Although the Balearic Islands are considered a tourist destination for beach lovers, there's also a lot to offer culturally curious travellers. In fact, because of their strategic position in the Mediterranean sea, the Balearic Islands were plundered and colonized by the Carthaginians, Romans, Turks, French and English, which resulted in a melting pot of culture and architecture.

Mallorca
Mallorca is the biggest of the Balearic Islands and Palma, is its capital. Palma is easily one of the most beautiful historical cities in the Mediterranean sea. Palma's location, in a beautiful Mediterranean bay, makes the city all the more fascinating and exciting.

The first thing to visit is the La Seu Cathedral, built in Gothic Catalan style, is unique not only for its grandeur but also because it is located right in front of the sea. Built during the reign of Jaime II, this Roman Catholic cathedral has a 44-metre-tall nave – the central part of the building where people gather to worship – the second-highest gothic nave in the world!

The Paseo del Borne is worth a stroll, it's a gorgeous tree-lined avenue situated next to Plaza de la Reina, one of the main shopping areas. The Paseo Maritimo and the Rambla de Palma are also worth exploring. If you have to choose between the two, go for the Paseo Maritimo as it is a beautiful three-kilometre walk right by the sea! Along the Paseo, you will also find the City Nautic Club and the Auditorium which hosts a multitude of international concerts, festivals and theatre productions every year.

In the countryside around Palma, there are lots of little picture-postcard villages to explore. Our favourite is Fornalutx, an ancient Arabian farming town; today it is a little jewel of great historical and cultural value. The simplicity of the stone buildings and rustic atmosphere make Fornalutx a quintessential Mallorcan mountain village.

Menorca
Only a two-hour boat ride from Mallorca, Menorca is a relatively small island, yet full of beauty and charm. The capital of the island is Mahon. According to the legend, Mahon was named after its founder, the Carthaginian general Magon, brother of Hannibal. Mallorca has always revolved around maritime trade in its strategic position in the Mediterranean sea. Its natural port is the second biggest in the world after Pearl Harbor, and it's the most lively area in the city, especially at night!

Amongst the city's many attractions, make sure you do not miss the Mahon Museum or Museo de Menorca. The museum takes you through the history of Menorca over several floors, with a collection of archaeological items relating to the Talayotic, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic periods, as well as ancient sculptures, historical maps, art from the 18th to 20th-century. The Santa Maria Cathedral and the Carme Church (Iglesia del Carmen) are also worth a visit.

Ibiza
Ibiza is globally renowned as the capital of fun, featuring countless super clubs and endless beaches. However, Ibiza is much more than that. Behind all the nightlife, there is an island filled with history, culture and tradition. For a cultural tour of the island we recommend you start from Dalt Vila, which is the UNESCO-listed historic centre of Ibiza Town. Founded by the Phoenicians, majestic city walls and seven bastions surround the city. The main entrance to the old town is through the 'ses Taules' door, near the old market.

During your exploration of the historical centre do not miss Ibiza Cathedral, from the 16th century, the Ayuntamiento (the city council, once home to a Dominican convent) and the castle that dominates the city. Amongst the best museums is the Archeologic Museum, with relics from prehistory to the Muslim domination, and also the Museum of Contemporary Art where you will find pieces from local and international artists who live on the island.

Formentera
The inhabitants of Formentera are concentrated in five small towns: San Francesc, La Savina, Sant Ferran, El Pilar and Es Pujols. The port in La Savina is the only public access to the island unless you come with a private boat. In San Francesc, the capital of the island, city life takes places in the main square dominated by the church from the XVIII century, the first on the island. In the past, it was also used as a fortress to protect the city from pirate raids.

Formentera also has some impressive cultural offerings, such as the tomb of Ca na Costa, which dates back to the Bronze Age. Also, be sure to visit the five defensive towers built in the XVIII century to protect the islands from the pirates. The La Mole lighthouse is also beautiful and was written about by the French writer, Jules Verne. The lighthouse, located in the southern part of the island, is on a very steep cliff with breath-taking views!

Ferries to the Balearic Islands

Visit NetFerry and discover the ferry routes that serve the Balearic Islands. The Netferry booking site allows you to save your quote and confirm the ticket a few days later. Netferry always helps you find the ferry to best suit your needs. Rates, times and ports of departure and arrival are just a few clicks away with Netferry.

Netferry: a sea of ferries!