This calm Mallorcan town captivates with its maze-like old quarter, Moorish-inspired main square, and pristine beaches. Nearby, ancient Pollentia ruins await exploration.
Alcúdia, a town on Mallorca's northern coast, invites you to explore its rich past and coastal beauty. Walk along 13th-century walls, discover Roman ruins at Pollentia, or sunbathe on golden beaches. Experience local culture at the twice-weekly markets and summer festivals. Nearby, S'Albufera Natural Park and the Tramuntana mountains await your visit.
Walking Alcúdia's Medieval Walls
Enter Alcúdia's Old Town through the historic Porta del Moll (also known as Puerta de Xara) or Porta de Mallorca. Climb the steps to the top of the 13th-century walls for views over the town's red-tiled roofs and surrounding countryside. Inside, narrow cobblestone streets lead you past centuries-old buildings now housing shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Exploring Roman Ruins at Pollentia
Just outside the Old Town, you'll find the ruins of Pollentia, one of the largest Roman sites in the Balearic Islands. Walk among the remains of ancient houses, a forum, and a small theater dating back to the 1st century BC. Visit the nearby Monographic Museum of Pollentia to see artifacts found at the site, including statues, jewelry, and everyday objects from Roman life on Mallorca.
Relaxing on Alcúdia's Beaches
The beaches of Port d'Alcúdia and Playa de Muro form a 14-kilometer stretch of golden sand along the bay. The calm, shallow water is safe for children to swim. For more active pursuits, rent equipment for windsurfing, kayaking, or paddleboarding from the water sports facilities along the beach.
Browsing Alcúdia's Local Markets
On Tuesday and Sunday mornings from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM, the streets within Alcúdia's old town walls fill with market stalls. Browse fresh local produce, handmade crafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Try local foods like sobrassada (a cured sausage) and ensaimada (a sweet pastry) at the market.
Joining Alcúdia's Festival Celebrations
Visit in early July to experience the Festival of Sant Jaume, Alcúdia's main summer event. For nine days, the town hosts parades, concerts, and traditional activities. Watch the "Night of the Romans," where locals dress in ancient Roman costumes and act out scenes from the town's history. Alcúdia also hosts a jazz festival in late summer and various sporting events throughout the year.
Visiting Nearby Natural Parks
Take a short trip to S'Albufera Natural Park, a wetland area south of Alcúdia. This protected zone is home to over 200 bird species. Explore the park on foot or by bike using the network of trails and boardwalks. For a change of scenery, head to the Tramuntana mountains where hiking trails provide views of the coast and inland Mallorca.
Tasting Local Mallorcan Cuisine
Try traditional Mallorcan dishes and international cuisine in Alcúdia's restaurants. Sample local specialties like tumbet (a vegetable casserole), arròs brut (rice with meat and vegetables), and fresh seafood caught in the bay. Many restaurants in the Old Town have outdoor seating in small squares, while those near the port provide views of the boats in the marina.
Reaching Alcúdia
Alcúdia is about 60 kilometers from Palma de Mallorca Airport. Drive there in about 45 minutes via the MA-13 highway. For public transportation, take bus number 1 from the airport to Palma's central bus station, then catch the 351 bus to Alcúdia. The total journey time by bus is around 1.5 to 2 hours.
