Ciudad Jardin
Friendly and charming resort in the Bay of Palma
Ciudad Jardin lies to the east of Palma, just along the bay from Portixol and Molinar and close to the airport. It is pretty much at the centre of Palma Bay and, after the transformation of neighbouring areas Portixol and Molinar, it has been heralded as the next 'up and coming' place for the cool and trendy set of Mallorca.
Its lovely golden sandy beach boasts shallow waters and a promenade that takes you either back to Palma or east to Playa de Palma (S’Arenal), as well as glorious south-westerly views of the Bay and Palma. The village was built in the late 19th century as a luxury resort close to Palma, the highlight of which was the modernist neo-Moorish Ciutat Jardí Hotel. In more recent years, a number of smart restaurants and cafes have opened up along the seafront. Although some of the buildings are still a little bit shabby, there is a definite Miami-South Beach feel to the place. Its proximity to the airport could be viewed as a plus or a negative depending on how noise sensitive you are.
Ciudad Jardin is a good place to stay for those who want a beach holiday but want to be within easy reach of the shopping, sights and attractions in Palma and the facilities in the resort Playa de Palma. Although a few expats have managed to penetrate the area, most of the residents are still very much Spanish which adds to the friendly nature of this small resort.
Beaches in Palma de Mallorca
Ciudad Jardin Beach comprises of 450m by 35m of lovely golden sand and tends to be less busy than the neighbouring ones in Palma and Playa de Palma. It’s a pretty sheltered blue flag beach, so the water here is appealing for families with young children. There is parking, sun loungers and parasols for hire, public toilets and showers on the beach and plenty of cafes, restaurants and ice cream parlours to enjoy along the beachfront.
Beaches in Mallorca
See all Beaches-
Ciudad Jardin Beach
The small resort town of Ciudad Jardin lies around five kilometres east of Palma. Its beach, also commonly referred to as ‘Ciutat Jardi’, lies alongside a quiet promenade lined with palm trees, offering a huge variety of different styled bars and restaurants.
-
Portixol Beach
Portixol is found just to the east of Palma's cathedral and is home to a little bay within which a little sand and shingle beach known as D'es Portitxolet Beach resides. The water is generally calm here due to the sheltered nature of the bay.
-
Palma City Beach (Can Pere Antoni)
The closest beach to Palma is at Ca'n Pere Antoni. This stretch of golden sandy beach starts just beyond the cathedral. A promenade and cycle path runs along its length but behind these lies the main road that takes you to Palma airport.
-
Playa de Palma Beach
Playa de Palma is a long stretch of beach to the east of Palma de Mallorca and opening onto Palma Bay. It's also one of Mallorca's biggest holiday resorts.
-
Cala Major Beach
Cala Major is located within Palma Bay, around four kilometres to the west to the city of Palma.
-
Illetas Beach
Only 9km from the capital of Palma, Illetas is a holiday resort claiming three picture-perfect beaches. Illetas beach is the main beach, and is more sheltered than the huge stretch of sand that makes up the beach in front of Palma's cathedral, making this one of the nicest beaches in the Bay of Palma.
Dining in Palma de Mallorca
There is a good selection of restaurants and cafes just behind Cala Jardin Beach. Some are smart and contemporary, others more laid back and beachy. For seafood, Restaurante El Bungalow is one of the most famous in the area. From a distance, it looks like a beach house right on the waterfront, upon closer inspection, you will see it is a charming little restaurant right on the water’s edge. Over the years it has built up a fantastic reputation for seafood and paella, but be warned you will need to book in advance to avoid disappointment. If you can manage to live without the sea view, then Casa Fernando is well worth a visit. It serves up fresh fish and tapas dishes and is an age-old favourite for the locals.
Villa del Mar is one of the swankier establishments along the promenade. It serves up avant-garde fusion dishes in a stylish and sophisticated environment. Whether you are outside on the terrace enjoying the spectacular sea view or inside amongst the contemporary chic furnishings, you won’t be disappointed. The lunchtime menu attracts a whole host of people from businessmen on lunches (probably having just landed at the nearby airport) through to locals taking advantage of the reasonably priced menu. A couple of roads back from the seafront is where you will find Ciudad Jardin Pizzeria, a fantastic spot for the whole family to enjoy. They serve up some of the best pizza and pasta dishes in the area. It’s also possible to take-away pizza and eat it on the wall overlooking the sea.
Restaurants in Palma de Mallorca
See all Restaurants-
De Tokio a Lima Restaurant
This charming restaurant boasts stunning views from its terrace over the city and is situated within a boutique hotel, Can Alomar.
-
Marc Fosh Restaurant
Fabulous restaurant that offers an elegant yet stripped down version of Marc Fosh's extraordinary Mediterranean Cuisine.
-
A Popa Sea Club
Located inside the Nixe Palace Hotel, on the beach of Cala Major, this restaurant serves creative fresh-produce cuisine, specialising in fish and seafood.
-
Ca'n Brondo Restaurant and wine bar
This restaurant is within a charming bohemian boutique hotel in the heart of Palma de Mallorca. It has an stylish contemporary interior with plenty of space and light.
-
La Despensa del Baron Restaurant
This restaurant is on the ground floor of a luxury boutique hotel in the historic centre of Palma de Mallorca. It is located within a shady arcade, showcasing the original 15th-century arches of this former stately home, which have been restored in the classic Gothic style.
-
Mar Blau Bistro
This charming restaurant has double height ceilings which highlight the bright and airy peaceful atmosphere and a wonderful terrace with spectacular views towards the marina.
Things to do in Palma de Mallorca
It’s all about the beach in Ciudad Jardin. However, the promenade that travels along the coastline between Palma and Playa de Palma provides plenty of entertainment for those keen to get active in the area. Rollerblades and segways are available to rent just down the road in Palma while you can also find bikes for hire.
There are a couple of supermarkets and convenience stores in the area, namely Eroski and Bip Bip, but the best shopping on the island is on your doorstep in Palma. Just hop in a taxi and you will find designer shops, high street shops, markets and more.
Things To Do in Palma de Mallorca
See all Activities & Trips-
Luxury Good Times Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
-
Motor Boat Trip (Sunseeker Manhattan 53)
Choose Perfection for a full-day or half-day trip around the Balearic Islands in style.
-
Motor boat trip
Enjoy four hours on a private motor boat in Palma Bay, perfect for small groups or those on a budget.
-
Coastal boat trip
Enjoy a fantastic day at sea and exploring secluded coves and beaches aboard a typical yacht from the Balearic Islands, "El Gordito".
-
Southwest Mountains, Villages & Sea Scooter Tour
Picture-perfect views from your vintage scooter
-
Luxury Tayarrah Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
Hotels in Palma de Mallorca
There are a couple of hotels in the Ciudad Jardin area. Hotel Ciutat Jardi is a 4-star beachfront hotel housed in a colonial-style early 19th-century mansion surrounded by tropical gardens. It boasts a lovely swimming pool and is just a stone throw away from the beach so you get the best of both worlds. On the other hand, the UR Portofino Hotel is a more modern establishment, just a 2-minute walk from the beachfront, and has all the amenities one could want from a stay in the area.
Hotels in Palma de Mallorca
See all Hotels-
Santa Clara Urban Spa & Hotel
This charming hotel is located in the historical old town, in the very heart of Palma de Mallorca. It is within easy walking distance of attractions such as the 10th century Arab baths and Palma's breathtaking gothic Cathedral.
Price: €2,180
-
Feliz Boutique Hotel
Find peace and tranquillity in this chic, modern hotel just off the harbour promenade, with a bustling nightlife. With a friendly atmosphere that invites you to be happy.
-
Palma Bosque Hotel
Palma Bosque Hotel is located in central Palma de Mallorca, close to Gomila Square, Bellver Castle, and Mallorca Cathedral. Nearby points of interest also include Pueblo Espanol and Es Baluard.
Price: €2,166
-
Can Cera Boutique Hotel
Tucked within Palma’s historic heart, Can Cera blends noble Mallorcan heritage with contemporary design. With just fourteen rooms, personalised service and a serene atmosphere, it offers a refined retreat for those who appreciate timeless beauty and thoughtful detail.
-
Palacio Ca Sa Galesa Hotel
Wander into Palma’s gothic quarter and stumble across this 16th-century palace with original stained glass, chandeliers and tapestries which perfectly combines Mallorcan architecture with French, Italian and English styles. The hotel’s excellent location offer guests some stunning views of Palma’s bay and Cathedral.
Price: €2,850
-
Castell Son Claret
First mentioned in 1450, this site consists of various properties united in the 18th century to form a 132-acres estate. The current buildings, reformed in the 19th century, have been lovingly restored in 2013 to open as a luxury hotel that includes beautiful gardens.
How to get to Palma de Mallorca
By car
By car, it takes around 5 to 10 minutes to get to Ciudad Jardin from the airport. Just follow the signs for Palma and then come off at exit 6. Ciudad Jardin is just a 5-minute drive from the centre of Palma (traffic dependent). It is well connected to the rest of the island thanks to the Ma-1 and Ma-20 being close by.
By public transport
There are no direct buses from Palma airport to Ciudad Jardin. You have to catch bus number 1 to Plaça d'Espanya in Palma city centre then the EMT bus number 30 from here. However, this can take around an hour so we would recommend just getting a taxi as it is only a 5 to 10-minute ride which should cost no more than €15.
Transfers for Mallorca
See all Airport Transfers-
Luxury Chauffeur Services & Airport Transfers
Experience luxury and convenience with this company. Arrive at your yacht charter, sunset tour or boat trip in unparalleled style in a Rolls Royce Ghost.
-
Janer Bus Airport Transfers
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
-
Conde Transfers
This taxi & transfer company operates out of Palma, covering the whole of Mallorca Island.
-
Taxi PMI
Taxi PMI is the Association of Taxi Drivers of Palma de Mallorca, who provide visitors with an efficient and reliable airport transfer service, whilst also eliminating the need to stand in a queue and wait for the next available taxi.
-
Balearic Airport Transfers
This transfer company offers cheap and reliable Airport Transfers to all destinations in Mallorca with official vehicles and professional drivers.
-
MajorCabDriver Taxis
The only British taxi driver in Mallorca, offering airport transfers to destinations throughout the island.