What’s Happening?
On Sunday 18 October 2026 Palma will host the 22nd TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca. Runners from Mallorca and abroad will take on a marathon, a half‑marathon or a 10 K race that weaves through the city’s seafront, historic centre and iconic sights.
Race Details
Distances and Start Times
- 10 K – starts at 08:00
- Half marathon (21.097 km) – starts at 08:05
- Marathon (42.195 km) – starts at 08:05
When Do the Awards Happen?
- 10 K & half‑marathon – 11:45
- Marathon – 12:15
Finish Line
The finish line stays open until 14:15, giving slower runners plenty of time to cross.
Route Highlights
All three races begin near Parc de la Mar and follow a scenic loop that includes:
- Passeig Marítim (the seaside promenade)
- Portixol neighbourhood
- Palma Cathedral
- Cort (the city hall)
- Plaça Major
Along the course you’ll find DJs, live music, batucada drumming groups and kids’ activities – perfect for cheering on the runners.
Road Closures & Traffic Plan
Main Closures (times are approximate)
- Llevant motorway (Ma‑19) – inner section closed 01:00‑17:00 (Costa de Gas ↔ Antoni Maura)
- Passeig Marítim – both ways closed 06:30‑17:00 (between avinguda de l’Argentina and Costa de Gas, plus Antoni Maura)
- Passeig Marítim (Porto Pi → avinguda de l’Argentina) – closed 07:00‑14:00 (ferry terminal access stays open)
- Access to Molinar (via Joan Maragall & Llucmajor) – closed 07:30‑13:00
- Passeig Sagrera towards Andratx – closed from 07:45; one lane reopens at 09:30 for traffic to Club de Mar
- Camí de s’Escollera entrance/exit – closed 06:30‑13:00 (to/from Llevant motorway)
When Does Traffic Return to Normal?
- 13:00 – seaward side of Passeig Marítim (Porto Pi → avinguda de l’Argentina) reopens
- 14:00 – Antoni Maura and affected city‑centre streets reopen
- 14:30 – Passeig Marítim towards the airport reopens
- 17:00 – full two‑way flow on Passeig Marítim restored
Parking Impacts
- Parc de la Mar – motorway entrance/exit closed 01:00‑16:00; completely closed 08:00‑09:00
- Via Roma – exit via Baró de Pinopar blocked
- Plaça Major – cannot leave via La Rambla until the race ends
- Passeig Mallorca – normal exit opposite Teatre Municipal closed; use the exit opposite Jaume I school instead
BiciPalma station 49 (Joan Carles I) will have its bikes removed temporarily, and the Born taxi rank will be suspended – look for the alternative rank on Jaume III or the pick‑up point at plaça Quadrado (accessible from Porta de Sant Antoni).
EMT Bus Changes
Diverted Routes
On 18 October the following lines will be diverted: L3, L4, L7, L18, L20, L25 and L35.
Suspended or Altered Services
- L1 & L30 – no service between 06:00 and 16:00
- L25 – will finish at Instituts
- L35 – will finish at Eusebi Estada (approx. 07:30‑13:00)
- A1 & L23 – keep their usual routes but skip certain stops because of the closures
Stops Out of Service
On Passeig Mallorca and the surrounding Avingudes, these stops will not be served: 203, 205, 206, 1051, 981, 1330, 543, 457 and 458.
Free Travel for Participants
Runners and event volunteers can ride EMT city buses free of charge from 06:00 to 17:00 – just show your race bib or accreditation. This perk does not apply to the airport routes A1 and A2.
Tips for Spectators and Runners
If You’re Watching
- Arrive early to grab a good spot along Passeig Marítim or near the Cathedral.
- Bring water, snacks and a portable charger for your phone.
- Check the EMT website or app for real‑time bus updates.
If You’re Running
- Pick up your bib at the Expo the day before – lines get shorter early in the morning.
- Use the free EMT buses to get to the start if you’re staying outside the city centre.
- Remember the bag‑check area near Parc de la Mar closes at 09:00; plan your gear accordingly.
Conclusion
The TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca 2026 promises a exciting day of sport, music and community spirit. While road closures and bus changes will affect normal traffic, the organizers have provided clear schedules, alternative routes and free transport for participants to keep things running smoothly. Whether you’re pounding the pavement or cheering from the sidelines, a little preparation will help you enjoy the event to the fullest.
Images Credit: mallorcaglobalmag.es