My first ever journey overseas, the one beginning this lifelong love affair with journey, was to Mallorca – and with so many unbelievable issues to do in Mallorca with youngsters, the one shock is that I haven’t been again with my daughter prior to now.
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I nonetheless keep in mind the seaside and the thrill of ingesting 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 wonderful buildings within the capital Palma (and the palm bushes dotted round them) and having fun with the sunshine.
4 many years on and Mallorca (or Majorca if you happen to want) has as a lot to tempt a teen as youthful youngsters, with some fascinating historical past, numerous child-friendly sights, extra lovely seashores than you possibly can shake a bucket at and some quirky choices as properly. Right here’s my decide of the 16 greatest issues to do in Mallorca with youngsters to show it.
Hit the seaside
Mallorca isn’t a tiny island – it’s round 10 instances the scale of the Isle of Wight, nearly half the scale of Cyprus – so that you’re spoiled for alternative in the case of 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 just a few of the most effective 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 most important seaside in all of the Balearic Islands.
It does get very busy, and getting there early is an effective plan, however you’ve received shallow water for little ones, plus loads of services (from seaside eating places to sunbeds, umbrellas, parking, bathrooms, showers, and watersports). The northern finish tends to be slightly quieter, with extra of the services on the south if you happen to’ve received older youngsters.
Port de Pollenca close by is one other good possibility, with a much bigger seaside 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 gentle, effective pale sand make it good whether or not you fancy a swim or need to construct just a few sandcastles.
You’ll discover loungers and parasols, plus child-friendly locations to eat right here as properly, and there are watersports to strive 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 overwhelmed monitor, however extra peaceable than a few of the busier seashores.
There’s parking (for a payment) and a few shallow water to take pleasure in as properly. It’s price understanding that the world is in style with nudists, though the primary stretch of seaside is clothed.
Cala Mondragó
This Blue Flag seaside 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 fantastically calm for teenagers to swim and it tends to be quieter than the resort seashores, particularly if you happen to’re visiting in peak season.
When you’ve had sufficient of the seaside, it’s simple to take a look at a few of the strolling trails close by as properly if you happen to fancy one other style of Mallorca’s surroundings.
Canyamel Seashore
In Mallorca’s east, this seaside 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 possibly can rent loungers, there are some eating places close by and watersports right here as properly – plus a small play space for youthful youngsters.
Take a ship journey
With a lot coast to discover, you shouldn’t miss the possibility for not less than one boat journey, whether or not you’re on the lookout 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 if you happen to’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
In case you’re staying in Palma, you needn’t head half-way throughout the island to seek out an incredible boat journey, with SeaBarcelona journeys departing from the capital.
There’s a stunning sundown possibility if you happen to’ve received older youngsters, but additionally a noon departure if you happen to’re seeking 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 received’t be enormous crowds aboard.
Catamaran tour
In case you want 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 comparable with kayaks and paddleboards to borrow too.
Glass-Backside Boat Excursions, Sa Coma
Good for teenagers who need to discover underwater life with out truly getting moist, there’s a complete string of glass-bottomed boat excursions from Sa Coma alongside Mallorca’s lovely east coast – the proper 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 if you happen to’ve received early risers. However you’ll discover loads of alternative if you happen to’re hoping to spy a pod.
Barcos Azules from Port Soller
In case you’d prefer 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 among Mallorca’s hottest household sights, and you’ll see why the second you stroll in. Housing over 8,000 marine creatures throughout 55 tanks, it’s good for teenagers 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 outside play areas, Mediterranean gardens and even a tropical jungle on the roof. This actually is someplace you possibly can spend hours – enable round half a day, particularly if you happen to’re hoping to see feeding time or take heed to any of the talks.
Purchase tickets with free cancellation right here, together with non-obligatory entry into the 3D cinema.
Mallorca can be dwelling to Marineland, the oldest dolphinarium in Spain, which additionally has an aquarium, zoo and sea lion exhibits however with captive dolphins, it’s not one thing I’m comfortable to advocate
Safari Zoo
In case you’ve received youngsters 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 automobile to get round, however you possibly can spot zebras, giraffes and rhinos as you go, plus there’s slightly safari prepare serving to you discover the Savanna.
The small zoo can be dwelling to a small strolling space with extra animals, exhibits all through the day and play areas.
There was a whole lot of controversy in regards to the zoo previously, together with the lone elephant and outdated enclosures, however Safari Mallorca is now beneath new administration and there are enhancements being made.
In case you’re on the lookout for a rent automobile to discover Mallorca, websites like Uncover Vehicles can evaluate costs, whereas Zest automobile rent is one among 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 youngsters 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 most important water park in Mallorca, with a mixture of choices for all ages, together with themed areas for teenagers reminiscent of 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 exterior Magaluf. There are some smaller slide and shallow swimming pools for youthful youngsters together with some adrenaline thrills for teenagers, reminiscent of 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 must be high of your record once 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 nearly 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 power afterwards.
In case you’re visiting with youngsters 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 unbelievable views.
It’s properly price reserving tickets upfront though you possibly can solely get roof entry via the official web site.
The Turbopass Palma de Mallorca consists of entry to the cathedral, Bellver Citadel, Palma Aquarium and varied different sights and excursions – get a reduction if you happen to e-book 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 a captivating glimpse into Mallorca’s uncommon historical past.
Nonetheless utilized by Spain’s royal household, you possibly can wander via the royal flats of La Almudaina, previous fountains in historic courtyards, outdated Arab baths and defensive towers, as you study in regards to the island’s Arab and Christian heritage.
The audio information has some extra background, however there are data 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 when you’re on this a part of Palma – they’re free to wander into, on the backside of the steps under the palace, with extra shady water options.
Bellver Citadel
Simply exterior central Palma, this round fortress has some unbelievable views down over Palma Bay, and there’s slightly museum inside protecting the island’s historical past. It’s a barely eclectic mixture of artefacts, weapons, sculptures and extra, but it surely’s properly price a glance.
You too can climb as much as the roof of the primary tower at Bellver Citadel to look out throughout the waves for invading forces (or ferries from Menorca).
Children beneath 14 go free and it’s potential to stroll up from town, but it surely’s fairly steep and a sizzling climb throughout the summer season, so it’s higher to take a taxi if you happen to don’t have your individual automobile, or the hop-on hop-off bus additionally stops right here.
Stroll the Medieval Partitions in Alcudia
Constructed to guard Alcudia’s outdated city from pirate raids, you possibly can nonetheless stroll elements of the medieval partitions at this time 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 recommend strolling alongside the Cami de Ronda from the Porta de Mallorca and climbing the steps at this finish. You possibly can stroll again down in direction of the primary gate, then retrace your steps and observe 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 just a few 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 may be loads of ice cream within the streets under although.
Browse one among Mallorca’s markets
Visiting a correct native market is an effective way to get a style of Mallorcan life with youngsters, in addition to selecting up just a few 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 if you happen to can – we received to Alcudia’s market at round 10am, and the automobile parks had been already heaving and it solely received busier from there, though the streets of the outdated city nonetheless had some quiet corners (and a few very tempting jewelry and ceramics for me, plus just a few souvenirs for my daughter).
If you’re visiting Alcudia’s market and driving, the most effective place to strive for parking is subsequent to the outdated Roman ruins at Pollentia – there’s a giant lot, somebody directing vehicles, and it’s free (plus the market is simply throughout the highway)
Caves of Drach (Cuevas del Drach)
The Caves of Drach are one among my favorite reminiscences of visiting the island as a baby, the infinite 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 lots busier and extra touristy, however the caves themselves are as spectacular as ever, with their underground lakes and weirdly great shapes.
The spotlight remains to be the dwell classical music live performance carried out on boats floating on the lake, the one issues illuminated within the darkness, earlier than taking a journey 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 continuing cool temperature within the caves too, which could 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 you get there in time on your slot – it’s all very properly organised, with a whole bunch of individuals stepping into throughout the time interval, however if you happen to miss it, you would possibly find yourself lacking out totally. You will get entry together with a switch from Palma or a switch from Alcudia if you happen to don’t have your individual automobile.
You too can 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 could be the most effective identified however they’re removed from the one caves on Mallorca. Head slightly 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 outdated the formations are right here, with the caves courting again round three million years, and there are some quirky shapes to seek 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 increased heaven, with its organ-like buildings.
Take the toy prepare 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 properly price it only for the journey, and positively probably the most enjoyable solution to journey between the 2.
The historic narrow-gauge prepare 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 possibly can proceed to Port de Soller through 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 Previous City, you’ll discover an excellent 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 may be – 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 outdated 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 highway in outdated city Alcudia. Free for teenagers beneath 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 possibly can see proper throughout to Menorca, and it’s simply the most effective free issues to do in Mallorca with youngsters.
If you’re driving, it’s price understanding that entry is proscribed throughout the summer season months to guard the world, however there’s a bus which takes you alongside the peninsula if you happen to don’t fancy strolling.
Attempt an ensaimada
You received’t be in need of ice cream (and tapas) when you’re in Mallorca however avoid wasting abdomen house for a standard ensaimada. These scrumptious pastries come plain, in addition to crammed with cream, custard, or chocolate and are the native equal of a croissant, however much 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 count on of someplace oozing with heritage.
*First revealed 2016, final up to date 2025*
Photographs: Cala Agulla/Platja de Muro/Es Trenc/Canyamel seaside/catamaran/Palma Aquarium/waterslides/Soller prepare/Soller tram/Cap Formentor courtesy of Depositphotos, all different pictures copyright MummyTravels
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