There is more to Mallorca than its sun-drenched beaches! Capital of Mallorca and the Balearic Islands, Palma is situated to the south of the Bay of Palma. This charming Catalan city has a wide range of attractions to tempt the serious tourist but still continues to attract less visitors than the attractions of S’Arenal and Magaluf.

Everything in the Old Town can happily be covered on foot. There is no better way to appreciate the delights of a city than on foot with lots of peaceful squares and parks around to provide a break from all the sightseeing. Whatever resort you visit, a trip to Palma is generally laid on as a day excursion. You will appreciate a change of scenery from the beach and the chance to experience the Catalan charisma of Mallorca’s capital city.

Palma’s cosmopolitan cobbled streets are jammed with energetic Tapas bars, craft markets and tradesman’s workshops. Here you will find the true identity of Mallorca. Recently voted the best place to live in the whole of Spain, half the island’s population now live in Palma, contributing to the lively atmosphere of the Old Town. Palma is the entertainment hub of the island and the locals totally agree by enjoying it at every opportunity!

The heart of the city is pretty much centred the area within the shadows of the Cathedral. The city is a safe place to walk around so there's no chance of getting lost and you can explore to your heart’s content. Don't be surprised to find plenty of building restorations going on which can sometimes be a bit off putting as all the old buildings are given a long awaited facelift. The island’s capital city serves as a great place to play hide and seek, there are lots of narrow alleyways to wander along and a host of surprises to be found at the far end. Don’t be surprised to find a lively atmospheric square or maybe a further market at the end of each narrow passageway. If you like shopping, Palma will offer you one or two distractions from your tourist agenda. Shops selling local produce such as shoes, olive wood, pottery and wine always have an attraction with tourists.

An all year round tourist market is steadily increasing in Palma and, the local Tourist Board is trying to promote Palma as an equal to its European counterparts. Why restrict yourself to taking city breaks in icy cold Paris, London, Dublin or Amsterdam when you could be enjoying the winter warmth of Palma's Mediterranean climate!

Palma was settled by the Romans some 2,000 years ago. Palmeria (as it was known) served its purpose as a useful gateway port to African destinations and continues to be a magnet for visitors today welcoming millions of vacationing visitors not only through its sea port but through its busy airport.

Make your way over to the port for some of Palma’s more popular attractions. Be ready to be impressed by attractions like the Royal Palace of Almudaina (the residency of the royals during the Middle Ages), the circular 14th century Castle of Bellver (once a prison and now a venue for concerts) and the Stock Exchange. However, the thirteenth century Gothic Cathedral is Palma’s ‘jewel in the crown’. Close to the harbour and dominating the landscape, this amazing example of architectural engineering was built on the land that held Palma's main mosque. After a stirring look around the cathedral we suggest a relaxing break in the artistic Parc de la Mar which is on the waterfront. Palma stretches away from the cathedral via narrow atmospheric streets and cobbled alleyways.

The amazingly well preserved Arab Baths were built in the tenth century during the days of the Moorish occupation. Be careful for they are well concealed within the narrow streets that spread out from the cathedral.

Not too far from the hustle and bustle of city life, you can find the perfect beach holiday! Playa de Palma offers wonderful beaches, with lots to enjoy and keep you entertained all within a short distance from the cosmopolitan attractions of lively Palma.

Last but not least is a note of the dining opportunities upon the picturesque harbour side. Very popular in the evenings, the marina here is where it all happens. If searching for a lively ambiance, a few laughs and a wonderful fish supper, this is the perfect spot!

This article on the Palma, Mallorca was written by Terry Cod, a writer with great experience of the major European cities. He is the owner of http://www.instant-car-hire.co.uk/ offering car hire in Spain

Source: www.articlesbase.com