

There are two train lines running from Playa de Espanya in Palma: one goes to Soller along the northwest coast - one of the recommended journeys on the island; the other heads inland to Inca. Palma's airport has direct flights to and from all major European and many international destinations.

Selection of hotels in this region:

Hotel Isla De Mallorca
Tryp Bosque
Tryp Bellver
AC Ciutat de Palma
Hesperia Ciutat de Mallorca
Horizonte Hotel
Hotel Son Caliu
Grupotel Valparaiso Palace
Hotel Mirador
Hotel Costa Azul
Hotel Araxa
Armadams Palace
Mimosa Park
Hotel Saratoga