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.
Culture and Sightseeing
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.
Puerto Pollensa
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.
Alcudia
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.
Weather
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.
Beaches
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.
Food and Drink
Both Alcudia and Puerto Pollensa offer a wide variety of incredible Spanish cuisine and cosy bars to enjoy your evenings in.
Alcudia
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
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.
Nightlife
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.
Best For…
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.
Summary
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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FAQs
Is Port de Pollenca worth visiting? ›
The village of Pollensa (Pollenca) is a short 5 minute drive from the Puerto and well worth a visit. The centre is traditionally around the quaint market square and church. There are a variety of Restaurants and Cafes around the square and streets.
Is Alcudia a party resort? ›Not just a resort for fun on the beach and tapas food, Alcudia also thrills when the sun sets, and the drinks start to flow. Even though Magaluf is often touted as party central on the island, Alcudia nightlife also has much to offer with an assortment of bars and clubs for any occasion or preference.
How far is Alcudia old town from Puerto Pollensa? ›The distance between Puerto de Pollensa and Alcúdia is 6 km.
Which is nicer Pollensa or Alcudia? ›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.
What is the prettiest place in Majorca? ›Fornalutx. If you stay by the coast you'll never see it, but Fornalutx is regarded by many as the most beautiful village on Mallorca, and one of the most stunning in Spain. You'll find it deep in the Sierra de Tramuntana, with winding streets, narrow stone steps, and flowers and greenery everywhere.
What is Alcudia known for? ›The medieval town of Alcúdia is the island's largest tourist hub in the north. Located on a peninsula that separates the bays of Pollença and Alcúdia, it boasts a beautiful medieval centre as well as an authentic local atmosphere which draws in tourists all year round.
What part of Majorca is best for nightlife? ›The southwest of Mallorca is the most populated area of the island, due to its proximity to Palma, making it the epicentre of the island nightlife. Magaluf is infamous for its streets lined with bars and clubs geared up for those looking to party through all hours of the day and night between April and October.
What is the liveliest resort in Majorca? ›Best for good nightlife
Majorca's most famous resort has to be Magaluf – one of the best party destinations in Europe and the place to head if you're looking to let loose on holiday. Packed with buzzing bars, pumping nightclubs, and some seriously epic all-night beach parties, a relaxing spot in the sun Magaluf is not.
Is Puerto Pollensa lively? Whilst Puerto Pollensa is certainly a resort town that has a lot going for it, it is not as lively in terms of nightlife as some of the other famous towns in Mallorca. However, there's still a fair bit happening in the town throughout the year, and very few would describe it as 'quiet'.
Is it worth going to Port de Soller? ›Yes, Port de Soller is worth visiting. It offers a perfect combination of seaside beauty and historical heritage. It has a pristine, almost enclosed bay surrounded by the tall mountains of Tramuntana. A 100+ year old historical tram also runs across the town connecting it to Soller.
Can you walk from Puerto Pollensa to Pollensa Old town? ›
Walking from Port de Pollensa to Pollensa:
This is a pleasant stroll for holidaymakers and hikers alike, and you can do it all year around. The path forms part if the dry stone route GR221 which enables to connect the port all the way to the Town of Pollensa itself in around an hour and a half.
The beach of Puerto de Pollensa is of fine white sand and its access to the sea is with a gentle slope. It is well sheltered from the waves and is ideal for families with children. The beach has all the services; showers, toilets, lifeguards, beach activities and water activities, etc.