Palma Marathon: Run the City by the Sea

Palma Marathon: Run the City by the Sea
Event Event

Each October, Palmaโ€™s waterfront transforms into one of the most spectacular running routes in Europe. The Palma Marathon Mallorca (formerly known as โ€œTUI Marathonโ€) blends sport, scenery, and Mediterranean energy โ€” with thousands of runners pacing through the Old Town, along the Paseo Marรญtimo, and past the glittering marinas of the Bay of Palma.

More than just a race, itโ€™s a celebration of movement and community, where locals cheer from terrace cafรฉs and bands line the streets beneath the golden towers of La Seu Cathedral.


๐Ÿ What is the Palma Marathon?

The Palma Marathon Mallorca is the islandโ€™s largest annual running event, typically held on the third weekend of October. It features three distances โ€” 42K marathon, 21K half marathon, and 10K run โ€” all starting and finishing beside the Cathedral at Parc de la Mar.

  • Event Date: Sunday, 19 October 2025
  • Start & Finish: Parc de la Mar, Palma
  • Distances: Marathon (42.195 km), Half Marathon (21.1 km), 10K run
  • Organiser: Kumulus Active Mallorca
  • Official Website

๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ The Course: Palma at its Best

The course combines historic streets, seafront paths, and panoramic views โ€” all within one city loop:

  1. Start at Parc de la Mar beneath the Cathedral
  2. Pass Palma Marina and the Paseo Marรญtimo
  3. Loop west toward Porto Pi and Club de Mar Palma
  4. Return east with sea views of Palma Bay
  5. Wind through the Old Townโ€™s cobbled streets, past Plaรงa Major and Passeig del Born
  6. Finish back at Parc de la Mar

๐Ÿ–๏ธ The route is mostly flat, making it ideal for both beginners and personal best chasers.


๐ŸŽ‰ The Atmosphere

Race day is one of Palmaโ€™s most vibrant mornings of the year. Streets close to traffic, balconies fill with spectators, and live music echoes through the city. Runners cross the finish line with the Cathedral rising behind them โ€” followed by beach walks, beers, or recovery swims in the sea.

Many participants combine the race with a weekend escape in Palma, turning the event into a mini-holiday.


๐Ÿ Where to Eat & Recover

PlaceWhat to ExpectBest For
Cappuccino Grand Cafรฉ (Born)Local chain, healthy breakfasts & smoothiesPre-race energy or recovery brunch
Restaurant PesqueroTapas & seafood by the harbourPost-race lunch with marina views
Vegan & Raw PalmaPlant-based menu in Santa CatalinaClean eating for athletes

More dining nearby: Explore Santa Catalina for trendy cafรฉs or La Lonja for evening tapas.


๐Ÿจ Where to Stay for the Marathon

HotelWhat to ExpectBest For
Hotel Es Prรญncep (5โ˜…)Overlooking Parc de la Mar & start lineDirect race-day access
Meliรก Palma Marina (4โ˜…)On the Paseo Marรญtimo routeGreat for sea views & convenience
Hotel Saratoga (4โ˜…)Near Born & La LonjaCentral and walkable

๐Ÿšถ Getting There & Logistics

  • Start/Finish Area: Parc de la Mar, below Palma Cathedral
  • Expo & Bib Pickup: Usually held at Parc de la Mar (Fridayโ€“Saturday before the race)
  • Transport: Walk from most central hotels; parking limited around the Old Town
  • Spectator Tips: Best viewpoints along Paseo Marรญtimo, Cathedral steps, and Born Avenue

๐Ÿ’ก Local Tips

  • Book early: Hotels sell out weeks before race weekend.
  • Weather: Expect 22โ€“25ยฐC, usually sunny but mild.
  • Bring ID: Required for bib collection.
  • Combine it: Visit Palma Marina, Palma Cathedral, or take a post-race swim at Cala Major.

๐Ÿ“ธ Palma Marathon vs. Other Mallorca Races

CategoryMallorca 312Ironman MallorcaPalma Marathon
DisciplineCyclingTriathlonRunning
LocationNorthern Mallorca (Alcรบdiaโ€“Sierra)AlcรบdiaPalma City
MonthAprilMayOctober
VibeEndurance challengeExtreme fitnessScenic city run by the sea

Can anyone participate in Palma Marathon?

Yes โ€” the event is open to both amateurs and professionals, with 10K and 21K options.

Is the race route closed to traffic?

Yes, the entire course is closed during the event, with clear signage and volunteers throughout.

Where do I register?

Registration opens each spring on the official Palma Marathon Mallorca website.


Palma Weekly