Why Spain’s Most Underrated City Is Europe’s Most Popular Winter Destination

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Seaside tapa bars, calm waves crashing upon golden sand, and a maze of storied streets to explore — that and more is what you’ll find in Spain’s most underrated city.

As the country’s household names have become iffy at best in terms of whether or not it’s wise to visit, there’s one unsung city on island time that’s become a winter powerhouse in its own right.

Even with a team of experts here at Travel Off Path, it came as a surprise to us which destination is Europe’s most popular right now.

It’s true — Paris, Barcelona, and Athens have taken a back seat to a blissful, sun-kissed city brimming with culture, timeless marvels, and spectacular beaches, even in the throes of winter elsewhere.

The latest data shared by European insiders backs our case that Spain’s most underrated city is also Europe’s most popular destination, and here’s why:

Unveiling Spain’s Unicorn

Not many countries are more recognized than their most popular cities, but that’s the case for Palma.

Anchoring the famous island of Mallorca as this paradise’s largest urban sprawl, there’s no question that the city itself isn’t as well known as the island in its entirety.

When you hear people saying, “I loved my trip to Mallorca!”, chances are they skipped the city delights for quieter shores and beachfront stays away from the city’s endless delights.

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But we’re here to tell you those people have been missing out.

At the very least, perhaps they made a day trip or booked a walking tour, but Palma arguably makes for the best base on the island.

That’s what I did years ago, and it sticks in my mind’s eye as one of the best solo trip experiences I’ve ever had.

The food and wine are spectacular, the scenery is Mediterranean perfection, and the architecture, especially the staggering, unmissable cathedral nicknamed “La Seu”, will surely blow your mind with its intricate detail and old-world charm.

Get Lost In A Maze Of Old Town Streets

Again, somehow Palma gets lost in the mix of top European cities, but if you’re like me and love exploring Europe’s storied Old Towns, Palma is a great spot to do so.

You’ll find a maze of cobbled streets intertwined beneath La Seu, surrounding Moorish courtyards and quaint plazas filled with cozy cafes and down-home eats.

You’ll likely spot a market or two as well, but there’s no shortage of nooks and crannies to wander. Venturing slightly outside Old Town, you’ll notice yet another architectural marvel in the distance.

That would be Bellver Castle, one of the most distinctive in all of Spain, as it towers over the Bay of Palma and the city’s terracotta rooftops.

Palma is undoubtedly one of the country’s biggest surprises and offers an array of historical attractions that go overlooked in the shadow of its paradise coastline.

The Real Draw In Winter: Spacious Sunny Shores

While Barcelona’s “Karens” may be in full force, deterring tourists from their beloved city, that’s all the more reason to spotlight Spain’s top island right now.

What is surprising initially actually makes perfect sense. Mallorca is Spain’s top getaway this winter, largely driven by sun-seekers along Mallorca’s famous golden shoreline.

However, temps do drop quite a bit compared to summer. We can’t honestly say it’s one of Europe’s warmest winter locations, but with magnetizing culture, fewer crowds, and the same astounding scenery, it’s hard to top.

You’ll enjoy blissful days in a mild Mediterranean climate, and better prices too. Mallorca tends to soar come summertime, but winter sees dwindling prices, especially for hotels.

For example, you can book the 5-star Iberostar Playa Del Palma for under $125 now through January. Good luck in August…

Obviously, word has gotten around, given Mallorca’s ‘most popular’ tag, but winter is still an excellent time to savor Mallorca’s delights with much happier locals out and about enjoying their city too.

Post up at seaside tapas bar, sip a glass of wine, and take in the views without feeling you have to part the sea of crowds like Moses.

According to TripAdvisor, Platja de Muro is the island’s top-rated beach right now, boasting gorgeous shallow water.

For what it’s worth, I visited on the cusp of late fall/early winter and loved having Palma’s streets mostly to myself, with the exception of aforementioned La Seu.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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