My first ever journey overseas, the one beginning this lifelong love affair with journey, was to Mallorca – and with so many improbable issues to do in Mallorca with children, the one shock is that I haven’t been again with my daughter prior to now.
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I nonetheless bear in mind the seashore and the thrill of consuming chocolate milk, apparently the world’s greatest deal with to a small woman. However I even have vivid reminiscences of exploring a few of the island’s caves, the superb buildings within the capital Palma (and the palm timber dotted round them) and having fun with the sunshine.
4 many years on and Mallorca (or Majorca in case you choose) has as a lot to tempt a teen as youthful children, with some fascinating historical past, a number of child-friendly points of interest, extra lovely seashores than you may shake a bucket at and some quirky choices as effectively. Right here’s my decide of the 16 greatest issues to do in Mallorca with children to show it.
Hit the seashore
Mallorca isn’t a tiny island – it’s round 10 occasions the scale of the Isle of Wight, virtually half the scale of Cyprus – so that you’re spoiled for alternative in relation to seashores.
In complete, there are greater than 260 dotted round, from tiny secluded coves to lengthy sweeping stretches of golden sand, so that you’ll by no means be too removed from the seaside. However listed below are a couple of of one of the best seashores in Mallorca for households.
Playa de Alcudia
There’s 10km of sand stretching from Can Picafort to Port d’Alcudia, with Playa de Alcudia within the center – the largest seashore in all of the Balearic Islands.
It does get very busy, and getting there early is an effective plan, however you’ve obtained shallow water for little ones, plus loads of services (from seashore eating places to sunbeds, umbrellas, parking, bathrooms, showers, and watersports). The northern finish tends to be a bit of quieter, with extra of the services on the south in case you’ve obtained older children.
Port de Pollenca close by is one other good possibility, with a much bigger seashore by the promenade and one other smaller cove to discover
Playa de Muro
This Blue Flag magnificence close to Can Picafort persistently tops the lists of Mallorca’s greatest household seashores, and for good purpose. Shallow, clear turquoise waters with tender, fantastic pale sand make it excellent whether or not you fancy a swim or need to construct a couple of sandcastles.
You’ll discover loungers and parasols, plus child-friendly locations to eat right here as effectively, and there are watersports to attempt too. Ticks all of the containers for households.
Es Trenc
One other of Mallorca’s lengthy seashores, Es Trenc stretches for 7km within the south of the island and it’s additionally one of many few massive seashores which has stayed extra unspoiled. There are bathrooms, lounger rent and locations to get meals/drinks close by so it’s not utterly off the crushed observe, however extra peaceable than a few of the busier seashores.
There may be parking (for a charge) and a few shallow water to take pleasure in as effectively. It’s price figuring out that the world is well-liked with nudists, though the primary stretch of seashore is clothed.
Cala Mondragó
This Blue Flag seashore within the south-east of the island is tucked away within the Mondragó Pure Park, with two beautiful sandy seashores surrounded by pine forests. The waters of the protected cove are superbly calm for youths to swim and it tends to be quieter than the resort seashores, particularly in case you’re visiting in peak season.
When you’ve had sufficient of the seashore, it’s simple to take a look at a few of the strolling trails close by as effectively in case you fancy one other style of Mallorca’s surroundings.
Canyamel Seaside
In Mallorca’s east, this seashore additionally stretches for over a mile and there are some good corners for snorkelling within the clear waters. There are some services too, together with bathrooms and showers, plus a lifeguard in peak season and parking.
You may rent loungers, there are some eating places close by and watersports right here as effectively – plus a small play space for youthful children.
Take a ship journey
With a lot coast to discover, you shouldn’t miss the prospect for a minimum of one boat journey, whether or not you’re searching for a fast journey out to sea, pirate-themed escapes, dolphin-spotting, snorkelling or a full-day journey
Alcudia Pirate Cave & Parc Pure
My high decide in case you’re staying round Alcudia or Port d’Alcudia, this three-hour boat tour took us throughout the bay to the pure park, into pirate caves with astonishing blue water, then to a quiet bay for some snorkelling. E-book tickets with free cancellation right here.
Robinson Pirate Boat, Port de Pollensa
What’s higher than a ship journey? A pirate boat journey, clearly. And this longer journey has lunch included, as you set off from Puerto Pollensa on a five-hour journey which stops for swimming, snorkelling and stand-up paddleboarding, plus lunch aboard the wood boat.
Palma Bay crusing journey
Should you’re staying in Palma, you needn’t head half-way throughout the island to search out a terrific boat journey, with SeaBarcelona journeys departing from the capital.
There’s a stunning sundown possibility in case you’ve obtained older children, but in addition a noon departure in case you’re trying to get out on the water throughout the daytime. Add in an open bar, snacks, snorkelling and SUP, plus it’s a small boat so there gained’t be large crowds aboard.
Catamaran tour
Should you choose a much bigger boat to a smaller one, there are some a lot bigger catamarans to take you out on longer cruises, with five-hour journeys from Palma and Port d’Alcudia.
The Palma catamaran tour features a morning or afternoon departure, with time to cease and swim and snorkel plus BBQ meals, whereas the Alcudia journey is analogous with kayaks and paddleboards to borrow too.
Glass-Backside Boat Excursions, Sa Coma
Excellent for youths who need to discover underwater life with out truly getting moist, there’s an entire string of glass-bottomed boat excursions from Sa Coma alongside Mallorca’s lovely east coast – the right solution to spot the fish as you journey via some gloriously turquoise bays and previous sea caves. There are alternatives from Moonfish Catamaran and Mallorca Sea Paradise.
Dolphin Watching boat journeys
There are wild dolphins dwelling round Mallorca, so that you’ll discover a string of excursions taking you out to see them, though most go from the north coast round Port d’Alcudia and Can Picafort.
Select from this three-hour dolphin-spotting tour from Alcudia Sea Journeys, or a dawn boat tour in case you’ve obtained early risers. However you’ll discover loads of alternative in case you’re hoping to spy a pod.
Barcos Azules from Port Soller
Should you’d wish to see extra of Mallorca’s unspoiled coast, Barcos Azules has a number of completely different boat journeys from Port Soller, together with to the gorgeous turquoise waters of Sa Calobra and Cala Tuent, or to view the rugged Serra de Tramuntana and rock formations like Sa Foradada.
Palma Aquarium
That is simply one in every of Mallorca’s hottest household points of interest, and you’ll see why the second you stroll in. Housing over 8,000 marine creatures throughout 55 tanks, it’s excellent for youths who love animals and the spectacular underwater worlds from throughout the planet.
There are tropical reefs, hands-on contact swimming pools and shark tunnels, plus indoor and out of doors play areas, Mediterranean gardens and even a tropical jungle on the roof. This actually is someplace you may spend hours – permit round half a day, particularly in case you’re hoping to see feeding time or hearken to any of the talks.
Purchase tickets with free cancellation right here, together with optionally available entry into the 3D cinema.
Mallorca can also be dwelling to Marineland, the oldest dolphinarium in Spain, which additionally has an aquarium, zoo and sea lion reveals however with captive dolphins, it’s not one thing I’m pleased to advocate
Safari Zoo
Should you’ve obtained children who love animals, you’re not restricted to marine creatures, with this little drive-through safari park close to Sa Coma. You’ll want a rent automotive to get round, however you may spot zebras, giraffes and rhinos as you go, plus there’s a bit of safari practice serving to you discover the Savanna.
The small zoo can also be dwelling to a small strolling space with extra animals, reveals all through the day and play areas.
There was numerous controversy concerning the zoo up to now, together with the lone elephant and outdated enclosures, however Safari Mallorca is now below new administration and there are enhancements being made.
Should you’re searching for a rent automotive to discover Mallorca, websites like Uncover Automobiles can examine costs, whereas Zest automotive rent is one in every of my go-to choices (and the one I used for our newest Mallorca journey)
Go to a water park
There are additionally a number of water parks scattered throughout the island, so in case your children are followers, there are loads to select from. Aqualand El Arenal isn’t removed from Palma, round 20 minutes’ drive south-east of the capital and is the largest water park in Mallorca, with a mixture of choices for all ages, together with themed areas for youths comparable to Polynesia and Dragonland.
Alternatively, Western Water Park is – because the title suggests – a Wild West-themed water park that’s round 25 minutes from Palma, simply outdoors Magaluf. There are some smaller slide and shallow swimming pools for youthful children together with some adrenaline thrills for teenagers, comparable to The Beast, one of many highest slides in Europe
There’s additionally Hidropark Alcudia within the north of the island, which has toddler play areas and wave swimming pools in addition to some high-speed slides.
Palma Cathedral (La Seu)
You won’t assume Mallorca’s Gothic cathedral needs to be high of your checklist whenever you’re travelling with kids, however don’t even take into consideration skipping it.
The jaw-dropping structure, sheer measurement of the cathedral and lovely colored gentle filtering via that well-known rose window create an virtually magical ambiance that genuinely captivates guests of all ages.
The go to is usually fast sufficient to carry kids’s consideration, and the Parc de la Mar is right if they should burn off any vitality afterwards.
Should you’re visiting with children aged 11+, it’s also possible to get tickets to climb as much as the ‘terrazas’, the roof of the cathedral – 138 steps up, there are unimaginable views.
It’s effectively price reserving tickets prematurely though you may solely get roof entry via the official website.
The Turbopass Palma de Mallorca contains entry to the cathedral, Bellver Fort, Palma Aquarium and varied different sights and excursions – get a reduction in case you ebook via my hyperlink utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6
La Almudaina Palace
Positioned proper subsequent to the cathedral (so it couldn’t be simpler to mix each visits), this former Moorish fortress turned royal palace offers you an enchanting glimpse into Mallorca’s uncommon historical past.
Nonetheless utilized by Spain’s royal household, you may wander via the royal residences of La Almudaina, previous fountains in historic courtyards, previous Arab baths and defensive towers, as you be taught concerning the island’s Arab and Christian heritage.
The audio information has some extra background, however there are info boards in every room, so it’s not important. Purchase tickets with free cancellation right here.
TRAVEL TIP: Save a while to discover the palace gardens whilst you’re on this a part of Palma – they’re free to wander into, on the backside of the steps beneath the palace, with extra shady water options.
Bellver Fort
Simply outdoors central Palma, this round fortress has some improbable views down over Palma Bay, and there’s a bit of museum inside overlaying the island’s historical past. It’s a barely eclectic mixture of artefacts, weapons, sculptures and extra, however it’s effectively price a glance.
You may also climb as much as the roof of the primary tower at Bellver Fort to look out throughout the waves for invading forces (or ferries from Menorca).
Youngsters below 14 go free and it’s attainable to stroll up from town, however it’s fairly steep and a sizzling climb throughout the summer season, so it’s higher to take a taxi in case you don’t have your individual automotive, or the hop-on hop-off bus additionally stops right here.
Stroll the Medieval Partitions in Alcudia
Constructed to guard Alcudia’s previous city from pirate raids, you may nonetheless stroll elements of the medieval partitions right now and journey again via the centuries as you stand by one of many guard posts.
There are solely a few methods up onto the partitions, so I’d counsel strolling alongside the Cami de Ronda from the Porta de Mallorca and climbing the steps at this finish. You may stroll again down in direction of the primary gate, then retrace your steps and comply with the wall alongside to Porta de Vila Roja to the second set of steps main down again into the city.
Alongside the way in which, you’ll see a couple of guardposts and smaller towers to look out from. It’s utterly free to discover and never often too busy, even on market day.
Head up for golden hour and the stones appear to glow, or go to earlier within the day throughout summer season as there’s no shade – there’s loads of ice cream within the streets beneath although.
Browse one in every of Mallorca’s markets
Visiting a correct native market is a good way to get a style of Mallorcan life with children, in addition to choosing up a couple of souvenirs.
The weekly markets in cities like Sineu, Alcudia, and Pollensa are a few of the greatest, with an opportunity to have a look at native jewelry, and decide up some contemporary fruit (we even noticed dragon fruit).
Be ready for it to get very busy, so arrive early in case you can – we obtained to Alcudia’s market at round 10am, and the automotive parks have been already heaving and it solely obtained busier from there, though the streets of the previous city nonetheless had some quiet corners (and a few very tempting jewelry and ceramics for me, plus a couple of souvenirs for my daughter).
If you’re visiting Alcudia’s market and driving, one of the best place to attempt for parking is subsequent to the previous Roman ruins at Pollentia – there’s a giant lot, somebody directing vehicles, and it’s free (plus the market is simply throughout the street)
Caves of Drach (Cuevas del Drach)
The Caves of Drach are one in every of my favorite reminiscences of visiting the island as a toddler, the countless stalactites and stalagmites within the caverns, reflecting within the water and sending thrilling shivers down my again.
Heading again with my daughter, there’s no query it’s quite a bit busier and extra touristy, however the caves themselves are as spectacular as ever, with their underground lakes and weirdly fantastic shapes.
The spotlight remains to be the stay classical music live performance carried out on boats floating on the lake, the one issues illuminated within the darkness, earlier than taking a experience over the water your self. It genuinely is magical (not many issues have caught in my reminiscence for over 40 years!)
As a bonus, there’s a relentless cool temperature within the caves too, which may be very welcome on a sizzling summer season’s day. I’ve nonetheless but to see a dragon although…
Reserving forward is an effective plan, and be sure to get there in time to your slot – it’s all very effectively organised, with lots of of individuals entering into throughout the time interval, however in case you miss it, you would possibly find yourself lacking out fully. You will get entry together with a switch from Palma or a switch from Alcudia in case you don’t have your individual automotive.
You may also go to the Caves of Hams close by, in addition to the Caves of Genova close to Palma
The Caves of Arta
The Caves of Drach is likely to be one of the best recognized however they’re removed from the one caves on Mallorca. Head a bit of method up the east coast and you’ll see the Caves of Arta – a lot quieter, the caverns listed below are huge, together with a 17m excessive stalagmite (presently round 50cm from the roof of the cavern, which ought to solely take one other 5,000 years or so to finish).
You get an actual sense of how previous the formations are right here, with the caves courting again round three million years, and there are some quirky shapes to search out, together with jellyfish and a barely melted elephant.
One other spotlight is visiting hell, the deepest a part of the caves the place there’s a brief sound and music present, and the a lot larger heaven, with its organ-like buildings.
Take the toy practice to Soller
There’s loads to tempt you to go to Soller itself, however the scenic journey aboard the classic Prepare de Soller from Palma is effectively price it only for the journey, and undoubtedly essentially the most enjoyable solution to journey between the 2.
The historic narrow-gauge practice winds via the mountains alongside the way in which, passing via 13 tunnels earlier than twisting its method all the way down to Soller.
As soon as there, you may proceed to Port de Soller by way of classic tram, making it a full day of correct railway pleasure. It does get exceptionally busy throughout the summer season months although.
Go to Roman Pollentia
Subsequent to Alcudia’s Outdated City, you’ll discover a fair older nook of Mallorca’s historical past at Roman Pollentia. The town was as soon as an important within the Balearic islands, inhabited for round six centuries from 123BCE.
You’ll see the ruins of the residential space as quickly as you enter, however don’t be fooled into believing that’s all there’s – the location goes on a lot additional than this, with the discussion board space together with the stays of a number of temples, outlets and a market.
There’s additionally the previous theatre which was later used as a necropolis, and varied boards alongside the paths about different excavations, together with a mosaic flooring which is now within the little Pollentia Monographic Museum over the street in previous city Alcudia. Free for youths below 14.
Go to Cap de Formentor
On the finish of the Formentor peninsula, there are a few of the most spectacular views on Mallorca from the Cap de Formentor lighthouse. On clear days, you may see proper throughout to Menorca, and it’s simply probably the greatest free issues to do in Mallorca with children.
If you’re driving, it’s price figuring out that entry is proscribed throughout the summer season months to guard the world, however there’s a bus which takes you alongside the peninsula in case you don’t fancy strolling.
Attempt an ensaimada
You gained’t be in need of ice cream (and tapas) whilst you’re in Mallorca however avoid wasting abdomen house for a standard ensaimada. These scrumptious pastries come plain, in addition to full of cream, custard, or chocolate and are the native equal of a croissant, however way more indulgent.
C’an Joan de S’aigo in Palma has been perfecting these scrumptious treats since 1700 and remains to be one of the trendy locations to eat them – however with out the value tag you would possibly anticipate of someplace oozing with heritage.
*First revealed 2016, final up to date 2025*
Photographs: Cala Agulla/Platja de Muro/Es Trenc/Canyamel seashore/catamaran/Palma Aquarium/waterslides/Soller practice/Soller tram/Cap Formentor courtesy of Depositphotos, all different photos copyright MummyTravels
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