Two new cafés with terraces at the departure area of Palma Airport

Two new cafés with terraces at the departure area of Palma Airport

Before departure: coffee, light dishes and a few minutes outdoors

On the departures level of Palma Airport something has changed in recent days: right by the bus and taxi stopping zone two new food and drink outlets have launched. The signs reveal the names: "Costa Coffee" and "Deliquo". Both have outdoor areas — furnished, wind-protected and arranged so that travelers can spend a few minutes in the fresh air before they check their luggage or head to security.

If you pass the departures level on a hot morning with suitcases you know the short moment between arrival at the airport and the start of the usual waiting procedures: the bus rattles, doors close, a taxi honks, and somewhere the smell of espresso drifts through the air. The new cafés are aiming at exactly this time window. The menus offer classic coffee specialties, sandwiches, small hot snacks as well as juices and cold drinks — all to take away or to enjoy relaxed on the terrace.

One feature that stands out: the outdoor areas are marked as smoker-friendly. That means people who want to smoke before their flight now have an option without having to go back inside. For non-smokers the outdoor tables remain attractive: sunbeams, fresh sea air and the steady coming and going on the departures level create a lively atmosphere.

The location directly at the street is practical: travelers who have just stepped off the bus can get a coffee immediately; those arriving by taxi step out and have seating within sight. For last-minute decision-makers such offers are often a lifesaver when breakfast was skipped or ticket chaos has disrupted the schedule. In the first days the tables are already well used — especially by families and older travelers who prefer to make their way to the gate calmly.

For departing passengers who have already passed security there are currently only limited opportunities to get fresh air. Terminal C does offer a small outdoor area, but it is not comparable to the new terraces in front of check-in. Positively, another outdoor area labeled "Terrace" is currently being created in the main terminal; it is located in the distribution hall behind the duty-free area. Construction is underway and a precise opening date is not yet known — but New Signage at Palma Airport: Luggage Drop-Off Made Easier is a visible sign that more attention is being paid to passenger comfort.

From the island's economic perspective such small openings are more than just a comfort offering. They create jobs, generate revenue in an already frequented location and bring a bit of everyday life to a place that is otherwise often just transit. The teams behind the counters can be seen in the first days taking orders, balancing trays and ensuring smooth operations — a small logistics effort that is worth its weight in gold during high passenger volumes. For tips on saving time and finding small conveniences before a flight see Free Finds at Palma Airport: Little Helpers for a Relaxed Arrival.

As a frequent flyer you know these scenes: parents grabbing a sandwich at the last minute, an older couple enjoying one last café con leche, students with backpacks and headphones. These everyday images give the airport hustle a human touch. The terraces add exactly this element — they provide space for a short moment in which the hurry eases a little.

For locals accompanying friends or family the offer is also practical. Instead of standing by the roadside, you can stay for a coffee, make a phone call or soak up a little more Mallorcan sun before heading back to town. Regular airport visitors know: small improvements like these add up.

A few practical notes: the cafés are located before security, directly at the stopping zone. If you want fresh air after that, plan the short walk to the small outdoor area in Terminal C or — in the future — to the new "Terrace" behind the duty-free area. Bags and hand luggage can be sorted there just as easily as your thoughts before a flight.

Overall, the openings leave a positive impression: no major architectural revolution, but a noticeable service to travelers. In Mallorca, where café culture and sitting outdoors are part of the island's identity, this offer fits well. It is a small invitation to pause briefly at the airport, take a breath and start the journey a little more relaxed.

The next few weeks will show how the places perform — at peak times it will get busier, while in quieter hours the terraces are a pleasant stopover. For everyone who will be taking off soon: an espresso, a sandwich and a few minutes on the terrace are now one more option.