Portixol
Portixol, together with Molinar, are trendy suburbs of Palma
The former fishing villages Portixol and Molinar, like many neighbourhoods on the outskirts of Palma, have experienced a bit of a renaissance in recent years. They have transformed from quiet fishing villages into some of the trendiest areas in the south-west of Mallorca. Their main attractions include a long stretch of beach, a beautiful promenade and a boho vibe. That’s before we even get started on the great selection of restaurants, bars and hotels servicing the area!
Portixol
Portixol, just outside Palma, has gone from up-and-coming to genuinely cool. Head to the seafront where old fishermen’s cottages have become stylish homes worth millions. Along the same promenade, you’ll find modern bars, cafes and restaurants that draw people from all over. Only a couple of kilometres from Palma’s cathedral, Portixol offers a peaceful escape from the city. It’s an easy walk or cycle to the old town along a traffic-free path with stunning sea views.
Molinar
Moving further east toward the airport, Portixol and Molinar meet and there is no sign to say where one ends and the other starts. Molinar has now been flagged as “up-and-coming” area and is reaping the rewards of its recent revamp, as we see property prices rise and new restaurants creeping in.
Portixol and Molinar don’t have a real town centre, as the main draw is the seafront. Along Carrer Llucmajor, just back from the shore, you’ll find a supermarket, a few shops and some cafés. Thanks to the nearby motorway and a local one-way system, traffic is minimal. Most people walk, cycle or skate along the promenade, where plenty of cafés and bars offer a relaxing spot to take in the views.
The area has seen an influx of wealthy expats, especially British, Swedish and German, though many full-time residents remain Mallorcan. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, with traditional buildings lovingly restored. People of all ages enjoy the promenade, whether strolling, sitting in seafront cafes or dining outdoors.
Beaches in Palma de Mallorca
The beaches in and around Portixol and Molinar have not been massively commercialised to tourists like many others on the south-west coast which means that these neighbourhoods retain much of their traditional charm. On fiestas and bank holidays, you even get to see some pretty special Spanish parties taking place here, where large families and friends gather with their picnics.
Beaches in Mallorca
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Cala Major Beach
Cala Major is located within Palma Bay, around four kilometres to the west to the city of Palma.
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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.
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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.
Events in Palma de Mallorca
The Nit del Foc, celebrated in June, is one of the biggest nights of the year in Portixol and Molinar. The beach is beautifully lit by candles and tea lights, and people bring big picnics to enjoy the midsummer evening.
Events in Palma de Mallorca
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Palma International Boat Show
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.
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Nit de l'Art
Palma hosts its Nit de l'Art every year in the middle of September. The museums and galleries of Palma open their doors to visitors for free during this evening.
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TaPalma Tapas Festival
The tapas phenomenon is now firmly established as part of Palma's culinary scene, so much so that the restaurant owners decided to celebrate 'tapas' with a food fair - TaPalma!
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Palma de Mallorca Marathon
The Palma de Mallorca Marathon is an officially recognised International long distance event.
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Illes Balears Classics Sailing Regatta
Some of the most beautiful classic yachts from all over the world meet in Palma for this regatta which takes place over 4 days in Palma Bay.
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Ella International Lesbian Festival
With DJs, artists, activities, beach clubs, seminars, conferences, art and much much more!
Dining in Palma de Mallorca
Portixol and Molinar both offer a good selection of eateries, with the very best spots taking pride of place on the seafront. An assortment of cuisines is available, from tapas and Spanish seafood to Italian and more modern Asian fusion. Each provides the perfect opportunity to dine in a relaxed setting with terraces overlooking the beach.
Restaurants in Palma de Mallorca
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Hostal Cuba Bar and Restaurant
Fittingly housed in a beautiful colonial building in the Santa Catalina district of Palma, this is a cafe, bar and club, open all day, every day.
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Feliz Restaurant
Don't miss out on the cuisine at Hotel Feliz. With a happy hour every evening to start you off, before picking something from their tapas or main menu.
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Gaudeix Restaurant
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.
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Quadrat Restaurant and Garden
Located inside the Sant Francesc Hotel, in Palma's old town, this restaurant serves gastronomic Mediterranean cuisine in their chic dining room or lush garden.
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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.
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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.
Things to do in Palma de Mallorca
Whilst there has been an influx of cosmopolitan residents and some new restaurants have opened up, the area isn’t built for tourism like many of the other tourist hot spots on the island. This is part of its charm!
Take a walk or cycle
The main attraction here is the pedestrianised boulevard that stretches from Palma’s Paseo Maritimo all the way through to the tourist resort of El Arenal, at the other side of the airport. It mounts up to a solid 12km in total, making it a hot spot for cyclists, runners and skaters.
There is a large choice of cycle shops to choose from in and around Portixol and Molinar; Berganti Bikes, Palma on Bike and Nano Bikes are just some of the many places to rent a bike. City bike, mountain bike, single speed – you name it, they’ll have it.
Café culture is also big on the seafront promenade, although the keen athletes passing by might tempt you to get your active gear on for a run or cycle!
Things To Do in Palma de Mallorca
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Luxury Jack III Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
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Southwest Mountains, Villages & Sea Scooter Tour
Picture-perfect views from your vintage scooter
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Sunset boat trip
Take a wonderful boat trip and enjoy all the activities of swimming, snorkelling and stand-up paddle boarding as the sunsets over the beautiful island of Mallorca.
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Private boat trip
Set sail on a private boat trip in Palma Bay, with full-day and half-day options available.
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Luxury To Escape Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
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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".
Nightlife in Palma de Mallorca
Portixol and Molinar are sundowner destinations, rather than big nights out. They are the perfect spot to enjoy a cool beer or to share a bottle of wine after a stroll along the promenade. Prosecco, right on the promenade, provides the perfect pit-stop. Travelling around the far side of the port, on the way back to Palma, you can enjoy the beach club vibe, but for some late-night partying, hop in a taxi to Palma.
Bars & Clubs in Palma de Mallorca
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Hostal Cuba Bar and Restaurant
Fittingly housed in a beautiful colonial building in the Santa Catalina district of Palma, this is a cafe, bar and club, open all day, every day.
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Beatnik Bar and Restaurant
The ambience of this restaurant is casual and attracts a cosmopolitan crowd. The bar with its VIP area is the meeting point for travellers and locals who can listen to DJs playing. Small dishes are served in the bar and when the weather permits, food and drinks can be enjoyed on the patio.
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Lio Mallorca
Glamour, class and luxury – Lio Mallorca takes the best from Pacha Group’s most emblematic shows with new performances and extraordinary acts performed for the first time.
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New Millennium Nightclub
This nightclub is situated in the Gomilla area of Palma and is popular with locals and those looking for more of a Latin beat to their dance music.
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Cafe Atlantico Cocktail Bar
Since 1997 Cafe Atlantico has been a cocktail bar but its history stretches back to the 1950's. It's got plenty of character
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Moltabarra Bar
This tapas bar, located in the heart of Palma's old town, is the place to go if you want to escape the tourists.
Holidays Rentals in Palma de Mallorca
Staying in short-term rental accommodation gives you the freedom to enjoy the town at your own pace. Whether in the centre or nearer to the outskirts, it’s a relaxed and flexible base. With extra space and the option to cook or dine out, it’s ideal for a comfortable holiday.
Holiday Rentals in Palma de Mallorca
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Palma Suites Residence - Penthouse Supreme Suite Apartment
This stunning duplex apartment is fully equipped and provides spacious accommodation for two.
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Palma Suites Residence - Penthouse Suite Apartment
This spectacular loft apartment is fully equipped and provides delightful accommodation for two.
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Palma Suites Residence - Junior Suite Apartment
This fully equipped apartment is ideal for two guests.
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Palma Suites Residence - Triplex Deluxe Suite Apartment
This fully equipped and spacious apartment is set on three levels, providing an original and fun accommodation for two.
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Palma Suites Residence - Triplex Suite Apartment
This fully equipped and unique apartment is set on three levels, providing a quirky and fun accommodation for two.
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Palma Suites Residence - Standard Suite Apartment
This fully equipped and comfortable apartment is ideal for two guests.
Hotels in Palma de Mallorca
There is a small luxury hotel in Portixol harbour which perfectly combines the old traditional style of the marina with contemporary features and comforts. Its location means it has the best of both worlds, it embraces the relaxed vibe in Portixol but is within easy walking distance of Palma’s city centre.
One of the latest additions to the hotel portfolio in the area has come from one of the global hotel groups with its Scandi-style with all the luxuries of a large scale hotel including restaurants, a gym, a spa and a rooftop pool with epic views of Palma Bay.
Hotels in Palma de Mallorca
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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
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Sant Francesc Hotel
Situated on the magnificent Sant Francesc Square, the property has 42 rooms and suites, many with wood-beamed ceilings and covered verandas, as well as others that feature original frescos and mouldings.
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Palma Bay Hotel
This hotel offers beautiful views of the Bay of Palma and is just a 15-minute walk from the historic city centre. It also has a rooftop pool on the 7th floor with 360-degree views of Palma.
Price: €2,767
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St Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort Hotel
Set against the stunning Tramuntana mountains and the dazzling Mediterranean Sea, this elegant resort is an exquisite pièce de résistance embracing luxurious resort living and their signature butler service.
Price: €10,386
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Tres Boutique Hotel
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.
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Son Boronat Hotel
An idyllic and peaceful hotel, where you can enjoy a gastronomic experience in the beautiful patio surrounded by the more than 200 years old walls of the rural finca.
How to get to Palma de Mallorca
By car
Car hire is still very much a viable option in Mallorca. Portixol and Molinar are just over a five-minute drive from the airport. A word of warning, parking on the seafront can be a bit of a nightmare, especially on Sundays and during peak summertime. Jump in a taxi or take the worry out of getting from the airport by booking a private transfer.
Public transport
There are direct EMT buses travelling to and from Palma from Portixol and Molinar.
Transfers for Mallorca
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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.
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Janer Bus Airport Transfers
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
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Easy Majorca Taxi
A group of taxi drivers with many years of experience in the sector of airport transfers in Mallorca. You can book online in advance or call to book last-minute.
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Majorca Taxis Company Transfers
Multilingual company offering transfers from the airport to your destination.
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Mallorca Private Airport Transfers
Great quality service at rates that are irresistible. This company exclusively transfer you around Mallorca without having to pay an excessive price.
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Mallorca Taxi Car
This taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.