Choose from 459 Fun Things to Do in Spain
ShowingFilter 241-260 of 459 listings.
Palma La Seu Cathedral
After King James I (Jaume 1) conquered the Balearic Islands in 1229, he began the conversion of a Moorish-era mosque in present-day Palma de Mallorca (Majorca) into a grand Catalan Gothic-style cathedral overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The golden sandstone façade, the city’s most notable landmark, took more than 400 years to complete.
The Basics
Towering Palma La Seu Cathedral looms large over the Mallorca seafront, built as a demonstration of the might of the Christian god for all arriving by sea. As the most prominent building in the island’s capital city of La Palma, it’s impossible to miss. Just about every city tour stops at the amazing structure and it’s also a stop on the Mallorca hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. While impressive enough by day, the building is at its most stunning at night when the stained-glass windows are illuminated from within and floodlights shine on the sandstone façade; see it on a night walking tour of the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Palma cathedral is a must-see for all first-time visitors.
- If you plan to visit the cathedral terrace and bell tower, be sure to reserve your tour ahead of time.
- Choose between a basic Palma Cathedral entrance ticket or a private or small-group tour that includes entrance to the cathedral.
- The cathedral is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The cathedral is located near Parc de la Mar in an area serviced by public transportation, with several buses stopping within easy walking distance. It’s also possible to get to the cathedral by riding the double-decker sightseeing bus.
When to Get There
The cathedral is open for cultural visits daily except on certain public and religious holidays. Check the cathedral event calendar when you arrive, as it sometimes hosts free organ concerts in the evenings.
Antoni Gaudi and the Palma Cathedral
If you thought all of Gaudi’s works are in Barcelona, think again. The famous Catalan Modernist architect made some changes to the cathedral early in the 20th century, including the addition of a giant (and unfinished) crown-of-thorns canopy made from cork and cardboard hanging over the altar. Gaudíi also designed the wrought-iron candelabra ringing the cathedral’s columns.
Address: Plaça Almoïna, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Admission: Donations recommended
From $ 14
Parc de Montjuic
Overlooking southwest Barcelona, Parc de Montjuic is the city’s green hilltop getaway, packed with history and attractions, including the historic Jewish Cemetery, 17th-century Montjuic fortress, National Museum of Catalonian Art, Joan Miró Foundation, and the replica Spanish village known as Poble Espanyol.
The Basics
Offering an abundance of notable attractions, Parc de Montjuic is featured on many sightseeing tours of Barcelona. Guided tours focusing on Montjuic Mountain often include admission to the Montjuic Castle and Palau Sant Jordi, plus visits to the 1992 Olympic facilities and Plaça Espanya with its Magic Fountain. Guests visiting the park independently should note that while the park itself is free, many of its attractions charge a separate admission fee.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Parc de Montjuic is a must-visit for art lovers, architecture and history buffs, and photographers.
- Wear comfortable shoes and plan to do a lot of walking; the park is huge.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
How to Get There
To get to Montjuic, take the funicular to the Parc de Montjuic stop, where you can then catch the cable car gondola even farther up the hill to the castle. A hop-on hop-off bus tour is also another good option for getting around this part of town, allowing you to stop at the different attractions that interest you.
When to Get There
You could easily spend an entire day (or more) exploring Parc de Montjuic and still not see everything. Many of the museums and attractions are open during the day, while the most popular time to see the Magic Fountain at the base of Montjuic is at night during a light and sound show.
A Hill with History
Parc de Montjuic has been the site of several important chapters in Barcelona’s history. In 1929, the International Exposition triggered rapid development in and around Montjuic. During the Spanish Civil War, Montjuic Castle was used to imprison, torture, and execute political opponents of General Franco. Things took a brighter turn in 1992, when the Olympic Games came to Barcelona and the hill was chosen as the location for several sporting venues.
Address: Barcelona, Spain
From $ 12
Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya
Plaça de Sant Jaume’s Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya is much more than just a building with a pretty neoclassical façade: this is the seat of the Catalan government, from where 100 presidents have governed. Constructed between the 15th and 17th centuries, the building is a symbol of Catalan perseverance, having stood the test of time through many historic challenges.
It’s not just special because of its history, either. Apart from the attractive dome-topped exterior, its interior is perhaps even more impressive. It features a Gothic chapel, elaborate ceremonial halls, loads of paintings and sculptures, and a sunlight-filled Courtyard of Orange Trees, or Pati dels Tarongers — among other Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance elements.
Practical Info
While the interior is considered by many to be the highlight of the Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya, it is only open to the public the second and fourth weekends of the month (except in August). It is only visit-able via prescheduled guided tour (which lasts roughly an hour), so be sure to book online in advance via the Generalitat’s website.
Address: Plaça de Sant Jaume, 4, Barcelona, Catalonia 08002, Spain
From $ 68
Palmeral de las Sorpresas
Lined with palm trees and with Malaga’s port as its backdrop, the Palmeral de las Sorpresas is a traditional Spanish public square with an especially modern design. Its fountains, chairs, and a playground create a recreational feel, and there’s a promenade along the waterfront that’s great for leisurely walks.
Its covered walkways have some of the most unique architecture in Spain (and that’s saying something!) They were designed to play with light and shadows in a way that changes depending on the time of day it’s visited. The Paseo de Pergolas leads down to the ships docked at the port (one of the oldest in the world,) shading from the often bright sun above.
Benches and quiet corners are intermingled with activity and play. You’ll find historical and modern design side-by-side. Surrounded by gardens with a tropical feel, it’s a beautiful public space that’s meant to be shared and enjoyed in peace.
Practical Info
From the Malaga port, it takes about twenty minutes to reach the city center via the Palmeral de las Sorpresas walkways. Open all hours of the day, small cafes and restaurants can be spotted throughout. Otherwise, there are plenty of free public spaces to stop and enjoy the surroundings.
Address: Muelle 2, Malaga, Andalucia 29015, Spain
Hours: 24/7
From $ 23
Pals
Surrounded by walls and marked with winding cobblestone streets, medieval Pals still has many of its aged stone arches, walkways, and balconies. A Romanesque tower dates back to the 11th century, while the Mirador del Pedró provides a lookout over the sea and surrounding Catalonian landscape dotted with citrus groves and rice fields.
The Basics
The historical village of Pals ranks among the most picturesque destinations on Spain’s Costa Brava. Many travelers visit the town on a day trip from Barcelona, with itineraries that often include Girona, Peratallada, and the fishing village of Calella de Palafrugell. Tours of the village nearly always include a visit to the Torre de las Hores (Tower of Hours) clock tower, as well as insight into the area’s medieval history.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Pals is a must-see for history buffs, couples, and travelers looking for a break from Barcelona.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you plan to visit the beach.
How to Get There
Because the nearest train station to Pals is in Girona, the easiest way to get to Pals from Barcelona is either to take a train to Girona and a bus to Pals or to take a bus directly from Barcelona to Pals. Another option is to rent a car and make the 90-minute drive yourself.
When to Get There
For warm beach-worthy weather without the summer crowds, head to Pals during the spring or autumn shoulder seasons. Plan to visit during the annual rice sowing or rice harvest festivals for a deeper cultural experience.
A Day at the Beach
Though Pals is not on the coast, it is close to one of the best beaches on the Costa Brava. During the summer months, head down to Platja Gran de Pals, a crescent-shaped stretch of sand lined with pine trees, to cool off in the waters of the Mediterranean.
Address: Pals, Costa Brava, Spain
From $ 208
Onyar River
The Onyar River will likely be your first and most lasting impression of Girona, its rainbow-colored-building-lined waters a warm welcome and unforgettable sight. Their dazzling appearance invites you to journey to the other side of the bank — the eastern side — where you’ll discover more of the city’s treasures, held within its old town.
But before you get there, you’ll likely cross one of the Onyar’s many bridges. Your eye will undoubtedly be drawn to its most peculiar and perhaps even familiar bridge, the Pont Eiffel. Indeed, this red, cage-like crossing is reminiscent of a more famous structure of the same name, the Eiffel Tower. This is, of course, because they share the same designer (the bridge was constructed in 1877, just before the tower). Once you arrive on the eastern bank, feed your river curiosity by visiting Casa Maso, the only waterside building open to the public, and once home to its namesake architect.
Practical Info
Note that if you enter the old town by crossing Plaça de Catalunya, you may walk over the Onyar without even realizing it, as the plaza literally sits atop the river. If you come this way, take advantage of your location to head to the nearby entrance to the Passeig de la Muralla – a walk on the old city walls – which is indicated by signs.
Address: Girona, Catalonia, Spain
From $ 162
Palacio De Cristal
Inspired by London’s iconic Crystal Palace, Madrid’s Palacio de Cristal is equally dazzling. Designed by Ricardo Velázquez Bosco, the architectural marvel was erected in 1887 - a giant wrought iron and glass domed structure standing at the heart of the central Retiro Park. Largely regarded as one of Spain’s most unique 19th century structures, the palace is built in the shape of a Greek cross and stands on a brick base, decorated with a ceramic frieze.
Initially housing a mock ‘Philippino village’, the 54-meter-long building was once filled with native plants and exotic flora in ode to the Spanish colony of the Philippines. Today, the palace is used as a contemporary art exhibition space but retains its bucolic surroundings, fronted by a pretty swan lake and encircled by lush woodlands. The interiors are equally breathtaking, with light refracting through the glass and the angled panes causing a prism-like effect at certain times of the day.
Most enthralling is the building’s unique achievement of blending art, architecture and nature, with the natural light casting an iridescent sheen over the art installations displayed inside and the exterior glass panels reflecting the changing shades of the parkland through the seasons.
Initially housing a mock ‘Philippino village’, the 54-meter-long building was once filled with native plants and exotic flora in ode to the Spanish colony of the Philippines. Today, the palace is used as a contemporary art exhibition space but retains its bucolic surroundings, fronted by a pretty swan lake and encircled by lush woodlands. The interiors are equally breathtaking, with light refracting through the glass and the angled panes causing a prism-like effect at certain times of the day.
Most enthralling is the building’s unique achievement of blending art, architecture and nature, with the natural light casting an iridescent sheen over the art installations displayed inside and the exterior glass panels reflecting the changing shades of the parkland through the seasons.
Address: Paseo Chopera, 10, 28045 Madrid, Spain
Hours: May-Sep: Mon, Wed-Sat 11am to 8pm. Sun: 11am to 6pm. Oct-Apr: Mon, Wed-Sat 10am to 6pm. Sun: 10am to 4pm. Closed: Tuesdays, 1 and 6 Jan, 1 and 15 May, 24, 25 and 31 Dec.
From $ 16
Parc de la Ciutadella
Barcelona’s oldest and most popular park, Parc de la Ciutadella is a picturesque expanse of greenery with several attractions. Its landmark Arc de Triomf, designed by Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas, serves as the monumental gateway to the park’s northern entrance, and the park is also home to a boating lake, the Barcelona Zoo, Catalan Parliament, two museums, and a much-celebrated series of sculptures.
The Basics
Barcelona’s version of Central Park in New York ranks among the most popular attractions in the old city. Located just northeast of the city center, not far from the Barceloneta beach, the park is included in just about every small-group and private city tour. Options for tours that stop at Parc de la Ciutadella include walking, Segway, and cycling tours through the park and other points of interest, such as Las Ramblas, Sagrada Familia, the Gothic Quarter, and Port Olímpic.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The park is a must-see for first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on a variety of surfaces.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as many areas of the park lack shade.
- See the park on a walking, cycling, or Segway tour.
How to Get There
Parc de la Ciutadella is accessible on foot from just about anywhere in the old city or Barceloneta. To get there by public transportation, take the metro (Line 1) to Arc de Triomf station and head toward the park along the car-free Passeig de Lluís Companys.
When to Get There
The park bustles with visitors and locals throughout the day, so there’s never a bad time to visit. Weekends offer the best people watching, as Barcelona residents often come here for picnics and exercise.
Gaudí at the Park
When architect Josep Fontserè i Mestre was commissioned to update the park in advance of the 1888 International Exhibition, a young Antoni Gaudí (an architecture student at the time) caught his eye. Gaudí is said to have designed some of the pipework and decorative medallions of the park’s monumental fountain.
Address: Barcelona, Spain
From $ 16
Palau Sant Jordi
There are many reasons to head up to Montjuïc hill’s Olympic Ring, and Palau Sant Jordi is certainly one of them. Designed for the 1992 Olympics, the indoor stadium played host to events including gymnastics, handball, volleyball, as well as various competitions during the Paralympics.
On the outside the structure looks like a square spaceship of sorts, and on the inside it’s nothing but beautiful light that pours through the building’s famous window-checkered ceiling. Today the stadium — which can hold over 16,000 people — still hosts top sports competitions, as well as events, and high-profile concerts for artists ranging from U2 to Bruce Springsteen and Rihanna. Go there to see a show yourself, or simply to admire Palau Sant Jordi’s exterior as you explore the Olympic Ring and its other sights, including the Olympic Stadium and Esplanade.
Practical Info
Though easily reachable by public bus, hop-on hop-off bus, taxi, and even by foot (via the escalators accessed from Plaça Espanya), getting back from Palau Sant Jordi after a nighttime event can be a bit complicated. As such, be sure to develop your transportation plan in advance. Also note that this area is fairly isolated, with few food-and-drink options outside of the venue itself.
Address: Passeig Olímpic, 5-7, Barcelona, Catalonia 08038, Spain
From $ 57
Palace of San Telmo (Palacio de San Telmo)
Today’s it’s the seat of the Andalusian government, but once upon a time, this grand, rusty-red and golden-yellow building served as a royal palace. That wasn’t its original destiny, however: built in the late 1600s, it was meant to serve as a seminary school for the University of Navigators, and is thus named after the patron saint of navigators, San Telmo. Later it was purchased by the royals, after which Princess Maria Luisa donated much of its lands to the city of Seville, hence why the grand nearby park bears her name (she ultimately donated the entire palace to the church).
Nowadays, the palatial building belongs to the government of Andalucia, and has ever since 1989. Its exterior alone is quite impressive, as it is noted for its elaborate baroque façade, and a stretch of statues featuring historical figures, which is situated along Avenida de Palos de Frontera. The interior is nothing short of impressive, either, with its fancy gilt chapel, and ballroom-turned-reception-room called the Salon of Mirrors.
Practical Info
The palace is located within walking distance of many of Seville’s most popular sights, and is therefore an ideal place to visit on a bike or walking tour. Note that the palace’s interior can only be visited by guided tour, which must be scheduled in advance. Call or email to inquire about opening times and the opportunity to schedule a visit (+34 955 001 010 or [email protected]).
Address: Avenida de Roma, s/n, Seville, Andalucia 41004, Spain
Hours: Visits available by guided tour only. To find out about hours and times, call or email +34 955 001 010 or
[email protected].
Admission: Free, though pre-scheduled guided tour is required
From $ 25
Palma Plaza Mayor
The Plaza Mayor is Palma’s true epicenter. Others might claim the geographic center of the city to be located elsewhere, but it is from this large plaza that all the excitement of old-town Palma generates. There’s a saying in Palma that “all roads lead to Plaza Mayor” and if you’re taking a stroll through old town, you’ll sure find this to be true.
Enter the plaza and the first thing you’ll notice is its imposing size. The enormous square is surrounded by old Spanish buildings of the 14th century and once housed the offices of the Spanish inquisition. Today, this area is known as the artist’s quarter, so you’re bound to spot a few galleries highlighting some of the local talent. In addition, a weekly market is held in the square, and a variety of notable goods can be purchased from colourful vendors here.
Labyrinthine streets emanate out from Plaza Mayor and the cobbled walkways are known to be a confusing but enjoyable jaunt down winding streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and evening revelers. Costumed street performers and street musicians typically help fill the plaza in daylight and night-time hours and locals and tourists together can be seen enjoying evening cocktails and music in the plaza.
The Plaza Mayor is now one of Palma’s main attractions and few can contend that a visit to Palma without seeing the Plaza Mayor is a visit at all.
Enter the plaza and the first thing you’ll notice is its imposing size. The enormous square is surrounded by old Spanish buildings of the 14th century and once housed the offices of the Spanish inquisition. Today, this area is known as the artist’s quarter, so you’re bound to spot a few galleries highlighting some of the local talent. In addition, a weekly market is held in the square, and a variety of notable goods can be purchased from colourful vendors here.
Labyrinthine streets emanate out from Plaza Mayor and the cobbled walkways are known to be a confusing but enjoyable jaunt down winding streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and evening revelers. Costumed street performers and street musicians typically help fill the plaza in daylight and night-time hours and locals and tourists together can be seen enjoying evening cocktails and music in the plaza.
The Plaza Mayor is now one of Palma’s main attractions and few can contend that a visit to Palma without seeing the Plaza Mayor is a visit at all.
Practical Info
Plaza Mayor (Placa Mayor) is located at 07003 Palma de Mallorca, and lies directly between the Parc de la Estacion and the Palma Cathedral. Weekly Markets are held every Monday, Friday and Saturday mornings. The easiest way to find the Plaza is to South on Calle de San Miguel and continue South, past the Museo d’Art Espanyol Contemporani.
Address: Spain
From $ 21
Palma Aquarium
The largest aquarium in Mallorca with over 55 tanks and more than 700 different marine species, Palma Aquarium is a sight to behold. Ocean habitats and ecosystems from around the world have been recreated from the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans as well as the local Mediterranean Sea. Promoting eco-friendly practices and respect for marine life, the aquarium was built as a tribute to nature and remains unparalleled in many respects.
Visitors have the chance to see the largest shark tank in Europe (at 28 feet deep) as well as the largest live coral collection on the continent. The jellyfish and black-tip reef shark exhibits are remarkable. Some of the aquariums most magnificent marine species include octopuses, sea horses, grouper fish, wrasses, crabs, rays, and eels. Other exhibits include an interactive touch pool, an outside play area for children, a Mediterranean garden, and a tropical jungle, the largest of its kind in Spain.
Practical Info
The Palma Aquarium can be found in Playa la Palma on Mallorca, Spain. It is open daily year-round from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm with an entrance fee of 23 euros for adults and 14 euros for children. Two to three hours are recommended for a complete visit.
Address: Carrer de Manuela de los Herreros, 21, Palma, Illes Balears, Spain 07610, Spain
Admission: Adults: 23€; Children: 14€
From $ 25
Papagayo Beach
One of a string of sandy beaches and bays lining Lanzarote’s southern coast, Papagayo Beach (Playa de Papagayo) lies within the Monumento Natural de Los Ajaches Natural Park and is largely regarded as one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. A horseshoe-shaped bay cocooned between sea cliffs and blessed with swaths of pale gold sand, Papagayo is a top choice for swimming, snorkeling and water sports.
A visit to Papagayo Beach is easily combined with exploring the five neighboring beaches - Playa de Afe, Playa de Mujeres, Playa Pozo, Playa de Afe,] and Playa de la Cera – often collectively referred to as the ‘Papagayo beaches’. The beaches are linked by a coastal walk, which runs all the way from Punta Papagayo to Playa Blanca, and are famous for their fine sands, warm, clear waters and abundance of exotic fish.
Practical Info
Papagayo Beach is located on Lanzarote’s southern coast, just east of the resort town of Playa Blanca and can be reached by bike or car via a dirt track off the Playa Blanca - Femes road, or by boat from Playa Blanca. There is a surcharge of €3 for the use of the beach road and the beach has only basic amenities, so bring your own umbrellas, deck chairs and supplies. Also, be aware that many of the southern beaches are popular among nudists.
Address: Paagayo Beach, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain
Hours: Daily
Admission: There is a surcharge of €3 for the use of the beach road.
From $ 51
Park Genoves
While in Cadiz, a trip toward the sea can offer more than just pretty views. Indeed, if you go to the northwestern border of the island-like southern city, you’ll happen upon one of its favorite treasures, Park Genoves. Created in the 19th century, the seaside green getaway wasn’t always so green, though: it once went by the name of Parsley Promenade given its sparse vegetation. But these days the garden serves as a botanical wonderland filled with over 100 species of trees and shrubs.
Strolling down its paths lined by fancily manicured greenery, you can escape the city and catch glimpses of the sea. Children will appreciate the man-made lake, which features dinosaur statues poking out of its waters, and a waterfall, which can be climbed atop, or even explored below by walking through its grotto. Whether you wish to sip on a coffee at the garden’s café, or prefer to find a quiet bench to relax on in the shade, the park is an enjoyable Cadiz stop that is worth a wander.
Practical Info
Park Genoves is easily reachable by foot from the historic center. The main entrance is situated at the park’s southeastern corner, just steps away from the Parador Hotel. Free to access, the park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, and until 10:30 p.m during summertime.
Address: Avenida Doctor Gómez Ulla, Cadiz, Andalucia 11003, Spain
Hours: Daily 8 a.m.-sunset; 8a.m.-10.30 p.m. during summer
From $ 53
Palace of Carlos V
The Palace of Charles V is a carefully designed statement of triumph and prestige. By building a royal residence in the heart of a conquered Muslim citadel, Charles honored his grandparents, the Catholic Monarchs, and celebrated the victory of Christianity over Islam.
The palace is in the Roman style, with a circular building set in a square. It was begun in 1526. Work on it was abandoned for 15 years during Granada's Moorish uprising, and abandoned again in 1637, leaving the palace unfinished and roofless. Finally, in 1923, a plan was designed to rescue and complete it.
Practical Info
Today the Palace houses two museums. The Museo de la Alhambra houses artifacts from the palace, including perfume burners used in the harems; the Museo Bellas Artes contains mostly religious paintings.
Address: Granada, Spain
Hours: Morning 8:30am - 8pm (until 6pm in winter). Closed Christmas Day and New Year's Day
Admission: € 12 - € 20
From $ 37
Ondarreta Beach
Picking up where San Sebastian’s main beach of La Concha stops at a rocky outcrop just short of Monte Igueldo, marked by the formal gardens and elaborate Palace of Miramar, Ondarreta Beach is another swathe of soft sand sculpted out of the Cantabrian coastline.
Backed by a promenade and stretching almost 0.5 km (0.3 miles), the beach is only slight less busy than La Concha in the summer, when it fills up with families huddled in the shade of blue-and-white striped beach tents and kids playing beach tennis or volleyball. It shares the same views of Isla de Santa Clara floating out in the bay, which is a lovely spot for a summer picnic lunch.
Less protected from the whims and winds of the Bay of Biscay than La Concha, Ondarreta is the place of choice for surfers when the waves pick up. At the end of the beach, at the foot of Monte Igueldo in the residential district of El Antiguo, there’s a spectacular piece of sculpture by Eduardo Chillida entitled Peine del Viento (The Wind Comb). Constructed of three interlocking strands of steel, it has been at the mercy of wind and sea alike since 1977.
Practical Info
Canoes and kayaks can be hired to go out to Santa Clara by hour or by the day from a variety of venues along the beach. The Peine del Viento can be viewed 24/7.
Address: San Sebastian, Spain
From $ 50
Palafrugell
Built above 12 kilometers (8 miles) of beautiful beaches paved with soft, golden sand, the medieval town of Palafrugell has long been a port of some importance. Until recently, it was also the region's top producer of cork, for popping off fine Spanish wines.
Today, the windy, winsome spot is a popular resort town, though it remains a real city beyond the quaint tourist quarter. Palafrugell is best known for its impressive coastline, which can be explored in yachts, kayaks, or on foot. But culture lovers and adventurous foodies will also enjoy the city's famed markets, selling fresh seafood (sea urchin is a local specialty), produce, and inexpensive eats made with the same - don't miss the famous night market. La Cuina de les Festes, the city's Spring Festival, is known for its gastronomic delights.
There are several other festivals held here throughout the year, as well museums, botanical gardens, and other attractions to keep you busy between tanning sessions.
Practical Info
Unfortunately, there's no train service to Palafrugell, but you can get direct buses from Barcelona, and from here to the less developed beaches of Calella de Palafrugell and Llafranc.
The actual city of Palafrugell is located about four kilometers from the coast, where the tourist quarter - including most hotels and other amusements - are located. There's regular bus service, and of course taxis, that can take you between the two parts of town.
Address: C-66, Palafrugell, Spain
Admission: Free
From $ 208
Palma Cruise Port
Palma de Mallorca is one of the Mediterranean’s busiest ports, welcoming more than 1.7 million cruise ship passengers each year. As the gateway to the island of Mallorca and Spain's Balearic Islands, it’s a popular stop on Mediterranean cruises, with easy access to both Valencia and Barcelona.
The Basics
There’s plenty to see in Palma de Mallorca and the atmospheric Old Town harbor’s historic landmarks, including the Palma Cathedral (La Seu), the Royal Palace of La Almudaina (Palau de l’Almudaina), the old Banys Arabs bathhouse, and Bellver Castle. Popular shore excursions include boat cruises along the Mallorca coast, wine tasting in Serra de Tramuntana, or sightseeing in the Soller Valley and the villages of Valldemossa and Deia.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Shore excursions typically include port pickup and drop-off.
- Most shore excursions are half-day tours, leaving plenty of time to get back to your cruise ship.
- For a more flexible tour, opt for a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Palma and explore at your own pace.
How to Get to Palma from the Palma Cruise Port
Most cruise ships dock at the Poniente and Paraires quays at the Estacion Maritima, around 3 miles (5 kilometers) southwest of the town center. Many cruise lines offer shuttle services into Palma, or else taxis can be found right outside the terminal. Some ships dock at Porto Pi, just west of the Estacion Maritima.
Port Information
The languages spoken in Mallorca are Spanish and Catalan, but many people speak English. The currency is the euro, and ATMs are easy to find. Be aware of the local custom of siesta—many shops and attractions may close between 12pm and 3pm.
Address: Moll Vell, 3, Palma, Mallorca 07012, Spain
From $ 14
Otto Zutz
Barcelona’s nightlife is well known throughout Europe and across the world, and Otto Zutz is a cornerstone of its club scene. Housed in a former textile factory, its dance floors and multiple bars are spread out over three levels and can hold more than 1,000 people.
The interior is well designed and contemporary, yet maintains an industrial feel. Each level is themed with different music and often features some of Europe’s best DJs, allowing for variety throughout the night. R&B, funk, and hip hop are most frequently played.
As a sophisticated venue, Otto Zutz tends to draw a well-dressed crowd. It is popular with locals and visitors alike and is regarded to be one of the best nightclubs in the city. Long lines are common on most nights, so it’s best to arrive early or find a way to get on the list to avoid waiting for entry.
Practical Info
Much to the surprise of first time visitors to Spain, nightlife often doesn’t begin before midnight (and often continues until the metro reopens the next morning.) Otto Zutz is open from 12-5am. It’s located in the Sant Gervasi neighbourhood of Gracia, a more residential area of the city. The nearest metro stop is Fontana (Green L3 line) and it takes about 5 minutes walking from there. Club attire is recommended.
Address: Carrer de Lincoln 15, Barcelona, Spain
Hours: Weds-Sat from 12-5am
Admission: Cover charges vary
From $ 23
Parc del Forum
If you’re eager for views of the sea, lots of photo opportunities, and wide, open spaces, then head toward the northernmost coastline of Barcelona to the Parc del Forum. This architectural park of sorts was built in 2004 for the Universal Forum of Cultures, and continues to serve as a giant venue for events and exploration.
Though many of its attractions come and go — such as Primavera Sound, an annual music festival that takes place in June — the forum is always a worthy destination, beyond just checking out the architecture. Go there to visit the natural history-focused Museu Blau, which is situated in the park’s iconic triangular-shaped Forum Building; to take a dip in the Mediterranean from the sand-free, direct-to-the-water Forum marina and bathing area; or to let the kids burn off some energy at the seaside play area.
Practical Info
Though seemingly far away from Barcelona’s center, the park is easy to get to via the Metro (stop: Maresme-Fòrum), public buses, and, the most visitor-friendly option of all, the hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Address: Plaça del Fòrum, 1, Barcelona, Catalonia 08019, Spain
From $ 35