Just 2km inland from the coast, Alcudia town is where history meets holiday charm. But before there was Alcudia, there was Pollentia—once the Roman capital of Mallorca.
POLLENTIA: MALLORCA’S ROMAN HERITAGE
Founded around the 1st century BC by Quintus Caecilius Metellus (now there’s a name), Pollentia began as a military camp and blossomed into a thriving Roman city. Today, the partially excavated ruins include a forum, a residential quarter (Sa Portella), and a modest amphitheatre—all just outside Alcudia’s medieval walls. Don’t miss the Museo Monográfico de Pollentia for a closer look at the artefacts dug from centuries of Mallorcan soil.
ALCUDIA OLD TOWN: COBBLES, CHARM, AND A TOUCH OF PAELLA
Established by the Catalans in the 13th century (after booting out the pirates and previous occupants), Alcudia is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll along the medieval walls, admire the gothic Church of St. Jaume, and lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets—ideal for café-hopping, boutique browsing, or simply soaking in the old-world Mediterranean magic.
Top Tip: Visit on market days (Tues & Sun, 8 a.m.–1:30 p.m.) for artisan crafts, boho-chic dresses, olives, ceramics, and a decent excuse to buy yet another beach bag.
EVENING STROLLS AND HARBOUR VIEWS: PORT D’ALCUDIA
Unlike its ancient inland sibling, Port d’Alcudia is the modern face of Mallorca—designed with visitors in mind.
- The Promenade: Perfect for a pre-dinner amble (or a post-wine wobble), the port is lined with friendly restaurants, relaxed cafés, and shops worth a peek.
- Playa d’Alcudia by Night: The beach doesn’t disappear at sundown—take a sunset walk and watch the sky do its best impression of a postcard.
Shop Like a Local at Agromart
Looking to bring a taste of Mallorca home? Just 50 metres from Zafiro Palace Hotel is Agromart, a local food emporium that supports Mallorcan farmers. Stock up on:
- Fresh fruit and veg
- Wines, cheeses, pastries
- Olive oils, artisanal jams, and more
Perfect for souvenirs—or a beach picnic.
BONUS: DAY TRIPS WITHOUT A CAR
Still itching to explore? Hop on a TIB bus or grab a taxi for more nearby treasures:
- Pollensa: A historic old town with artistic flair and a climbable Calvari staircase—just 365 steps to excellent views.
- Port de Pollensa: Peaceful, picturesque, and perfect for a relaxed seafood lunch by the sea.
- Cala Sant Vicenc: Turquoise coves tucked between cliffs—bring your camera and your sense of awe.
- Cap de Formentor: Known as the “Meeting Point of the Winds”, this dramatic headland is the stuff of cycling legends and travel dreams.
Read more about sightseeing in the north of the island.
So go ahead—pack your sun hat. Mallorca is waiting.
