Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Capital City

With a population of 434,786, this city is hardly the quaint Mediterranean paradise it's often sold as. Tourism dominates the economy, accounting for 80% of the island's GNP, and the rapid growth has come at a cost - bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the climate, while mild, can be stifling in the summer months. Still, the city's historic charms and convenient location make it an appealing option for those seeking an urban Spanish experience, if they can stomach the crowds.