Porto Cristo travel information and video

Porto Cristo

Situated in the district of Manacor, to the east of the Balearic Island of Mallorca, you find the pretty Spanish fishing village of Porto Cristo. A quiet resort, Porto Cristo, suits holiday-makers looking for a relaxed and traditional holiday destination.

The town is not reliant on tourism as an industry and therefore you can enjoy a typically Spanish environment, no Brit bars here, just good old Spanish cuisine and seafood.

History
The name Porto Cristo is said to derive from ‘The Port of Christ’. There are a few myths or legends behind the name; one states that back in 1260AD, during the Christian invasion of Mallorca, yes there was one, a small fishing boat was found washed ashore with a Crucifix inside. Another legend has it that an Ox carrying an icon of God came trotting through the town. Once it arrived it stopped and refused to move. The locals saw this as a sign that it was a place that Christ wanted to be, and the name Porto Cristo, or Port of Christ was born.

No one is really quite sure about the real origin of the name, but we do know that the area dates back many centuries.

About town
Porto Cristo is not a purpose-built tourist destination, it is a traditional fishing village. Fishing boats bob on the wave in the natural harbour, one of the largest on the east coast, that shelters them from bad weather. At the other end of the scale the Porto Cristo Nautica Marina offers shelter to pleasure boats and luxury yachts. 

The town of Porto Cristo is charming and tranquil. A pleasant stroll through town will take you to some delightful bars and restaurants. Along the seafront there are some especially nice restaurants, with sublime views to the Mediterranean.  

Don’t expect a buzzing nightlife in Porto Cristo, the evenings are laid-back; about food and a few beers or glasses of wine. For a more livelier evening out you can head to Cala Millor, which is a short taxi ride away.

There are a few supermarkets, and basic amenities. The neighbouring town of Manacor, is a principal municipal; home to Mallorca’s famous pearl industry. Here you will find all the amenities and facilities you need on your holiday.

Beaches
There is an attractive and clean beach, which shelves down to the crystal clear waters, typical of the Mediterranean in the Balearic Islands. 

All along the coastline there are typical ‘calas’ of Mallorca. Secluded bays, and stretches of white sand and azure blue seas. 

Places to visit
Nearby Manacor is rich in cultural heritage and the centre of the pearl industry. It’s definitely worth a visit. 

One of the biggest attractions for tourists to Mallorca are the Caves of Drac and Hams, which are situated close to Porto Cristo. Sometimes the little town can get busy with tourist coaches, packed with visitors to the caves. 

Climate
Porto Cristo enjoys a typical Mediterranean weather, with mild winters and hot summers. During the months of July and August, the weather is hot and beautifully sunny, boasting around 11 hours of sun daily.

During the winter, the weather can get chilly, but is generally you can enjoy fine, mild weather on most days.