Royal Palace of La Almudaina - Here's a short caption: a tall building stands under a blue sky.
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Royal Palace of La Almudaina

4.5
·7k reviews·Palma, Spain

A historic royal residence in Palma, blending Moorish and Gothic styles with stunning sea views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings or late afternoons

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
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Royal Palace of La Almudaina - Here's a short caption: a tall building stands under a blue sky.

Royal Palace of La Almudaina

Best Time

Mornings or late afternoons

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic royal residence in Palma, blending Moorish and Gothic styles with stunning sea views.

4.5
(7k reviews)

"Absolutely stunning place! The Royal Palace of La Almudaina is full of medieval charm and history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎧 Audio Guide Recommended

Enhances understanding of history and architecture. Worth the extra cost!

💰 Free Entry for EU Citizens

Check for specific hours for free admission to save money.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Fusion

Architectural Fusion

Throughout the palace

Marvel at the blend of Moorish and Gothic styles, a testament to its rich history.

Panoramic Sea Views

Panoramic Sea Views

Upper levels and terraces

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Bay of Palma from the palace's vantage points.

Royal Chambers

Royal Chambers

Interior rooms

Step into the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, even if used for ceremonies.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds and heat by visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Consider checking for free entry hours for EU citizens to save on tickets.

Enhance Your Visit

An audio guide can significantly enrich your experience, providing context to the palace's history and architecture. Plan for about 45 minutes to an hour, or longer with an audio guide.

Best Times

When
Mornings or late afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
EU citizen free entry hours
Why
Save money on admission
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Must know tips if you’re headed to the Palace of Versailles in France! 🇫🇷✨ #travel #traveltiktok #traveltips #paris #parisfrance #parisfrance🇫🇷 #palaceofversailles #palaceofversaillesfrance #versailles #versaillespalace #palaceofversaillesgardens #parisfranceeurope #paristhingstodo #paristhings #parismustdo #parismustsee #parisitinerary #parisactivites #bestofparis #paristravel #paristrip #par...
@carielizabethh
39.9K likes • 683.9K views

🎧 Audio Guide Recommended

Enhances understanding of history and architecture. Worth the extra cost! Reddit

💰 Free Entry for EU Citizens

Check for specific hours for free admission to save money. Reddit

The Royal Palace of La Almudaina, which dates back to the 14th century, is the official residence of the King and Queen during their stays in Mallorca, and yes they still go there. Together with the Cathedral of Palma it is a landmark of the capital of the Balearic Islands. The palace reflects the artistic styles that have succeeded each other throughout the history of the island. The palace is...
manafreitas_usa
89 likes • 2.1K views
📍Royal Palace of La Almudaina, Palma de Mallorca A must see on any visit to Mallorca, the Palace is opposite the Cathedral and has amazing views out over the Bay of Palma. It dates back to the 14th century and is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family when they are in Mallorca. Remains of the former Muslim alcázar can be seen in the current Palace layout and the white marble lion in ...
fuzzygreenfruit
74 likes • 488 views

⏳ Quick Visit Possible

You can explore the main areas in about 45 minutes without an audio guide. Reddit

📸 Stunning Sea Views

Don't miss the incredible panoramic views of the Bay of Palma. Instagram

Day 1 Mallorca: The Royal Palace of La Almudaina(fortified palace) • Location: Palma, Mallorca, Spain • Built: Originally in the 10th century during Muslim rule • Current Form: Largely dates from 14th century, transformed under King James II of Mallorca • Current Use: Official royal residence (used for ceremonies, not as a home) Palma de Mallorca was founded in 123 BC as the Roman settlement ...
hounglau
16 likes • 289 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎧 Audio Guide Recommended

Enhances understanding of history and architecture. Worth the extra cost! Reddit

💰 Free Entry for EU Citizens

Check for specific hours for free admission to save money. Reddit

⏳ Quick Visit Possible

You can explore the main areas in about 45 minutes without an audio guide. Reddit

📸 Stunning Sea Views

Don't miss the incredible panoramic views of the Bay of Palma. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Royal Palace of La Almudaina for its stunning medieval charm, impressive architecture, and breathtaking sea views, offering a journey back in time. While some find the interior rooms sparsely furnished, the historical significance and the blend of Moorish and Gothic styles are consistently highlighted as major draws. The availability of free entry for EU citizens and the option of an audio guide are appreciated practical tips.

"Absolutely stunning place! The Royal Palace of La Almudaina is full of medieval charm and history. The architecture is impressive, with beautiful stone halls, grand rooms, and amazing views of the sea from the upper levels. It feels like stepping back in time. Everything is well preserved and the atmosphere is truly majestic. A must-visit in Palma for history and architecture lovers!"

Tom ODWROT

"It was worth a visit, if you go therr i recommend using an audio guide because it definitely makes the visit better, we didn’t take it but if i would go again i would. If you are an EU citizen you can also go there between some hours that are listed at the entrance to get a free ticket. I suggest you look into it before you go, so you don’t have to pay for the ticket. Otherwise it was very pretty the view is amazing and the palace is really interesting. We just walked around the place and we needed 45 minutes so i think it would take longer if we had an audio guide."

Tosja Jakopin Tisovec

"The building itself and architecture is of course stunning, but the rooms are pretty much empty with only a few tapestries and cabinets on display and no information provided about them. We weren't aware until after our visit that an audio guide is available so perhaps this information is in that guide. The star I deducted was for the attitude of the staff. I felt like it was a chore for the girl at the desk to even sell us the tickets and the 2 security men that put our belongings through the xray machine looked like they were sucking lemons and couldn't care less."

huulipunasissi

What People Like

Medieval charm and history
Impressive architecture
Amazing sea views

What People Dislike

Sparsely furnished rooms
Staff attitude

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Royal Palace of La Almudaina is located in Palma, Mallorca, right next to the Palma Cathedral. It's easily accessible by foot if you're in the city center. Public buses also stop nearby, and taxis are readily available. Instagram+1

Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging due to its central location. It's recommended to use public parking garages in Palma, such as the one at Parc de la Mar, which is a short walk away. Instagram

Yes, the Royal Palace of La Almudaina is within walking distance from the Palma cruise port, typically about a 15-20 minute stroll along the waterfront. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but it's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing. Keep an eye out for potential free entry periods, especially for EU citizens. Reddit

Yes, EU citizens can often visit for free during specific hours, usually in the mornings. It's crucial to verify these times upon arrival or on the official website before your visit. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, can save you time and guarantee entry. This is particularly recommended if you plan to visit during free entry hours. Reddit

Opening hours can change seasonally and may differ for free entry periods. Always consult the official website for the most up-to-date information on daily opening and closing times. Reddit

Indeed, EU citizens can typically access the palace for free during designated times. This is a great tip to save money if you qualify. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Many visitors find it a worthwhile experience for its historical significance, impressive architecture, and stunning sea views, especially if you appreciate medieval history. InstagramReddit

A typical visit without an audio guide takes around 45 minutes. With an audio guide, you can expect to spend an hour or more exploring. Reddit

Yes, an audio guide is available and highly recommended by visitors to enhance the understanding of the palace's history and exhibits. Reddit

There isn't a strict dress code, but it's a royal residence, so modest attire is appreciated. Comfortable shoes are recommended as you'll be doing a lot of walking. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed inside the palace, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions in certain areas or during special events. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The terraces offer fantastic panoramic views of the Bay of Palma, making them prime photo spots. The courtyards and architectural details also provide great opportunities. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical sites and royal residences due to privacy and security concerns. It's best to assume drones are not permitted. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for photography, offering softer light and fewer crowds. The golden hour before sunset can be particularly beautiful for capturing the sea views. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Royal Palace of La Almudaina can be an engaging visit for families, offering a tangible connection to history. While the interiors might not have extensive interactive exhibits, the sheer scale of the palace and its historical significance can spark children's imaginations. The sea views are always a hit, providing a great spot for kids to enjoy the scenery. Consider bringing a small guide or pre-reading some fun facts about kings and queens to make the visit more interactive for younger ones. Instagram+1

To make the most of a family visit, aim for earlier hours to avoid peak crowds and potential meltdowns. The audio guide might be a bit much for very young children, but older kids might find the stories interesting. If budget is a concern, look into the free entry times for EU citizens to make the trip more affordable. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and architecture, the Royal Palace of La Almudaina is a must-see. Its transformation from an Arabian fort to a Moorish-Gothic royal residence offers a unique architectural journey. Pay close attention to the surviving elements of the original Moorish alcázar and the subsequent Gothic additions. Instagram+1

The palace provides a tangible link to Mallorca's past, showcasing the layers of different cultures and rulers. The audio guide is essential for a deep dive into the historical context, explaining the significance of each area and the events that unfolded within these walls. Don't miss the chance to appreciate the strategic location and the breathtaking sea views, which were undoubtedly important factors in its original construction. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Royal Residence Through Time

The Royal Palace of La Almudaina boasts a fascinating history, originating as an Arabian fort in the 10th century. Over centuries, it was transformed and expanded, reflecting various architectural styles. Its current form largely dates from the 14th century, with significant modifications under King James II of Mallorca. This evolution showcases a unique blend of Moorish and Gothic influences, making it a significant historical monument in Palma. Instagram+1

Today, La Almudaina serves as one of the official residences of the Spanish Royal Family. While not their primary home, it is used for state ceremonies, official receptions, and during their stays in Mallorca. This continued use adds a layer of contemporary relevance to its ancient walls, allowing visitors to glimpse a living piece of Spanish royal history. Instagram+1

Visitors often note the palace's impressive stone halls and grand rooms, though some find the interior decor relatively sparse compared to other European palaces. However, the architectural details and the historical narrative provided by an audio guide (highly recommended) offer a deep dive into its past. The sea views from the upper levels are consistently praised as a highlight. InstagramReddit

Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Travelers

Planning your visit to the Royal Palace of La Almudaina can be made smoother with insights from fellow travelers. A recurring tip is to check for free entry hours, particularly for EU citizens, which can significantly reduce the cost of admission. Reddit This often occurs in the mornings, so arriving early is key to both saving money and avoiding larger crowds. Reddit

Many visitors strongly recommend getting an audio guide. While the palace is visually impressive, the audio guide provides crucial historical context and details about the architecture and former inhabitants, making the experience much richer. Reddit Without it, some reviewers felt the rooms were a bit bare, missing the stories behind the artifacts. Reddit

Allow approximately 45 minutes for a quick walkthrough, but budget an hour or more if you plan to use the audio guide and fully absorb the atmosphere. The sea views from the palace terraces are a definite highlight and a popular spot for photos. Instagram+1

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