Alcudia
Alcudia is one of the most loved places in Mallorca. It’s located in the north of the island approximately 45 minutes from the airport via a car journey, about 59km/37miles. Alcudia is different from the resorts in the south in that it’s more family orientated and doesn’t have crowds of young party-goers dominating the area at night.
Puerto de Alcudia
The expanse of white sandy beaches and shallow waters is one of the main reasons why people are drawn to this resort, which stretches eastwards out from the port along the beachfront. Most of the hotels are in this area beside the beach running east almost up to the resort of C’an Picafort. From the air or google maps, you can get a good sense of the resort’s layout.
Alcudia Town
The old town of Alcudia is set just inland, about 1.8 km/1.1miles from the port, and definitely worth a visit during your stay. It has many narrow old streets revealing the town’s past, which dates from approximately 1300. It has a 14th-century wall that can be entered through two historic gates. For the more adventurous it’s possible to climb up onto the wall and walk aloft around the town for large sections. There are also remnants of a Roman settlement to the south by the Sant Jaume church.
Where to stay in Alcudia
There are plenty of options in Alcudia town and the port. Would you like to be pampered in a hotel? Do you prefer a self-catering apartment? Or are you on a tight budget? Check out the option here.
Things to do in Alcudia
Most visitors will pass their time enjoying the sun and beaches relaxing. However, there are many more energetic things to do. Aside from watersports on the beach many will enjoy racing go-karts or visiting the aqua park (Hidropark), or even horse riding along the beach, etc.
Nightlife in and around Alcudia is lively and tourists will find a variety of traditional entertainment and nighttime activities, although nothing like the wilder resorts to the south of the island.
Boat trips and ferry crossings
Taking a boat trip to discover the azure coast around the rocky north of Alcudia will be a memorable holiday experience. Various boat trips start from the port, ranging from relaxed half-day outings to larger ferry crossings. Itineraries vary, some will include snorkeling or scuba diving at a secluded cove where the waters are crystal clear.
Ferry crossings depart from the port heading for Menorca or Barcelona. The company Balearia offers a range of different options. The fast ferry reaches Ciutadella, Menorca in 1h 15min while the crossing to Barcelona on the fast ferry takes about 3 and a half hours.
Alcudia old town market
There is a local market set up by the old town walls which make for an atmospheric experience. Apart from national holidays, it’s scheduled every Tuesday and Sunday morning from approximately 9:00 to almost 13:30 whereby many traders will have started to pack up.
It is a typical Mallorcan market offering fresh fruits vegetables and locally produced goods. There is also a wide selection of stalls offering items such as clothes, shoes, leather accessories, souvenirs, kitchen utensils, etc.
Places of interest
Alcudia old town walls & gates
The city walls are archaic although most parts have been renovated and reconstructed. The most recent renovations had to be carried out after a partial collapse of the wall in 2018. The walls encircle most of the town and tourists can walk aloft or alongside.
There are two imposing city gates, which are in good condition and very photogenic. One of these is the Xara or Del Port Gate (also known as Portal de Moll). This has two large square towers with a round-arched portal within. The other gate is the Palma or Sant Sebastia Gate.
Sant Jaume
Sant Jaume or Saint James’ church is an impressive structure worth seeing, especially given its location next to the Roman ruins. Sant Jaume is found to the south of Alcudia town in line with the old town walls.
Roman settlements & Museu Monografico de Pollentia
Museu Monografico de Pollentia is right by the Sant Jaume and is a museum dedicated to the town’s Roman settlements. It has jewelry, statues, and ancient remains on display all of which were discovered in the Roman settlement.
The settlements are found to the south of the town a few meters away from the Sant Jaume church. There are three parts to see which include a small Roman theatre carved out of stone, a residential area, and a forum.
The settlements are called by the old name Pollentia. The settlement had strategic value being between the bays of Alcudia and Pollenca. Along with ancient Palma city, this was one of the major cities in the Balearics.
Alcudia port
The port is well worth a visit, even if just to walk around the port area as it offers some great views of the sea and port. Where the port juts out into the sea, the white sand runs up alongside the port wall forming a crescent-shaped picturesque beach.
Along with the usual bars and cafes around the port, there are raised wheelchair-friendly wooden walkways on both sides of the port giving elevated views of the boats, beach, and surroundings.
S’Albufera natural park
S’Albufera Natural Park is a bird-rich wetland unusually located on a Mediterranean island. It has a visitor’s reception area with a permanent exhibition and lots of observation boards and hides.
The habitats consist generally of wet grazing fields, reed beds, pools with small avenues, or stands of trees and bushes. The park is free and the visiting times are 9-6 pm from April to September and 9-5 pm for the rest of the year. You will need a visitor permit though, this can be obtained free from the reception center open 9-4 pm.
The reserve car park is alongside the main road by the Siurana canal on the Can Picafort side, between Hotel Playa Esperanza and Palace de Muro, along the C712.
Beaches
When in Alcudia, a trip to the beach is an absolute must! There are plenty of options nearby. Each of these offers a unique experience and caters to different preferences, from bustling family-friendly beaches to secluded and serene spots.
Playa de Alcudia
Description and location: Playa de Alcudia, located in the Bay of Alcudia, is one of the longest beaches in Mallorca, stretching over 7 kilometres. It’s a Blue Flag beach, indicating high environmental and quality standards.
Features: The beach is known for its fine white sand and shallow turquoise waters, making it ideal for families with children. There are plenty of facilities including sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and a variety of water sports.
Amenities: Numerous beach bars (chiringuitos), restaurants, and shops are conveniently located along the promenade.
Playa de Muro
Description and location: Located adjacent to Playa de Alcudia, Playa de Muro continues the long stretch of sandy coastline. It is divided into several sections, each with its own unique character.
Features: Like Playa de Alcudia, it boasts clear, shallow waters and fine sand. This beach is perfect for relaxation and family outings.
Amenities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports facilities, and beachside restaurants. The area is also home to the S’Albufera Natural Park, offering a beautiful backdrop. More information about Playa de Muro.
Playa de Sant Joan
Description and location: A smaller, more secluded beach located in the Bay of Pollenca. It is around 2.5 km from Alcudia town and 4 km from Puerto de Alcudia.
Features: This beach is known for its natural beauty, with golden sand and clear waters surrounded by rocky cliffs. It’s less crowded, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
Amenities: While not as heavily serviced as the larger beaches, there are basic facilities and a small beach bar. It’s a great spot for snorkelling.
Playa de Sant Pere
Description and location: Located in the residential area of Mal Pas-Bonaire, this beach is around 2.5 km from Alcudia town and 3.5 km from Puerto de Alcudia.
Features: The beach is characterised by soft sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. It is more tranquil compared to the larger beaches.
Amenities: Basic amenities are available, including sunbeds and a nearby beach bar. The setting is more relaxed and less developed.
Playa de Alcanada
Description and location: Situated to the east of Alcudia, near the Alcanada Golf Club. The beach is about 5km from Alcudia town and 4.5 km from Puerto de Alcudia.
Features: This pebbly beach is known for its scenic views, including the small island of Alcanada with its picturesque lighthouse. The water is calm and shallow, suitable for swimming.
Amenities: Limited facilities, but there is a restaurant nearby. It’s popular among locals and offers a more natural and quiet environment.
Coll Baix
Description and location: A hidden gem at the most northerly tip of Alcudia Bay, accessible by a challenging hike or boat.
Features: This remote beach features dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a pebbly shore. It’s ideal for those seeking adventure and solitude.
Amenities: No facilities are available, so it’s essential to bring your own provisions. The effort to reach it is rewarded with stunning natural beauty and tranquillity.
Getting to Alcudia
For information on how to get to Alcudia from Palma Airport, please see our pages Taxi Transfer to Alcudia, Car Hire at Mallorca Airport, and Bus Service in Mallorca.