Palma Marathon: Run the City by the Sea

Each October, Palma’s waterfront transforms into one of the most spectacular running routes in Europe. The Palma Marathon Mallorca (formerly known as “TUI Marathon”) blends sport, scenery, and Mediterranean energy — with thousands of runners pacing through the Old Town, along the Paseo Marítimo, and past the glittering marinas of the Bay of Palma.
More than just a race, it’s a celebration of movement and community, where locals cheer from terrace cafés and bands line the streets beneath the golden towers of La Seu Cathedral.
🏁 What is the Palma Marathon?
The Palma Marathon Mallorca is the island’s largest annual running event, typically held on the third weekend of October. It features three distances — 42K marathon, 21K half marathon, and 10K run — 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
🗺️ The Course: Palma at its Best
The course combines historic streets, seafront paths, and panoramic views — all within one city loop:
- Start at Parc de la Mar beneath the Cathedral
- Pass Palma Marina and the Paseo Marítimo
- Loop west toward Porto Pi and Club de Mar Palma
- Return east with sea views of Palma Bay
- Wind through the Old Town’s cobbled streets, past Plaça Major and Passeig del Born
- Finish back at Parc de la Mar
🏖️ The route is mostly flat, making it ideal for both beginners and personal best chasers.
🎉 The Atmosphere
Race day is one of Palma’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 — 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.
🍝 Where to Eat & Recover
Place | What to Expect | Best For |
Cappuccino Grand Café (Born) | Local chain, healthy breakfasts & smoothies | Pre-race energy or recovery brunch |
Restaurant Pesquero | Tapas & seafood by the harbour | Post-race lunch with marina views |
Vegan & Raw Palma | Plant-based menu in Santa Catalina | Clean eating for athletes |
More dining nearby: Explore Santa Catalina for trendy cafés or La Lonja for evening tapas.
🏨 Where to Stay for the Marathon
Hotel | What to Expect | Best For |
Hotel Es Príncep (5★) | Overlooking Parc de la Mar & start line | Direct race-day access |
Meliá Palma Marina (4★) | On the Paseo Marítimo route | Great for sea views & convenience |
Hotel Saratoga (4★) | Near Born & La Lonja | Central and walkable |
🚶 Getting There & Logistics
- Start/Finish Area: Parc de la Mar, below Palma Cathedral
- Expo & Bib Pickup: Usually held at Parc de la Mar (Friday–Saturday before the race)
- Transport: Walk from most central hotels; parking limited around the Old Town
- Spectator Tips: Best viewpoints along Paseo Marítimo, Cathedral steps, and Born Avenue
💡 Local Tips
- Book early: Hotels sell out weeks before race weekend.
- Weather: Expect 22–25°C, 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.
📸 Palma Marathon vs. Other Mallorca Races
Category | Mallorca 312 | Ironman Mallorca | Palma Marathon |
Discipline | Cycling | Triathlon | Running |
Location | Northern Mallorca (Alcúdia–Sierra) | Alcúdia | Palma City |
Month | April | May | October |
Vibe | Endurance challenge | Extreme fitness | Scenic city run by the sea |
Can anyone participate in Palma Marathon?
Yes — 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.