Port guide · Spain
The capital of Mallorca and the largest city in the Balearics. The terminals are on the west side of the bay, 4–6 km from the old town; the Gothic cathedral by the sea, the Almudaina Palace and the lanes of the centre fit into half a day, with time left to visit the round Bellver Castle.
Palma's cruise terminals are on the west side of the bay: large ships usually berth at the Dique del Oeste or by the Estación Marítima, 4–6 km from the old town and the cathedral. Walking along the seafront takes an hour, with great views but lots of sun; most people take a shuttle, bus or taxi.
Time: About 15 minApprox. price: Depends on the ship
Drops you at a fixed point in the centre, with set return times
Time: 10–15 minApprox. price: Metered fare
Taxi rank at the terminal exit; worth it for a group
Time: About 20 minApprox. price: Pay by bank card
Catch it near the terminal; it runs along the seafront into the centre: ask the driver for the cathedral stop
Each terminal has its own shuttle stop: follow the ship's and the terminal's announcements. Allow at least an hour to get back.
Route 1
Parc de la Mar
The cathedral reflected in the lake: the best photo
Palma Cathedral (La Seu)
A Gothic cathedral facing the sea, with interior work by Gaudí; paid entry
Royal Palace of La Almudaina
Next to the cathedral; paid entry
Lanes and Arab Baths
Stone streets with grand mansions and courtyards
Passeig del Born
The main boulevard, with shops and shady cafés
Route 2
A rare circular castle on the hill between the port and the centre, with views over the whole Bay of Palma. It's close to the terminal: about 10 minutes by taxi; paid entry.
Route 3
Valldemossa, with the charterhouse where Chopin stayed, lies in the Serra de Tramuntana, a World Heritage Site. It's about 30 minutes along winding roads: an organised tour is the easiest way.
Want it easy? Join an official MSC shore excursion, timed around the port call. If you booked your cruise with VIAJES FH, ask your advisor to add it for you.
Embarking in Palma? The airport is east of the city, about 15 km from the terminal.
Time: 20–25 minApprox. price: Metered fare
Easiest with luggage: it takes you to the terminal
Time: Approx. 1 hApprox. price: Pay by bank card on the bus
The A1 runs from the airport to the centre, where you change to line 1 to the port: awkward with luggage
Palma has several cruise terminals: show the driver the one on your boarding documents.
Your advisor can add shore excursions, drinks packages and onboard internet.
Contact an advisor
Transport and ticket prices are approximate, checked in November 2026, and may change. The latest all-aboard time is the one announced on board.
Cover photo: Jorge Franganillo / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0