Perched on a hill overlooking the Mallorca capital, Castell de Bellver is one of Palma de Mallorca’s most iconic monuments. This unique circular Gothic fortress offers a fascinating insight into the medieval history of the Balearic Islands, as well as spectacular views of Palma Bay.
Here is my practical guide to planning your visit.
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Why I recommend it!
Castell de Bellver stands out for its exceptional architecture. It is one of the few circular castles in Europe, an architectural feat from the 14th century that never fails to impress at first glance.
I was particularly taken with the inner courtyard with its two-level arcades. The alternation between the light stone and the shadows created by the Gothic arches creates a truly magnificent play of light, especially in the late afternoon.
It is one of the must-see places in Palma.
But beyond the architecture, it is the 360-degree panoramic view from the ramparts that makes a visit worthwhile. You can see the whole of Palma Bay, the cathedral, the port, and on a clear day, you can even see the Serra de Tramuntana mountains in the distance. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful views of Palma.
The site also houses a history museum tracing the evolution of the city from the Talayotic period to the present day. The collections are well presented and provide a better understanding of the historical context of Mallorca.
Planning tips: Castell de Bellver
Access
- The castle is located approximately 3 km west of the center of Palma, on the hill of Puig de sa Mesquida
- By car: parking available near the entrance (very limited spaces in high season)
- By bus: line 50 from Plaza España or Plaça de la Reina (Plaça Gomila stop, then a 15-minute walk uphill)
- By taxi: approximately €10-12 from the center of Palma
- On foot from the center: allow 45 minutes for a fairly steep climb
Need to rent a car in Mallorca?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Don’t choose a car too large, since some roads are very narrow
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
Opening Hours and Prices
- From April 1 to September 30: Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- From October 1 to March 31: Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Closed on Mondays throughout the year
- Closed on January 1, May 1, and December 25
- Full price: €4
- See the latest news
Visit
- Recommended duration: 1.5 to 2 hours to fully enjoy the site and the views
- Audio guide available in several languages (included in the admission price)
- Wear comfortable shoes: stairs and uneven cobblestones
- Bring water, especially in summer: little shade and exposure to the sun
- The site is partially accessible to people with reduced mobility (ground floor only)
- Best time to visit: To avoid the crowds: early in the morning during high season
Where to stay in Mallorca?
My favorites:
- Choice of restaurants + main town: see best-rated options in Palma
- Beach + practical location to explore: see best-rated options in Port d’Alcudia
- Party area – see best-rated options in S’Arenal
- Quiet in the mountains – see best-rated options in Valldemossa
- Quiet, charming seaside place – see best-rated options in Canyamel
- Access to the best calas – see best-rated options in Cala d’or
- Families – see best-rated options in Cala Millor or in Colonia Sant Jordi
What to see at Bellver Castle?
The castle seen from the outside
From the outside, take the time to admire the austere style of the castle with its various ramparts.
The circular courtyard
The heart of the castle consists of an elegant central courtyard surrounded by arcades on two levels. The ground floor features Romanesque semicircular arches, while the upper floor boasts Gothic pointed arches. This superimposition of styles creates a remarkable architectural harmony.
The city’s history museum
Housed in the castle’s rooms, the museum traces the evolution of Palma through different eras. It contains archaeological remains from the Talayotic, Roman, and Arab periods, as well as sculptures, ceramics, and everyday objects. The modern museography makes the visit accessible and interesting.
The ramparts, terraces, and views
Climb up onto the ramparts to enjoy the exceptional panoramic view. Each direction offers a different spectacle: the cathedral and historic center to the southeast, the Serra de Tramuntana mountains to the north, and the port and bay to the south. It’s the perfect place to take photos.
It’s truly one of my fondest memories of Mallorca.
Between the unique building and the views!!!
The tribute tower
This independent tower, connected to the castle by a stone bridge, served as a keep.
It offers a different perspective on the entire castle and provides a better understanding of its defensive system.
Bellver Forest
The castle is surrounded by a pleasant pine forest where the locals come to walk and jog. If you have time, a stroll through these woods before or after visiting the castle is very pleasant, especially in summer when you can enjoy the cool shade.
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Combine with other visits
Castell de Bellver can easily be included in a day spent exploring Palma. Here are a few suggestions:
Start with the castle in the morning when it’s still cool, then head down to the historic center to visit Palma Cathedral (La Seu), the Almudaina Royal Palace, and stroll through the narrow streets of the old quarter.
A little history
The castle was built between 1300 and 1311 on the orders of King James II of Mallorca. Its name, “Bellver,” means “beautiful view” in Catalan, which says a lot about its strategic location.
Initially designed as a royal residence, the castle quickly served as a prison, a function it retained until the mid-20th century. Among its famous prisoners were political opponents during the Spanish War of Independence.
The circular architecture was revolutionary for its time. The four towers facing the cardinal points add to the perfect symmetry of the complex. The keep, detached from the main building and connected by a bridge, reinforces the castle’s defensive aspect.
Today, the castle belongs to the municipality of Palma and regularly hosts concerts in its courtyard during the summer, transforming this historic site into a lively cultural space.
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