This is a copy of the itinerary page from Renaissance Cruises website. They filed bankruptcy shortly after September 11, so I want to make a backup before it goes away.
Largest of the Balearic Islands located off the coast of Spain, Mallorca is only 130 miles from Barcelona. As you approach Palma, you will see the Catalonian-Gothic Cathedral, which took almost 400 years to complete, and the 14th century Bellver Castle dominating the skyline. Built between the 13th and 14th centuries, the Cathedral was remodeled in the 20th century by Barcelona's famous architect Antoni Gaudi. He removed the stained glass to admit more sunlight and substituted a wrought-iron sculpture for the traditional altarpiece. Standing on a hillside, the Castillo de Bellver is built on an unusual circular design, surrounded by a moat. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the mountains from here. Former palace of Mallorcan kings, the castle is now a museum. Today, Spain's King Juan Carlos vacations on Mallorca with his family. The King is among the one million visitors who come here annually.
Renaissance Cruises Inc. shore excursions are designed to be as exceptional as our cruises. International experts plan each exciting tour so that you experience the unique atmosphere of every port of call. All shore excursions are optional and can be purchased on-board the ship. However, some have limited space and fill up quickly.
It is very common that in every port you will be offered tours, guide services and/or transportation services. Sometimes it is "a deal that cannot be refused." Please proceed with caution. Whenever a deal is "too good to be true," it usually is.
Please note: The shore excursions and pricing described below are for reference purposes only. They are subject to change without notice due to unexpected cost increases and/or currency fluctuations. Offered shore excursions will vary depending upon itinerary and length of stay in a particular port. All prices are per person.
Take advantage of our 7-70 Special and save $$$ when you participate in Renaissance Cruises' award-winning tours.
Palma City Highlights
Valldemosa and The Cartuja
Dragons and Pearls
Miro Museum and Costa Nord
A Taste of the Past
Tour Number: PAL-01 Tour Length: Half Day Tour Price: $TBD
Drive from the ship up to Palma's most advantageous viewpoint – Bellver Castle, the only round, Gothic-style castle in Europe. A free-standing, round keep dominates the structure, and an elegant double gallery of arches surrounds the parade ground. Inside the castle are a lovely chapel and a fascinating historical museum. Travel to the Orquidea Pearl Factory where authentic Pearls of Mallorca are produced and an excellent assortment of items are offered for sale. Back in Palma, drive through main streets with lovely promenades en route back to the vessel.
Back to Shore Excursions
Tour Number: PAL-02 Tour Length: Half Day Tour Price: $TBD
Travel to the remote village of Valldemosa whose special charm and beauty have inspired musicians and painters. In the heart of Valldemosa is the Cartuja (Royal Carthusian Monastery), founded in 1339. After the monks departed in 1835, the monastery was rented out, and two of its most famous lodgers were Frederick Chopin and his mistress, French novelist George Sand. See their apartments, furnished in period style, including the bedrooms, library and piano room. Spend some time strolling around the quaint streets of this lovely village before continuing on to the La Fiore Glassworks Factory. Watch a brief demonstration and then browse through the showroom which offers a wide variety of designs for purchase.
Tour Number: PAL-03 Tour Length: Half Day Tour Price: $TBD
Begin with a photo stop at La Escollera which is situated in front of the Cathedral, an architectural wonder that took almost 400 years to complete. Drive to the Orquidea Pearl Factory, where authentic Pearls of Mallorca are produced and where an excellent assortment of items are offered for sale. Next, drive to the Caves of Drach, a labyrinth of fancifully named caverns lined with stalactites and stalagmites artfully illuminated to their full advantage. Classical music weaves a magical spell to match the beauty of the countless, sharply pointed icicles reflected from the surface of Martel Lake, the largest underground natural lake in Europe.
Tour Number: PAL-10A Tour Length: Half Day Tour Price: $TBD
Travel to the Foundation Pilar y Juan Miro, a complex showcasing the art of Juan Miro and other outstanding artists. The walls of the Mallorcan-style Son Boter house exhibit graffiti painted by Miro--the Son Abrine studio contains unfinished works by the artist--and the star-shaped building designed by Rafael Moneo contains Miro's works and traveling exhibits by other artists which include tapestries, paintings and sculptures. Continue on to the ancient village of Valldemosa where the Costa Nord Foundation, belonging to actor Michael Douglas, strives to preserve the magical landscape. Watch a video of Mr. Douglas as he drives through the beautiful landscape of the Tramuntana Mountains. While in Valldemosa, visit a reproduction of the inside of the Nixe, a ship belonging to Austrian Archduke Luis Salvador, and visit an exposition about the Tramuntana Sierra. Continue on to Son Marroig, near the Archduke's country house, to enjoy the panoramic view of the spectacular Tramuntana coast, which includes the famous Na Foradada rock formation.
Tour Number: PAL-11A Tour Length: Half Day Tour Price: $TBD
Drive along the Seaside Promenade and into an agricultural area where windmills dot the countryside. Stop at Els Calderers, an ancient manor dating from 1750 and an ideal site to discover the traditions and lifestyle of old Mallorca. Visit the Great Hall, the Chapel and the Cellar, where a taste of Mallorcan wines awaits your pleasure. See the Hunting Room, the main bedrooms, kitchen and dining room, as well as the "revolutionary" agricultural machinery that the owner once sold around Europe. Outside the manor are an interesting assortment of animals and a lovely pond filled with colorful fish. Travel to the Orquidea Pearl Factory where authentic Pearls of Mallorca are produced and an excellent assortment of items are offered for sale. Back in Palma, visit Bellver Castle, the only round, Gothic-style castle in Europe. A free-standing, round keep dominates the structure, and an elegant double gallery of arches surrounds the parade ground. Inside the castle are a lovely chapel and a fascinating historical museum, and you can enjoy one of the best panoramic views of Palma from atop the castle.