Fira del Ram
This annual funfair takes place at Son Fusteret, on the outskirts of Palma. With plenty of thrill-seeking rides, a 60-metre-high Ferris wheel, stalls, games and family activities, it's an event that families ought not to miss.
From Playa de Palma to Magaluf and the capital city of Palma de Majorca
The good, the bad and the ugly sides of Mallorcas tourist development meet along a 25km stretch of coast. Tacky resorts sit next to exclusive retreats, it seems that everyone wants a slice of Palma Bay. One moment you can be in Portals Nous, with its chic marina crammed with millionaires' yachts, the next in seedy Magaluf, all British pubs and wet T-shirt contests.
Palma Bay stretches from the quiet coves of Cala Blava in the east to the lively resorts of Palmanova and Magaluf in the west, offering a wide variety of coastal experiences. Playa de Palma, one of the island’s longest beaches, is lined with soft golden sand, promenades, cafés and bars, while nearby suburbs such as Ciutat Jardí and Portixol provide a more relaxed, local atmosphere with seaside dining and small cafés.
Further west, Cala Major retains an urban feel but still boasts a charming beach, whilst the upmarket areas of Illetes, Bendinat and Portal Nous offer smaller beaches, secluded coves and elegant marinas. Palmanova is popular with families, whereas Magaluf remains lively, though recent developments aim to give it a more refined edge.
Beyond the main resorts, smaller coves like Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells provide a peaceful retreat amid pine forests and cliffs, with calm waters and morning sunlight ideal for a quiet escape. From headlands such as Cap de Cala Figuera, sweeping views capture the contrast of bustling resorts, tranquil beaches and the island’s natural beauty, making Palma Bay a destination that caters to both activity and relaxation.
This annual funfair takes place at Son Fusteret, on the outskirts of Palma. With plenty of thrill-seeking rides, a 60-metre-high Ferris wheel, stalls, games and family activities, it's an event that families ought not to miss.
A week of racing around Palma Bay. Headquarters is at the Real Club Nautico de Palma. There is a varied programme of events to accompany the racing.
The boat show is usally held in Palma in the spring, promising and delivering vibrant displays of fancy yachts and all things nautical. Set in Palma's harbour at La Llonja, this spectacular setting in front of the cathedral only adds the the glitz and glamour of this prestigious show.
The Nit de Foc is one of the biggest parties in Mallorca, but the largest celebrations take place in Palma. Celebrated on the eve of Sant Joan fiesta, it includes street parties, bonfires, fireworks, pop concerts, devils & demons and the infamous 'correfoc' - the fire run, where the 'devils' run through the streets with firecrackers and fireworks - not for the fainthearted!
The Palma de Mallorca Marathon is an officially recognised International long distance event.
Rialto Living is Palma's most famous interior design and concept store. Located right in the heart of the city, it has a small art gallery inside with temporary art exhibitions.
This small museum of religious and historical antefacts is based in a wing of the former episcopal palace tucked behind the cathedral.
The Gran Hotel was Palma's first luxury hotel when it opened in 1903. Designed by the Catalan architect Lluis Domenech I Montaner, it was the building that began the craze for modernists (art nouveau) architecture in the city.
Billed as Mallorca's most important museum, this undoubtedly contains some fascinating exhibitsbut beware that it is difficult to get excited about bits of stone in glass cases if you do not understand the captions. The museum has recently been refurbished, so we are hoping it is now more tourist-friendly.
The Museu Fundación Juan March houses a small collection of 20th century Spanish art shich belonged to the Mallorcan banker Joan March, once one of the world's richest men.
A wonderful 18th-century Baroque building with feature courtyard and decorative touches, Casal Solleric is now home to temporary exhibitions specialising in contemporary art and photography.
Palma Bay offers a wide variety of beaches, from lively stretches to quiet coves. At the eastern end, Cala Blava features small, sheltered beaches framed by rocky headlands and calm waters, perfect for a tranquil start to the bay. Playa de Palma, one of the longest on the island, is a broad, sandy beach with gentle waves, ideal for families and long walks along the promenade.
Closer to the city, Portixol and Ciutat Jardí offer smaller, sandy beaches with a relaxed, local atmosphere, often popular for morning swims or casual sunbathing. Cala Major, just west of Palma, blends an urban feel with a charming beach setting, while Illetes, Bendinat and Portal Nous provide more exclusive, compact beaches with calm, clear waters and scenic surroundings.
Further along, Palmanova is family-friendly, featuring soft sand and shallow waters, while Magaluf is known for its lively beach atmosphere, though quieter spots can still be found nearby. Beyond the main resorts, Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells offer secluded coves, pine-fringed shores and peaceful waters, perfect for those seeking calm away from the busier areas.
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.
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.
Cala Major is located within Palma Bay, around four kilometres to the west to the city of Palma.
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.
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.
Playa Oratori is the popular local beach for Portals Nous and Puerto Portals.
Dining along Palma Bay ranges from casual cafés to more refined seaside options, catering to a mix of tastes and budgets. Around Playa de Palma, you’ll find plenty of lively spots offering local Mallorcan dishes, Spanish classics and international fare, perfect for a relaxed lunch or evening meal after a day on the beach. The promenade makes for a pleasant backdrop, with terraces ideal for people-watching.
Closer to the city, suburbs like Portixol and Ciutat Jardí provide a quieter, more local dining experience, with cafés serving breakfast, tapas and light bites. Further west, in the upmarket areas of Illetes, Bendinat and Portal Nous, restaurants often focus on Mediterranean cuisine and seafood, accompanied by scenic views of marinas and small beaches.
Family-friendly resorts such as Palmanova have casual dining with menus suited to all ages, while areas near Magaluf offer a livelier atmosphere with a mix of casual eateries and spots catering to evening entertainment. For a more tranquil experience, the smaller coves of Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells feature quieter, often rustic venues highlighting fresh local produce.
Located just off one of Palma’s busiest shopping streets, Cappuccino Café San Miguel offers a calm and stylish retreat in the heart of the city. Part of Mallorca’s well-known Cappuccino Café collection, this branch reflects the brand’s signature blend of elegant design and relaxed Mediterranean charm, making it a popular choice with both locals and visitors.
Quadrat Restaurant and Garden at Hotel Sant Francesc offers a relaxed yet refined dining experience in the heart of Palma. With its entrance on the charming Plaza Sant Francesc, the restaurant is divided into three distinct areas, each designed to provide a welcoming space for guests to enjoy a leisurely meal at any time of day.
This gem of a restaurant is situated in Palma's old town. It has a simple yet charming interior as well as tables outside which are a popular choice on warm summer evenings.
La Despensa del Barón, located in the historic centre of Palma de Mallorca, offers a true taste of the island’s gastronomy. Situated within the charming Posada Terra Santa, this Mediterranean restaurant goes beyond simple dining, inviting guests to connect with the local history, traditions, and ingredients sourced just a few kilometres away.
Feliz Restaurant in Palma is the ultimate spot to drink, eat, sleep, and repeat - all in one place. Perfectly located within the Hotel Feliz, this vibrant eatery welcomes both hotel guests and visitors alike for a relaxed yet stylish dining experience. Open daily for lunch and dinner, it’s easy to drop in whenever the mood strikes for a refreshing drink, a leisurely meal, or a special evening out.
Maria 5 Urban Restaurant in Palma brings the signature spirit of Maria 5 Beach to the heart of the city. Located in Plaza Cort, just opposite the Ayuntamiento, this urban venue blends contemporary design with warm, traditional touches inside, while the lively terrace offers a vibrant city atmosphere.
Nightlife along Palma Bay ranges from relaxed evenings to lively entertainment.
Playa de Palma has casual bars and terraces ideal for unwinding after a day on the beach, while Portixol and Ciutat Jardí offer a quieter, local atmosphere with cosy cafés. Palmanova leans towards family-friendly evening options, with relaxed dining and casual drinks, whereas Magaluf is known for its energetic nightlife, featuring bustling bars and music venues, though it has become slightly more refined in recent years. For a calmer night, the quieter coves of Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells offer peaceful sunset views and gentle seaside strolls.
Housed in a striking colonial-style building at the edge of Palma’s trendy Santa Catalina district, this is a long-standing local favourite that blends good food, great views and a vibrant social scene. Having made its mark in recent years as one of the more sophisticated venues within the hip city district, its Sky Bar is undoubtedly a great choice in which to start your night. Just a few blocks from the island’s best-known food market, the kitchen makes the most of fresh, seasonal produce, creating a menu of healthy, flavourful dishes served from breakfast through to late dinner.
De Tokio a Lima Bar in Palma offers a relaxed rooftop experience with a focus on exceptional cocktails. Located above the iconic Paseo del Borne, the bar combines city views with a menu of drinks designed to impress. Each cocktail is carefully prepared using quality spirits, fresh ingredients, and inventive combinations that highlight flavour and balance.
Beatnik Bar and Restaurant, located in the heart of Palma at Purohotel, offers a globally inspired dining experience with a playful, adventurous edge. The menu blends bright Mediterranean flavours with exotic spices from Asia and Latin America, creating a fusion that is both fresh and exciting.
Lennox The Pub Bar in Palma de Mallorca is a modern and welcoming spot in the historic heart of the city. Located in La Lonja, it’s just a short walk from iconic landmarks such as Cathedral La Seu, L’Almudaina Royal Palace, and Palma Harbour, making it the perfect stop during a day of sightseeing.
Arlequin Cocktail Bar & Kitchen, in Palma’s old town, is a fun and creative spot for drinks and snacks. With a circus-inspired theme and the playful slogan ‘we’re all mad here’, the bar offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Flexas Bar is a Palma institution, located in the heart of the city’s historic centre and renowned for its unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. Originally opened in 1944 and revived in 2004 by Pepa “la Terre”, Fernando Estrella, and Xavier Aloy, the bar has become a social and cultural landmark, drawing locals, artists, and visitors alike.
Palma Bay offers a mix of activities for all interests. You've got long sandy beaches, promenades, scenic walks along the coast or marina-side sightseeing.
Family-friendly resorts like Palmanova provide gentle waves and space for children, whereas more lively stretches near Magaluf include beach games, watersports and opportunities to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. For quieter escapes, the coves at Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells offer peaceful swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing in scenic surroundings.
Beyond the beaches, the bay is ideal for cycling, hiking in nearby pine forests and exploring the headlands, which provide panoramic views of the coastline and Palma city. Whether you seek relaxation, activity or a mix of both, Palma Bay has something to suit every visitor.
Discover Mallorca from the sea aboard a modern luxury motor yacht, designed for comfort, privacy and effortless style. This fully private experience, operated by a professional skipper, is perfect for couples, families or small groups looking to enjoy the island at their own pace. Departing from Palma’s marina, you will cruise along Mallorca’s spectacular coastline, exploring crystal-clear waters, secluded coves and peaceful anchorages chosen according to the day’s conditions and your preferences.
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
Set sail on a private boat trip in Palma Bay, with full-day and half-day options available.
Picture-perfect views from your vintage scooter
Take a wonderful boat trip and enjoy swimming, snorkelling and stand-up paddleboarding as the sun sets over the beautiful island of Mallorca.
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
Nieves is a Bavaria 46 Cruiser who's design features sleek, modern interiors and exteriors.
The Armon 110 is a classic, well-appointed motor yacht with ample living space and storage, built in 1991 and refitted in 2015 with a cruising speed of 12 knots.
This 2016 Bavaria Cruiser 51-5 Sailing Yacht is based in the La Lonja marina in Palma and is available for weekly rentals.
Beneteau Oceanis 411 sailing yacht with four cabins and two bathrooms. Her sleek bow allows good performance in light breezes and her fuller bow aft of midships adds stability. Great for accommodating up to 10 people for a fun week on the water.
Wanda is a Bavaria 46 Cruiser with a sleek, modern design.
This Cumberland 44 Power Catamaran is available from La Lonja marina in Palma and is ideal for adventurous types, who will welcome the sense of speed and great performance.
Enjoy an exhilarating day trekking and scrambling through gorges, waterfalls and jumping into giant rock pools.
An exhilarating rock and water activity suitable for families and adrenaline-junkies, a great way to explore the coastline of Mallorca.
Whiz around the local coastline with friends and family
Lessons delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
Staying in short-term rental accommodation along Palma Bay is a wonderful way to experience the area. There are numerous holiday apartments and villas. Portixol and Ciutat Jardí offer smaller, quieter rental options in local neighbourhoods. In the west, Illetes, Bendinat, Portal Nous and the smaller coves of Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells feature low-key villas and apartments, ideal for those seeking tranquillity, flexibility and the chance to enjoy the coast at their own pace.
This fully equipped and unique apartment is set on three levels, providing a quirky and fun accommodation for two.
This fully equipped and comfortable apartment is ideal for two guests.
This stunning duplex apartment is fully equipped and provides spacious accommodation for two.
This spectacular loft apartment is fully equipped and provides delightful accommodation for two.
This fully equipped and spacious apartment is set on three levels, providing an original and fun accommodation for two.
This fully equipped apartment is ideal for two guests.
Palma Bay has a wide selection of hotels to suit different tastes.
Around Playa de Palma, large beachside hotels offer convenience, easy access to the promenade and family-friendly facilities.
Cala Major and the upmarket areas of Illetes, Bendinat and Portal Nous feature more stylish and refined hotels, often with scenic sea or marina views. Resorts such as Palmanova also provide comfortable hotel options for families, while areas near Magaluf cater to visitors seeking lively surroundings and entertainment.
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.
Hospes Maricel is a stately home constructed of the finest natural materials located on the coast not far from Palma de Mallorca. The hotel boasts some of the best sea views to be had in Mallorca, complimented by its stunning tiered terrace complete with infinity pool.
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.
This hotel is located along the Paseo Marítimo seafront promenade and with views of Palma Bay, opposite the marina.
Hotel Tres lies at the crossroads of elegance and comfort; effortlessly blending old and new, modern comforts complement the remnants of a 16th century palace. Rustic Mallorcan style and contemporary design combine to form a space built for comfort.
At the Hotel Palau Sa Font vibrant colours, modern artwork and designer furniture welcome guests to a hotel with charm and personality that offers a warm and familiar kind of service. The hotel has a real connection with its local neighbourhood from the local shop to the farmer supplying the organic olive oil.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Palma Bay is a 5 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
There is a direct bus from the airport. Check for times.
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.
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
The only British taxi driver in Mallorca, offering airport transfers to destinations throughout the island.
This taxi & transfer company operates out of Palma, covering the whole of Mallorca Island.
This taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.
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.
Set on an 8,300 m² flat, sun-drenched plot, this fully renovated finca blends authentic Mallorcan charm with modern comfort - complete with two beautifully appointed guesthouses, a saltwater pool, solar power, and breathtaking views of the Tramuntana mountains. Located just outside the historic village of Binissalem, in the heart of Mallorca’s celebrated wine country, this is a rare opportunity to purchase a tranquil rural home that’s move-in ready and built to a high standard.
Experience the ultimate in comfortable living with this exceptional property located in the desirable urbanization of Crestatx, nestled between Sa Pobla and Pollensa. Boasting a prime location in a residential area with high demand, this fabulous plot features a charming small house that offers plenty of possibilities for extension to meet your future needs.
Welcome to this charming estate in the countryside near Pollença Pueblo! This unique property consists of two adjoining estates, offering a perfect combination of tranquillity in the Mallorcan countryside and proximity to all the amenities of Pollença Pueblo, just a five-minute drive away. Additionally, it is only fifteen minutes from the spectacular beaches of Puerto Pollença, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to enjoy island life.
Welcome to an exclusive estate situated in the heart of rural Pollensa. This property offers impressive vineyards and a design that combines traditional rustic charm with elegant modern touches.
With 6 bedrooms this house offers style and spacious living in abundance. The main house has 4 big bedrooms all with air-conditioning.
Nestled in the charming centre of Pollença, this stunning two-bedroom townhouse has been recently renovated to an exceptional standard. The property blends clean, contemporary design with authentic Mallorcan and Mediterranean touches, creating a warm and stylish living environment.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Palma is a 5 to 10 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
Depending on which part of the bay you are heading to will depend on what local buses can take you there.
Find out all about what is happening in Mallorca and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, fabulous beaches, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see, and experience on the island.
See allLatest News & ReviewsThe island hosts all sorts of events, including agricultural fairs in the spring and autumn, live music and DJs in the summer, religious fiestas and international sporting events. Some of the most popular are the Mallorca 312 cycling race in April, the Copa del Rey sailing regatta in July and the Moors vs Christians mock battle in September.
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