Location & Transportation
The cruise dock in Alcúdia is conveniently located right next to the leisure marina. I love that it’s just a short stroll to the charming old town and a beautiful sandy beach. Once you step off your ship, you can easily walk to explore the town’s narrow streets or grab a quick taxi if you’re in a rush. Buses also connect Alcúdia with other parts of Mallorca, making it simple to venture further if you have more time.
Sightseeing
Having strolled through Alcúdia many times, I can say the town is steeped in history and beauty. Here are a few highlights not to miss:
- The Old Medieval Town – Wander along the restored, pedestrian-friendly streets surrounded by ancient walls. It’s fascinating to walk along the sentry path that once guarded the town.
- Roman Heritage – Enjoy the historical significance of the bay where the Romans landed in 123 BC, and check out the impressive ruins of a Roman theatre discovered in 1923.
- The Beach – Just a 10-minute walk from the dock, the long, sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or a relaxing dip in the sea.
Tours & Excursions
Alcúdia is a haven for those who appreciate outdoor activities and cultural adventures. There are plenty of options if you want an organized excursion or prefer exploring on your own:
- Walking Tours: Stroll around the medieval walls and through the old town while discovering stories of ancient battles and local legends.
- Sports & Leisure: Enjoy cycling along dedicated paths, hiking trails, or a round of golf at the nearby course.
- Day Trips: Organized tours are available to explore further afield. Popular destinations include:
- The stunning Gorge of La Calobra
- The charming village of Soller and its famous wooden train
- The scenic coastal area of Puerto Soller
- The peaceful Monastery of Lluc
- A visit to the vibrant city of Palma
- Caves of Drach: Many visitors also make time to explore the remarkable caves of Drach, a must-see natural wonder in Mallorca.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
If you're looking to pick up some local souvenirs or simply enjoy a bit of retail therapy, head to Carrer Pollentia. This is the main shopping street in Alcúdia where you’ll find a mix of charming boutiques and local artisan shops. Shops typically open:
- Weekdays: 09:30–13:30 and 17:00–20:00
- Saturdays: 09:00–13:30
I enjoy a leisurely browse here, finding everything from local crafts to fresh produce that perfectly capture the Mallorcan vibe.
Dining
Alcúdia offers a delightful selection of dining options that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Mallorca. After a morning of sightseeing, settle into a local café or restaurant to enjoy:
- Fresh seafood dishes and traditional tapas
- Mallorcan specialties like sobrassada and ensaimadas
- Relaxed outdoor cafés where you can sip on a glass of local wine
I always recommend trying a mix of both traditional and modern flavors to experience the full spectrum of local cuisine.
Culture & Local Events
Alcúdia isn’t just a feast for the eyes––it’s a place where tradition meets relaxed Mediterranean living. Here’s what you can expect culturally when visiting:
- Local Language & Communication: Spanish and Catalan are widely spoken. In areas frequented by tourists, you'll often find English spoken as well.
- Shopping & Business Hours:
- Weekdays: Shops generally open from 09:30 to 13:30 and again from 17:00 to 20:00.
- Saturdays: Shops open from 09:00 to 13:30.
- Currency & Payments: The currency here is the Euro (EUR). While credit cards are accepted in many places, I suggest carrying some cash for smaller vendors and local markets.
- Festivals & Events: Depending on the season, you might catch local festivals celebrating traditional Mallorcan culture, arts, and food. These events provide a great chance to mix with locals and learn about the island’s heritage.
- Safety & Tips: As always, keep an eye on your belongings in busy tourist spots and enjoy a leisurely pace while exploring the town.