Deciding between Puerto Pollensa or Alcudia is not an easy decision to make. Both are popular Spanish destinations on the island of Mallorca, each with its own highlights for tourists to try and pick between.
On one hand, you have Alcudia, with its colourful buildings, family attractions, bustling town and streets surrounded by historic 14th-century walls. On the other hand, there is Puerto Pollensa, where you will find incredible coastal views, great food and drink, stunning mountain backdrops and an all-around relaxed and authentic atmosphere.
Both of these stunning locations sit on the northern side of Mallorca, Spain. With great year-round climates and stunning views, you will find the perfect relaxing getaway when visiting either of these beautiful holiday destinations. And with only a 17-minute drive between Puerto Pollensa and Alcudia (about 6.7 miles), you also have the option to pay a visit to both whilst you’re staying on this popular Balearic Island.
However, if you have stumbled across this post you are probably looking for something to set Alcudia and Puerto Pollensa apart, so you can make a decision on which to visit. To assist with this process we’ve compared the two in terms of culture and sightseeing, weather, beaches, nightlife, food and drink and most popular attractions, to help you draw up a list of highlights from each.
When it comes to comparing the expenses of traveling in Pollensa and Alcudia, there are a few factors to consider. In terms of overall travel costs, there is little difference between the two. However, when it comes to specific aspects such as accommodation and certain amenities, there may be variations.
In Pollensa, accommodation prices tend to be higher compared to those in Alcudia (we have detailed options below). If you’re looking for a place to stay in Malloca, you can expect to pay a bit more for typical lodging options in Pollensa. This is particularly true if you’re seeking a more luxurious travel experience, as higher-end accommodations in Pollensa can significantly impact your expenses.
On the other hand, when considering other travel expenses such as transportation and dining, both Pollensa and Alcudia offer relatively similar pricing. You can generally expect these aspects to be more affordable in both locations.
When it comes to finding a place to stay in Puerto Pollensa, you’ll discover a wide range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveller or seeking a luxurious experience, here are some recommendations:
With its diverse range of accommodation options, Alcudia caters to travelers with different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly guesthouse, a cozy apartment, a family-friendly resort, a stylish boutique hotel, or a luxurious villa, you can find the perfect place to stay in Alcudia. Here are some top recommendations:
Alcudia and Puerto Pollensa are both stunning towns, offering plenty in terms of culture and sightseeing. If you are looking to immerse yourself in the rich history of these northern Mallorca towns, then you certainly won’t be disappointed when visiting either.
Take a stroll in the sunshine when staying in Puerto Pollensa, which offers the perfect mix of sea, stunning coastline, rugged cliff edges and impressive mountains. Situated in a horseshoe bay, you can wander through the streets with the Serra de Tramuntana mountains towering above in the background, or sit out on a patio or terrace and enjoy all the amenities that the town has to offer.
A sightseeing highlight is the ancient Roman Bridge in Puerto Pollensa. This structure was once the only safe way to cross the Torrente de Sant Jordi during high water, until the nineteenth century when the town began to develop further.
The 18th century Mare de Deu dels Angels church in Puerto Pollensa is another way to discover the history that this beautiful town has to offer. Here you can marvel at the stunning architecture and enjoy the peace and quiet found inside this 13th-century building.
If you are looking to observe the stunning views that Puerto Pollensa has, there is no better way to do this than spending the day at Strand Port de Pollença. The seaside promenade will present you with views over the sandy white beach and crystal clear waters and back towards the nearby mountains.
There are fewer boat tours leaving Port de Pollença. But a great option is this 2 or 4-hour boat excursion on the Bay of Pollença, which includes El Caló cove, Formentor beach, Cala Murta and Cala en Gossalba. And the small boat tour also includes drinks and snacks for only £30.
Alcudia offers many sightseeing options for all travellers. Being a slightly busier town than Puerto Pollensa, you will find plenty to do to keep everyone entertained and won’t be disappointed with what is on offer when visiting.
Take a look around Alcudia’s Old Town where you will find charming streets, cafes and restaurants all situated within the town’s medieval walls.
If you want to be taken back in time, a visit to the Roman ruins won’t disappoint. The Roman City, Pollentia was the first town founded by the Romans on this island, and being able to explore and see this further will provide a great insight into the history surrounding Alcudia.
To indulge in the rich culture that Alcudia has to offer, take a trip to Alcudia market which is on every Tuesday and Sunday 8 am – 1.30 pm. Enjoy browsing a range of local products such as gifts, clothing as well as traditional Spanish cuisine.
Other great gastronomy activity is combining a wine and cheese tasting with a horseback riding excursion, that takes you through the forests of the Puig de sant Martí in Alcudia, where you will meet local farmers and taste the best of the products they make. This excursion is suitable for beginners, children, or more experienced riders.
There are many boat tours sailing off from Alcudia to explore Mallorca east coast. For example, you can go snorkelling on Llevant’s Natural Park, where you can swim in crystal clear water near caves. Other option is taking a boat trip to Formentor Beach, along with a small group of people, which stops at some of the most beautiful beaches and sceneries of the area.
Both Alcudia and Puerto Pollensa are situated in Northern Spain, so the climates are pretty similar for both locations.
Alcudia and Puerto Pollensa both have a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and relatively mild winters. However, Alcudia’s climate can be strongly influenced by its position right next to the Mediterranean sea, which can make the temperatures here slightly cooler than that of Puerto Pollensa.
In the summer, the average high temperature in each location is around 30°C, whilst in the winter months, this only rises to about 15°C. You’ll get more of a breeze whilst visiting Alcudia because it’s on the coast, which can make this the better choice if you’re staying right in the middle of summer.
When visiting the Balearic islands, you’ll probably want to spend at least a day or two relaxing in the sun on one of the many white sandy beaches. Alcudia and Puerto Pollensa share many of the same beaches because they are close together, so when visiting either of these stunning locations, you can access most of the beaches from either location.
Alcudia Beach is known as being one of the most popular attractions in the north of Mallorca. Being over 21 miles long, there is more than enough beach to explore and enough space for plenty of holidaymakers to enjoy this special place.
One of the best beaches you can visit when in Puerto Pollensa is the main beach known as Port de Pollensa beach. With its pleasant water temperatures, Mediterranean scenery and stunning sandy beach, you can spend the whole day here enjoying the ultimate beach holiday experience.
Other brilliant beaches that can be accessed from both Alcudia and Puerto Pollensa include Cala de Formentor and Cala Sant Vicenc. Both of these are smaller and a little less commercialised but offer more privacy and fewer crowds than both of the town’s main beaches.
Both Alcudia and Puerto Pollensa offer a wide variety of incredible Spanish cuisine and cosy bars to enjoy your evenings in.
When visiting Alcudia and wandering the streets, you’ll come across plenty of aromatic smells of Spanish cuisine wafting from the local restaurants.
The restaurant Jardin is a particular favourite when in Alcudia, offering a traditional Mediterranean menu alongside fresh cooking and their very own signature dishes. If you are looking to truly immerse yourself in Spanish culture when dining out in Alcudia, this is one of the best places to visit.
When searching for family-friendly restaurants in Alcudia, you will be more than impressed when visiting Black & White, located in BelleVue Club Hotel. With an all-around family atmosphere and menu, you can enjoy both delicious and affordable food here. With shows on at Black & White, you can dine with a cocktail in hand, all whilst being entertained.
Puerto Pollensa is well known for being the holy grail of holiday destinations for hikers, cyclists and food lovers. So, when searching for great Spanish cuisine, the restaurants in this town certainly won’t disappoint!
Portofino restaurant in Puerto Pollensa is an incredibly popular spot for any Italian food lovers out there. Mixing Italian cuisine with Spanish influences, you will find this stunning little restaurant with an arched doorway and cosy outdoor courtyard in between Carrer Do Joan road and nestled away nicely in the Carrer de Sant Pere alleyway.
If you were hoping for a rustic place to kick back and unwind after a day of adventuring in Puerto Pollensa, then visit Can Ferra and you can do just that. Situated in the narrow alleyway of Carrer San Perp, this stunning spot is just set back from the main promenade, so you can sit out in the alleyway and browse over their mouth-watering menus without being too disturbed by other tourists.
If you are looking to venture out and party after dark, both Alcudia and Puerto Pollensa have something to offer for those looking for nightlife whilst on holiday.
Neither Alcudia nor Puerto Pollensa are well-known for being party destinations, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have a great night out when visiting either. With a variety of bars, lounges and restaurants to choose from, you can make your night out in either of these Spanish towns one to remember.
Alcudia still has plenty on offer for those looking for nightlife whilst visiting this stunning town. With areas such as Bananas Disco Complex and The Marina Area, you can find great venues to party whilst in Alcudia. They both provide a lively atmosphere, great cocktails and live DJs to help you dance all through the night.
Puerto Pollensa is slightly quieter in terms of nightlife, although still offers a great social atmosphere for an evening out. There is a small nightclub in Puerto Pollensa, known as Chivas located just off the main square, where you can party to the vibrant music and enjoy a few drinks.
Alternatively, when visiting either Alcudia or Puerto Pollensa you can hop on a bus to Palma or Magaluf, which takes about an hour. Palma and Magaluf are notorious for their great nightlife, with lively bars and nightclubs, you will be able to venture out for the perfect late-night party whilst in Mallorca.
Alcudia is considered to be a favourite location for those visiting Mallorca with families, thanks to its miles of soft sandy beaches that are great for groups with children that want to spend most of their days enjoying the coast.
It’s also a better spot for history lovers, thanks to the breathtaking historic old town and traditional Spanish architecture.
Alcudia offers more lively nightlife than Puerto Pollensa, so if you are looking for a few more clubs or somewhere to be entertained during the evenings, then Alcudia is the place for you. If you are looking for more of a secluded romantic atmosphere, then Puerto Pollensa will give you just that.
Puerto Pollensa still has an old-school glamour feel, with its typically Spanish old-fashioned flair, making it one of the most stunning destinations within northern Spain. If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere that feels less like it’s specifically catered to tourists, then this destination is the best choice.
Both Alcudia and Puerto Pollensa have so many great things to offer for couples and families alike. Whether you are looking to soak up the culture, sightsee, or relax on the soft sandy beaches, you can find it all at either of these stunning locations.
When comparing Puerto Pollensa against Alcudia, it seems to be that the latter offers more for those seeking out a family getaway with plenty to do and see. The former offers a more relaxed, romantic break for those hoping to soak up the culture and authenticity of Puerto Pollensa.
Whatever your choice, you will be completely taken aback by both of these stunning locations and all that they have to offer. Sit back in the Mediterranean sun and enjoy all the sights and history of these two very popular holiday destinations.
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