Alcudia holidays

How to reach Alcudia

• Flight time: Flights to Alcudia from Dublin, Cork and other Irish airports arrive at Palma de Mallorca Airport. Flight time to Palma is around 2 hours 30 minutes.

• Transfer time: The A32 direct bus from Palma Airport to Alcudia takes about 1 hour 10 minutes. A taxi gets you there in roughly 40–45 minutes, depending on traffic.

• Price: For the best value, book your A32 bus ticket online for just €8.10; it’s €13.50 if you pay on board. A taxi costs between €75 and €90. Shared shuttle services are also available and typically priced from €15 per person.

Best time to visit Alcudia

Alcudia’s Mediterranean climate makes it a reliable choice for sunshine and sea breezes. The best time to go depends on whether you're after beach days, cultural exploration, or simply avoiding the crowds.

• March to May: This is a top time for those who prefer milder weather and quieter surroundings. Temperatures sit between 15°C and 22°C, with moderate rainfall and plenty of sunny days – perfect for hiking or visiting Alcudia’s old town.

• June to August: These are the hottest and sunniest months, with daily highs of up to 31°C and around 12 hours of sunshine. It’s the busiest time for holidays to Alcudia, so expect a lively buzz, packed beaches, and a full calendar of events.

• September to November: A brilliant time to visit for those wanting warmth without peak-season crowds. The temperature drops gently from 24°C to 18°C, and while there’s a slight rise in rainfall, there are still loads of sunny days for lounging by the sea.

• December to February: These cooler months are perfect for a relaxed escape. With daytime temperatures between 10°C and 15°C and a calm atmosphere, it’s ideal for sightseeing, coastal walks and soaking up the town’s local charm.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish and Catalan are the official languages, but English is widely spoken in Alcudia’s shops, restaurants and hotels.

• Local habits and customs: Many shops observe an afternoon siesta, especially in low season. Dinner starts later than in Ireland – usually around 8 pm.

• Currency: The Euro is used in Majorca. You’ll find ATMs everywhere, and most places accept debit and credit cards.

• Getting around: Alcudia is easy to explore on foot. Public buses are reliable and inexpensive – online tickets cost €1.80, about 40% cheaper than paying on board. Car hire is popular for day trips, and taxis are best booked in advance during busy periods.

• Electricity and plug types: Spain uses Type C and F plugs with a 220V supply. Irish travellers will need a European plug adaptor.

• Time zone: Majorca is on Central European Time, 1 hour ahead of Irish time. Daylight saving is observed in summer.

With its mix of historic charm and family-friendly beaches, Alcudia is a great all-rounder for Irish holidaymakers.

Best things to do in Alcudia

Alcudia holidays offer a wealth of cultural, historical and recreational attractions that make it a popular destination for travellers. Some of the most stunning scenery on the island surrounds the resort, providing nature and outdoor enthusiasts with plenty to do.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Mirador de Sa Creueta: Near the Formentor Peninsula, this viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the coastline and surrounding cliffs.

• Mirador de la Victoria: Perched on a hilltop, this mirador is a great place to watch the sunset and enjoy the beauty of Alcudia Bay and the Serra de Tramuntana mountains.

The best districts

• Alcudia Old Town: Surrounded by well-preserved medieval walls, the charming narrow streets of Alcudia's Old Town are filled with historical buildings, quaint shops and cosy cafés.

• Port d'Alcudia: Just a few kilometres south of Alcudia, this bustling port area is known for its marina, sandy beaches and a wide array of restaurants and bars. If you would rather stay within walking distance of some of the best beaches in Majorca, check out the best offers on cheap holidays to Port d'Alcudia.

Historical monuments

• Roman City of Pollentia: Founded in 123 BC, this ancient city features the ruins of the forum, residential area and theatre, and the entrance ticket also grants access to the nearby Monographic Museum, which houses artefacts from the site.

• Medieval walls: The town's well-preserved walls provide a unique perspective of Alcudia and offer great views of the surrounding area. You can enter through one of the original gates and imagine what life was like during the medieval period.

• Church of St Jaume: Located within the Old Town, this 13th-century Gothic church features beautiful architecture and an interesting museum.

Day trips in the area

While enjoying your holidays in Alcudia, take advantage of the many fascinating day trip options available nearby. Here are some top recommendations:

• S'Albufera Natural Park: Just a short drive from Alcudia, this natural park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The park has well-marked trails and observation points where you can spot a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.

• Cap de Formentor: Cap de Formentor offers dramatic coastal views and rugged cliffs, just a scenic drive from Alcudia. There are panoramic views from the lighthouse at the tip of the peninsula.

• Caves of Drach: Located near Porto Cristo, these impressive caves feature underground lakes and stunning stalactite formations. The highlight of the visit is a classical music concert performed on a boat in one of the largest underground lakes in the world.

• Orient: Nestled in the Tramuntana Mountains, Orient is a charming village perfect for hiking and exploring the stunning natural landscapes. Discover our holidays to Orient for the best deals and experiences in this picturesque location.

• Arta: Known for its historical sites and beautiful architecture, Arta offers a mix of cultural exploration and scenic beauty. Explore its ancient fortress and enjoy the local markets. Check out our holiday packages to Arta to make the most of your visit.

• Puerto de Pollenşa: A coastal gem with a stunning beach and a charming promenade, Puerto de Pollenşa is ideal for a relaxing day by the sea or engaging in water sports. Find the best holiday deals to Puerto de Pollenşa for a perfect beach getaway.

• Sóller: Take the historic train ride from Palma to Sollór and enjoy the scenic journey through the Tramuntana Mountains. Once in Sóller, explore its charming town square, botanical gardens, and the nearby Port de Sóller.

These day trips offer a variety of experiences, from cultural and historical explorations to breathtaking natural landscapes and relaxing beach days, ensuring your Alcudia holiday is both diverse and memorable.

Activities for families in Alcudia

Alcudia is a brilliant destination for family holidays. From beautiful sandy beaches to engaging attractions and activities, there's plenty to keep everyone entertained.

• Water parks: Hidropark Alcudia is a wonderful family day out where visitors can cool down with exciting slides, wave pools and play areas suitable for all ages.

• Alcudia Beach: Shallow waters and soft sands make Alcudia's beautiful beach the ideal spot for children to play and build sandcastles.

• Dolphin spotting: Various boat tours depart from the port of Alcudia in search of these beautiful creatures playing in their natural habitat.

Free things to do in Alcudia

In Alcudia, there are a multitude of free activities to take advantage of, making it extremely easy to visit the area on a budget.

• Free historic sites: The Old Town of Alcudia is full of historic sites, such as the medieval walls, the Church of St Jaume and the nearby Roman ruins of Pollentia, which provide a glimpse into the town's ancient past without any charge.

• Markets: Visit Alcudia Market (Tuesdays and Sundays), where it's free to browse the stalls selling anything from fresh produce to handmade crafts – and potentially pick up some complimentary local culinary samples.

• Annual festivals: If you visit during one of Alcudia's many festivals, take advantage of the free live music and traditional dance performances. The San Jaume Festival in July is one of the highlights.

Nature and outdoor activities in Alcudia

• Hiking and cycling: The nearby Serra de Tramuntana mountains provide excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling. Trails range from easy to challenging, offering stunning views of the island's landscape. Some popular routes include the trail to the Ermita de la Victoria and the paths within the S'Albufera Natural Park.

• Water sports: Alcudia's beaches are perfect for water sports such as windsurfing, paddleboarding and kayaking. Equipment rentals and lessons are available for beginners, making it easy to try something new.

• Boat trips: Boat trips around the Bay of Alcudia explore hidden coves, and some tours include snorkelling or diving opportunities to discover the underwater world.

• Birdwatching: The wetlands and marshes around the S'Albufera Natural Park are home to a variety of bird species, making them a haven for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts.

The Best Beaches in and Around Alcudia

Alcudia, a historic town nestled slightly inland on the stunning island of Majorca, offers easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches on the island. While Alcudia itself is known for its charming old town and rich cultural heritage, a short journey out brings you to the coastal wonders of Majorca.

Public Beaches

• Playa de Alcudia: In Port d'Alcudia, this beach is one of Majorca's longest, with over 7km of golden sand. Its shallow, clear waters are perfect for families, and a lively promenade offers ample dining and shopping.

Beaches with Sunbeds and Facilities

• Playa de Muro: Just beyond Port d'Alcudia, Playa de Muro is renowned for its serene beauty and excellent facilities, including sunbeds, parasols, and a variety of water sports options.

Hidden Gems

• Coll Baix: Accessible only by a challenging hike or by boat, this secluded pebble beach near Alcudia offers stunning cliff views and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect escape from the more crowded beaches.

Beaches for Water Sports

• Port de Pollenşa: A short drive from Alcudia, Port de Pollenşa offers conditions ideal for windsurfing and sailing, with equipment rental and lessons readily available along its sandy shores.

• Can Picafort: Further along the coast from Alcudia, Can Picafort caters to adventure lovers with options for jet skiing, kite surfing, and more, set against a backdrop of lively beach bars and restaurants.

Stunning Views and Serene Waters

• Formentor Beach: The drive to Formentor is as breathtaking as the beach itself, with its turquoise waters and fine sand. This beach is a bit more remote, offering a quieter atmosphere with the same stunning beauty Majorca is known for.

While Alcudia's historical charm captivates many, its proximity to some of Majorca's most beautiful beaches makes it a perfect base for exploring the island's coastal delights. From the bustling shores of Port d'Alcudia to the serene hidden gems like Coll Baix, and the adventurous waters of Can Picafort, there's a beach experience for every type of traveller just moments away.

Local dishes in Alcudia

One of the most enjoyable aspects of a holiday in Alcudia is sampling the diverse local food and drink, which, thanks to the resort's multicultural tourist crowd, combines traditional Majorcan cooking with international cuisine.

Some typical dishes

• Tumbet: An island classic, this delicious vegetable dish is made with layers of fried potatoes, aubergines and red bell peppers, covered in a rich tomato sauce.

• Arroz Brut: Known as dirty rice due to its rich and hearty mix of ingredients, this dish includes rice cooked with various meats and seasonal vegetables, seasoned with saffron and spices.

Tapas dishes

• Pimientos de Padrón: These small green peppers are usually fried and sprinkled with sea salt. Most are mild, but occasionally you might bite into a hot one, adding an element of surprise to your tapas.

• Croquetas: These creamy, breadcrumb-coated snacks come in various flavours such as ham, chicken or seafood, and are a staple in tapas bars across Alcudia.

Meat dishes

• Sobrasada: This is a soft, spreadable pork sausage seasoned with paprika. It's often enjoyed on bread or as a filling in various dishes, offering a distinctive taste of Majorca.

• Lechona Asada: Roast suckling pig, tender and full of flavour, is a festive favourite often served with potatoes and vegetables.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Caldereta de Langosta: This rich lobster stew originates from Menorca but is also enjoyed in Alcudia. It features lobster cooked with tomatoes, onions and a variety of herbs.

• Gambas a la Plancha: Offering a simple yet delicious taste of the sea, grilled prawns are seasoned with garlic and lemon.

Sweets and desserts

• Ensaimada: This iconic Majorcan pastry is spiral-shaped and dusted with powdered sugar. It can be enjoyed plain or filled with cream, chocolate or pumpkin jam.

• Gató: Another must-try, this almond cake is typically served with the local almond ice cream, reflecting the island's abundance of almond trees.

Local drinks

• Vino de la Tierra Mallorca: Local wines, including robust reds, refreshing whites and delicate rosés, are produced in the region and reflect the unique terroir of Majorca.

• Pomada: A refreshing drink made from local gin mixed with lemonade, pomada is perfect for cooling down on a hot day.