My first ever journey overseas, the one beginning this lifelong love affair with journey, was to Mallorca โ and with so many improbable issues to do in Mallorca with children, the one shock is that I havenโt been again with my daughter prior to now.
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I nonetheless bear in mind the seaside and the joy of consuming chocolate milk, apparently the worldโs largest deal with to a small woman. However I even have vivid reminiscences of exploring a few of the islandโs 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 for those who favor) has as a lot to tempt a teen as youthful children, with some fascinating historical past, numerous child-friendly sights, extra stunning seashores than you may shake a bucket at and some quirky choices as properly. Right hereโs my choose of the 16 finest issues to do in Mallorca with children to show it.
Hit the seaside
Mallorca isnโt a tiny island โ itโs round 10 instances the scale of the Isle of Wight, virtually half the scale of Cyprus lโ so that youโre spoiled for alternative with regards to seashores.
In whole, there are greater than 260 dotted round, from tiny secluded coves to lengthy sweeping stretches of golden sand, so that youโll by no means be too removed from the seaside. However listed here are a number of of one of the best seashores in Mallorca for households.
Playa de Alcudia
Thereโs 10km of sand stretching from Can Picafort to Port dโAlcudia, with Playa de Alcudia within the center โ the largest seaside in all of the Balearic Islands.
It does get very busy, and getting there early is an efficient plan, however youโve bought shallow water for little ones, plus loads of amenities (from seaside eating places to sunbeds, umbrellas, parking, bathrooms, showers, and watersports). The northern finish tends to be a bit quieter, with extra of the amenities on the south for those whoโve bought older children.
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 Mallorcaโs finest household seashores, and for good motive. Shallow, clear turquoise waters with mushy, high quality pale sand make it good whether or not you fancy a swim or need to construct a number of sandcastles.
Youโll 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 Mallorcaโs lengthy seashores, Es Trenc stretches for 7km within the south of the island and itโs 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 itโs not fully off the crushed monitor, however extra peaceable than a few of the busier seashores.
There may be parking (for a price) and a few shallow water to get pleasure from as properly. Itโs value figuring out that the world is fashionable with nudists, though the primary stretch of seaside is clothed.
Cala Mondragรณ
This Blue Flag seaside within the south-east of the island is tucked away within the Mondragรณ Pure Park, with two pretty sandy seashores surrounded by pine forests. The waters of the protected cove are superbly calm for teenagers to swim and it tends to be quieter than the resort seashores, particularly for those whoโre visiting in peak season.
When youโve had sufficient of the seaside, itโs simple to take a look at a few of the strolling trails close by as properly for those who fancy one other style of Mallorcaโs surroundings.
Canyamel Seaside
In Mallorcaโs east, this seaside additionally stretches for over a mile and there are some good corners for snorkelling within the clear waters. There are some amenities too, together with bathrooms and showers, plus a lifeguard in peak season and parking.
You’ll be able to rent loungers, there are some eating places close by and watersports right here as properly โ plus a small play space for youthful children.
Take a ship journey
With a lot coast to discover, you shouldnโt miss the possibility for not less than one boat journey, whether or not youโre 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 prime choose for those whoโre staying round Alcudia or Port dโAlcudia, 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
Whatโs 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 picket boat.
Palma Bay crusing journey
Should youโre staying in Palma, you neednโt head half-way throughout the island to seek out an incredible boat journey, with SeaBarcelona journeys departing from the capital.
Thereโs a stunning sundown possibility for those whoโve bought older children, but additionally a noon departure for those whoโre seeking to get out on the water through the daytime. Add in an open bar, snacks, snorkelling and SUP, plus itโs a small boat so there gainedโt be enormous crowds aboard.
Catamaran tour
Should you favor 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 dโAlcudia.
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
Excellent for teenagers who need to discover underwater life with out truly getting moist, thereโs a complete string of glass-bottomed boat excursions from Sa Coma alongside Mallorcaโs stunning east coast โ the right technique to spot the fish as you journey by 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 youโll discover a string of excursions taking you out to see them, though most go from the north coast round Port dโAlcudia and Can Picafort.
Select from this three-hour dolphin-spotting tour from Alcudia Sea Journeys, or a dawn boat tour for those whoโve bought early risers. However youโll discover loads of alternative for those whoโre hoping to spy a pod.
Barcos Azules from Port Soller
Should youโd prefer to see extra of Mallorcaโs 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 Mallorcaโs hottest household sights, and you may see why the second you stroll in. Housing over 8,000 marine creatures throughout 55 tanks, itโs 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 may spend hours โ enable round half a day, particularly for those whoโre hoping to see feeding time or hearken to any of the talks.
Purchase tickets with free cancellation right here, together with non-compulsory entry into the 3D cinema.
Mallorca can also be house to Marineland, the oldest dolphinarium in Spain, which additionally has an aquarium, zoo and sea lion exhibits however with captive dolphins, itโs not one thing Iโm completely happy to advocate
Safari Zoo
Should youโve bought children who love animals, youโre not restricted to marine creatures, with this little drive-through safari park close to Sa Coma. Youโll want a rent automobile to get round, however you may spot zebras, giraffes and rhinos as you go, plus thereโs a bit safari prepare serving to you discover the Savanna.
The small zoo can also be house to a small strolling space with extra animals, exhibits all through the day and play areas.
There was plenty of controversy in regards to the zoo prior 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 youโre on the lookout for a rent automobile to discover Mallorca, websites likeย Uncover Vehiclesย can examine costs, whereasย Zest automobile rentย 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 a lot to select from. Aqualand El Arenal isnโt removed from Palma, round 20 minutesโ 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 teenagers comparable to Polynesia and Dragonland.
Alternatively, Western Water Park is โ because the identify suggests โ a Wild West-themed water park thatโs 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,ย one of many highest slides in Europe
Thereโs 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 may not assume Mallorcaโs Gothic cathedral must be prime of your record once youโre travelling with youngsters, however donโt even take into consideration skipping it.
The jaw-dropping structure, sheer measurement of the cathedral and beautiful colored gentle filtering by that well-known rose window create an virtually magical ambiance that genuinely captivates guests of all ages.
The go to is often fast sufficient to carry youngstersโs consideration, and the Parc de la Mar is right if they should burn off any power afterwards.
Should youโre visiting with children aged 11+, you may as well get tickets to climb as much as the โterrazasโ, the roof of the cathedral โ 138 steps up, there are unimaginable views.
Itโs properly value reserving tickets upfront though you may solely get roof entry by the official web site.
The Turbopass Palma de Mallorca contains entry to the cathedral, Bellver Fortress, Palma Aquarium and numerous different sights and excursions โ get a reduction for those who guide by my hyperlink utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6
La Almudaina Palace
Positioned proper subsequent to the cathedral (so it couldnโt be simpler to mix each visits), this former Moorish fortress turned royal palace provides you a captivating glimpse into Mallorcaโs uncommon historical past.
Nonetheless utilized by Spainโs royal household, you may wander by the royal flats of La Almudaina, previous fountains in historic courtyards, outdated Arab baths and defensive towers, as you be taught in regards to the islandโs Arab and Christian heritage.
The audio information has some extra background, however there are info boards in every room, so itโs not important. Purchase tickets with free cancellation right here.
TRAVEL TIP: Save a while to discover the palace gardens when youโre on this a part of Palma โ theyโre free to wander into, on the backside of the steps under the palace, with extra shady water options.
Bellver Fortress
Simply outdoors central Palma, this round fortress has some improbable views down over Palma Bay, and thereโs a bit museum inside masking the islandโs historical past. Itโs a barely eclectic mixture of artefacts, weapons, sculptures and extra, nevertheless itโs properly value a glance.
You may as well climb as much as the roof of the primary tower at Bellver Fortress to look out throughout the waves for invading forces (or ferries from Menorca).
Children below 14 go free and itโs attainable to stroll up from the town, nevertheless itโs fairly steep and a sizzling climb through the summer time, so itโs higher to take a taxi for those who donโt have your individual automobile, or the hop-on hop-off bus additionally stops right here.
Stroll the Medieval Partitions in Alcudia
Constructed to guard Alcudiaโs outdated city from pirate raids, you may nonetheless stroll components of the medieval partitions as we speak and journey again by the centuries as you stand by one of many guard posts.
There are solely a few methods up onto the partitions, so Iโd counsel strolling alongside the Cami de Ronda from the Porta de Mallorca and climbing the steps at this finish. You’ll be able to 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 best way, youโll see a number of guardposts and smaller towers to look out from. Itโs fully 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 time as thereโs no shade โ there may be loads of ice cream within the streets under although.
Browse one in every of Mallorcaโs 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 number of souvenirs.
The weekly markets in cities like Sineu, Alcudia, and Pollensa are a few of the largest, with an opportunity to have a look at native jewelry, and choose up some contemporary fruit (we even noticed dragon fruit).
Be ready for it to get very busy, so arrive early for those who can โ we bought to Alcudiaโs market at round 10am, and the automobile parks had been already heaving and it solely bought 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 a number of souvenirs for my daughter).
In case you are visiting Alcudiaโs market and driving, one of the best place to strive for parking is subsequent to the outdated Roman ruins at Pollentia โ thereโs a giant lot, somebody directing automobiles, and itโs free (plus the market is simply throughout the highway)
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 infinite stalactites and stalagmites within the caverns, reflecting within the water and sending thrilling shivers down my again.
Heading again with my daughter, thereโs no query itโs loads 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 trip over the water your self. It genuinely is magical (not many issues have caught in my reminiscence for over 40 years!)
As a bonus, thereโs a relentless cool temperature within the caves too, which may be very welcome on a sizzling summer timeโs day. Iโve nonetheless but to see a dragon althoughโฆ
Reserving forward is an efficient plan, and be sure to get there in time on your slot โ itโs all very properly organised, with lots of of individuals getting into through the time interval, however for those who miss it, you would possibly find yourself lacking out fully. You may get entry together with a switch from Palma or a switch from Alcudia for those who donโt have your individual automobile.
You may as well 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 may be one of the best identified however they’re removed from the one caves on Mallorca. Head a bit approach up the east coast and you may see the Caves of Arta โ a lot quieter, the caverns listed here 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 thereโs a brief sound and music present, and the a lot larger heaven, with its organ-like constructions.
Take the toy prepare to Soller
Thereโs a lot to tempt you to go to Soller itself, however the scenic journey aboard the classicย Practice de Sollerย from Palma is properly value it only for the journey, and positively essentially the most enjoyable technique to journey between the 2.
The historic narrow-gauge prepare winds by the mountains alongside the best way, passing by 13 tunnels earlier than twisting its approach right 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 through the summer time months although.
Go to Roman Pollentia
Subsequent to Alcudiaโs Outdated City, youโll discover an excellent older nook of Mallorcaโs historical past at Roman Pollentia. Town was as soon as crucial within the Balearic islands, inhabited for round six centuries from 123BCE.
Youโll see the ruins of the residential space as quickly as you enter, however donโt be fooled into believing thatโs all there may be โ 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.
Thereโs additionally the outdated theatre which was later used as a necropolis, and numerous boards alongside the paths about different excavations, together with a mosaic ground which is now within the little Pollentiaย Monographicย Museumย over the highway in outdated city Alcudia. Free for teenagers 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 itโs simply the most effective free issues to do in Mallorca with children.
In case you are driving, itโs value figuring out that entry is proscribed through the summer time months to guard the world, however thereโs a bus which takes you alongside the peninsula for those who donโt fancy strolling.
Strive an ensaimada
You gainedโt be wanting ice cream (and tapas) when youโre in Mallorca however avoid wasting abdomen house for a conventional 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.
Cโan Joan de Sโaigo in Palma has been perfecting these scrumptious treats since 1700 and remains to be one of the crucial trendy locations to eat them โ however with out the value tag you would possibly count on of someplace oozing with heritage.
*First revealed 2016, final up to date 2025*
Photos: Cala Agulla/Platja de Muro/Es Trenc/Canyamel seaside/catamaran/Palma Aquarium/waterslides/Soller prepare/Soller tram/Cap Formentor courtesy of Depositphotos, all different photographs copyright MummyTravels
Disclosure: This publish comprises affiliate hyperlinks โ any purchases you make are unaffected however I could obtain a small fee
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