Alcúdia Travel Guide: 5 Fun Things To Do in Alcúdia
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If you are looking for one of the most pretty cities in Mallorca, the answer would definitely be Alcúdia. This city in the north of Mallorca is where you will find picturesque streets, cute local stores, good cafes and restaurants in the most beautiful spots, (evening) markets and the old town gives the city a historic view. I have compiled all of my personal tips into this Alcúdia travel guide.
Alcúdia is located on the north side of the island and has a very central location. It is close to authentic villages, pretty harbors, viewpoints such as Cap de Formentor and the main road will bring you to cities like Inca and the capital Palma de Mallorca. The wide beach in Alcúdia is known to be one of the best ones on the island. It does not matter if you are looking for a day of shopping, a culinair experience, ready to stroll down the markets or relaxing on the beach – Alcúdia has it all.
How to visit Alcúdia
Are you staying outside of the city? Don’t worry, because Alcúdia is easy to reach by car and public transport. It depends on where you are, but Alcúdia has enough parking space around the city to walk into the city from.
We were staying at the north side of the island, in Can Picafort to be exact, and took the bus to Alcúdia. Super easy because you can simply scan your bank card to “check in” and do it again when you check out and the money will be withdrawn from your bank account. It is actually way cheaper to pay by card like this than to buy a seperate bus ticket.
Alcúdia is also the perfect place to start your Mallorca west coast road trip that will take you through the mountains, along viewpoints and into stunning mountain villages.
Alcúdia travel guide: things to do
Visit the markets
The best way to get to know the authentic side of a destination, meeting local people and perhaps even trying local food, is by visiting a market. Not only is it one of my personal favorite things, it’s something I have done ever since I was little. The Spanish markets especially have an amazing vibe to them. People are playing music, singing along and the narrow streets in Alcúdia make it echo through the entire area.
Alcúdia has a day market on Tuesday and Sunday in the old town of the city. It is a huge market, a bit chaotic but that’s something I love to be honest and you can find everything from clothing, food, daily essentials and so much more. As it is located in the old town, you’re being treated to a pretty view of the historic old wall and buildings.
From June until September you can find an evening market on Wednesday through Saturday in the Alcúdia harbor. We were a little bit early in the season so the market wasn’t there at the time. Evening markets are especially fun because the evening gives it an entirely different vibe. It is a nice way to end the day and maybe dive into a bar or restaurant afterwards.
See Alcúdia old town
Alcúdia in general is a city with a lot of historic feeling to it, old buildings and picturesque streets that take you back in time. However, the old town is something to definitely write down on your list of things to do in Alcúdia.
As I said, the Tuesday and Thursday markets are held in the old town area. You cannot miss it, because the old wall will catch your eye. It goes around part of the city and is a pretty sight to see. It is called “St Sebastian’s Gate” and is located on the west side of the city and you have “Medieval Wall of Alcúdia” which is located a little bit more north compared to the St Sebastian’s gate. Both look different and are a must see!
If you walk towards Arxiu Històric (type this in Google Maps) you’re going to find lovely street architecture and ornaments outside of the buildings. On the other side of the city, the east side, you will find Porda del Moll which is a stone gate with 2 crenelated towers that was originally part of the 14th century city walls.
Visit Ruines Romanes de Pollentia
There is an incredible sight just on the outside of the city. If you are a lover of historic aspects and ruins – this is definitely a place you cannot skip if you visit Alcúdia.
On the west side, outside of the city walls, there is a spot with incredible ruins. This place is called Ruines Romanes de Pollentia. It is an active archaeological site with ruins of a Roman forum, theater and residential area dating back to ca. 100 BC. As it is an active site, the discoveries will continue on in the future. It also means that this place is very vulnerable and should be treated with the utmost care. Every destination and place deserves this, but an archeological site needs it even more.
The excavations continue every July and August, because these months are most favorable due to better conditions and archeological students from overseas will fly in to assist.
This site is an old village and there are three areas you can visit: La Portella, The Forum and The Roman Theater. La Portella was the residence area and the ruins show three houses, The Forum is the main area where buildings for religion, administration and commerce used to be. The archeologists are currently focussing on this area and they have discovered two temples and are working on a third one. The Roman Theater is thought to have held sporting events and had a capacity for 2000 people.
The entrance fee is around €3,-. If you decide to do a guided walking tour in Alcúdia, this site might be included in the tour and you are most likely receiving a discount so the ticket would only be €2,-.
Do a (guided) walking tour
If you want to experience the city like a true local and not miss any of the hidden gems, a walking tour is the best way to do so. You are able to see so much more detail, meet locals and discover new streets if you simply walk around without a map. This is when you will find the true treasures away from the crowds.
A free walking tour is great if you are on a budget or simply would like to walk around at your own pace. There are multiple free walking tours online, longer ones as well as shorter ones. It also gives you the option to only do half of the tour if that’s what you want.
A guided walking tour costs money and it isn’t always possible to end the tour earlier. However, this is a great opportunity to see the true local side and experience the culture. The guide is a local, knows the best stories and places to visit. Chances are high you’re going to end up in an amazing local cafe or restaurant to enjoy a coffee or some food. Trust the locals and guides to show you the hidden gems!
Read more: 6 Tips On How To Travel More Meaningful
Explore the beaches
Alcudia itself is not located on the beach or near one. Alcúdia Port is actually below the city itself and this is also where you will find the night market I mentioned earlier. Go here if you want to enjoy the gorgeous beach and stroll on the boulevard to visit local shops and restaurants. Alcúdia beach is one of the prettiest beaches on the island.
Ready to go a little bit further away? On the north of Alcúdia, at the top of this region, you will find a hidden beach called Platja des Coll Baix. It gives you the same vibes as the east coast of Mallorca. This place is a small beach, surrounded by cliffs and because you need to climb down, also a pretty quiet beach. So if you are willing to go on an adventure and explore a beach that’s more of a secret – definitely go to this place.
I love those cute little streets with stunning houses in pretty colors and just typical Spanish vibes! Craving some Spain travels right now. 🙂