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Where to stay in Menorca: 16 best areas (2024)

Last updated on January 19, 2024 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Knowing where to sleep on the charming island of Menorca is essential to organizing your stay according to your desires. At the water’s edge, in the countryside for agro-tourism, in the heart of a small inland village or by the sea… You’ll be spoilt for choice, and that’s what I really liked about this island: the quality and variety of accommodation.

In this article, you’ll find my guide comparing and analyzing the different places to stay in Menorca, including:

• the best places to go and go out in Menorca,
• a map for orientation,
• the best hotels, accommodations and resorts on the island,
• places to avoid depending on what you want to do,
• and lots of other tips.

It’s up to you to find your dream accommodation!

// On this page, no ads, no sponsored content. Just a few affiliate links. // If you use them, I’ll get a commission at no extra cost to you ( read more ).

Where to stay in Menorca ? – Map and quick answers

If you don’t want to read the whole article with all the best places to stay in Menorca, here are my simple answers in this 1st part. In the rest of the article, I detail the specifics of each place, with accommodation options and numbering for easy reference.

Please note that this is only my selection. There are plenty of beautiful places in Menorca to suit all tastes!

Where to sleep in Menorca – Map

Where to stay in Menorca to enjoy the beaches?

Menorca has beaches almost all around the island. So you’ll never be far from one of them. However, some of the best destinations are, in my opinion:

• Cala’n Porter (#1) for its white sand, transparent water and majestic cliffs ( see best-rated hotels ),
• Port Mahon (#3) for charming sandy beaches such as Cala Sa Mesquida and Cala Llonga ( see best-rated hotels ),
• Binibeca (#12) for a fishing village, crystal-clear waters and sea caves ( see best-rated hotels ),
• Cala Galdana (#7) for an extensive beach and lively restaurants ( see best-rated hotels ).

Romantic places to stay in Menorca for honeymooners and couples alike

It depends on the type of activities and atmosphere you’re looking for, but some of the most charming places are, in my opinion, the following:

• Cala’n Porter(#1) – peaceful if you are up high, with views of the cliffs and shades of blue sea ( see best-rated hotels ),
• Binibeca (#12) – its fishing village, turquoise waters and sea caves transport you to a suspended moment ( see best-rated hotels ),
• Ciutadella (#2) – between the charm of the old town and the enchanting sunsets at the Punta Nati lighthouse or on the Sa Caleta cove ( see best-rated hotels ),
• Es Castell (#11), a pretty red-and-white village overlooking Port Mahon and the Illa del Rei ( see best-rated hotels ),
• Agritourism farms in Menorca, offering idyllic country settings.

Where to go to explore Menorca?

If you’re looking for convenient starting points to explore the island easily, opt for:

• Port Mahon (#3), the capital, close to the airport to the east, with a rich cultural, historical and architectural heritage, and on the main Me-1 road axis ( see best-rated hotels ),
• Ciutadella (#2), the island’s 2nd largest city on the west side, with numerous archaeological sites, beaches and places of interest ( see best-rated hotels ),
• Inland villages in the center of the island, such as Es Mercadal (#5) or Ferreries (#8).

Where to go in Menorca to see nature?

Looking to reconnect with nature during your stay? Menorca is a wild and unspoilt island with a wide variety of flora and fauna. Forests, beaches, cliffs, coves, caves, mountains, you name it! You’ll find natural areas just about everywhere, but among others, I’d recommend..:

• the former sandstone quarry and botanical garden Lithica Pedreres de s’Hostal in Ciutadella (#2),
• the main archaeological site on Torre d’en Galmès island near Alaior (#4),
• the Algendar Canyon near Santo Tomas (#6),
• the southern coves and sea caves near Port Mahon (#3), Binibeca (#12) and Es Castell (#11),
• the Es Grau Nature Park and the Addaia Saltworks near the Port of Addaia (#13),
• the Illa del Rei near Port Mahon (#3),
• the Cami de Cavall hiking trail, which circles the island and takes in a wide variety of landscapes!

I really realized how much nature is everywhere in Menorca when I climbed to the top of Monte Toro near Es Mercadal (#5) to admire the scenery from above.

Best places to go out in Menorca

Bear in mind that nightlife on Menorca is different and quieter than on neighboring Mallorca and Ibiza. However, there are a few pleasant places and times where the atmosphere is conducive to partying in the evenings:

• Port Mahon (#3), the island’s capital with numerous bars and restaurants where you can enjoy drinks and local cuisine ( see best-rated hotels ),
• Ciutadella (#2), Menorca’s 2nd largest town, is very picturesque and boasts a lively nightlife, especially near its port ( see best-rated hotels ),
• Cala’n Porter (#1), including Cova den Xoroi, a nightclub in a cave high above the sea ( see best-rated hotels ),
• night markets in the island’s towns and villages (my dedicated article will be available soon),
• popular festivals such as Menorca’s Horse Festival, whose dates vary from commune to commune between June and September.

Where to stay to cycle in Menorca?

If you’re a keen cyclist, you’ll find what you’re looking for on the island of Menorca! To choose the ideal place to stay for cycling in Menorca:

• Port Mahon (#3), the island’s capital to the east, is a good starting point for a bike ride or adventure, with easy access to the coastal roads ( see top-rated accommodations ),
• Ciutadella (#2), Menorca’s former capital to the west, provides access to coastal roads to the north and south, with exceptional views ( see top-rated accommodations ),
• Accommodations offering special services for cyclists, such as the Boutique Hotel Sant Roc & Spa in Port Mahon (#3) or the Alfons Hotel in Ciutadella (#2),
• inland villages such as Es Mercadal (#5), Alaior (#4), Es Castell (#11) and Ferreries (#8) are also ideal for cycling on the island.

Minorca’s best beaches

In my opinion, taking into account the scenery, the natural setting and the general atmosphere, the most beautiful beaches in Menorca are:

• Cala’n Porter beach (#1), cliffs and immense sea ( see top rated accommodations )
• Binibeca beach, white village and turquoise waters ( see top-rated accommodations )
• Son Bou beach, extensive beach and crystal-clear water ( see top-rated accommodations )
• Cala Blanca beach, ideal for a busy day ( see top-rated accommodations )
• Cala’n Bosc beach, pretty sandy cove with activities ( see top-rated accommodations )
• Sa Mesquida beach, peaceful village of the same name ( see top-rated accommodations )

Need to rent a car in Menorca?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Don’t choose a car too large, since some roads are very narrow
• Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Where to stay in Menorca – Tips

You can also choose where to stay in Menorca according to your hotel preferences. That’s why I’ve put together a list of the best hotels and resorts on the island.

About the selection: I created this guide completely independently. None of the hotels have paid to be included. The suggestions are my own selection, based on my experience and research. But to be transparent, I’d like to inform you that, of course, I haven’t stayed in all the hotels listed.

What to look for when choosing accommodation in Menorca – Advice

• The distance from the beach if you want to swim at any time. Some beaches and coves can be reached after a short hike. If you want easy access to the sea, consider whether the beach is within walking distance of your accommodation.
• Check the reviews to see if the neighborhood/village is noisy – if daily life is busy, you can easily have a noisy establishment nearby.
• Think about the ease of parking , as this is not always the case in Menorca. If there is no dedicated parking at your accommodation, check the reviews for this and ask the accommodation for details when you book. Especially if you’re staying close to a popular area, parking can become a real ordeal, with people coming to spend the day or evening.

Where to stay in Menorca: best family hotels

Menorca is a very family-friendly island with lots of playgrounds, parks and activities for children. Several accommodations are also very family-friendly, such as:

• Villa Le Blanc Gran Melia Hotel, with children’s club in Santo Tomas – see photos and book
• Ilunion Menorca Hotel, sustainable hotel in Cala Galdana with entertainment – see photos and book
• Melia Cala Galdana, on the beach with activities for young and old – see photos and availability
• Royal Son Bou Family Club Hotel, 100m from Son Bou beach – see photos and availability
• Barcelo Nura Hotel, in the village of Sant Lluis – see photos and bookings
• Globales Cala’n Blanes, outdoor pool and gym – see photos and availability
• Globales Cala’n Bosch, entertainment, pool, fitness and beach – see photos and availability
• Globales Lors Nelson Hotel, access to Santo Tomas beach – see photos and book
• Catalonia Mirador des Port, overlooking the natural harbor of Mahon – see photos and book

Coming soon, my article dedicated to the best family hotels in Menorca.

• Best luxury hotels in Menorca
• Villa Le Blanc Gran Melia Hotel, luxurious and authentic in Santo Tomas – see photos and book
• Melia Cala Galdana, 5-star hotel directly on the beach – see photos and availability
• Barcelo Nura Hotel, luxury in the village of Sant Lluis – see photos and book
• Hotel Jardi de Ses Bruixes, 5-star hotel in the heart of Port Mahon – view photos and availability
• Seafront Villa Bellavista, overlooking the beach and cliffs of Cala’n Porter – view photos and book

Best resorts in Menorca

• Globales Cala’n Blanes, outdoor pool and gym – view photos and availability
• Globales Cala’n Bosch, entertainment, pool, fitness and beach – view photos and availability
• Prinsotel La Caleta, 2 steps from Cala Blanca beach – see photos and availability
• Lago Resort Suite del Lago, in Cala’n Bosch for adults only – see photos and availability

Best boutique and art deco hotels in Menorca

• Hotel Hevresac Singular & Small, 4-star art deco in Port Mahon – see photos and book
• Catalonia Mirador des Port, overlooking Mahon’s natural harbour – see photos and book
• Ilunion Menorca Hotel, sustainable hotel in Cala Galdana – see photos and book
• Smoix Hotel, beauty and attention to detail in Ciutadella’s old town – see photos and book
• Can Alberti Hotel, in an 18th-century townhouse in Port Mahon – see photos and book

Best charming hotels in Menorca

• Sodium Boutique Hotel, in the old town of Ciutadella – see photos and availability
• Hotel ROMANDRE, in the heart of the village of Alaior – see photos and availability
• Maison Hôtel Ses Penyes, in the heart of Alaior – see photos and availability
• Osprey Menorca Hotel, near the magnificent beach of Cala’n Porter – see photos and availability
• Hotel Jeni & Restaurant, typical of the village of Es Mercadal – see photos and availability
• Hotel Loar Ferreries and its excellent Menorcan restaurant – see photos and availability

Best fincas or agritourism hotels in Menorca

• Menorca Experimental Hotel, luxury in the heart of Menorca’s vineyards – see photos and availability
• Hotel Rural Sant Ignasi Ciutadella, 4 stars in an 18th-century house – see photos and availability
• Agroturismo Llucasaldent Gran Menorca, adults only – see photos and availability
• Agroturismo Ses Talaies, in Ciutadella with terrace and outdoor pool – see photos and book
• Finca Atalis, near Santo Tomas and for adults only – see photos and availability

Sustainable accommodation in Menorca (environmentally friendly)

• ARTIEM Audax Hotel, for adults with spa and wellness center – see photos and availability
• Barcelo Hamilton Menorca, 4-star adults-only hotel – see photos and availability
• Lago Resort Menorca Casa del Lago, luxury hotel in Cala en Bosc – see photos and availability

Location 1 – Cala’n Porter – my favourite place to stay in Menorca

About cala’n porter.

Cala’n Porter is one of Menorca’s most important seaside resorts. It is attached to the municipality of the village of Alaior. It’s a place that can be quite crowded, as you’ll find a multitude of water sports, a few quiet spots, access to several corners of nature, an exceptional setting with clear turquoise water in the middle of cliffs that open up like 2 gigantic gates. The local people were also very welcoming, as is often the case in Menorca.

The advantages of staying here are:

• undeniably easy access to a magnificent beach (one of the most beautiful in Menorca, in my opinion),
• a wide choice of accommodation, without large hotel complexes,
• easy access to the main road for exploring the island,
• a variety of water sports such as kayaking and paddle-boarding to explore the coves of Menorca’s southern coast,
• a disco bar in a cave on a 30m cliff (yes, you read that right!),
• and close proximity to famous sites such as the Torre d’en Galmès archaeological site or the unique Mirador del Mediteraneo sea view from the cliffs.

Coming soon – my article on Cala’n Porter.

Why stay at Cala’n Porter – My review

• LOCATION – Southeast coast Easy access to main Me-1 road via Me-12 15min to 25min drive from airport
• BEACH – Long sandy beach at Cala’n Porter with clear turquoise water, shallow at first. The beach opens onto a mouth between 2 30m-high cliffs, giving a glimpse of catamarans and other boats docking before heading out to sea. Fish can be seen quite close to the rocks, where the depth is not yet great. Please note that the beach is supervised, and umbrellas and deckchairs are available for hire.
• SHOPS – Some stores for water sports, cycling and souvenirs, grocery stores, a few restaurants.
• ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES IN THE SURROUNDING AREA – Viewpoint Mirador del Mediteraneo Cueva de la Luz sea cave, kayak or paddle. Port Mahon is just 20 minutes away. Guided tour of the Torre d’en Galmès archaeological site Cami de Cavalls Cala’n porter beach and cove Nautical activities Boat trips along the south coast of Menorca The Cova den Xoroi disco bar in a cave and much more, it’s a convenient place to explore the island.
• Popular excursions Kayak tour of the southern cliffs and sea caves – see program and availability Half-day private tour of Menorca – see program and availability

Where to stay in Cala’n Porter – Suggested hotels and accommodation

• CHARMING HOTEL – Osprey Menorca Hotel, my favorite – see photos and availability
• LUXURY – Seafront Villa Bellavista, with views of the beach and cliffs – see photos and availability
• ADULTS ONLY – Hotel Sa Barrera, with terrace overlooking the bay – see photos and availability
• DURABLE – Villa Jordi, to watch the sunset over the cliffs – see photos and book

See best-rated accomodations .

Location 2 – Ciutadella

About ciutadella.

Ciutadella is Menorca’s 2nd largest city after Port Mahon, with a similar population density. It is also the island’s former capital and still the seat of the Minorcan bishopric. As early as the 1st century A.D., it acquired municipal status in Roman times. But did you know that archaeological remains attest to the presence of humans on this part of the island as long as 2000 years ago?

Under Muslim rule in Andalusia from the 9th century to the Middle Ages, Ciutadella was considered a cultural, administrative and political center of Menorca.

The advantages of choosing accommodation in Ciutadella are:

• the chance to discover a city with a rich cultural, architectural and historical heritage,
• a wide choice of accommodation,
• easy access to the beach,
• easy access to the main Me-1 road for island hopping
• and proximity to famous sites such as the Talayotic ruins, caves, the Punta Nati lighthouse and the Pont d’en Gil.

Coming soon – my article dedicated to Ciutadella.

Why stay in Ciutadella – My review

• LOCATION – West coast Easy access to main Me-1 highway 45min to 55min drive from airport
• BEACHES – No beach directly in town, but only a 10-minute drive away. I loved the white sand and turquoise waters of Cala Blanca beach, or Sa Caleta cove, from where I could see the coast of Majorca on the horizon. The livelier beaches of Cala en Blanes and Cala en Bosc are also less than a 15-minute drive from Ciutadella.
• SHOPS – Stores, souvenir and craft boutiques, numerous restaurants, day and night markets.
• ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES IN THE SURROUNDING AREA – Naveta Des Tudons megalith Old town of Ciutadella and its “Mercat de peix” fish market Santa Maria de Ciutadella Cathedral Castell de Sant Nicolau Lithica Pedreres de s’Hostal, sandstone quarry and botanical garden Cova de S’Aigua cave Water sports and wine tours Southern Menorcan coves (Cala Morell, Cala Mitjana, Cala Galdana…) The Cami de Cavalls hiking trail and much more, it’s a convenient place from which to explore the island.
• Popular excursions Guided walking tour to discover Menorcan gastronomy – see program and availability Guided stargazing tour in Spanish – see program and availability

Where to Stay in Ciutadella – Hotel and Accommodation Suggestions

• BOUTIQUE HOTEL – Smoix Hotel, my favorite: beauty and attention to detail –  see photos and book
• CHAMPÊTRE – Hotel Rural Sant Ignasi, in a restored house from 1777 –  see photos and book
• CHARMING HOTEL – Sodium Boutique Hotel, in the old town –  see photos and availability
• RESORT – Prinsotel La Caleta, 2 steps from Cala Blanca beach –  see photos and availability
• LUXURY – Faustino Gran Relais et Châteaux, palaces from the 16th to 18th century –  see photos and availability

Location 3 – Mahon Port

About port mahon.

The town of Port Mahon has been the capital of Menorca since the 18th century. Its natural fishing and pleasure port is the largest port in the Mediterranean but above all the deepest in the world. This is definitely a neighborhood to put on your list when you go to Port Mahon!

Built on a 30m high cliff, you will have a breathtaking view of the natural harbor of Port Mahon and the Illa del Rei which bear witness to the British occupation in the 18th century for more than 70 years.

The advantages of staying in Port Mahon are:

• undeniably the discovery of its historical, architectural and cultural heritage,
• a wide range of accommodation whatever your tastes,
• easy access to the main road Me-1 to explore the island towards the south or north coasts
• and the proximity of the most famous places such as the Fortaleza de la Mola (Fortress of Isabel II) or the Es Grau Natural Park.

Coming soon – my article dedicated to Port Mahon.

Why stay in Port Mahon – My review

• LOCATION – East Coast Easy access to the main road Me-1 15min to 20min drive from the airport
• BEACHES – There is no direct access to the beach in the town but 10 minutes by car, I loved the extensive beach of Sa Mesquida and its small neighboring village. You also have the option of driving to Cala Llonga (same journey time). If you are ready to go a little further, the beaches of Binibeca and Punta Prima are really worth seeing, about 20 minutes’ drive from Port Mahon.
• SHOPS – Shops, souvenir and craft shops, numerous restaurants, day and night market.
• ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES IN THE SURROUNDINGS – Menorca Museum Typical Menorcan church such as the Church of Santa Maria Village of Es Castell Illa del Rei (or Isla del Rey) and its British military hospital turned museum Fortress of Mola Port of Addaia Beach and village of Sa Mesquida Boat excursions with walks around the  port of Mahon  , discovery of the southern coves Its fish market “Mercat de peix” and much more, it is a convenient place to explore the island.
• Popular excursions Cruise with guided tour of Mahon and visit to Binibeca –   see program and availability Excursion with catamaran, pick-up and local guide –   see program and availability

Where to Stay in Port Mahon – Hotel and Accommodation Suggestions

• SUSTAINABLE – Catalonia Mirador des Port, my favorite with a view of the port –  see photos and book
• LUXURY – Hotel Jardi de Ses Bruixes, luxury in the heart of Port Mahon –  see photos and availability
• BOUTIQUE HOTEL – Hotel Hevresac Singular & Small, art deco –  see photos and book
• BOUTIQUE HOTEL – Can Alberti Hotel, 18th century townhouse –  see photos and book
• ADULTS ONLY – Sindic Hotel, 2 outdoor swimming pools in the capital –  see photos and availability
• SURROUNDINGS – Barcelo Nura Hotel, luxury in the village of Sant Lluis (20min) –  see photos and book

Location 4 – Alaior

About alaior.

The adorable little village of Alaior was founded in the early 14th century just after the conquest of Minorca by Alfonso III of Aragon, King of Aragon, King of Valencia and Count of Barcelona. This municipality of Menorca now has almost 10,000 inhabitants, which is quite large for a locality on the island (1 third of the respective populations of Port Mahon and Ciutadella).

Did you know that this is also where the University of the Balearic Islands in Menorca has been located since 1998?

The advantages of staying in Alaior are:

• the authenticity of the village with the Santa Eulalia Church and the Civil War tunnels,
• facilities to explore the island with access to the main road Me-1,
• proximity to the capital Port Mahon (15 minutes by car and 30 to 40 minutes by bus) and the airport
• a wide range of accommodation for all tastes even if it is a small village,
• the proximity to the most famous places like the caves of the south coast.

Coming soon – my dedicated article.

Why stay in Alaior – My review

• LOCATION – Center East inland Easy access to the main road Me-1 15min to 25min drive from the airport
• BEACHES – No beaches in Alaior itself but the closest by car are Son Bou 15mins away, Cala’n Porter and Calascoves both about 20mins away.
• SHOPS – Some local shops, day and night market, local craft shops.
• AREA ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES – Beaches and coves of Son Bou, Cala’n Porter and Calascoves (caves) Talayotic prehistoric village of  Torre d’en Galmès Port Mahon  is less than 15 minutes by car. Cave bar and restaurant Cova den explore the island.
• Popular Cala’n Porter   excursion (less than 20 minutes from Alaior by car) Kayak excursion to the southern cliffs and sea caves –   see program and availability

Where to Stay in Alaior – Hotel and Accommodation Suggestions

• SUSTAINABLE – Menorca Experimental Hotel, my favorite in the vineyards –  see photos and book
• CHARMING HOTEL – Maison Hotel Ses Penyes, in the heart of Alaior –  see photos and availability
• RENTAL – Agroturismo Turmaden des Capita, ecological crops –  see photos and book
• CHARMING HOTEL – Hotel ROMANDRE, typical in the heart of the village –  see photos and availability

My favourite activity in Menorca

I highly recommend the Binibeca: guided transparent kayak tour. In just 2 hours, you’ll experience an unforgettable moment: a glimpse of the turquoise waters without diving, in the magical coves, caves and beach of Binibeca.

Location 5 – Es Mercadal

About es mercadal.

Es Mercadal is a pretty, picturesque village with white houses founded in the 14th century. It is located less than 10 minutes by car from Monte Toro and its famous sanctuary from where the views of the island were simply incredible!

The advantages of sleeping in this village are: direct access to the main road axis Me-1 which makes it an ideal place to explore the island as a whole. Whether you go south, north, east or west, the road will be easy. Es Mercadal also has typical streets with small restaurants and charming hotels, as well as agricultural land surrounding the town.

Why stay at Es Mercadal – My review

• LOCATION – Center of the island inland Easy access to the main road Me-1 25min to 35min drive from the airport
• BEACHES – No beaches in Es Mercadal which is an inland village but the closest are those of Arenal den Castell, 20 minutes by car, and Fornells, 15 minutes by car.
• ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES IN THE SURROUNDING AREA – Monte Toro and its picturesque village sanctuary of Ferreries Ciutadella and Port Mahon are equidistant, only about 25 minutes by car each. Picturesque village of Alaior Fornells defensive tower built by the British Empire and its museum Arenal den Castell and Fornells beaches Water activities from Fornells Boat trips from Fornells And much more, it’s a convenient location to explore the island.
• Popular excursions from Fornells  (15min from Es Mercadal) 3-hour boat tour on the Menorcan coast –   see program and availability Sailing excursion on the north coast –   see program and availability   Kayak and diving excursion –  see program and availability

Where to stay in Es Mercadal – Hotel and accommodation suggestions

• CHARMING HOTEL – Hotel Jeni & Restaurant, my favorite and typical –  see photos and availability
• LUXURY – Hotel Es Mercadal, in a 19th century Menorcan style house –  see photos and book
• ADULTS ONLY – Hotel S’Antigua, outdoor swimming pool in the heart of the village –  see photos and availability
• RENTAL – Villa Bella, between privacy, nature and luxury –  see photos and book
• SUSTAINABLE – Amanecer en Port Addaia, villa with private pool and jacuzzi –  see photos and book

Location 6 – Santo Tomas or Sant Tomas

About santo tomas.

Santo Tomas is an urbanized area on the south coast of Menorca, surrounded by hills and forests. It is divided into 3 main beaches:

• Sant Tomas Beach – more resort-like, with a nice stretch of sand and restaurants
• Sant Adeodate beach – small beach facing the residential villas
• Binigaus Beach (west) – quiet, with clear turquoise water

The advantages are: a wide choice of accommodation for all tastes but authenticity and calm preserved because the tourist side of a seaside resort with large hotel complexes is not felt. I really loved the large trees lined up like a guard of honor when arriving by car by road to Santo Tomas, it already gave a very intimate feel to the place.

Why stay in Santo Tomas – My review

• LOCATION – South Coast Easy access to main road Me-1  via  Me-18 30min to 40min drive from airport
• BEACHES – A long sandy beach to the east (Santo Tomas Beach), then 2 other slightly smaller but intimate beaches to the west (Santo Adeodate Beach and Binigaus Beach)
• STORES – Few local shops, a few restaurants.
• AREA ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES – Grotte Cova des Coloms Civil War Bunker Ciutadella is only 30 minutes away by car. Algendar Canyon (hiking) Picturesque village of Es Mercadal Monte Toro and its sanctuary Water activities Cala Galdana and Cala Mitjana (by car or  via  the Cami de Cavalls hiking trail)
• Popular excursions Discovering the authentic blue sea of ​​Menorca –   see program and availability Horseback riding for 1h30 between forests and coves –   see program and availability

Where to Stay in Santo Tomas – Hotel and Accommodation Suggestions

• LUXURY – Villa Le Blanc Gran Melia Hotel, my favorite and most authentic –  see photos and book
• SUSTAINABLE – Globales Lors Nelson Hotel, Santo Tomas Beach Access –  view photos and book
• RENTAL – Villa Alessandra by Villa Plus, with private pool –  see photos and book
• ADULTS ONLY – Finca Atalis, guest house on 75 hectares of land –  see photos and book

Location 7 – Cala Galdana

About cala galdana.

Cala Galdana is one of the largest seaside resorts in Menorca. In the southeast of the island, it is attached to the municipality of the village of Ferreries. She is known for:

• its extensive sandy beach and turquoise waters,
• its cove where beautiful boats come to dock, offering a panorama worthy of a painting,
• its restaurants and lively nightlife,
• its beautiful hotels and accommodation for all tastes.

It is located very close to Cala Mitjana, another beach and cove to see in Menorca.

Why stay in Cala Galdana – My review

• LOCATION – South West Coast Access to main road Me-1  via  Me-22 35min to 45min drive from the airport
• BEACHES – Long sandy beach in Cala Galdana lined with cliffs with hotels, restaurants, deckchairs and parasols for rent. The beach and cove of Cala Mitjana are also accessible on foot after a 20 to 25 minute hike in the forest from Cala Galdana. The path is traced.
• STORES – Numerous restaurants, local shops, stores for water activities, cycling and souvenirs.
• AREA ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES – Picturesque village of Ferreries Grotte Cova des Coloms Ciutadella is just 25 minutes away by car. Santa Agueda Castle Civil War bunker Cami de Cavalls (towards Cala Macarella, accessible only by 45 minutes on foot or by bus from Ciutadella) Water activities (kayak, paddle, etc.) Algendar Canyon (hiking in a natural park) And much more, it’s a convenient place to start a day of exploring the island.
• Popular excursions Cruise to the coves of Menorca from Cala Galdana (+ snacks) –   see program and availability 2-hour glass-bottom boat excursion from Cala Galdana –   see program and availability

Where to stay in Cala Galdana – Hotel and accommodation suggestions

• SUSTAINABLE – Ilunion Menorca Hotel, my favorite charming hotel –  see photos and availability
• LUXURY – Melia Cala Galdana Hotel, directly on the beach –  see photos and availability
• RENTAL – Apartamentos Alta Galdana with outdoor swimming pool –  see photos and availability
• ADULTS ONLY – ARTIEM Audax Hotel, with spa and wellness center –  see photos and availability
• RENT – Menorca Bonavista, apartments with sea view –  see photos and availability

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

Location 8 – Ironworks

About ferreries.

Ferreries is a small picturesque village in Menorca built in the 14th century, it holds an important historical and industrial place on the island. What I liked about this Menorcan village:

• the lively and musical atmosphere of its streets,
• its craft day and night market,
• its friendly and authentic atmosphere,
• its typical preserved buildings, mainly yellow and white.

The advantages are: easy access to the 2 main towns of Menorca by car, Ciutadella 20min and Port Mahon 30min, easy access to the Me-1 road which crosses the island and proximity to famous places of interest like Cala Galdana or the highest mountain in Menorca, Monte Toro.

Why stay at Ferreries – My review

• LOCATION – Center West inland Easy access to the main road Me-1 30min to 40min by car from the airport
• BEACHES – No beach in Ferreries because the village is inland but Cala Galdana is the closest and most pleasant seaside resort, 10 minutes by car.
• SHOPS – Some craft shops, bike rentals, restaurants and souvenirs.
• ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITÉS DANS LES ENVIRONS – Monte Toro et son sanctuaire Cala Galdana Grotte Cova Des Coloms Cala Mitjana Chemin de randonnée Cami de Cavalls Château de Santa Agueda Center de géologie de Minorque
• Popular excursions Visit to the Binissues Museum, natural science collection –   see program and availability Cheese making and tasting of fresh farm products –   see program and availability

Where to stay in Ferreries – Hotel and accommodation suggestions

• AGROTOURISM – Agroturismo Son Vives Adults Only guest house –  see photos and availability
• CHARMING HOTEL – Hotel Loar Ferreries and its excellent restaurant –  see photos and availability
• LUXURY – Hotel Hort Sant Patrici, elegance between gardens and vineyards –  see photos and availability
• SUSTAINABLE – Hotel Ses Sucreres, between sandstone and natural materials –  see photos and availability

Location 9 – Cala en Bosc or Cala’n Bosch

About cala en bosc.

Cala’n Bosc is part of the municipality of Ciutadella, in the west of Menorca. Despite its touristy side, the beauty of this place struck me:

• its fine white sand,
• its turquoise waters,
• the view of the horizon.

The advantages are: a wide choice of accommodation, easy access to the beach, volleyball courts and the possibility of renting deckchairs and umbrellas, easy access to the main road to explore the island. It is a famous place in Menorca which can experience a large number of tourists in high season (July and August in particular).

Why stay in Cala en Bosc – My review

• LOCATION – South-West Coast Easy access to the main road Me-1 which crosses the island approximately 1 hour by car from the airport
• BEACHES – Cala’n Bosc beach has fine white sand all along with deckchairs, parasols for rent and volleyball courts. A few minutes’ walk away, you will also find Son Xoriguer beach near Cami de Cavalls.
• STORES – Numerous stores for water activities, cycling, restaurants and souvenirs.
• ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES IN THE AREA – Cap d’Artrux Lighthouse with views of  Majorca AquaRock Menorca Water Park Boat rental Diving Sa Cova dels Pardals Cave Water activities And much more, it’s a convenient place to discover the island.
• Popular excursions Round trip boat transfer from Cala’n Bosch to Cala Galdana –   see program and availability Jet ski tour –   see program and availability  or flyboard –  see program and availability

Where to stay in Cala en Bosc – Suggested hotels and accommodation

• RESORT – Globales Cala’n Bosch: animation, piscine, fitness et plage – voir photos et disponibilités
• LUXURY – Carema Beach Menorca: elegance, relaxation with your feet in the water – see photos and availability
• ADULTS ONLY – Lago Resort Menorca: spa hotel for adults – see photos and availability
• DURABLE – Grupotel Tamariscos: charming hotel overlooking the beach – see photos and availability

Location 10 – Cala en Blanes

About cala en blanes.

Cala en Blanes is a residential area with a sandy beach and a pretty cove. It is also attached to the municipality of Ciutadella and is one of the small beaches of Menorca.

The advantages are: a wide range of accommodation of all types, easy access to the beach, activities suitable for all ages, easy access to the main road to explore the island and proximity to famous places like the Puente de Gil natural bridge or the Punta Nati lighthouse.

Why stay in Cala’n Blanes – My review

• LOCATION – West Coast Easy access by road from Ciutadella 50min to 1 hour by car from the airport
• BEACH – Sandy beach and cove with deckchairs and parasols for rent on site
• STORES – Many stores for water activities, cycling, food and souvenirs.
• NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES – Children’s play area  AquaCenter water park Ciutadella is just 10 minutes’ drive away.  Puente de Gil  Cami de Cavalls  Boat and pedal boat tours  And much more, it is a residential place and ideal for families.
• Popular excursion Cruises on the beaches of southern Menorca and paella tasting –   see program and availability

Where to stay in Cala’n Blanes – Hotel and accommodation suggestions

• RENTAL – Villa Rocamar, 4 stars on the seafront near the beach –  see photos and availability
• RESORT – Globales Cala’n Blanes, outdoor swimming pool and gym –  see photos and availability
• SUSTAINABLE – Globales Almirante Farragut, view of Cala’n Forcat –  see photos and availability
• LUXURY – RVHotels SeaClub Menorca, apartments with sea and nature views –  see photos and availability

6 extras – Where to stay in Menorca

Location 11 – es castell.

• LOCATION – East of Menorca (10 minutes by car east of Port Mahon). Mahon-Menorca Airport (MAH) to Es Castell = 15min.
• WHY STAY THERE – A small charming village, of British origin founded in the 18th century, and which I loved with its colorful buildings, squares and alleys. A bustling day and night market in an off-the-beaten-track location known for its windmills at the entrance.
• BEACHES – There are no beaches or coves near Es Castell but 2 areas where you can swim 15 minutes by car: Cala Sant Esteve or Cala Padera.
• ACCOMMODATIONS – See the best rated accommodations in Es Castell.

Location 12 – Binibeca

• LOCATION – South-east of Menorca (very close to the typical village Binibèquer Vell). Mahon-Menorca Airport (MAH) to Binibeca = 25min by car.
• WHY STAY THERE – Beautiful coves with magnificent colors, especially at sunset. Many water activities like  transparent kayaking  (my favorite!) or visiting caves and diving.
• BEACH – Binibeca beach is one of the most beautiful in my opinion in Menorca, its sand is fine, the water is turquoise with its catamarans and sailboats docked.
• ACCOMMODATIONS – See the best rated accommodations in Binibeca.

Location 13 – Addaia Port

• LOCATION – North-east of Menorca (5 minutes by car from the village of Arenal d’en Castell). Mahon-Menorca Airport (MAH) to Port d’Addaia = 25min.
• WHY STAY THERE – A natural cove around the village port. Away from the crowds but with easy access to  diving  and fishing activities.
• BEACHES – There is no beach in Port d’Addaia but that of Arenal d’en Castell is 5 minutes away by car. It is a very beautiful beach with shops and large resorts, ideal for families.
• ACCOMMODATIONS – See the best rated accommodations in Port d’Addaia.

Location 14 – Sa Mesquida

• LOCATION – North-eastern tip of Menorca (15 minutes by car from Port Mahon). Mahon-Menorca Airport (MAH) to Sa Mesquida = 15min.
• WHY STAY THERE – A small fishing village whose beach was the scene of historic moments of conquest. Easy access to the famous Cami de Cavalls for hiking and discovering Menorcan nature.
• BEACH – Not very busy cove and beach with turquoise waters overlooking the village and the Torre de Sa Mesquida defensive tower, a British heritage dating from 1799.
• ACCOMMODATIONS – See the best rated accommodations in Sa Mesquida.

Location 15 – Son Bou

• LOCATION – South of Menorca (25 minutes from Sant Tomas by car). Mahon-Menorca Airport (MAH) to Son Bou = 20min by car.
• WHY STAY THERE – A beautiful sandy beach and plenty of  water activities  . A lively place with quite a few hotels, restaurants and shops.
• BEACH – One of the largest and most extensive in Menorca.
• ACCOMMODATIONS – See the best rated accommodations in Son Bou.

Location 16 – Punta Prima

• LOCATION – South-eastern tip of Menorca (by car 10 minutes from Binibeca and 15 minutes from Port Mahon). Mahon-Menorca Airport (MAH) to Punta Prima = 20min by car.
• WHY STAY THERE – White sand beach and turquoise waters with a view of the Illa del Aire opposite and its lighthouse. Numerous villas with private swimming pools
• BEACH – Easy to access with many shops and restaurants, fine sand and transparent water.
• ACCOMMODATIONS – See the best rated accommodations in Punta Prima.

Corners to avoid in Menorca

If you are looking for a quiet vacation, avoid:.

• the heart of Ciutadella city in high season (July and August) to avoid the crowds,
• the seaside resorts Cala Galdana and Cala’n Porter which have a somewhat lively nightlife,
• the most popular beaches like Son Bou or Cala en Bosc which fill up quickly, especially in summer!

Menorca is generally quiet at night, but there can be a few places where the party is more intense. Keep in mind that it’s a relatively peaceful island compared to its Balearic neighbors, Ibiza and  Mallorca  . By avoiding the most touristy places, you can enjoy a quiet and relaxing stay in Menorca.

If you are looking to explore the entire island, choose:

• to stay in the main towns of Menorca for easy access to its main road axis Me-1:  Ciutadella  or  Port Mahon  ,
• to explore its beaches, some of which are still wild and unspoilt – soon available my article on the most beautiful beaches of Menorca,
• to tour its most beautiful picturesque villages like Es Castell, Ferreries or Fornells,
• to climb to the summit of Monte Toro and visit its sanctuary at an altitude of more than 2,600m,
• to visit its archaeological sites – soon available my article on the ruins and talayots of Menorca,
• to stroll through its botanical garden and former Lithica sandstone quarry (my article available soon),
• to go hiking, cycling or horseback riding on the Cami de Cavalls,
• to admire the sunset at the Punta Nati Lighthouse or on the Puente de Gil.

Frequently asked Questions

Where to eat in menorca: best restaurants.

For me, the journey also involves culinary discovery. You therefore cannot visit Menorca without tasting its local products and sitting down in its typical restaurants, it would almost be like going to Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower!

The island has several good restaurants, which I was happy to try:

• Restaurant at the  Menorca Experimental Hotel  near Alaior: between finesse and explosion of flavors,
• Arjau Restaurant in Port Mahon: combination of bistronomy and seafood,
• Sa Lluna Restaurant in Cala Galdana: enjoy tapas, pizzas or typical dishes by the pool,
• Restaurant of the  Hotel Rural Saint Ignasi  in Ciutadella: between elegance and authenticity,
• restaurant at the  Loar Ferreries Hotel  : Menorcan local produce and conviviality.

Soon available, my article on the best restaurants to eat in Menorca.

How long to stay in Menorca?

Whether you stay 4 or 15 days, you will have plenty to keep you busy in Menorca! If you prefer a short stay, I advise you to visit one of the 2 main towns: Port Mahon (to the east, near the airport) or Ciutadella (to the west). I enjoyed strolling through the streets of their respective old towns, their churches, their museums, their typical restaurants and their shops. Their respective marinas are also very pleasant places to stroll.

If you are looking to explore the island as a whole, its villages, its natural parks and its off-the-beaten-track places, I recommend staying 12 to 15 days to take the time to discover each corner leisurely. Some places are close as the crow flies but require a bit of driving to get from point A to point B. The car will therefore be your ally during your stay! It was by car that I was able to discover so many things on this dream island.

Coming soon, the article on my suggested itineraries in Menorca.

How to get to Menorca?

To get to Menorca, you will have to take the plane or the boat. If you go by plane, you will arrive at Mahon-Menorca International Airport (MAH), the only airport on the island. A total of 35 airlines serve 70 cities around the world from Menorca Airport.

See available flights here.

If you prefer to take the boat, it is possible to depart from Barcelona in Spain or from Port d’Alcudia in Majorca to Ciutadella in Menorca with several crossings per day. Do not hesitate to  consult the ferry timetables.

If you are already in Majorca, you also have the option of opting for a day in Minorca by boat –  see program and availability  .

Plan your trip to Menorca:

• 35 best things to do in Menorca
• Menorca’s most beautiful landscapes
• Menorca’s most beautiful villages and towns
• Best beaches in Menorca
• Menorca hidden gems
• Best museums in Menorca
• Markets in Menorca
• Best restaurants

Useful tips:

• Where to stay in Menorca
• Best family hotels in Menorca
• Best boutique hotels
• Tips for driving in Menorca
• Renting a car in Menorca
• My itineraries in Menorca – coming soon
• Road trip in Menorca – coming soon
• Port Mahon: Things to do – Best hotels
• Ciutadella: Things to do – Best hotels

All my advice in this article was put into words with the help of Myriam.

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The Ultimate Menorca Travel Guide

Whatever your holiday interests, in this Menorca travel guide you will find everything you need to know for an enjoyable stay on the second largest of the Balearic Islands.

Having noted the tourist development of its busier neighbours of Mallorca and Ibiza, Menorca has taken a different route. All its economic development is based on minimum disturbance t o the island’s environment and nature.

In recognition of this work, in 1993, the island was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve to maintain and safeguard its heritage while developing its tourist economy. A plan it fiercely protects to this day.

Not only that, Menorca is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a true open-air archaeological museum with over 1,500 prehistoric Talayotic Culture sites.

My favourite of the Balearic Islands , Menorca sits basking in the west Mediterranean sunshine, and is an island that attracts all ages and holiday preferences.

Sparkling blue sea s, warm sunshine and child-friendly powder sand beaches draw young families and those looking for relaxing beach holidays. 

In contrast, its lush green interior, sleepy villages, bustling towns, nature reserves, archaeological sites and enticing cuisine, offer culture seekers plenty to see, do and enjoy on their days and evenings out.

Certainly, you can enjoy a late-night pint or a little karaoke in the summer months, but Menorca has deliberately steered away from attracting large groups of 18/30 party people. 

They prefer instead to cater for singles, couples, and young and older families who enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere . Visitors who arrive not just to enjoy the bars, but the beaches, coast, countryside and heritage of this beautiful island.

So, without further ado, welcome to my version of the ultimate Menorca travel guide.

Table of Contents

When is the best time to visit Menorca

Winter – October through April:

• Menorca is often classified as a ‘seasonal’ holiday island, with many bars, restaurants and attractions in the main resorts closing from mid October to April. Nonetheless, if your holiday preferences aren’t all about suntans and sea, a visit during this period will provide a whole new experience.
• Accommodation is often cheaper, but the big plus, for me at least, is the relaxing tranquillity – far fewer tourists . I can stroll the towns and villages at my own pace, enjoy scenic walks (in a warm jacket) on the almost deserted beaches, and browse the shops, bars and restaurants at my leisure.
• Average temperatures from December through February are a mild 50F to 60F (10C to 15C) with eight to ten hours of daylight.

Low season – May through June, and September – October:

• With accommodation often cheaper than high season, May, June and September and mid October are popular visitor times with older families, senior citizens and short break visitors.
• In May, many facilities are re-opening, and beaches are getting busy, with average temperatures around 25C.

High season – mid-July and August:

• Busy, busy. But not as busy as Mallorca or Ibiza. The kids have broken up from school, and university students begin to party away their gap year.
• Young groups and families enjoy this period, with daily temperatures around the mid to high thirty centigrade.

How much time do you need for your holiday in Menorca

How much time you need will depend very much on your holiday plans. On your first stay you may want to get an idea of what this enchanting island has to offer, with a view to future visits.

In this case, a seven-day break will allow you to combine beautiful beaches with exploring some of the countryside, archeological sites, villages and towns at a reasonably leisurely pace.

Consider hiring a car or using guided tours to make the most of your time.

How to get to Menorca

Several airlines fly direct to Menorca’s Mahon Airpor t from various national and international airports. Mahon Airport is just 4.5km outside the city of Mahon and is the only airport in Menorca.

Ferries to the island are available from Valencia, Barcelona and Mallorca in Spain, and Toulon from France.

How to get to your hotel or resort from the Airport

If there’s one thing I like more than a relaxing, hassle-free flight, it’s a relaxing, hassle-free transfer from the airport to my hotel or resort complex.

Transfer options from Mahon Airport include metered airport taxis, shuttle buses to a limited number of resort complexes, resort shuttles, public buses , hire cars and a range of private hire vehicles.

Public buses

With line L10 Maó-Aeroport, you can reach the bus station in less than 10 minutes. The frequency changes in summer and winter, but, in general, there are 1-2 buses per hour. The ticket costs 2,75 euros.

Once at the bus station, you can take another bus to your destination. The lines and schedules of Menorca’s buses vary depending on the season. 

Check fares and schedules here: https://menorca.tib.org/es/autobus

Airport Taxi

If you’re staying in Mahon City, an airport taxi will do the journey in around 10 minutes, average cost less than €20. To other destinations such as Fornells €40, Cala Galdana €50 and Ciutadella €60.

Resort Shuttle or Private Hire

For transfers to beach resorts and destinations further out, consider pre-booking a resort shuttle or private hire vehicle to meet your requirements (number of people, baggage, etc). You can book online, and, if you choose private hire, an English-speaking driver will meet you at the arrivals exit.

If you intend to tour the island, pre-book your airport hire car online prior to your trip for the best deals, and to ensure you have a vehicle waiting at the airport.

Getting around on your holiday

If you’re staying on one of Menorca’s beach resort complexes and want a day away from the sand and sea, your transport options are.

Metered taxi: You will only find registered taxis in Menorca; no private cabs or Uber operate on the island. Cabs are white, signed and metered and can be flagged down or found on taxi ranks around your resort.

You can also book a taxi by phone or online:   https://www.taxismenorca.com

Public Transport: Buses from the towns and resort areas are a good, cheap and reliable way to get around. Enquire at your resort information office which route number you need to get to where you want to be.

More info: https://menorca.tib.org/es/autobus

Car Rental: All resort complexes and hotels have car hire facilities where they can organise a rental for a day (or longer). Or you can book one online, which may well be cheaper. In the high season try to book it well in advance.

Costs range from around €13/day for economy, €16/day for intermediate and €50+/day for a premium model in low season. In high season prices skyrocket.

For the younger generation or old bikers, motorbikes and scooters are also available for hire if you still enjoy the feeling of wind in your hair.

Where to stay

A Menorca travel guide wouldn’t be a travel guide without highlighting places to stay. In this section, I’ve selected different areas where you may prefer to book an apartment, aparthotel, hotel or villa.

Beach resorts:

• If the sand and sea are your ideal holiday preferences, then you’re spoilt for choice in Menorca. With some of the best beach resorts of the four islands, you can choose from: Cala ‘n Bosch – Cala ‘n Porter – Cala Galdana – Punta Prima – Arenal den Castell – Son Bou – Santo Tomas – Son Park and Cala en Blanes.
• A few of the most popular: Son Bou has one of the longest beaches on the island. Cala Galdana sits in a picturesque horseshoe bay. 
• And if you want the best of both worlds (city and beach), Cala den Bosch is close to the city of Ciutadella and Cala en Porter is close to Mahon.

Country and Rural Retreats:

• Why not enjoy a romantic spring break in the Menorcan countryside? Hotel pool, first-class restaurant, blissfully quiet with country or coastal walks and plenty of hiking and biking trails. If this is you, check out Menorca Rural Hotels to get a real taste of local culture.

Towns and cities:

• Be close to all the amenities in Mahon or Ciutadella : shops, businesses, markets, attractions, bars and restaurants. Choose from boutique hotels – Airbnb – guest houses – hostels – economy hotels – adult-only hotels – 5-star luxury hotels or sumptuous villas.

Read my guide about accommodation and best areas in Menorca: Where to stay in Menorca

Best beaches in Menorca

There are over 100 beaches spread around Menorca . 

Many are large white or gold sand resort beaches with all facilities. Others have retained much of their natural ruggedness with the barest of essentials, while others are known as virgin beaches. Still as nature intended, and only reachable by boat or a tough walk through the countryside.

The north is more rugged and sparse , with darker cliffs and beaches that tend to have coarser, golden sand rather than the white powder sand of the south . Both coasts have beautiful beaches to enjoy.

Along the South Coast:

• Son Bou – Cala Galdana – Santo Tomás – Cala en Porter – Binibeca – Punta Prima – Cala Macarella – Cala Mitjana – Cala Blanca – Cala Turqueta – Cala Escorxada – Cala Fustam – Cala Trebaluger.

My favourites: Binibeca, white sand beach, clear turquoise waters with a nearby snack bar and restaurant, Cala en Porter , stunning white sand beach with restaurant and a couple of bars encircled by cliffs and pine forest, and Cala Turqueta , on the south-west coast. Close to Ciutadella and easy to reach by car, taxi or bus. Beautiful white sand and clear blue waters.

Along the North Coast:

• Cala Pregonda – Cala Tortuga – Cala Viola – Cala Mica – Cala Pilar – Arenal d´en Castell – Son Parc – Cavalleria – La Vall

My favourite: Cala Pregonda . Golden sand, azure blue waters and fabulous views. Untouched (almost) by human hand, so be sure to take snacks and drinks.

Read also: Best beaches in Menorca

What to see and do in Menorca

To give you an idea of what life in magical Menorca is like away from the beaches, I have tried to include things to see and do in the towns, villages, and nature parks.

I have included viewpoints for the photographers, and pointed you in the direction of o ld fortresses, lighthouses and prehistoric monuments.

For the foodies , I have mentioned some of my favourite bars, restaurants and local dishes you can enjoy that make up the famous Mediterranean diet.

Pay a visit to Menorca’s capital Mahon

Who doesn’t like exploring ancient cities in the warm Mediterranean sunshine? Mahon was founded as far back as 200 BC and became the island’s capital in the early 1700s.

Besides its narrow streets, squares, and historical buildings, it has the longest natural harbour in Europe at over five kilometres. 

Along its wide harbour promenade , you will find chandlery stores, businesses, shops and bars, with several of Mahon’s most popular eateries and seafood restaurants open till late evening. You can also enjoy a number of boat trips around the harbour and further afield.

Other places to explore around Mahon include the Trepuco , a prehistoric Talayotic settlement on the city outskirts, La Mola Fortress guarding the harbour, the Museum of Menorca and for the walkers, the Cami de Cavalls, a 116-mile (186km) hiking trail offering stunning views of the island’s coastline.

Read also: Best things to do in Mahon

Menorca’s most beautiful city – Ciutadella

Ciutadella was Menorca’s major port city and capital until the British gave that honour to Mahon in 1722.

Like Mahon, it is a tight, compact city, ideal for leisurely exploring on foot. And like Mahon, it has a picturesque harbour where you can browse the shops and businesses, before picking a table at one of the numerous bars and restaurants, or booking a harbour boat trip.

Other places to enjoy in Ciutadella include Plaza des Born , the city’s main square with its many historical buildings close by, including the Theatre des Born, t he Salort Palace, the Torre Saura Palace and the San Francisco Church.

The Cathedral of Menorca , the Convent of Saint Augustine, the Olive Grove House and the Local Fish Market are all easily reached.

Read also: Best things to do in Ciutadella

Head for Menorca’s favourite fishing villages

While cities have their own historical elegance, there’s a certain something about traditional fishing villages that seems to take you back in time, and Menorca has a number. You just have to find them.

Binibeca Vell:

• Sitting on the northeast coast, around one kilometre from the beach of the same name, Binibeca Vell is a popular visitor attraction with its traditional fishing boats, small harbour and whitewashed cottages. It also has a few letting apartments for those longer stays.

Fornells Village:

• Another pretty north-coast village. Pleasant harbour, whitewashed apartments and an island-wide reputation for its seafood restaurants and famous lobster stew.

Es Grau Village:

• Is situated at the northern end of the east coast with the S’Albufera des Grau nature reserve to the rear. Semi-secluded and unspoilt , it has three bars and a waterfront restaurant.

Visit the Tombs and Prehistoric Monuments of Menorca’s Talayotic Period

With over 1500 Talayotic sites dotted across Menorca, professional and amateur archaeologists from across the globe arrive to study these prehistoric sites and artefacts – and you can too.

Most sites comprise Taules, the T shape made by balancing one large stone block across the top of another and are thought to have some spiritual significance, Talayots , defensive towers and look-out points, and Navetas , known to have been communal burial tombs.

Some of the best examples can be found at:

• The Trepuco Settlement – Two kilometres outside Mahon
• Biniai Nou, Megalithic Burial Site – five kilometres outside Mahon
• Taula of Torralba d’en Salord – Talayotic village located between Mahón and Alaior
• The Settlement of Talatí de Dalt –  close to Mahon
• The Necropolis of Calescoves – Calascoves Beach
• The Naveta des Tudons – close to Ciutadella
• The Taula de Torretrencada – also close to Ciutadella
• The Torre d’en Galmés – the best-known and largest Talayotic settlement

There are numerous ways to visit the sites, including organised tours, public transport, taxis, or hiring a car.

For the twitchers and nature lovers

The Island of Menorca’s biosphere comprises a nature park, five nature reserves, a marine reserve and nineteen nature areas of special interest. With the jewel in the crown being the Albufera des Grau Natural Park.

The Albufera des Grau Natural Park: Covering over 5,000 hectares in the island’s northeast, it contains several fincas run by Menorcan artisans producing traditional products, wetlands, numerous hides for bird watching, forest and a two-kilometre-long lagoon.

Guided tours are available to see megalithic buildings , Roman artefacts, forests, fields and cliffs. And of course the wildlife and birds.

Ornithologists flock here year-round to spot resident and migrating species that arrive to feed and breed in the park, such as cormorants, fish eagles, herons, common coot, whistling duck, royal duck, vultures, peregrine falcons, kite and numerous wading species.

For the Photographers – Some of the Island’s Best Viewpoints

Whether standing on the peak of a mountain, clifftop, high hill, minaret or a rooftop terrace, the surrounding views are often breathtaking. Menorca has incredible viewpoints , and I’ve picked out four to give you a taste of what to expect.

Mount Toro:

• Sitting in the middle of the island and with the 1670 convent and sanctuary dedicated to Nuestra Señora de Monte Toro on its summit, it is one of Menorca’s most important spiritualist structures.
• It is also the highest point on the island, at 365m above sea level . From the car park, it is a ten-minute hike to the top and provides stunning 360° views of the island.

Cavalleria Lighthouse:

• Located atop cliffs on the north coast, Menorca’s oldest lighthouse was built in 1857. At over 100m above sea level , it provides striking photo opportunities of the island’s rugged north coast. From the car park it is an easy ten-minute walk to the clifftop.

Macarelleta Viewpoint:

• Sitting in the district of Ferreries on the south coast, the viewpoint is reached with a therty-minute walk from Cala Galdana. It is a clifftop viewpoint, and the views looking down into the bays are exceptional.

Cala Morell Viewpoint:

• Located on the west coast close to Ciutadella. This viewpoint is not so much about height but more about sunsets , and is a lovely setting to enjoy a cocktail or cold beer as you get that perfect sunset shot. Access is easy from the car park.

Water sports for the whole family

Although the island focuses very much on its marine environment, you can still find plenty of places to enjoy a wide range of water sports , from paddle boarding to kayaking, jet-skiing, scuba diving, and sailing.

Most of the popular resort beaches offer water sports,have pedalos and boards for hire, and a number hire out scuba gear. One of the most popular places to practice water sports is Fornells.

Here, you can practice an extensive range of water sports for adults and kids, including paddle boarding, kayaking, dingy sailing, and windsurfing .

Hike the Cami de Cavalls

The Camí de Cavalls in Menorca is a scenic coastal path stretching 185 kilometers, encircling the entire island. This ancient trail offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and adventure. Originally established for defense purposes by the British in the 18th century, it’s now a beloved hiking route.

Make the kids’ day – with a visit to one of Menorca’s Water Parks

Sometimes, a change is as good as a rest. Menorca has three main water parks, and all are open from May to October.

Aquarock Waterpark Menorca: Located in Cala en Bosch, Ciutadella. Aquarock has a wave pool, slides and flumes to suit all ages, jacuzzi, sunbathing areas, restaurants, snack shacks and much more. Open 10.30 to 18.00. from May 7th to 29th September. Aqua Centre Park Acuatico Menorca: Located at Cala en Blanes , offering numerous slides, kamikaze, black hole, water shuttles, water castle, jacuzzi, bar, snack bar, eatery, sunbathing areas and gardens. Open 10.00 to 18.00 from May 1st to October 15th. Splash Sur Menorca Waterpark: Located i n Urb. Biniancolla, Sant Lluis. Splash Sur Waterpark has an excellent range of slides suitable for the young to adults, a lazy river and a unique water play area for the very young.

Facilities include sunbathing areas with free sun loungers and parasols, toilets, lockers, shops, medical teams, lifeguards, restaurants and buffet. Open 10.00 to 18.00 from May 1st to October 14th.

Take the pressure off, and consider using Organised Tours

Many people prefer to have their days pre-planned, and choosing to book organised tours you can do just that. As you would expect staying on a small island, a lot of Menorca’s organised tours involve boat trips.

But you can also book tours of the towns, villages and cities, book tours to different beaches, and tours to explore the island’s prehistoric Talayotic sites.

To give you an idea of what’s available, I’ve highlighted a few of the most popular trips available.

• Mahón: Gin Distillery Tour with Tasting & Appetizers
• Mahón: Explore Mahon harbour on a glass-bottom boat . Duration one hour.
• From Ciutadella: Natural Coves and Beaches Boat Trip & Paella Lunch . Explore the southern coast of Menorca and enjoy a Mediterranean paella for lunch with sangria.
• Menorca: Island Discovery Jeep Tour . Enjoy some of the most scenic landscapes of the island. Duration three hours
• From Fornells. A half-day trip sailing a catamaran through part of the north marine reserve. Maximum ten people. Duration three hours.
• From Fornells. Sail the north coast , anchor on virgin beaches and enjoy a swim in clear blue waters. Duration three hours.
• Full day island tour . Visit Ciutadella, Fornells, Monte Toro and Torralba. Hotel pick-up and return. Duration seven hours.
• Menorca: Kayak and Marine Reserve Snorkeling Adventure .
• Ciutadella: Wine tasting and guided winery tour . Duration one hour.
• From Cala Galdana: Hidden Gems of South Coast Cruise . Sail through Cala Macarella and Macarelleta, Turqueta, Mitjana, Mitjaneta, Trebalúger and more. Swim into the blue waters.

This is just a small selection of available trips, and many come with hotel/resort pick-up and drop-off, and English-speaking guides.

Enjoy your downtime in bars with a view and fine-dining restaurants

Wherever you stay in Menorca’s towns, villages or beach resorts, you’re never that far from a bar or restaurant that will become your favourite.

Whether it’s a drink with a view or a little fine dining, here is the Menorca travel guide’s take on a few well worth a visit.

Bar Peri: Located in Migjorn Gran : Varied menu including tapas, fish, calamari, lasagne, crepes, pancakes and sandwiches. They do a good Sangria and the usual beers and spirits. Open 7.00am to 11.00pm

Sunset Beach Bar: Situated in Playa de Son Bou on the south coast. Primarily a bar with a view of Menorca’s longest beach selling all the usual drinks, including cocktails and Sangria. Open 9.30am to 11.45pm.

Cova d’en Xoroi bar and disco: Located at Cala en Porter, it is a unique bar carved out of the rocks. Daytime entrance costs €12.90, and €15 sunset time. In the evening, disco entrance is €30.

Sa Falua Cocktail Bar, Mahon harbour: A great little bar for those after-dinner drinks. There is an indoor terrace and a small outdoor terrace so be quick, and grab a waterside table to watch the harbour light up as the sun goes down.

Es Cranc, Fornells village: A famous, highly popular seafood restaurant alongside the beach specialising in lobster dishes, including the famous caldereta de langosta menorquina (lobster stew).

Café Balear Restaurant, Ciudadela harbour: Café Balear is a popular, well-known seafood restaurant where you can dine al-fresco beside the water. Specialities include tapas starters, lobster with onion, fried crayfish, monkfish, swordfish carpaccio and lobster stew.

Smoix Restaurant, Ciutadella: Smoix is a pleasant, boutique hotel restaurant open to non-residents and highly thought of by local and visiting gastronomes. Only local, seasonal produce is used, with legumes added when products are scarce.

El Rais restaurant, Mahon harbour: Mentioned in the 2023 Michelin Guide, El Rais is a restaurant with a difference, specialising in fusion dishes of rice, seafood and meats. You can enjoy starters, sharing plates, raw seafood or beef dishes, rice dishes, mains, and desserts.

Nightlife in Menorca

Although Menorca is certainly quieter than its louder sisters across the water, it still has enough lively bars and clubs where you can party until the late early hours.

Most of the late bars and clubs can be found around the harbour areas of Mahon and Ciutadella, with a few scattered around the resort areas of Cala en Porter ( the most famous club in Menorca, Cova d´en Xoroi , is located here) and Son Bou.

In the most popular bars and club venues you can expect everything from House and Garage, to the 70s, 80s and 90s classics for the young at heart, to Salsa and Latin beats. One word of warning, these venues don’t start getting busy until eleven or midnight.

Menorca travel guide daily itineraries

If daily organised trips make too big a hole in the holiday finances, you may prefer to hire a car and do things in your own time . The daily hire rate should reduce the longer you hire the vehicle.

Maps of the island will be available from tourist offices, hotels and apartment reception. My advice is, don’t try to cram too much into each day . Keeping the itinerary loose gives you greater flexibility should you decide to spend not one hour at a stop, but two.

Secondly, jot down your travel plans on a daily basis. That way, if rain or inclement weather is forecast for the following day, it’s easy to change your plans. Who wants to be trudging round an archaeological site in a downpour when they could be enjoying a coffee in a village café.

The following are just a couple of examples of daily itineraries, assuming I based myself in Cala Galdana, a popular resort area on the south coast.

Daily Itinerary 1

• Head for the beautiful beaches of Macarella and Macarelleta and get your feet wet in the shallows
• Drive to Ferreries town. (Inland, the highest town in Menorca)
• Pay a visit to the Naveta de Tudons, 3 miles out from Ciutadella
• Head for Cala Morell beach and its red cliffs
• Make your way to Ciutadella for a leisurely stroll around the old town
• Enjoy sunset at Pont d’en Gil
• Head back to Cala Galdana. Park up the car and jot down tomorrow’s route over a couple of beers.

Daily Itinerary 2

• Take a drive up to Binibeca Vell, a pretty village by the sea.
• Visit Mahon.
• Explore Mahon’s harbour, enjoy an hour’s boat trip around the harbour, and enjoy a meal at a top seafood restaurant.
• Pay a visit to La Mola Fortress
• Visit the Poblat Talaiotic de Trepucó, one of the island’s most significant prehistoric settlements.
• Enjoy the sunset in Cova d´en Xoroi
• Return to Cala Galdana, and end the evening with a beer in your favourite bar.

Daily Itinerary 3

• Head up to Monte Toro, the highest mountain on the island and enjoy the view.
• Drive to Torre d´en Galmés, the most famous and best-preserved prehistoric settlement
• Head north to see the Faro de Favaritx
• Enjoy a caldereta de langosta (lobster stew) in Fornells
• Spend the rest of the day in Cala Pregonda

Getting a hire car with GPS will make the touring much easier, and your supplier should be able to set the language to give instructions in English.

What to buy in Menorca

Finally, wherever you choose to holiday, plenty of souvenir shops will offer pens, lighters and fridge magnets, with the usual ‘product of’ or ‘love from’ logo printed on the product. Or, in the case of Spain and her islands, castanets, little black bulls and fans.

But what about those gifts for the special people in your life. Family, or friend who looks after the pets or keeps an eye on your house while you’re away?

You will find an extensive range of genuine Menorcan products in markets, towns and cities that make unique gifts. Leather goods , bags, shoulder bags and accessories. Pottery, ceramics, Avarques or Abarca sandals , and designer and costume jewellery.

You can browse all these products and more at Menorca’s main craft centre, the Centre Artesanal de Menorca, in Es Mercadal, which has a permanent display and holds temporary exhibitions of new products. The centre also has a small retail shop.

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Must-see attractions in Menorca

Parc Natural S’Albufera des Grau

This freshwater lagoon and its shores form the ‘nucleus zone’ of Menorca’s protected Unesco Biosphere Reserve. It's a haven for wetland birdlife …

Ca n'Oliver

Built in the early 1800s for the prominent bourgeois Oliver family (who lived here until 1920), this magnificent mansion has been exquisitely restored…

Bodegas Binifadet

At Menorca’s top winery, 500m northeast of Sant Lluís, you can amble around vineyards at your own pace, or book in a one-hour guided tour that concludes…

Cala en Turqueta

One of Menorca's most beautiful and sought-after coves, salt-white Cala en Turqueta gets its name from the turquoise-hued waters that tumble onto its…

Plaça des Born

Ciutadella’s main square is a gracious affair, framed by handsome 19th-century buildings like the neoclassical Palau Torre-Saura and fortress-like…

Castell de Sant Felip

On the north side of Cala de Sant Esteve, 4km southeast of Maó, the Castell de Sant Felip was originally constructed in the 16th century and, under…

Museu de Menorca

This 17th-century former Franciscan monastery has been a nautical school, a library, a high school, a children’s home and, now, Menorca's main museum. Its…

Fort de Marlborough

Britain occupied Menorca principally to gain possession of Maó’s deep natural harbour, captured by the Royal Navy in 1708, and built Fort Marlborough (5km…

Binibèquer Vell

Gleaming white and something of a tourist beehive, Binibèquer's core looks like a charming age-old fishing village, but, in fact, it was modelled on one…

At Punta Nati, 7km north of Ciutadella on Menorca's distant northwestern corner, the landscapes morph into an arid, rust-hued world of stone walls, rocky…

Torre d’en Galmés

If you visit only one of Menorca's Talayotic sites, make it the Torre d’en Galmés, the largest and best-preserved. Stop by the small information centre…

Palau Salort

A couple of Ciutadella's magnificent noble homes are open to the public seasonally, including the splendid 1813 Palau Salort, which unfolds behind a…

Església i Claustre del Socors

The baroque Església dels Socors, with its lovely tile-patterned floors, was built between 1616 and 1670, and contains striking works by Menorcan artist…

Around 7km southeast of Ciutadella, Son Catlar is the largest Talayotic settlement in the Balearics, covering around six hectares with five talayots,…

Fortalesa de La Mola

In the 19th century, after Maó's 16th-century Castell de Sant Felip was destroyed, Queen Isabel II ordered the construction of a new fortress. The…

Cala Mitjana

Ah, bliss! Pine-brushed cliffs enshroud this silky sugar-white cove, set deep into a headland 7km southwest of Ferreries. Park in the free car park just…

Catedral de Menorca

Ciutadella's 14th-century, single-nave cathedral was built in Catalan Gothic style on the site of Medina Minurqa’s central mosque (the belltower visibly…

Cala Macarella

An exquisite horseshoe bay on the southwest coast, with bleach-blonde sand, unbelievably turquoise water, a lone restaurant and cliffs cloaked in pines…

Cala d'Algaiarens

Tucked between Cala Morell and Cala Carbó on the island's northwest coast, this crescent of powder-soft white sand is fringed by dunes, pines and azure…

Platges de Son Saura

Bordered by pines 12km southeast of Ciutadella, the twin white-gold beaches of Banyuls and Bellavista (more commonly known as Platges de Son Saura) are…

Punta Prima

Punta Prima is a small holiday resort with a pleasant 200m-long beach, 9km south of Maó. Although it’s protected by the low expanse of offshore Illa de l…

Museu Municipal

Within the 17th-century Bastió de Sa Font, the single, vaulted gallery of Ciutadella's town museum provides an excellent insight into the island's history…

Plaça d’Espanya

Just above the port, the central Plaça d’Espanya is flanked by colourful houses and the neoclassical 18th-century Església del Carme. On the square itself…

Cala des Talaier

This snow-white bay, 11km southeast of Ciutadella, is kissed by aquamarine waters and accessible only on foot, though that doesn't dampen its popularity…

Sa Mesquida

A narrow country lane leads 7km northeast of Maó to this east-facing sweep of pale sand and translucent sea. It's a favourite among locals at weekends,…

Talatí de Dalt

At this Talayotic settlement, (signposted) 4km west of Maó, the roots of wild olive trees force apart the weathered stones of a large central talayot …

Cala Pregonda

Swing west from the Cavalleria headland to reach this curvy gold-sand beauty, which is backed by dunes, part of a marine reserve and considered one of…

Cales Coves

A 5km drive east then south from Cala en Porter, these 90 Bronze-Age caves dug into the coastal cliffs are believed to have been used for ritual burials…

Torralba d’en Salord

Around 13km northwest of Maó (and signposted off the Me1), this Talayotic settlement dates back to 1000 BC. The standout feature is its impressive taula …

Far de Favàritx

At the far-flung eastern end of the Cap de Favàritx (ignore the propiedad privada signs along the winding access road), this candy-striped lighthouse was…

Platges de Cavalleria

This stunning, reddish-golden double-crescent beach sits at the southwest end of far-northern Menorca's Cavalleria peninsula. It's around 500m (a five…

Far de Cavalleria

Standing guard atop abrupt cliffs on Menorca's northernmost tip, this 1857 lighthouse is Spain's oldest. It's signposted from a roundabout 4km south of…

Església de Santa Maria

This imposing church was completed in 1287 but rebuilt during the 18th century. Looming at the east end of its neo-Gothic interior is a massive organ …

Castell de Sant Nicolau

About 1km southwest of the town centre, this stout little 17th-century watchtower stands guard at the southern head of Ciutadella's port entrance. Views…

Naveta des Tudons

Six kilometres east of Ciutadella, Menorca's best-preserved stone burial chamber was constructed around 1000 BC. The remains of over 100 individuals were…

Arc de Sant Roc

This 14th-century archway at the top (west) end of Carrer de Sant Roc is the only remaining relic of the medieval walls that once surrounded Maó's old…

Mercat de Peix

Set in a pleasing 1895 building dressed in elegant green-and-white-check tiles, the city's small fish market is one of Spain's few remaining examples of…

Cala Presili

This pretty, sandy east-coast beach is only reachable on foot: it's 1km southwest of the Favàritx lighthouse car park and signposted.

An imposing fortress-like building, Ciutadella's town hall dates from the 19th century.

Palau Torre-Saura

The most grandiose of several 19th-century buildings overlooking Ciutadella's main square, with an impressive neoclassical facade. It's closed to the…

More destinations you need to see

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SpainMadeSimple.com

ULTIMATE Menorca Tourist Guide: BEST Things to Do & See

Table of Contents

This page is all about the Spanish Balearic Island of Menorca. If you are planning a holiday to Menorca we guide you on what to do and see during your stay with our complete tourist information guide.

The biggest Balearic Island is Mallorca (Majorca), the island of Menorca is the second biggest and is much quieter.

Here you can enjoy a relaxing holiday away from it all on what is regarded by many as the most beautiful Balearic Island. Certainly there are many pretty secluded coves and lovely sandy beaches to enjoy.

About Menorca (Minorca)

Menorca takes its name from the Latin word for ‘minor’ because it is smaller than the neighbouring island of Mallorca. This is why you often see Menorca also known as Minorca.

It only has 268 square miles of surface area with a small population of just 95,000 residents although naturally that swells up in the peak summer months.

This surprisingly green island has a unique distinctive feature – the stone walls that farmers have used traditionally to divide the fields. You will also see a number of Bronze Age monuments made from these stones. These are known as navetes or tailaiots and are often seen as symbolising a boat turned upside down.

One of the attractions of Menorca (Minorca) is the ability to mix a relaxing beach holiday with a bit of history.

The two biggest towns of Mahon and Ciudadela both have natural harbours and pretty squares with plenty of historic buildings to see.

Although relatively quiet there are things to do at night in the form of entertainment, bars, pubs and nightclubs – see our Menorca nightlife page for more.

Even if your accommodation is included in your package holiday do try eating out in one of the local restaurants at least once. Menorca has excellent seafood of course with freshly-caught squid, mullet, prawns, mussels and sea bass on the menus. The island’s speciality is Caldereta de Llagosta, a tasty lobster stew.

Eating at lunch with one of the set menus (menu del dia) is usually excellent value with wine included in a three-course meal.

If you enjoy aperitif before dinner, then make sure you ask for a gin, made with Gin Xoriguer. Back in the 18th century Menorca started production of gin on the island to satisfy the demand from the British sailors.

The Xoriguer distillery produces gin which when mixed with lemonade, makes the Menorcan drink Pomada.

You can see what Menorca looks like on the various Menorca webcams located around the island.

Most beaches on Menorca are sandy with a few rocky or pebbled beaches and hidden coves. There are 46 sandy beaches most of which are relatively quiet and unspoilt which is ideal for families.

The beaches are well-managed. On the main ones you will find lifeguards, Red Cross medical aid, toilets, bars, cafes and restaurants. Of course there are water sports such as scuba diving, windsurfing, fishing and sailing.

For the active who find it hard to sit still on the beach, Menorca is known for cycling and you can also play tennis or go horse-riding.

The longest beach with its 3km of white sand is at Son Bou, a popular resort. The famous Cala en Porter beach bordered by two large cliffs is not far away.

Other beach resorts are Calan Bosch and Cala Galdana on the south coast with S’Algar on the east coast.

On the west coast is Cala’n Forcat while in the north is Arenal d’en Castell, a beautiful horseshoe bay not far from the nature reserve of Albufera d’es Grau.

Getting to Menorca

The international Aeropuerto de Menorca is 4.5 km south-west of the capital Mahon. From there the major autoroute ME-1 road divides the island going all the way to the opposite end where the former capital of Ciudadela is situated, also with its pretty harbour just like Mahon.

You could just jump in a taxi directly outside the terminal or you can arrange an airport transfer service to your accommodation.

There is good public transport with buses operated by the Transportes Menorca company.

Car hire is also possible but note that the island is relatively small and can be easily explored using the bus service.

Mahon (Mao)

We know Mahon as the capital of Menorca (Minorca) but you will see it named as Mao when on the island.

Set in the east of the island, there is a pretty harbour here surrounded by cliffs.

You can take boat trips from here to the small island of Illa d’en Colom in the bay.

Mahon was occupied by the British from 1713 to 1783. As a result, many buildings remain with their distinctive Georgian architecture. Indeed it was the British who transferred the capital to Mahon from Cuidadela in 1722.

The major sights worth seeing and exploring include the Town Hall (Casa Consistorial), Church of Santa Maria and the Church of San Francisco.

The neo-classical and beautifully painted interior of the Church of Santa Maria is noteworthy. Many visitors come here to see and hear the huge 19th century organ which has around 3,000 pipes and was built in 1810 by the Swiss maker Johann Kyburz.

Mahon’s old quarter is situated north-east of the Placa de s’Esplanada. A market is held here every Tuesday and Sunday and it is a gathering place for locals each evening.

The Museum of Menorca displays ancient coins, maps, paintings and most notably the skeleton of a goat-like animal, Myotragus Balearicus, which became extinct with the arrival of man on Menorca.

Ciudadela (Ciutadella)

This is Menorca’s second-largest city with a population of 20,000. Once the capital of the island. it has plenty of charm and character with many historic buildings, a pretty harbour and the small beach of Cala des Degollador with the lovely promenade of Passeig Maritim.

In 1722 the occupying British forces switched the capital to Mahon thus sparking a rivalry between the two cities ever since.

The Placa des Born is regarded as one of Spain’s most impressive squares rivalling those in Barcelona and Madrid. Here you will find the town hall and three palaces of Palau Torresaura, Palau Salort and Palau Vivo.

The Torre de Sant Nicolau is a landmark watchtower built in the 17th century.

The cathedral began in 1303 and took 75 years to finish.

There is an excellent museum (Bastio de sa Font) which documents the town’s history.

A short distance from Ciudadela is the Bronze Age burial chamber of Naveta des Turons which resembles an upturned boat and is the oldest roofed building in the whole of Spain.

Map of Menorca

We have a Menorca map below showing the island and the major towns of Mahon and Ciudadela. The map naturally shows streets and roads so you can find your way around the island. It can also produce a route map with directions and timings.

Switch to the Google Earth (satellite) view and you can zoom in and out and see images of what the island looks like from an aerial perspective.

Menorca is part of the Balearics which are a relatively short distance from the eastern coast of Spain. This means they are not as warm in the winter as the Costa del Sol coast at the south of Spain and nowhere near as hot as the Canary Islands which are much further south towards Africa.

You can see the latest weather conditions from these live Menorca webcams .

Here is the latest weather forecast

As a summer holiday, Menorca is perfect. Temperatures in as early as May are warm enough to swim in the Mediterranean. In July and August you can expect daytime temperatures to be between 30 degrees and 35 degrees Celsius.

Excursions – Day Trips

Menorca is relatively flat but there is Mount Toro at 354 metres above sea level. As well as the sweeping views from the summit there is the 17th century Sanctuary of the Mare de Déu del Toro to explore.

This is certainly not an island to come to play lots of golf but there is a 14-hole golf course at Son Parc.

Families will enjoy a trip to the water park near Calan Bosch as a break from sunbathing on the beaches.

Menorca Tourist Offices

The tourist offices are great for getting free maps and guides to the many tourist attractions and sights on the island.

In particular they can help with your questions on topics such as finding accommodation and when the various local festivals (fiestas) are being held.

Airport Tourist Information Office Terminal d’Arribades, Terminal de Llegadas – Arrival hall Mahón, Baleares 07714 España Telephone: 971157115 Email: [email protected]

Mahón Tourist Information Office Plaça Constitució, 22Mahón, Baleares 07701 España Telephone: 971363790 Email: [email protected]

Mahón Harbour Tourist Information Office Moll de Llevant , 2Mahón, Baleares 07701 España Telephone: 971355952 Email: [email protected]

Ciutadella Tourist Information Office Plaça de la Catedral , 5, Ciutadella, Baleares 07760 España Telephone: 971382693 Email: [email protected]

About the Author

Mark Eastwood

Main author and owner of SpainMadeSimple.com which was started in 2004 when I first moved to Spain.

Spain Made Simple features expert advice on all aspects of moving to and living in Spain as well as useful tourist information and travel tips.

As well as my own articles we have many contributions from professionally qualified experts in varied occupations in Spain.

Thank you for visiting our website and if you would like to comment or contribute, we welcome this! Just type your message in the comments box at the bottom of the page.

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Hello I know this is an unusual request. I am searching for a Manuel Alberto Fernandez Diequez who came to stay with our Family in Norwich twice many years ago. Our surname was the Gent and Alberto visited us when he was a young man. He would now be around 60 years of age . Any information would be more than welcome as I have no address at all.

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This Lesser-known Island in Spain Has Become a Go-to for Stylish European Travelers — Here's How to Plan Your Trip

Europe’s style set has arrived on sleepy, low-key Menorca, drawn by a cluster of chic farm stays, a high-profile art gallery — and some of the best beaches in the Balearics.

TRANS-WORLD PHOTOS/PREMIUM STOCK PHOTOGRAPHY GMBH/ALAMY

In the late-afternoon shade on the terrace at Santa Ponsa , my family and I became transfixed by two identical, parrot-like birds with tangerine breasts and bright-green backs in a cage next to our table. They popped out from their little house and hopped onto a swing, where they began rubbing beaks and chattering away to one another.

“They are called ‘ Les Inséparables ,’ ” the waiter said as he poured our iced lemonade. “Lovebirds, originally from North Africa.” 

From left: From left: Karel Balas/Courtesy of Menorca Experimental; Yann Deret/Courtesy of Fonteneille

Though the two could surely tell they were far from home, there is a distinctly Moorish feel to the gardens of this luxuriously restored 17th-century farmhouse hotel a few miles from Menorca’s southeastern coast . Looking out across the stone walkways that crisscrossed the sunken terraced gardens, with their lemon, orange, pomegranate, and fig trees, my husband, Nicolas, and our two kids, 10-year-old Louis and eight-year-old Audrey, wondered out loud whether the lovebirds would be quite so happy together if they didn’t live in such a romantic setting. 

Santa Ponsa’s confluence of styles reflects the many nations and powers that have influenced this Balearic island over the centuries. The finca’s façade is painted Menorca’s classic “English red,” a shade designed to look like brickwork. And yet, with its white trim and signage, the building is more reminiscent of an Argentinean estancia. The excellent restaurant, Nura, is presided over by a Catalan chef, Oriol Sola Pagés, while the interiors — a mix of velvet, rattan, and potted palms — would make any well-heeled Parisian feel at home. 

Daniel Schaefer/Courtesy of The Estate of Eduardo Chillida and Hauser & Wirth

Once the summer home of a wealthy family from Mahón, the island’s capital, Santa Ponsa was sold to farmers in the late 19th century and eventually fell into dereliction, like many handsome houses on the island. Thanks to Parisian hoteliers Guillaume Foucher and Frédéric Biousse, who used to vacation on Menorca and bought the property in 2015, the finca has undergone a lavish restoration. Biousse, who formerly worked in fashion, and Foucher, who was a gallerist, are the creative force behind Les Domaines de Fontenille, a hospitality brand with 11 properties in France, Italy, and Spain, including two on Menorca­ — Santa Ponsa and the neighboring Torre Vella , both of which opened in 2019. 

Menorca is quietly unassuming, yet in my view the true beauty of Spain’s four Balearic Islands. It’s often overlooked by those who don’t know better — and cherished by those who do. Thanks to rigid preservation laws, its pristine coast has been spared the high-rise buildings you’ll find elsewhere in the Balearics; here, new development is only permitted in the agricultural interior. Those who like their beaches wild and rugged will be drawn to the north, with its pine-fringed rocky coves, but if, like my children, you like to spend hours paddling in gin-clear shallows, the golden beaches of the southeast are a must-visit.

Karel Balas/Courtesy of Menorca Experimental

Still, compared with brash Mallorca and wild-child Ibiza and its tiny, sceney sibling Formentera, Menorca can at first glance seem a little lacking in vibe. That began to change in 2021, when the international art firm Hauser & Wirth opened a gallery on the small island of Illa del Rei, a short ferry ride from Mahón. Since then a new international crowd has descended. At around the same time, a clutch of understated hideaways has popped up among the olive groves of the island’s unspoiled southeast, each perfectly pitched to appeal to an art-lover’s eye for authenticity and design.

Of Domaines de Fontenille’s two Menorcan hotels, Santa Ponsa is the more upscale, with a subterranean Susanne Kaufmann spa and two swimming pools. Close to the beaches of Son Bou and Santo Tomas, Torre Vella, constructed around a 15th-century lookout tower, has a more simple, pared-back feel. But while the signage is rustic and the pathways are dusty, the whitewashed bungalows conceal plush suites, many with private plunge pools and swing seats; an outdoor pool and yoga area are hidden behind pampas grass. 

From left: Nathalie Carnet/Courtesy of Fontenille; Yann Deret/Courtesy of Fontenille

After a quick transfer from Santa Ponsa to Torre Vella, we sat down to a lunch of Menorcan sheep-milk cheese and slivers of jamón, accompanied by a crisp rosé from the hoteliers’ vineyard in France. Next came a sublime sunset dip off the almost two-mile sandy beach at Son Bou. We dined in one of the property’s courtyards while bullfrogs chirped under a crescent moon. 

But the highlight of our stay came the next morning. If you, like me and my family, live for a sumptuous breakfast buffet, you’ll lose your mind at Torre Vella. Louis and Audrey made several trips to a giant central wooden table laden with cookies, brownies, and an orange-almond cake, still warm from the oven. Nicolas attacked a vast chorizo with a spoon, while I focused on a board of Menorcan cheeses and a bowl of grated tomatoes to be spread on sourdough bread, in true Catalan style. 

Marta Perez/Courtesy of Torralbenc

Our next stop was Menorca Experimental , less than a mile away. A sign indicating agriturismo took us through olive groves to a gracious 19th-century finca surrounded by extensive gardens. It did not look like any agriturismo I had ever been to — a fact confirmed when we walked into the reception area, with its display of fashion-forward jewelry, which sat alongside a four-foot urn and pedestal woven entirely from straw. 

The Paris-based Experimental Group, which began by launching cocktail bars and has since expanded to hotels in hot spots like Ibiza, Venice, and Verbier, in the Swiss Alps, has a playful, sophisticated aesthetic; the Menorca outpost, which quietly opened in 2019, is no exception. Designer Dorothée Meilichzon, who conceived the 43-room property to resemble an artist’s vacation cottage, took inspiration from the works of Miró, Dalí, and Picasso to create a colorful abstract language throughout the hotel. 

Yann Deret/Courtesy of Fontenille

With a palette of terra-cotta, pale pink, blue, and cream — carried through to the ceramics and textiles by the Moroccan studio lrnce — the feel is inventive, and seriously cool. Our fellow guests were similarly fashionable, mixing DIY Tom Collinses with Xoriguer gin from Mahón to the sounds of a tasteful — yet surprisingly loud — playlist at the bar that evening. I worried that children would not be welcome, but was relieved to see a bunch of bronzed, barefoot kids running around the grounds while their parents made merry. 

We dined in the hotel’s boutique, where tables had been laid out. Nicolas and the children concentrated on their char-grilled steaks; my attention was drawn away from my sea-bass ceviche to a pair of lrnce sandals winking at me from the shelf. 

After another extraordinary breakfast, we piled into the car for the 20-minute journey to our final stay, Torralbenc , the oldest of this new wave of hotels and in many ways the most grown-up. Set in another converted farm, Torralbenc’s golden-hued stone buildings nestle into the landscape unobtrusively, save for the odd splash of crimson bougainvillea growing on a wall. The place is so quiet that even by the side of the saltwater pool, all you can hear is the hum of bees in the lavender bushes. I discouraged my children from dive-bombing. 

Bought by a Basque family in 2005, Torralbenc opened as a hotel in 2013, and pioneered the idea of the luxury rural bolt-hole on Menorca — while setting a high bar for sustainability. Throughout the 27-room property, there are no single-use plastics: shower caps are made from repurposed potato skins, slippers from bamboo. Its 35-acre vineyard has been making wine since 2016, and the chef sources all produce locally, from the creamy farm yogurt to the fish from the market in Mahón. 

Under a bamboo canopy, we chatted with a French couple who had checked in for a week while waiting for the renovations to be completed on their new finca. The island, they told us, is fast becoming the second-home spot of choice for well-heeled French families who have given up on the Côte d’Azur. 

As the sun disappeared between the olive trees, we sipped Bodegas Torralbenc’s blackberry-inflected Merlot and discussed the best places to buy espadrilles in Mahón. And just like that, I found myself dreaming about a finca of my own.  

A version of this story first appeared in the August 2023 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "Blue-sky Thinking."

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10 Of The Best Towns In Menorca

Menorca is the second largest of the Balearic Islands and the least developed. The two main cities – Mahón and Ciutadella – are at opposite ends of the island, with a sprinkling of rural villages tucked into the folds of rolling hills in between. Declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1993, it’s protected from the ravages of tourism and, today, remains an unspoiled Mediterranean haven with only a few seaside resorts. These reasons and more are why we have a unique collection of villas in Menorca . Here are some of our favourite Menorca towns and villages.

Es Mercadal

In the shade of El Toro, Es Mercadal is a sleepy village in the heart of Menorca – and an emerging gourmet destination. You’ll discover a cluster of pastry shops and coffee bars; be sure to try the almond macaroons. There’s a number of excellent restaurants rustling up the finest Menorca food; the family-run Ca N’Olga serves wonderfully simple dishes on a garden terrace. Visit on the third weekend of July for the festival of San Martín, when Es Mercadal goes big on celebrations – dancing horses are a highlight.

The former capital of Menorca, Ciutadella, is another city with a beautiful old town. Cobbled streets are lined with sandstone mansions and elegant palaces. There’s a striking Gothic cathedral and the grand Placa d’es Born, along with a little harbour. Try authentic Menorca food at the cavern-like La Guitarra or Cas Ferrer de sa Font .

Fornells is a traditional fishing village in the northeast, with some of the best seafood restaurants around. This is the leading place to try Menorca’s signature dish: caldereta de langosta (lobster stew). Pick one of the quaint waterside eateries for dinner with a view; if you want to splash out, the renowned Es Cranc serves a version for a whopping €60. It’s also a good spot for water-sports enthusiasts, with several PADI diving centres. The Bay of Fornells is one of the top beaches in Menorca for learning how to sail and windsurf; Wind Fornells offers lessons.

While the capital is technically a city, its enchanting old town is worth a mention. Spread across a clifftop, Mahón overlooks the harbour. We think getting lost in the streets is one of the most interesting things to do in Menorca . In the historic core, small plazas are lined with 18th-century buildings, and lofty miradors (viewpoints) offer panoramic views. Don’t miss the Museum of Menorca , housed in the monastery of San Frances. Ask any foodie what to do in Mahón and they’ll suggest visiting the local market in the cloisters of the Carme church.

One of the quaintest Menorca towns, this glorious huddle of sun-bleached buildings hugs the southern tip of the island. Beyond its charming architecture lies an untouched coastline, where craggy cliffs plunge to flour-fine beaches. A trio of coves – Binissafúller, Biniancolla, and Binibeca – are edged by whitewashed fishermen’s houses.

Sitting pretty on the east coast, Alcaufar is a tiny fishing village where the pace slows. Local fishing boats bob in the shallows, just offshore from a slender beach with powder-soft sand. You’re a 15-minute drive from Trepucó, a well-preserved Talayotic village dotted with megalithic monuments – once a centre of power in eastern Menorca. Splash Sur, the island’s largest waterpark, is 10-minutes away by car – and one of the best things to do with kids in Menorca.

Es Grau is a tourist resort that feels like a traditional village, and one of the most popular Menorca towns. Of the cluster of whitewashed buildings, only a handful are occupied by bars and restaurants. S’Albufera des Grau nature reserve brims with wildlife and is a great birdwatching spot; look out for booted eagles, Egyptian vultures, and osprey. You can kayak or paddleboard across the calm bay or go snorkelling in the shallows. From the beach, follow the ancient Camí de Cavalls bridleway northwards to stumble across to a necklace of secret coves; the most stunning of which are Cala des Tamarells and Cala de sa Torreta.

Cala en Porter

Clinging to the sheer cliff face, this seaside town overlooks a picturesque cove lapped by sparkling waters. A handful of bars and restaurants create a buzz in the summer months. Anyone you ask what to do in Menorca is bound to say have a sundowner at Cova d’en Xoroi , a cliffside bar with terraces cut into the rock – the best spot to catch a sunset (book ahead to reserve a spot).

Cala Galdana

Cala Galdana is probably the most well-known resort, unfurling from the south coast of Menorca. Despite its popularity, it retains the quiet vibe of classic Menorca towns. The scent of pine drifts in from the forested cliffs to a coastline peppered with calas . The finest beach is Cala Macarelleta, just west of the town, with virgin sand and crystal-clear water. There are several restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels, with a few family-friendly activities – crazy golf, water slides, and a park.

Whitewashed facades punctuated with shuttered windows; narrow streets clinging to a steep hillside; tapas bars humming with chatter – welcome to the pretty town of Alaior. The third largest of the Menorca towns, it’s located inland, 12 kilometres from Mahón. You can buy classic avarcas leather sandals from artisan cobblers and savour hand-made ice cream from tiny parlours. The surrounding countryside is a hiking and cycling hotspot, with trails winding through the bucolic landscapes. 

Some of our handpicked villas in Menorca are located close by to these villages, so you don’t need to travel far to have an explore. If you fancy checking out our collection, head to our website now. And if you’d like to make your stay extra special, we’ve got a concierge team , who can help you sort out any added extras (like local in-house chefs.)

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Minorca (Island)

Cala Galdana

Ciutadella de Menorca

Es Mercadal

Places not to be missed

Minorca Biosphere Reserve

The island of Minorca was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO…

Talaiotic settlement of Torre d'en Galmés

A prehistoric settlement from the pre-talaiotic period.

Talaiotic settlement of Trepucó

Trepucó is one of the finest megalithic archaeological sites.

Es Tudons Prehistoric Burial Site

The 'Naveta' was a collective tomb from the pre-talaiot period.

Beach: Cala Blanca

This is a small, quiet cove set in pleasant surroundings.

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Choose between thousands of activities to live your best life on holiday.

• 2.1 History
• 4.1 By plane
• 4.2 By ferry
• 5.1 By taxi
• 5.2.1 Companies
• 5.2.2 Roads
• 5.4 On foot
• 7.1 Beaches
• 7.2 Cruises

Menorca (Minorca) is the second largest of the Balearic Islands , located to the northeast of Mallorca and is the least overrun and most tranquil of the Balearics. With a population of around 92,000, the island is dominated by tourists, particularly during the summer tourist season of May - October. Due to its unspoilt beauty, it allows the more adventurous the opportunity to discover new charms and experiences. Despite its smaller size among other Spanish islands, being just around 48 km (30 miles) long and around 16 km (10 miles) wide, the number of beaches that Menorca has equals the number of beaches that can be found in Mallorca and Ibiza combined.

Regions [ edit ]

The island is split into eight administrative divisions: Maó, Es Castell, Sant Lluis, Alaior, Es Mercadal, Es Migjorn Gran, Ferreries and Ciutadella. Each division is responsible for the beaches and resorts within it.

Understand [ edit ]

The harbour at Maó , the island capital, is the second largest natural deep water port in the world - the largest being Pearl Harbour. The whole island is a European Biological Reserve and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve aiming to preserve environmental areas. More than 75% of the territory is protected. You can watch some of the last turtles of the Mediterranean, birds and protected species.

The main tourist area is along the south coast and includes the resorts of Santo Tomas, Son Bou, Cala en Porter, Binibeca, Punta Prima and S'Algar. Menorca is a relatively quiet island, which means more wholesome, family fun holidays. If you prefer a more vibrant night scene, head to nearby Ibiza or Mallorca for a bustling city atmosphere.

An identifying sign of Menorca is its fascination with horses. All things centre around horses and the people love them. Menorca has its own race of black horses. In all the festivities the horses and their "caixers" (riders) are the centrepieces. The "Cami de Cavalls" is a pathway surrounding the island for horse riding and it was used in the past for defense of the coast by horse, literally translating to horse path .

If you do take time to explore the interior you will discover a wealth of interesting and historic landmarks from El Toro (the highest point on the island) to the most significant prehistoric sites at Trepucó and Torre d’en Galmés.

To this day no one is certain of the significance of these prehistoric monuments in the form of Taules, T-shaped stone formations thought to be spiritual sanctuaries; Talayots which are stone towers that local people believe were once used as look-out points. There is little evidence to support these theories about Menorca’s prehistoric past nor the original function of these breathtaking creations . Taules are named after the Menorquí word for table. (Menorquí is the local dialect of Catalan which is widely spoken on the Island). Menorca is by far the richest place in Europe for sites of prehistoric settlements, mostly dating from the Talaiotic Period, which was the period of civilisation between 2000 and 1000 BC. The term Talayot is believed to originate from the Arabic atalaya meaning “watch tower”.

History [ edit ]

Since prehistoric times, the Island has been controlled by the Romans, Moors, Catalans, Spanish, French and English. All these nations have left their mark on the Island and monuments to visit from Sanisera, the archaeological site close the port of Sanitja on the north coast of the island to the ruins of the 5th century Bascilica on the beach at Son Bou.

During the 18th century, Menorca was a bone of contention among the British, French and Spanish powers. This was due to the Port of Maó, the finest natural harbour in the Mediterranean, and one of the best in the world, which could protect the largest fleets of the time in their entirety. The Utrecht Treaty, signed in 1713, gave place to the first British presence on Menorca, which lasted until 1755. The first British Governor was John Campbell (Argyll) nominated by the Queen Anne. Richard Kane, from County Antrim in Ireland, the second British Governor, is still fondly remembered for his effective support of agriculture on the island; he introduced the cultivation of the apple, promoted cattle breeding and built roads and reservoirs which are still in use today. The Scottish Col. Patrick Mackellar (Argyll) was the chief engineer of Menorca and responsible for the main constructions of the British legacy. The main contribution of Mackellar was the design and construction of Georgestown (Es Castell) near to Sant Felip fortress at the entry of Mahon harbour.

There were two later periods of British presence on Menorca, from 1763 till 1781 and 1798 to 1808. The British left more than their earthworks and ramparts behind. This included things as varied as the growth of Maó, which enthusiastically accepted the opportunities for trade and the abolition of the Inquisition, the traditional woodworking and boat building techniques and designs and Menorca's most popular drink, gin.

Talk [ edit ]

The locals speak a form of Catalan language called "Menorquí", which is itself a sub-dialect of the regional "Balear". It is a language not easily understood by Spanish speakers, but most inhabitants also speak Spanish. Most also speak English to a reasonable standard, especially in the tourist areas and resorts.

Get in [ edit ]

Menorca is a member of the Schengen Agreement . See Travelling around the Schengen Area for more information on how the scheme works, which countries are members and what the requirements are for your nationality. In summary:

• There are normally no immigration controls between countries that have signed and implemented the treaty.
• There are usually identity checks before boarding international flights or boats entering the Schengen Area. Sometimes there are temporary border controls at land borders.
• A visa granted for any Schengen member is valid in all other countries that have signed and implemented the treaty.

By plane [ edit ]

39.864706 4.22624 1 Menorca Airport (Mahon Airport MAH  IATA ) There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of Ibiza and Mallorca through Iberia and their subsidiary Air Nostrum . Flights from Spain are also available from Barcelona with Vueling . If travelling from the UK , various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines Jet2 , TUI Airways , and EasyJet all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from London Heathrow , Gatwick and City airports.

To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€1.50, 15 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station.

Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island.

By ferry [ edit ]

39.891101 4.265236 2 Maó Harbour ( Mahon Harbour ), Moll De Ponent, 0 S N, 07701 Mahón . Regular ferries from both mainland Spain and Majorca are also available to Maó from Palma de Mallorca , Valencia , and Barcelona . Modest-sized cruise ships occasionally visit. They use Maó 's deep harbour, which offers highly scenic views of homes, hotels/resorts and historic structures and fortifications. ( updated Jun 2018 )

39.988337 3.826989 3 Ciutadella Harbour , Via Mestre Vives 07769 Ciutadella de Menorca ( If in Ciutadella, head down the ME-24, then turn right onto the RC2 which takes you directly to the port. ). Regular car ferries from Alcudia and Barcelona are also available to Ciutadella . Some cruise ships also do visit Ciutadella, but most use the port of Mahon. ( updated Jun 2018 )

Get around [ edit ]

By taxi [ edit ].

Taxis are a popular form of transport for those not looking to move as much. They can be somewhat expensive if using them a lot, so be careful! A taxi can be booked using Radio Taxis, which is an English speaking service. Call +34 971 367 111 and state your current location and destination.

By car [ edit ]

Companies [ edit ].

There are numerous agents and companies, both international and local, specialising in car hire in Menorca - both at the airport and in resorts - although it may be important to organise it from home before you arrive to avoid disappointment during peak periods. Scooter hire is also possible at some of these agencies. Car Hire companies include the International Firms, that usually cost a little more but have dedicated desks and a separate pickup facility directly at the airport, which means there's no shuttle bus and you can just drive away. Companies based at the airport are: Hertz , Avis , Europcar , and Enterprise . There are other firms dedicated to Menorca, which will often be cheaper than the main firms, but have no dedicated desk at the airport and require a shuttle bus to their offsite destinations.

A word of warning on Car Hire: If possible, do not get a ' full to empty ' fuel policy; there is no way that you will use a full tank of fuel on the tiny island of Menorca. Instead, opt for a ' full to full ' policy wherever possible. It does mean you'll have to use a petrol station before your return, but you'll save the over-the-top cost of a full tank of fuel from the rental agency.

Roads [ edit ]

The roads on Menorca are very simple: there is one main road, the ME-1. It connects Ciutadella and Mahon and every other major road on the island branches off it.

By bus [ edit ]

If you're planning to travel around by bus, then there are three main public bus companies in Menorca: TMSA , Torres , and Autos Fornells .

• Transportes Menorca (TMSA) , who run buses throughout the island, including to Ciutadella, but operate mainly around the east coast (including Maó and the Airport), as well as to many of the southern resorts. Their buses leave from the Bus Station in Maó and from Placa de Menorca in Ciutadella.
• Torres run buses from Ciutadella to locations and resorts on the west coast. Their buses leave from the main plaza (Placa des Pins) in Ciutadella.
• Autos Fornells run buses from the major towns to the northern resorts, including Fornells.

The main bus route which serves Maó, Alaior, Es Mercadal, Ferreries and Ciutadella runs along the centre of the island. Most buses leave hourly and are very inexpensive, at around €4 to €5 to travel between Ciutadella and Maó.

You can always find the latest timetables for every route on each operators' website.

On foot [ edit ]

The Cami de Cavalls footpath encompasses the entire island, and is a popular walking route along the coastline. It is a fully signposted long distance Spanish walking route around the edge of the island, and is a part of Spain's network of paths, the Gran Recorrido (GR) Network. If you're planning to visit a nearby beach or resort, it's often quicker to use the Cami de Cavalls due to the island's road structure; you can walk directly to your destination instead of travelling all the way inland only to head back down to the coast again.

See [ edit ]

El Toro , east of Es Mercadal , is the highest point on the island. Visit for a fantastic panoramic view of the island.

In Maó , the Xoriguer Gin Distillery makes gin that is distinctively aromatic and very tasty. You can sample and purchase on-site gin and the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. The Museu de Menorca is in a 15th-century former Franciscan monastery. It exhibits the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca, and includes paintings from more recent times. La Mola Fortress is a magnificent, mid-19th-century Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour.

In Ciutadella de Menorca, enjoy the Plaça d'Alfons III , a plaza lined with restaurants and cafés that are worth more than a passing glance. Outside of the town, you will find Líthica , a sandstone quarry you can explore. It has wonderful gardens, a sandstone maze, and brilliant views of the quarry and the surrounding greenland. Naveta des Tudons is an ancient megalithic chamber tomb and the final resting place for 100 skeletons buried up to 750 BC. The exterior is open to visits.

Nine Prehistoric Sites of Talayotic Menorca were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2023. These are remains of settlements from about 1600-100 BCE. The sites are known for monuments of large stone blocks, possibly erected for astronomical observations (like Stonehenge).

Do [ edit ]

Beaches [ edit ]

Resorts, particularly on the north side of the island, are generally built on cliffs and so have either very small beaches or very full beaches. As a result, it's best to rent a car (see 'Get around' ) and get out to explore some of the great beaches, or else you will be fighting for space. Moreover, the larger family resorts have beaches that, again, do fill up quickly, so go and explore some of the more obscure beaches listed below.

Menorca has its share of beautiful coastline that deserves recognition. Non-resort Menorcan beaches are generally not crowded, so finding a nice relaxing spot of your own is not hard to achieve, provided you have access to a car or scooter.

Es Grau is a great, long beach north of Maó with shallow water ideal for families that is very close to a nature reserve that has some great walks. Punta Prima Beach , southeast of Maó, is a relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima.

Cala Macarella , west of Cala Galdana , is undoubtedly one of the best beaches on Menorca, with crystal clear blue waters, a brilliant natural cove and a small cafe/bar. Cala en Turqueta also west of Cala Galdana, is a brilliant beach with great soft sand and the same turquoise water (where it gets its name from) as Macarella.

40.056562 4.040672 1 Cala Pregonda , Son Ametller 07740 Es Mercadal ( access is via a long road up from Es Mercadal town ). Pregonda is a medium-sized beach on the north side of Menorca with golden fine sand. It has clear, blue, inviting water, and is unparalleled on Menorca, with its island in the middle of the bay that is definitely worth a climb, and the golden rocky sea beds behind the island. There is a smaller, quieter sister beach to the east of Pregonda called Pregondó. Free . ( updated Jun 2018 )

39.871503 4.132129 2 Cala en Porter , Platja de Cala en Porter, 07730 Cala en Porter ( head down the ME-12, then follow signs for the beach; there's a car park at the beach ). 24 hr . Cala en Porter is possibly one of the best beaches for families, with a playground, great sand and shallow water. The beach itself is stunning too, being at the end of a great bay surrounded by cliffs, with pedalo hire and sunbed hire. Gets busy but it's a wide beach, so there's plenty of space for everyone. Popular with families. Free . ( updated Jun 2018 )

At Son Bou , the longest beach on Menorca means there's plenty of space for everyone if you don't mind walking a few minutes from the crowd. Pale sand and loads of room make this beach great for kids: sunbeds and pedalos are available at the resort end of the beach. Brilliant for families.

39.916621 4.034185 3 Santo Tomas ( Playa San Adeodato, Binigaus ), Urbanizacion Santo Tomas, 07749 Menorca ( head down the ME-18 from Es Migjorn Gran, then turn right just before the mini-roundabout at the bottom of the road to enter a large car park perfect for the beaches ). Santo Tomas has three very long beaches; the first, Playa de Santo Tomas, is a long winding strip of sand near the resorts' hotels, and so is popular with families. San Adeodato, west from Playa de Santo Tomas, is thinner and strewn with pebbles with a shallow shore, ideal for sun-worshippers and those looking to spend a few hours there. The third, Binigaus, is further west still, and is only accessible by a long path from the west of Santo Tomas. As a result, it is not suitable for those with young children and so is a brilliant spacious beach for adults looking to unwind away from the noise. ( updated Jul 2018 )

Cruises [ edit ]

Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises from Maó offer a chance to view the underwater marine life.

Scuba [ edit ]

There is a scuba centre at Son Bou.

Buy [ edit ]

Avarcas , the traditional Menorcan sandal, is available in shops and markets throughout the island. They are now a fashion icon and can be found around the world, but were originally designed as a shoe for farmers. Only the original Avarca manufacturers are allowed to sell shoes with the label "Avarca de Menorca". This is only given by the local Balearic Government as a guarantee that the avarcas accomplish minimum quality standards and that they have been really manufactured on the island.

You can find companies that manufacture Avarca de Menorca in Ferreries , Es Mercadal and:

39.943349 4.050457 1 MIBO Cosits, S.L. ( Abarcas Menorquinas MIBO Cosits ), Polígono Industrial, Nave, B-6, 07749 Es Migjorn Gran ( enter the industrial area by turning left from the ME-18 (if approaching from the main road) and the shop is on your right ), ☏ +34 971 37 05 62 . M-Sa 09:30 - 14:00 , 16:00 - 18:00.Su 10:00 - 14:00 . A small store that sells products directly from the factory behind. Sells official avarcas de Menorca, in a range of adults and children's sizes and colours. Shoes range between €40-60 for an adult pair . ( updated Jun 2018 )

Eat [ edit ]

Menorca is packed with good restaurants whose menus especially feature fish and seafood. Menorca also has a great variety of bars and cafes, with some open for 24 hours a day.

Drink [ edit ]

Nightlife in Menorca is low key compared to nearby Mallorca or Ibiza. For a drink with a waterside view, head to the waterfront which is where the majority of bars are situated.

Menorcan Gin

On Menorca there were a great many junipers, (there still are), and in the harbour lay the British fleet. The twain met and Ginet was the result, a spirit far removed from the Spanish and Mediterranean traditions and with notable difference from the English Gin.

It is a kind of cross between London Gin and the Mediterranean spirit, invented in Menorca. It was very successful and was drunk throughout the British Fleet and it surprised more than one distinguished visitor to declare "the best of the sprits found in Europe today" was historian Vargas Ponce's opinion on visiting Menorca in 1781.

The major difference between London Gin and Menorcan Ginet, is that Menorcan Ginet is based on a spirit distilled from the grape, as is usual in the Mediterranean, and not on a cereal based spirit. The juniper now comes from the mainland, but the distilling continues to be done in old copper stills. The spirit rests in oak barrels cured in gin so that the end product does not take the colour of the wood.

Gin is found all over Menorca, drunk neat or in a mix. One such mix, named Pomada, is created by adding bitter lemon. It's the drink of choice during the many fiestas which take place throughout the summer on the island.

You can find information about how to visit the distillery shop in the Maó article.

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MENORCA TRAVEL GUIDE

Menorca (or Minorca ) is the second largest island of the Balearics and the less visited compared to Majorca and Ibiza , but it’s a perfect destination for a more quiet and relaxed holiday with a great number of amazing beaches to choose from.

This guide will tell and also show you with photos everything you need to know about planning your trip to Menorca, the best places to visit and things to do and also provide detailed maps and itinerary .

INTRODUCTION TO MENORCA (MINORCA)

Why shall you visit Menorca ?

Menorca is one of the less touristy islands of the Balearics with stunning beaches and some beautiful coastal scenery.

An ideal destination for a relaxed holiday in the sun , but also for people looking for something more adventurous or cultural, as it combines beach activities with hiking opportunities, archaeological sights , seaside villages and two beautiful main towns (Cuitadela & Mahon or Mao) .

It has a lot of prehistoric structures : the navetas, the defensive towers called talayots and the taulas (T-shaped structures).

It is an appealing green island, designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve , and over forty per cent of it enjoys official protection.

BEST TIME TO VISIT MENORCA

The tourist season starts from May to mid-October

For a beach holiday , the best time to visit the island of Menorca is between June and the end of August . It’s dry, sunny and hot. Also, most of the tourist amenities will only be open during these months.

However, I would avoid the very high season: mid-July to late August, as the island tends to get very crowded with most prices tend to be higher. Weather can also get very hot, with temperatures over 25°C. However, due to its refreshing sea breeze, it never gets too hot during the summer. 

May can be a bit cold to swim in the sea and sunbathe, but it is usually dry and sunny. September & October are considerably more cloudy and can be quite wet.

During the “winter season” most of the hotels, attractions, shops and restaurants, especially in the tourist resorts close in October and do not open until April.

For me, the best time to visit is June with more acceptable temperatures, fewer crowds and lower prices but still possible to swim in the sea.

HOW LONG TO STAY IN MENORCA

Menorca is quite a big island (about 690sqkm), so I would recommend staying on the island at least for 5 days to a full week if you would like to explore it and visit most of the sights at a relaxed pace. Despite its size, driving around the island is quite easy as it is mainly flat.

WHERE TO STAY IN MENORCA

There are many resorts on the island of Menorca where you can spend your holidays. Some of the main beach resorts in Menorca are Cala Galdana , Cala ‘n Bosch Cala ‘n Porter , Son Bou, Santo Tomas, Punta Prima , Arenal d’en Castell , Son Park and Cala en Blanes .

Great places to stay are also Ciutadella and Mahon , the two main towns on the island if you are not bothered by having a beach within walking distance and you prefer city life with plenty of choices for restaurants, bars and shopping. If you want to explore the island by public transport, Mahon or Ciutadella are also the best places to stay in Menorca without a car.

My recommendation is to stay in Cala Galdana as it has a beautiful setting within a horseshoe bay and a beautiful beach, a nice little marina and lots of bars and restaurants. There are also a lot of hotels and apartments to rent and it’s the best base to explore the neighbouring beaches on foot if you don’t have a car.

Cala ‘n Porter is a long-established resort on the south coast ideal for families because of the beach with shallow water. The resort is up on the hill overlooking the beach so it is a bit of a steep walk up.

Cala ‘n Bosch is one of the most popular purpose-built resorts close to Ciutadella, with lots of bars, restaurants and things to do for families and close to a nice beach.

Santo Tomas & Son Bou are another two popular resorts on the south coast with a long stretch of white sandy beaches.

Cala ‘n Blanes, north of Ciutadella is another resort popular with mainly British families. The beach is not one of the best.

Punta Prima & Binibeca are two popular resorts close to Mahon.

Son Park & Arena d’ en Castell are two alternative resorts on the north coast of Menorca.

Best hotels in Menorca

• ARTIEM Audax-Adults Only : This hotel is located at the resort of Cala Galdana, 2min walk from the beach. It offers an outdoor pool overlooking Cala Galdana Bay.
• Meliá Cala Galdana : This luxurious hotel is located on the beachfront of Cala Galdana Beach offering outdoor swimming pools and rooms with sea views.
• Hotel Cala Galdana & Apartamentos d’Aljandar : Another great hotel in Cala Galdana with an outdoor pool, only 3min walk from the beach.
• Hotel Playa Azul : This hotel is located on a cliff above Cala’n Porter Beach. It offers outdoor pools and sun terraces with fantastic sea views.
• Catalonia Mirador des Port : A great option in Mahon, this hotel offers beautiful views over Mahon Bay, 5min walk to the centre of town.
• Hotel Port Mahón : Another great hotel in Mahon, a 10min walk from the centre of town offering an outdoor pool and nice views overlooking the harbour.
• White Sands Beach Club By Diamond Resorts : It is situated in Arenal d’en Castell. Just 200 yards from the beach, this luxurious resort features a restaurant, a swimming pool and spacious apartments with balconies or terraces.
• Comitas Tramontana Park :  This aparthotel is close to Fornells Beach and has an outdoor swimming pool, a buffet restaurant and a gym. Suitable only if you have a car as Fornells main village is 3.5km away.
• Hotel Port Ciutadella : This hotel is located close to Platja Gran (a small beach) and 15min walk to the centre of Ciutadella.
• Barceló Hamilton Menorca Adults Only : A 4-star hotel at the nice seaside village of Es Castell offering great views towards Mahon Bay.
• Grupotel Tamariscos : This aparthotel is located in the resort of Cala ‘n Bosch, overlooking the beach.

Click here to check and compare prices on accommodation for the whole island.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Entry requirements/visa.

No visas are required for visits up to 90 days for most nationalities. You can check entry requirements on this website .

Menorca is a safe place and you shouldn’t come across any issues during your stay. However, it’s worth being vigilant in crowded places and tourist areas for any pickpockets or scammers.

Travel Insurance

It’s always recommended to get travel insurance before you travel even if a destination like Menorca shouldn’t pose any safety concerns. You never know what might happen; better to be fully covered in case of an accident or flight delays etc. SafetyWing is a great choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.

The climate in Menorca is Mediterranean , with mild winters and hot, sunny summers.

Summer (June to Sept) : Dry, sunny and hot. Average temperatures between 23 to 35 degrees. July is the hottest and driest month.

Autumn (mid-September to November) : It starts to get cloudier, colder and also rainier as the days progress. Average temperatures between 18 to 25 degrees.

Winter (December to mid-March) : It can get quite cold and windy and also rainy but very rarely snows. Average temperatures between 12 to 16 degrees. February is the coldest month.

Spring (mid-March to May) : It starts getting warmer and sunnier with average temperatures between 15 to 19 degrees.

You can check historical weather data here .

Internet/Mobile Phone

Arrivals from EU countries can enjoy free roaming.

If not part of the EU, you can buy a SIM card in one of the shops of either Orange , Vodafone or Movistar (the three main mobile providers).

Catalan is the main language as well as Menorquin, which is a local dialect of Catalan, but everybody speaks Spanish and various levels of English.

The currency is the euro. It’s worth having some cash with you as a lot of small shops and cafes or restaurants won’t accept cards. The best place to exchange some money is through an ATM that can be found in most villages. More tips about exchanging money can be found here .

Menorca is more expensive than mainland Spain and prices are higher during July and August, especially for accommodation. An average double room will cost 100 euros per night and a meal at a restaurant around 60 euros for 2 people.

The power plugs and sockets are of type C and F (with two round pins). The voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.

Packing List

If you visit in the summertime like most tourists, you won’t need to pack very much, mainly summer clothes & shoes , a hat , sunglasses , flip flops , the essential sunscreen and a swimming suit . However, I will recommend having a light summer jacket , as it can be quite chilly at night, especially in September and May when the wind blows.

For more information on travel gear and what to pack click here .

HOW TO GET THERE

Menorca-Mahon Airport is connected to many cities from mainland Spain all year round and also to the Island of Majorca with regular flights. During the summer season, the airport receives charter flights from many European countries.

For the best website to book your flights, check the link below. Always check prices in advance for the best deals.

Getting from/to the airport

The airport is located about 4km away from Mahon. Upon your arrival, you can rent a car (highly recommended) in one of the rental offices at the airport. The airport is the best place to book if you haven’t done it before you arrive.

There is a metered taxi service outside the terminal building. The journey to Mahon is about 10min and to Ciutadella about 40min.

There is also a daily bus service (15min trip) that connects the airport with Mahon City Center (Mahon Bus Station), every 30min, from 6am to midnight at high season. The bus stop is located at the ground level of the main terminal, outside arrivals. More information about the bus service can be found here .

There are ferries from the port of Barcelona to Ciutadella (10 sailings per week in high season & a 6h journey) and Mahon (7.5h journey).

Menorca is also connected with Majorca with fast and frequent ferries from Alcudia (a 1.5 to 2h journey to Ciutadella ). The ferry tickets can be quite expensive.

For a good website to book your ferry ticket that doesn’t charge admin fees, check the link below.

HOW TO GET AROUND

I would definitely recommend hiring a car if you would like to explore the island .

I always try and rent a car whenever I travel as it just gives you the freedom to plan your trip as you like it and stop wherever you like, as I usually do with too many photo stops along the way.

Car rental for a day is usually 40-60 euros in high season. There are car rental offices at the airport and in the main resorts of the island, but it’s always better to book in advance before your travel for the best deals. Also in high season, there might be low availability and the prices can be much higher if you leave it until you arrive. Check the link below to book and compare car rental prices.

Be aware that during July and August, parking at the most popular beaches can be an issue because of the limited spaces.

By Scooter/Motorbike

A cheaper alternative to the car is renting a scooter or motorbike if you are comfortable with it, but you need to be more cautious on the road. The big advantage of renting a motorbike is that there will be no need to worry about parking.

There are taxi stands in most towns. There are only licensed taxis in Menorca, painted white and use meters; no private taxi companies or Uber. Taxis have fixed rates for longer distances and are considerably more expensive compared with bus service.

Indicative fares of taxi routes :

• Airport to Mahon €15
• Airport to Ciutadella €55
• Airport to Cala Galdana: €45
• Airport to Fornells: €40

Bus Network in Menorca connects the main towns and villages as well as some of the beach resorts, but only in the summer season. It is run by three different companies operating in different areas of the island (TMSA, Torres & Autos Fornells). Travelling by bus is a cheap alternative and it is quite comfortable but appropriate planning is needed. More information regarding bus routes, timetables and prices can be found on the following websites:

• Autos Fornells

WHAT TO EAT & DRINK

Best places to go for a meal are Ciutadella and Mahon for the best choices in a beautiful setting. For good seafood restaurants by the sea, you can also visit Port de Fornells, the best place to taste caldereta de llagosta. Below you can find a sample list of some of the best restaurants and bars in Menorca. For more information and reviews of restaurants on the island, you can check TripAdvisor .

Nightlife in Menorca is low-key compared with the neighbouring islands of Majorca and Ibiza but there are still some nice bars to enjoy a drink, especially by the sea.

Best restaurants & bars in Menorca

• Restaurant Cafè Balear : Best seafood restaurant in Ciutadella. Very busy.
• Ulisses: Located in the centre of Ciutadella for great tapas
• Restaurante El Rais : One of the best portside restaurants in Mahon
• Es Moli d’es Raco: Traditional menorcan food in Es Mercadal
• El Pescador : Seafood seaside restaurant at Fornells
• Cova d’en Xoroi: Menorca’s most popular bar built in a cave on a cliff overlooking the sea . One of the few nightclubs in Menorca
• El Mirador in Placa d’Espanya : A nice bar by the walls above the harbour offering views of Mahon bay.
• Sa Falua: A nice bar on Mahon waterfront for cocktails

You can check the location of these restaurants on this map .

Local Specialities

• The island’s signature dish: caldereta de llagosta or lobster stew
• Fish & Seafood
• Sípia amb fesols (Cuttlefish with peas)
• Albergínies al forn (stuffed aubergines)
• Sobrassada (cured sausage)
• Local gin from the Xoriguer   distillery (produced since the British Occupation)
• Pomada (gin and cloudy lemonade)
• More information about the best spanish dishes you can find here

BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN MENORCA

• Swim and relax on one of the best beaches on the island
• Explore the two pretty towns of Ciutadella and Mahon
• Admire the views from Monte Toro
• Visit some of the traditional fishing villages: Binibeca Vell, Fornells and Es Castell
• Take a boat trip to Mahon Harbour
• Visit some of the prehistoric monuments
• S’Albufera d’es Grau
• Visit one of the Lighthouses of Menorca
• Cova d’ en Xoroi
• Visit one of the military fortresses of Menorca
• Visit some of the museums of Menorca
• Líthica, Pedreres de s’Hostal
• Visit the Xoriguer Gin Distillery

BEST TOWNS & VILLAGES IN MENORCA

• CIUTADELLA DE MENORCA
• MAHON (MAO)
• FORNELLS PORT
• BINIBECA VELL
• ES MERCADAL

BEST BEACHES IN MENORCA

Menorca has some amazing beaches to choose from. The most popular beaches are on the south coast of the island, mainly small white sandy coves with crystal clear turquoise waters.

I recommend visiting at least the two popular beaches on the south coast Cala Galdana & Cala ‘n Porter and two of the best coves Cala Macarella and Cala Mitjana.

Do not forget to visit some of the equally beautiful beaches on the north coast like Cala Pregonda and Platja de Cavalleria with the amazing red cliffs.

Below is a list of the 30 best beaches on the island.

• Cala Galdana
• Cala en Porter
• Cala Mitjana & Mitjaneta
• Cala Macarella & Macarelleta
• Cavalleria Beaches
• Cala Pregonda
• Platja de Son Bou
• Platja Arenal d’en Castell
• Platjes de Son Saura
• Cala en Turqueta
• Playa des Talaier
• Arenal Son Saura
• Santo Thomas
• Cala Trebalúger
• Platja de Binigaus
• Cala Escorxada
• Punta Prima
• Playas de Fornells
• Cala del Pillar
• Platja Sa Mesquida
• Platja Es Grau
• Cala Algaiarens
• Cala Binibeca
• Cala en Bosc & Platja de Son Xoriguer
• Cala Presili
• Cala en Blaines
• Cala Morell

MENORCA TOURIST MAP

You can click on the map below for the location of the best sights, restaurants & hotels, as well as the best villages and beaches to visit in Menorca.

PHOTOGRAPHY

You can check the best photographs and slideshows from the island of Menorca here .

Here is a list of the best viewpoint locations on the island where you enjoy great views .

• Mirador Cim del Toro
• Mirador Sa Punta (Cala Galdana)
• Mirador of Cala Galdana
• Mirador Cala en Porter
• Mirador Del Passeig Maratim
• Mirador puerto Ciutadella
• Mirador Sa Albufera des Grau
• Arena d’ en Castel Mirador
• Mirador Arenal d’en Castell
• Mirador Cala Trebaluger
• View of Playas de Fornells
• Fornelles Tower fortress.

You can check these viewpoints locations and the best photo spots on the island in the following map .

There are lots of centres for watersport s and other activities on the island for the more adventurous.

F ornells is probably the best place as there are two dive centres and a surf centre.

Kayaking is quite popular and kayaks can be rented on the following beaches:

• Es Grau: From there one can reach Illa d’en Colom, a small island 200 meters from the mainland and its beaches.
• Cala en Porter: Cales Coves can be reached from there
• Cala Galdana: Plenty of caves and some of the most famous beaches of Menorca can be reached from there.

Horse riding

Menorca a Cavall is a company that offers horse riding excursions to different beaches and locations around the island. The farm is located near the town of Ferreries.

There are numerous hiking trails but the most famous one is Camí de Cavalls .

This is an ancient path of 185km that encircles the whole island of Menorca. You can also cycle part of the route or even horse ride.

Activities for kids

Lloc de Menorca is a small zoo where you can enjoy a variety of animals between native breeds and exotic species. Open from April to October (10am to 6pm) with a general price for adults of €14 & €9 for kids. It is located between Alaior and Mahon.

Splash Sur Menorca is probably the best water park in Menorca, located in Punta Prima. Price for adults €23.

Aqua Centre is another water park situated in Cala en Blanes, north of Ciutadella. Great for smaller kids, but a bit overpriced for what’s on offer. Price for adults €22.

Wine Tasting

Bodegas Binifadet : The winery is located near Sant Lluis and offers wine-tasting tours. The experience lasts for about an hour and includes strolling through the vineyards, a visit to the winery to see all the stages of production of the wines from harvesting to bottling and finally wine tasting. Price of tour: €12. The restaurant is really nice too where you can enjoy dinner and wine in a beautiful location.

EXCURSIONS & TOURS

• Boat tour of Mahon Harbour

This is a good 1h tour of the Mahon harbour offering some great views of the surrounding coastline and the town of Mahon.

There are two companies ( Yellow catamarans & Rutas Maritimas de la Cruz ) offering cruises around the harbour at €13.5 per adult.

During the trip, you can listen to a commentary in English on the history and points of interest of the Port of Mahon and Menorca, but there are no stops during the trip.

Boat tour along the coast of Menorca

This is a very good way of seeing the non so easily accessible beaches of the south coast. The best tours on offer are the ones below:

• Half-Day Boat Tour along the South Coast of Menorca : This tour starts from Cala ‘n Bosch (€35 per adult & 3.5h duration).
• Half-Day Boat Excursion 6-8 South beaches of Menorca : This tour starts from Cala Galdana (€70 & 3.5h duration)

Ferry trip to Majorca

If you have plenty of time on the island, you can take the ferry from Ciutadella to Alcudia (1.5h to 2h journey) in neighbouring Majorca and enjoy this beautiful coastal resort.

Difficult to be done as a day trip, but it’s definitely worth visiting Majorca as part of a longer trip.

More information about excursions & tours in Menorca can be found here .

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

It is worth staying on the island for at least 5 to 7 days if you want to explore it. The following itinerary includes things to do for 6 days on the island, but if you have more time to spend, you can change this itinerary to allow a more relaxed pace. I have taken Cala Galdana as a base & overnight stay for the duration of the holiday; this itinerary might work slightly differently if you stay in other parts of the island.

• Hike to Cala Mitjana from Cala Galdana (15min walk) & enjoy a swim in this beautiful cove
• Optional: Continue to Cala Trebaluger (another 20min walk)
• A quick visit to Ferreries village
• Visit Naveta de Tudons
• Drive to Cala Morell for a photo stop
• Visit Ciutadella & walk the narrow streets of the old town
• Evening stroll at beautiful Ciutadella harbour & dinner
• Back to Cala Galdana
• Total drive time: 1.5h
• Quick visit of Es Mercadal
• Drive up to Monte Toro to enjoy the views
• Visit Far de Cavalleria for a walk around the lighthouse
• Swim in the scenic Cavalleria Beach
• Hike to Cala Pregonda for another swim in this beautiful setting
• Photo stop at Playa de Fornells
• Evening stroll and meal at Fornells port
• Total drive time: 2h
• Hike to Macarella & Macareletta for a swim
• Optional: Poblat talaiòtic de Talatí de Dalt
• Visit Binibeca Vell
• Optional: Bodegas Binifadet winery
• Evening walk and meal at Mahon
• Total drive time: 1h 45min
• A quick visit to Alaior
• Visit the historic site of Torre d’en Galmes
• Swim in Son Bou
• Optional: Torralba d’en Salort
• Cala en Porter for another swim or kayaking
• Cova d’en Xoroi for a drink while enjoying the sunset
• Go to Arena d’ en Castell or Son Saura for a swim
• Drive to Far de Favàritx for a walk to the lighthouse
• Stop to enjoy the view at the Mirador Sa Albufera des Grau
• Visit Es Grau for some kayaking
• Drive to Mola Fortress for a visit
• Evening stroll and meal at Es Castell
• Total drive time: 2.5h
• Visit Cala en Bosc & take a boat tour along the south coast of the island (3.5h)
• OR take a boat tour from Cala Galdana (3.5h)
• Enjoy your last day relaxing at Cala Galdana

You can find the driving routes for the above itinerary on the flowing clickable map.

VIRTUAL TOUR

Check the following video slideshow to get further inspiration to visit Menorca 🙂

THINGS TO BUY

The best destination for souvenir shopping is either Mahon or Ciutadella with lots of souvenir shops as well as shops with handmade crafts and typical menorcan products.

A unique souvenir to buy is a pair of avarques, a typical sandal from Menorca exported around the world. S’Avarca de Menorca in Mahon has a wide selection and the most unique designs.

Queso de Mahón (Mahon cheese) or sobrassada (cured sausage) can be bought in the markets of Mahon.

FURTHER READING

You can check the following posts :

• Menorca Beaches & Resorts
• Town & Villages of Menorca
• Best things to do in Menorca

Other useful websites for more information about Menorca:

• Menorca Island : The official tourist website of Menorca
• MyMenorca : The most detailed independent website about Menorca

Some good travel guides to buy before your visit Menorca:

• Insight Guides Pocket Menorca : Compact, concise, and packed with essential information about Where to Go and What to Do. The cheapest pocket guide for Menorca.
• Menorca Marco Polo Pocket Travel Guide : Another affordable option. Explore Menorca with this handy, pocket-sized guide, packed with Insider Tips
• The Rough Guide to Mallorca & Menorca : This comprehensive guide also includes information about Majorca.

TRAVEL RESOURCES

• Flights : I always use Skyscanner as my first choice as it’s so easy to use and you can search best deals by month. Momondo is another very good search engine as well as Google Flights .
• Accommodation : I always use Booking.com as my first choice, as it offers a great choice of accommodation at affordable prices and it’s so easy to use. TripAdvisor and Trivago are the best search engines to check deals from different websites; however not as good for checking the actual properties & rooms. Airbnb is a great alternative to find out homes and apartments to rent by real homeowners.
• Ferries : Ferryhopper is one of the best websites to check ferry schedules and buy the cheapest ferry tickets.
• Car Rental : I always check Skyscanner for the cheapest car rental options.
• Public Transport : There are 3 different companies with their own website for checking public transport in Menorca: TMSA , Autos Fornells & Torres .
• Day Trips & Tours : Viator provides the most comprehensive list of day trips and you can book directly with them. TripAdvisor is also a great place to search for tours & activities to do.
• Travel Insurance : SafetyWing is a great choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.

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Where to stay in Menorca? The best areas and places to stay

Voyage Tips - Advice Looking for a place to stay in Menorca and in a hurry? Check out travelers’ favorite hotels in Menorca right now on Booking.com by clicking here!

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• Where to Stay in Menorca: My Selection of the Best Accommodations

You want to visit Menorca , in the Balearic Islands, and you’re wondering where to stay?

You’re at the right place!

Although the island is small, it’s still quite difficult to choose the perfect accommodation , especially if you don’t know Menorca well.

To help you out, I’ve prepared this guide of the best hotels in Menorca according to your budget.

I have sorted accommodations by cities and geographical areas and I will give you all the best places to visit (and beautiful beaches!) for each of them.

Whether you’re looking for a hotel in Mahon or Ciutadella, the major cities, or in the North or South of the island, you will find something here!

So, where to stay in Menorca as a tourist and to enjoy the beaches?

Let’s find out!

Where to Stay in Menorca – Mahon, the Capital

Where to stay in menorca – ciutadella, historic town, where to stay in minorca – the south coast and its beautiful coves, where to stay in menorca: the north coast and its beaches, where to stay in menorca – luxury hotels, where to stay in menorca on a budget, you’re traveling to menorca these articles will help you .

During your trip to Menorca , you can choose to stay in Mahon, the capital of the island.

It is located in the east of the island and is also where the Menorca Airport is situated.

Do not expect to find immense buildings like in the major capitals such as Rome , London or Amsterdam . Along with Valletta , in Malta , Mahon is one of the smallest capitals in Europe.

It has managed to maintain an authentic and traditional atmosphere with its many small shops and boutiques and its pedestrian alleys.

It’s a very pleasant place to stay in Menorca.

In Mahon, you can discover:

• The covered market which is located in an old cloister: el mercat del claustre
• The fish market where you will find not only fresh fish stalls but also a more gastronomic section where you can enjoy excellent tapas
• The Menorca Museum dedicated to the history of the island
• The Santa Maria church, to see for its organ with more than 3200 pipes.

I also recommend you to take the short boat trip that leaves from Mahon’s port, at the foot of the old town. The boat tour takes place in Mahon’s bay and allows you to admire colonial houses, a few small islands and the impressive fortress of la Mola.

It’s also one of the must-see places to visit during your Menorca itinerary. If you want to know more, you can find information in my other article: What to Do and See in Menorca?

To book your boat trip in Mahon, click on the button below:

Where to Stay in Mahon, the Capital of Menorca?

Mahon is the ideal place to stay in Menorca if you are not a fan of beach resort areas and looking for a more romantic than family-friendly atmosphere.

• Hostal La Isla: Located in the historic center. Comfortable and modern double room starting at 100€, breakfast for 6€. Strong points: the friendliness of the hosts, cleanliness, location. An excellent choice for where to stay in Menorca!
• Eurohotel: Located in the heart of Mahon, this unpretentious establishment offers quite basic but very clean rooms from 110€ per night. Strong points: the kindness of the staff, location close to the city center.
• Catalonia Mirador des Port: Located close to the Menorca Museum, in the center of Mahon. Spacious and comfortable double room with a nice view starting at 130€ per night. Strong points: the pool, Jacuzzi, varied breakfast.
• ARTIEM Capri: Modern and well-equipped double room with comfortable bedding, starting at 160€, breakfast included. Strong points: the rooftop pool and Jacuzzi, unlimited free cold drinks and snacks at the Green space, generous breakfast. One of the best hotels to stay in Menorca!
• Boutique Hotel Sant Roc & Spa: Located a 5-minute walk from the port. Elegant and warm double room starting at 250€ per night, breakfast for 16€. Strong points: the friendliness of the staff, à la carte breakfast, ideally placed. One of the most beautiful hotels to stay in Mahon, during your stay in Menorca!
• Bordoy Casa Ládico – Hotel Boutique Adults Only: This 5-star hotel offers superb suites with a terrace, with refined decoration starting at 330€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: attentive staff, intimate hotel, the pool, freshly made and cooked to order breakfast. Our recommendation for a luxury hotel to stay in Mahon.

The second city to stay in Menorca: Ciutadella. It’s located at the complete opposite from Mahon, in the West of the island.

Just like the capital, it’s a small town with preserved authenticity housing a very pretty historical center. There you will primarily find beautiful bourgeois houses , several churches and some squares that are ideal for a break.

You will also find plenty of places to dine in one of the many small traditional restaurants.

Things to see in Ciutadella, during your road trip in Menorca:

• Seigniorial residences and small palaces
• The shopping street of Ses Voltes with its shops situated under arches
• The town hall and its obelisk in the Es Born square
• The fish market
• The Ciutadella Cathedral.

Where to Stay in Ciutadella During Your Minorca Holidays

• Hostel Menorca:  A hostel located in the center of Ciutadella. Dormitory bed starting at 30€ per night.  Perfect for budget accommodation in Minorca.
• Hotel Geminis: Just a 2-minute walk from the old town. Double room starting at 90€, breakfast at 4.50€. Strong points: the warm welcome, delicious breakfast, and peacefulness.
• Prinsotel La Caleta : Located a 5-minute walk from the beach. Double room or super comfortable and bright apartment, with balcony, starting at 150€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the beautiful pool area and garden, the setting, the tranquility, and the excellent breakfast. It’s my top pick for value for money accommodations in Minorca!
• Hotel Gran Sagitario: Located a 5-minute walk from Cala Santandria. Very spacious double room with large windows and balcony starting at 175€, breakfast included. Strong points: the 2 pools (indoor and outdoor), the gym, private parking, and the walk to the beach.
• Aparthotel Ferrer Skyline:  Facing the sea and 1 km from the historic center of Ciutadella. Modern 1 to 3-bedroom apartments, very spacious with a terrace accommodating up to 6 people, starting at 180€ per night. Strong points: the pools, the view, cleanliness, and quietness.  A superb hotel for families looking for accommodation in Minorca!
• Hotel Playa Santandria Adults Only : Located 5 meters from the cove of Cala Santandria. Double room with balcony, some with sea views, starting at 180€, breakfast included. Strong points: exceptional beachfront location, very good breakfast, and peacefulness. Ideal for a romantic getaway in Minorca!
• Faustino Gran Relais & Chateaux : A magnificent luxury hotel set in a beautiful building from the 17th-century. Everything is elegant, refined, and well-kept. Double room starting at 400€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the decor, quality of the food, pools, spa, and concierge service.  My top luxury stay recommendation in Ciutadella!

The South Coast is also an excellent choice for accommodation in Minorca. It’s where the main resort areas of Minorca are concentrated.

There are four of them:

• Cala Galdana
• Cala’n Porter

If you want to move around the island easily , discover some of the most beautiful beaches of Minorca easily and maybe go on an excursion or two by boat , these are perfect places to stay in Minorca.

If there is one South Minorca boat outing you should really do, it’s the one that goes by the gorgeous coves of Son Saura, Cala en Turqueta, Cala Macarella, and Cala Macarelleta. 

To learn more and, above all, book in advance, you just need to click on the button below:

Here’s My Selection of the Best Hotels for Staying in South Minorca

In South Minorca, you’ll find many small complexes split into individual houses, each divided into apartments.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Minorca with family, kids, or friends, I recommend you consider these types of accommodations.

You’ll have access to all the amenities such as one or more pools , restaurants, play areas and usually a small supermarket. During the tourist season, some also offer entertainment.

And don’t worry if you’re a couple, simply ask for a spot away from the play area or pool for instant peace and quiet.

My selection of accommodations in South Minorca also includes two superb hotels for a romantic stay.

• Son Bou Playa Gold:  Located a 10 min walk from the large beach of Son Bou. Several small houses divided into apartments. Superior apartments tastefully renovated and furnished, starting at 80€ per night. Strong points: the tranquility, the pool, well-equipped, plenty of parking spaces.  It’s my top pick for value for money in Minorca!
• Seth Mestral & Llebeig:  Located 100 meters from Santo Tomas beach. Recent, functional, and well-equipped 1 to 3-bedroom apartments starting at 120€ per night. Half-board booking is also available. Strong points: the well-maintained large pools, children’s play area, and the beach right next door. If you’re visiting Minorca with kids, this is the perfect accommodation!
• Menorca Binibeca by Pierre & Vacances Premium Adults Only:  Located in the village of Binibeca. Cozy double room with a kitchenette, jacuzzi bathtub, and large terrace starting at 160€, breakfast included. Strong points: the breathtaking sea view, the beautiful setting, pools, and a good breakfast buffet.
• ARTIEM Audax – Adults Only:  Located in Cala Galdana, just 2 minutes from the beach. Double room starting at 240€, breakfast included. Strong points: the spa area with indoor pools and saunas, the outdoor pool, and the stunning view.
• Melia Cala Galdana:  Located on the beautiful beach of Cala Galdana, this 5* hotel offers very cozy rooms, with large windows and a balcony with a sea view starting at 310€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the indoor and outdoor pools, the friendliness of the staff, the excellent quality of breakfast, and the incredible view.  My luxury hotel recommendation for South Minorca!

You can also choose to stay in the north of Menorca . In this area, most accommodations are clustered around the villages of Fornells and Arena d’en Castell.

This part of Menorca is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for less touristy areas. It’s also just as convenient for getting around and visiting the entire island.

Staying in the north of Menorca will allow you to:

• Taste the most famous dish of Menorca in Fornells: the caldereta de langosta
• Visit the lighthouses of Cavalleria and Favaritx to admire the view of the coast
• Sunbathe on the long sandy beach of Es Grau
• Discover the stunning beaches of Cavalleria and Pregonda

From Fornells, you will also have a choice of numerous boat trips such as (click on the orange link for more information):

• 3-hour catamaran cruise on the north coast of Menorca with a snorkeling stop – Max of 10 people on the boat – The crew is also super friendly and you will have unlimited drinks.
• Full-day sailing excursion to beaches only accessible by boat + lunch included – Paddleboards and snorkel equipment provided.
• 3.5-hour cruise to the beaches of the north coast , towards Cap Cavalleria + swimming at Cala Pregonda
• Sunset sailing cruise

The Best Accommodations to Stay in the North of Menorca

• Hostal La Palma : Located at the Fornells marina. Quite spacious double room with balcony overlooking the pool and garden starting from 110€. Strong points: 2 swimming pools, great location, very quiet, free parking.
• TRH Tirant Playa : Located 5 minutes walk from Cala Tirant, in Fornells. Nice apartment with kitchenette starting at 130€ per night. Strong points: the tranquility, the sea view, the cleanliness.
• White Sands Beach Club By Diamond Resorts : Situated in Arenal d’En Castell, on the beachfront. 1 to 2-bedroom apartments, modern and well-equipped, starting at 185€ per night. Strong points: the quality of the welcome, the pool with bay view, the comfort.
• Comitas Tramontana Park : Located in Fornells, right by the sea. Aparthotel offering spacious 3-bedroom accommodations with fully equipped kitchen and living area, starting at 200€, breakfast included. Strong points: the beautiful pool, the stunning sunset from the terrace, the good buffet at the restaurant, entertainment.

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel to stay at during your trip to Menorca, here is a list of the island’s most beautiful 5-star accommodations.

Firstly, the ones I already mentioned earlier. I won’t repeat the details, but here are the booking links:

• Bordoy Casa Ládico – Hotel Boutique Adults Only – In Mahon
• Faustino Gran Relais & Chateaux – In Ciutadella
• Melia Cala Galdana – In Cala Galdana (South of Menorca)

Other luxury hotels scattered all over the island:

• Villa Le Blanc, a Gran Meliá Hotel – The Leading Hotels of The World: along the beautiful Santo Tomas beach
• Lago Resort Menorca – Suites del Lago Adults Only in Cala’n Bosch
• La Quinta Menorca by PortBlue Boutique – Adults Only , also in Cala’n Bosch
• Barceló Nura in Sant Lluis
• Cristine Bedfor in Mahon
• S’Hotelet d’es Born – Suites & SPA , in Ciutadella

If you have a more limited budget , here is a selection of affordable accommodations in Menorca.

• Refugi Biniati Vell: A hostel located in Sant Lluis. Bunk bed in a 4-person dormitory starting from 30€. A great place for an affordable stay in Menorca.
• Grupoandria El Claustre de Ciutadella – HOSPEDERIA: Located in a former cloister. Twin room starting at 60€. Strong points: location and cleanliness.
• Hostal Paris Ciutadella: A guesthouse in Ciutadella. Room starting at 70€ per night. Strong points: the good breakfast and the welcome.
• Apartamentos Sa Cala: Located in Cala Morell. 1-bedroom apartment with balcony and beach access within a 5-minute walk, starting at 75€. Strong points: proximity to the sea, the pool.
• Apartamentos Blancala: Situated in Cala Blanca, just across from the sea. 1 or 2-bedroom apartments starting from 79€. Strong points: the views, amenities, pool, quietness.
• Apartamentos Casa del Sol , also located in Cala Blanca. Apartment a 10-minute walk from the beaches starting from 80€. Strong points: the pool, the quiet neighborhood, ease of parking, the friendliness of the owners.

So, where will you be staying in Menorca? Which hotel appeals to you the most?

Discover all my articles about Mallorca and the Balearic islands : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Menorca are listed there.

• The 17 Best things to do  in Menorca
• Itinerary: One week in Menorca  – The ideal itinerary to visit the island in 7 days
• The 23 best things to do in Mallorca
• Palma de Mallorca: the 20 best places to visit
• Itinerary: 4 or 5 days in Mallorca – Itinerary to prepare a short stay in Mallorca
• Itinerary: One week in Mallorca – The perfect itinerary to visit the island in 7 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Mallorca – Our recommended itinerary for visiting Mallorca in 9-10 days
• Mallorca road trip: The best itineraries for 4, 5, 7 and 10 days

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• 17 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Menorca

While often overlooked compared to its bigger (Mallorca) or brasher (Ibiza) Balearic cousins, Menorca is more than just a family-friendly beach destination. From old fortresses and ancient standing stones to world-class dining and even some great shopping, there’s no shortage of places to visit around the Mediterranean isle – so read on for our top 16.

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Cala Galdana

An incredible crescent bay enclosed by pine-topped cliffs with a long stretch of white sand, Cala Galdana still stands out as somewhere rather special, even on an island known for spectacular beaches . It’s not remote or secluded, but with plenty of facilities and accommodation, it’s a fabulous place to stay, with super-calm and shallow waters particularly well suited for families with young kids.

Ciutadella Old Town

As the island’s original capital, Ciutadella could hardly be further from the present-day capital. The Old Town also sets itself apart with its particularly elegant and picturesque Mediterranean-style buildings that can be found along its charming cobblestoned lanes and attractive plazas.

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Ses Pedreres de s’Hostal

Located less than a mile (less than 2km) outside Ciutadella is the bizarre and wonderfully photogenic sandstone quarries of Ses Pedreres de s’Hostal. While they fell into disuse in 1994, they have since been preserved in all their geometric glory, complete with a stone labyrinth, botanical gardens and orchards.

At 354m (1,161ft) above sea level, El Toro is Menorca’s highest mountain and is located in the centre of the island just outside the town of Es Mercadal. While the walk up from town is certainly tiring and can be up to two hours, the panoramic views from the top are genuinely breathtaking. There’s also a 13th-century church and elevated statue of Jesus at the summit, as well as a café where you can refuel before the (much quicker) journey back down. It’s also a popular and pretty challenging cycle to the summit, or alternatively, it’s an easy drive with space for parking.

Museum of Menorca

Housed in a Baroque convent building in the capital city of Mahón, the Museo de Menorca guides you through the history of Menorca with a collection of archaeological items relating to the Talaiotic, Roman, Byzantine and Islamic eras. It also contains ancient sculptures, historical maps and 18th- to 20th-century art over its four floors, and it is free to enter.

Santa Maria Cathedral

Like Mallorca’s iconic La Seu , the Santa Maria Cathedral in the city of Ciutadella was begun in the 13th century on the site of an old mosque (and still has part of the minaret of the mosque that once stood here). Although much smaller, the interiors are equally impressive, with beautifully carved columns, a marble monolith altar and soaring vaulted apse.

Museo Etnologico Molí de Dalt

During the French occupation, three windmills were built in the small town of Saint Lluís, but the beautifully restored Molí de Dalt is the only one that remains. It now houses the ethnological museum, which is dedicated to the history of this mill through the display of exhibits of old tools and crafts, highlighting its importance to the town, and information about the life of the villagers.

Cala Turqueta Beach

While just along the coast from Cala Galdana, the gorgeous Cala Turqueta has a much more remote and untouched feel. It’s a stunning white-sand beach, with natural shade provided by the pine trees and rocks, and water so turquoise that it could pass for the Caribbean. This small cove is also great for snorkelling, plus there are low cliffs for those who enjoy throwing themselves into the crystal clear water from above.

S’Albufera des Grau Nature Reserve

Located in the northeast of the island, this pretty nature reserve covers over 50sqkm (19sqmi) of forest, marshland, dunes and cliffs, including five small islands. It is home to a wide range of wildlife, including up to 90 different species of birds and countless varieties of shrubs and wildflowers. There’s also a visitors’ centre with maps and videos about the park. Guided tours can be arranged too.

Museo Militar de Menorca

Housed in an 18th-century barracks in Mahón, this museum charts the island’s military history, including the various occupations and the effects and influence they had on Menorca’s culture. There are also exhibits of ancient cannons, guns and other weaponry, along with information about forts and other strategic sites on the island. Cheap to get into, it is worth a visit, especially – obviously – if you have an interest in military history.

Torralba d’en Salord Talaiotic Village

Torralba d’en Salord is a perfectly preserved Talaiotic village, with a huge taula similar to the standing stones at Stonehenge. The enclosure around the taula is thought to be an open-air religious space. There are also Bronze Age megaliths, excavated caves and impressive pillared buildings and walls of huge boulders. There is evidence that the settlement was inhabited as late as the Middle Ages, but it is generally thought to have been used from 1,000 BC up to the occupation of the Romans.

Binibeca Vell – The Fisherman’s Village

Located around 8km (5mi) from Mahón, this quirky village was the brainchild of famous Spanish architect Antonio Sintes Mercadal. In the early ’70s, he built this cluster of two-storey buildings with the aim of recreating a traditional fishing village. Designed with Moorish styling, it comprises a small labyrinth of cobbled lanes and whitewashed houses, all overlooking a small harbour. A great option for a meal, Sa Musclera restaurant offers top-notch cuisine and a cosy bar.

Fort Marlborough

Perched on the southern side of the entrance to Mahón’s harbour, the small but sophisticated Fort Marlborough was built in the 1720s to protect the city and its much-coveted port. And it certainly saw some action, with part of it destroyed (and later rebuilt) by the Spanish towards the end of the 18th century. Nowadays, you can experience a reenactment to take you back to the time when the fort was under siege, including uniformed soldiers and technological effects.

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Places to Stay

The best cheap hotels to book in menorca.

The Most Romantic Hotels to Book in Menorca

The Best Spa Hotels in Menorca, Spain

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Restaurants

An insider's guide to the best restaurants in menorca, spain.

The Best Hotels in Menorca for Every Traveller

The Best Boutique Hotels to Book on Menorca, Spain

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The Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Menorca, Spain

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Guides & Tips

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Where to Stay on Menorca: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

Heading to the Spanish island of Menorca this year? This resort guide will help you decide which part of the island to choose, which town, resort or beach is for you, and where to find the best beach hotels and rentals. This resort guide will cover:

• which part of Menorca  to stay in
• where to stay in the cities Mahon and Ciutadella
• Menorca main resorts ; the best places to stay for families, cheap packages and a lively crowd
• a rundown of Menorca’s  quieter resorts and villages; the best places to stay for couples, families and nature

MENORCA OVERVIEW

Menorca is perfect for lazy, relaxed beach holidays. Low key and family-friendly, it has a smattering of historic towns and cute fishing villages with traditional boathouses. Not to mention some of the best sandy beaches in Europe, with stunning turquoise waters, and flanked by limestone cliffs and pine forests. The pace here is unhurried. And thanks to reserved development, it’s managed to retain its natural beauty.

The entire island was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993 – meaning strict planning regulations. There are a few large resort hotels, but nowhere near as many as on neighbouring Balearic island Mallorca.

However, most of the beach resorts are purpose-built and can sometimes feel identikit with their rows whitewashed apartment complexes. What they lack in traditional charm, they make up for with spellbinding scenery, short transfers, and bags of convenience. Lots of fine sand, shady pines, and shallow seas round out the appeal for families of small children. The most popular beaches can get incredibly crowded during July and August, particularly at weekends.

Tourism here is geared towards families and active travellers, Menorca is a delight for bird spotting, walking, eco-tourism, agro-tourism, and fans of intriguing prehistoric monuments. The Cami de Cavalls (The Way of the Horses) path runs around the entirety of the island – you can walk, cycle, or ride it. 

It’s a small island and everything is within easy reach. The landscape is agricultural and hilly rather than mountainous, with good roads. For wilderness head to the wetlands and dunes of the S’Albufera Nature Reserve on the north coast. 

Menorca is not a party island – nightlife is limited in most resorts, head to the cities and harbours for a (relatively) lively bar scene.

In 2016 an island-wide sustainable tourism tax was introduced; it’s usually payable on arrival at your accommodation. The rate depends on the class of the hotel and time of year.

GETTING AROUND

Airport : Menorca Airport (MAH) is 5km southwest of Mahon and is served by domestic and international flights, including a wide range of budget carriers over the summer season. I recommend using Skyscanner to find cheap deals.

Bus : Buses from the airport to Mahon run frequently throughout the day and cost €2.65 – for more info see the Airport Website .

Menorca has reasonable – though not extensive – bus network, with services to resorts dropping off in the winter. See TMSA for island-wide services. For airport transfers see Shuttle Menorca .

Ferry : Ferry services connect Menorca with the mainland (Barcelona, Valencia) and the other Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza,). You can buy tickets through Direct Ferries .

WHERE TO STAY – THE HIGHLIGHTS

• BEST LUXURY HOTELS : Melia Cala Galdana , Jardi de Ses Bruixes Boutique Hotel , Hotel Can Faustino
• BEST INFINITY POOL : Melia Cala Galdana
• BEST HOTELS ON THE BEACH : Melia Cala Galdana ,  Hotel Xaloc Playa , Hotel Xuroy
• SWANKIEST VILLAS : Torre Bes , Villa Alakala
• BEST HOTELS FOR FAMILIES : Royal Son Bou Family Club , Carema Club Resort
• BEST PLACE FOR FAMILIES : Cala Galdana, Arenal d’en Castell, Cala en Porter
• BEST ROMANTIC HOTELS FOR COUPLES : Artiem Audax ,  Tres Sant
• BEST BOUTIQUE TOWN HOTELS : Sindic Hotel , Casa Ladico , Tres Sant
• BEST PLACE FOR NIGHTLIFE : Cala en Porter, Mahon, Ciutadella
• BEST QUIET BEACH RESORTS : Es Grau, Binisfuller, Cala Morells
• BEST CHIC RURAL ESCAPES : Cugo Gran , Torral Benc  
• BEST APARTMENT : Divina Suites

WHICH PART OF MENORCA TO STAY IN?

Menorca has two main cities/towns – the capital Mahon on the east coast, and Ciutadella on the west.

• NORTH : The north coast is quieter and less developer, with a wilder coast and fewer sandy beaches. There are pockets of fishing villages, particularly around the large nature reserve of S’Albufera.
• SOUTH : The best sandy beaches are on the south coast, so it’s here you’ll also find most of Menorca’s beach resorts as well as its most beautiful coves.
• EAST : Capital Mahon is on the east coast, at the mouth of a natural river, as is the airport so for short transfers stay east. Resorts tend to be functional rather than beautiful, with local life found in inland villages.
• WEST : Menorca’s second town Ciutadella is at the opposite end of the island to Mahon, on the west coast, along with some of the island’s prettiest scenery – with a few purpose-built resorts and hidden gems.

Known as Mao in Menorca’s local dialect, Mahon is Menorca’s capital city. It’s a small and atmospheric harbour town with tidy shuttered houses and charming cafes. It sits at the end of a long natural harbour (the largest in the Mediterranean) that once attracted the British Navy, who moved the capital here in 1722 and left a rich naval history (and a British feel – complete with gin). Don’t miss a boat trip around the bay to take the harbour’s small islands and significant sites.

Mahon is increasingly home to swish boutiques, seafood restaurants, and shops selling local crafts and artisanal goods – Menorca is particularly well known for its avarca traditional leather shoes as well as cheeses and sobrasada sausage. It’s a popular yachty spot and it buzzes in the summer season.

The historic centre sits on a clifftop that overlooks the port and harbour – head to Cafe Mirador for a drink with a view.

Top things to do in and around Mahon are:

•  Sant Francesc d’Assis
• Ca n’Oliver art centre
• Food Market and Fish Market
• Museum of Menorca
• Teatro Principal opera house
• Xoriguer gin distillery
• Boat trip with Don Juan or Yellow Catamarans

There’s also a tourist train (the Mahon Express) which does a circuit of the town.

Transfer time : 20 minutes from Menorca Airport

STAY IN MAHON

Top spot in town is the beautiful 5-star renovation Jardi de Ses Bruixes Boutique Hotel sports turquoise shuttered windows, roof terrace hot tub, with a small underground spa and courtyard restaurant.

The adults-only Sindic Hotel blends history and minimalism and has a small heated rooftop plunge pool. Casa Ladico is also adults-only and has modern rooms and comforts.

4-star Casa Alberti Boutique Hotel is located in an elegant townhouse, managing to be both homely and chic at the same time.

More stylish rooms can be found at Petit Mao and Casa Telmo .

A comfortable 3-star with central location, San Miguel has a sunny roof terrace. Some of the rooms come with excellent balcony views.

If the townhouse vibe doesn’t appeal to you, then the traditional 4-star Hotel Port Mahon is on the edge of town with sweeping views of the port. It has an old-fashioned resort feel with a large pool and plenty of space.

The 3-star Catalonia Mirador des Port also has panoramic views, an outdoor pool, and an indoor hot tub.

On a budget? Jume Urban Rooms is a simple guesthouse with appealing airy rooms and comfortable beds.

The harbour town of Es Castell continues the British feel of Mahon with its Georgian-inspired architecture. A former garrison town, it was once one of the most important cities on Menorca.

Es Castells area is home to a host of military history sites:

• Military Museum
• Fort Sant Felip
• Mola Fortress
• Fort Malborough

Its glory days may be over, but it makes a charming base for couples – there’s a good range of relaxed restaurants and bars for the evenings, and it’s within striking distance (a 35-minute walk) of the capital. Es Castell has fresh seafood, good amenities, a pleasant waterfront area servicing both fishing boats and visiting yachts, and a traditional vibe that attracts returners to the island. The delights of the southeast coast are only 10 minutes in the car.

Transfer time : 15 minutes from Menorca Airport

There’s more space than in Mahon so you’ll find a few big resort hotels here. The adults-only Barcelo Hamilton Menorca is cream of the crop with its roof terrace hot tubs and sun loungers.

The Pardela Menorca has modern boho decor, and Hotel Sa Torre des Sol has lovely rooms in a historic mansion.

There is a small selection of rentals on  VRBO .

S’ALGAR

The first major resort you come to as you wind your way along the east coast is S’Algar, a low-rise purpose-built resort. There’s no beach here, instead, there’s a paved promenade snaking along a rocky coastline. It’s a quiet resort with a fishing village feel, some excellent diving and snorkelling, and is mainly popular with holiday-homers and returners who are happy to sit by the pool and explore by car.

The nearest proper beach is a 20-minute walk at Alcaufar.

There are 2 big Portblue resort hotels offering all-inclusive accommodation and big pools: The Hotel San Luis and the adults-only Salgar Hotel . Use of the facilities is also available to guests staying at the adults-only BlueRooms Rafalet bungalows.

Apartments are also available at the large complexes Los Naranjos and BlueRooms Palmeras . There are lots more whitewashed villas and apartments available if you hunt the booking sites.

Cala Alcaufar is a pretty resort that has sprung up around a cove beaches at the end of a long inlet flanked by cliffs. The area is filled with whitewashed boat houses perched on rocky platforms, with small fishing boats bobbing in the teal seas.

Alcaufar is picturesque and sleepy, with a smattering of shops and restaurants, and a good selection of self-catered accommodation. It’s the first of many small resorts like this along the southeast coast.

Sant Lluis is the closest town for amenities (and further accommodation options), and it’s only a 20-minute drive to Mahon.

Hotel Xuroy has a prime seafront location with steps leading right onto the beach.

The town of Sant Lluis is inland, right in the middle of the east coast and equidistant between all of its attractions. Its a quiet rural area but there are two standout hotels here – Biniarroca Hotel Rural , the Hotel Alcaufar Vell Hotel Rural & Restaurant , and the Agroturismo Binissafullet Vell . 

At the other end of the budget scale is the Hostel & Gym Relise which has dorms.

PUNTA PRIMA

Popular Punta Prima is a medium-sized resort curving around a Blue Flag sandy beach that’s a hit with families. It’s the first of the beach resorts along the coast that attract package tourists and you’ll find a range of accommodation here, from all-inclusive resort hotels to quiet studios and backstreet villas. It also has amenities – including car hire and small supermarkets – but for a wider range head to nearby Sant Lluis. 

The surrounding scenery is fairly flat but has walking trails, and the beach itself is as popular with local families as it is with tourists. It’s not sheltered though and can get windy and waves. Beach bums are probably better off further along the south coast. There are some small play areas for children, and plenty to explore in the wider area including a waterpark. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly.

STAY IN PUNTA PRIMA

3-star Hotel Xaloc Playa has the best location, just a matter of steps from the beach and also has an outdoor pool and shady pine garden.

You can rent studios at Insotel Punta Prima Resort and Spa which has 5-star facilities including a sports club and indoor pool. 

Villa Lola has 3 bedrooms and an infinity pool. See VRBO for more villas.

Just around the coast from Punta Prima is Binibeca, the first in a trio of small resorts with a fishing heritage and scenic position. Binibeca is the largest and most popular of the three, largely thanks to its sandy Blue Flag beach and shallow waters. It’s popular with families and has a few more bars and international eateries than Puna Prima. The wider area has lots of coves perfect for snorkelling.

Binibeca is divided into three sections – central Binibeca Nou which is right on the beach, Binibeca Vell which is home to a 1970s mock fishing village, and Cala Torret where many of the cheaper apartment complexes are located. It’s a 20-minute walk end-to-end. 

Binibeca’s accommodation is almost all self-catered, mainly in whitewashed villas and apartment complexes – the ones closest to the beach are in high demand. Try Booking and VRBO .

BINISSAFULLER

Binibeca merges into dreamy Binissafuller (also spelt Binisafua ), a secluded inlet cove with crystal clear water, fragrant pines, and a small beach. It’s quieter and more picturesque than Binibeca, and also lacking its commercialisation. If you’re searching for an off-the-beaten-track treasure, peace and quiet, and to be amongst nature, then you might well be happy here.

There are one or two restaurants in the area but no amenities to speak of. Its an easy 5-15 minute walk (depending on which end you start from) along the coast to Binibeca, however, be aware that the path is not lit at night.

Binissafuller and Binidali are both south of the airport runway and get occasional aircraft noise, depending on wind direction.

Transfer time : 16 minutes from Menorca Airport

There are a handful of vacation rentals – see Booking and VRBO . 

Binidali is a quiet village in a ruggedly pretty area with a small enclosed sandy beach. The even more secluded Cala de Biniparratx is just around the corner.

The village itself consists of a small grid of low lying streets with villas and restaurants tucked away behind oleander bushes. It’s very relaxed and best suited to those who can entertain themself, and who have a car (although a bus does run along the coastal road). There are a few larger supermarkets in the wider area.

Transfer time : 10 minutes from Menorca Airport

There are no hotels in Binidali – check VRBO for rentals.

ES CANUTELLS

The last in this series of small cove hamlets, Es Canutells is similar to its neighbouring south-east coast resorts  – a small village of whitewashed houses perched on cliffs surrounding two cove beaches. It’s quiet, with one shop and a bar or two. The beaches boast some dazzling turquoise waters but are quite short on sand space.

Transfer time : 15 minutes from Menorca airport

As is typical of these small villages, accommodation here is mainly private rentals that wind along a shallow hill. VRBO has a number of villas with pools available. 

And there is one package hotel in Es Canutells – the family-friendly TUI Grupotel Mar de Menorca , where you’ll also find an on-site shop for beach essentials. 

CALA EN PORTER

Cala en Porter is the first of the blockbuster resorts along the south coast and is arguably the best resort on Menorca for families. It has a similar cove-beach landscape but is on a bigger scale. Here, there is room to stretch out on the beach – and enough space for an organised section of loungers, pedalos, and a lifeguard. The calm waters slope gently and are a dazzling turquoise. The beach itself is backed by parking, toilets, a few cafes, and a nature reserve.

Cala en Porter is a relaxed resort, with enough to keep the kids and adults entertained. The resort itself is up on the hill overlooking the beach. This is the downside of Cala en Porter – it’s a steep walk between its Blue Flag beach and the town. There’s a choice of 200 steps or a walk down the road which is less steep but longer. In high season there’s a tourist train to help you out. There is also parking at the bottom of the road though in summer months – it helps to get there early.

The intriguing Cales Coves are nearby, and the area is packed with great walks, snorkelling, and cliff jumps. And the cliffside Cova d’en Xoroi is one of the most Instagrammable bars that you’re likely to visit, and at night it morphs into the island’s main club.

STAY IN CALA EN PORTER

Cala en Porter is a solid favourite with the package holiday crowd, and you’ll find a wide variety of accommodation catering to the couples and families with small children that the resort attracts.

Fans of a good view will appreciate the clifftop Old House which is not far from the Cova d’en Xoroi.

Hotel Sa Berrera is an adults-only 3-star with spacious pool area. If you’re bringing the family then the Nelva Resort will look after you, or you can book the Playa Azul through TUI .

Inland, Torral Benc is a smart rural hotel with 4-star facilities. Decor is whitewashed traditional chic, and there’s an emphasis on local food and wine in its restaurant. It’s a 10-minute drive to Cala en Porter.

Son Bou is one of Menorca’s most popular resorts and is slap bang in the middle of the south coast. It’s also where you’ll find the longest beach on Menorca, with over 2km of impeccable sands and Blue Flag waters.

Unlike the island’s many cove beaches, this endless beach is backed by dunes. As it’s one of the larger beaches, you can also find a good range of watersports and activities here, making it ideal for families with older children. There’s plenty of parking available behind the beach, and more deserted beaches to discover in the wider area.

The resort of Son Bou is medium-large (at least for Menorca) and spread out. Son Bou itself is behind the eastern end of the beach. Most of the resort’s accommodation is in an area called San Jaime which is separated from the beach by a conservation area. Expect a 5-10 minute walk to the beach. The Torre Soli Nou area is behind San Jaime and further from the beach.

The town has a small commercial centre where you can find amenities and a lively selection of cafes, bars, and international cuisine. It’s the best spot on the island for beach amenities and is also well connected by road. There are a few large hotels but, like most places on Menorca, it’s not overly developed.

For families, the Royal Son Bou Family Club is an established 4-star resort hotel which has one of the best locations close to the beach and is one of the best places on the island if you have kids in tow, with ample pool zones and entertainment.

For aparthotel facilities try Apartamentos Mar Blau . There is a good selection of self-catered accommodation on VRBO .

Camping Son Bou offers pitches, tents, and bungalows in a pine forest setting.

SANTO TOMAS

A few miles further down the coast is the similar resort of Santo Tomas, which occupies a similar stretch of dune-backed beach. The resort is relaxed and popular with mature travellers as well as families and has a more intimate feel than Son Bou. However, buggies or wheelchairs might struggle with the number of wooden boardwalks. 

One plus of being located in Santo Tomas is that you can catch the bus in either direction to Mahon or Ciutadella. You’re also very close to the untouched beach of Binigaus, which is popular with naturists. There is no coastal road linking Santo Tomas with Son Bou, but it’s a popular activity to walk from one to the other and taxi back.

Transfer time : 25 minutes from Menorca Airport

STAY IN SANTO TOMAS

Several large resort hotels are located by the sea, slightly uphill and behind the hills but with direct beach access via pleasant boardwalks. They’re tucked in amongst vegetation which lends the resort a pleasant feel.

The Hotel Santo Tomas and Sol Beach House (adults only) are both clean and airy 4-stars overlooking the beach.

But the adults-only Globales Lord Nelson  has the best location if you want to be close to the beach.

Apartamentos Mestral is an apartment complex set around a pool.

If you don’t mind being further from the beach then the spacious Valentin Sou Bou is also an option.

Of the villas, Lucia B17 has appealing grounds and a pool.

CALA GALDANA

Straddling what is arguably Menorca’s most beautiful beach, Cala Galdana is a deservedly popular beach resort. It’s located in a particularly scenic bay at the end of a gorge, with a graceful and general crescent of fine sand, irresistibly clear sea seas, and a fragrant pine forest setting. The Blue Flag beach is popular with families and couples and you’ll find all sort of watersports and activities in the bay.

It’s not a noisy resort though, and those looking for lively evenings will be disappointed entertainment is mostly in-hotel. There’s a wide range of accommodation and amenities here, and enough. But the main attraction is the beach and the scenery.

Cala Galdana is also a great base for exploring the stunning coastline without a car. Menorca’s other most beautiful beaches – the coves of Mitjana, Turqueta, and Macarella – are a short boat trip away, or you can hike along the cliffs. Snorkellers will not be disappointed either.

The main drawback of staying at Cala Galdana is that during the summer it gets extremely crowded.

Transfer time : 35 minutes from Menorca Airport

Melia Cala Galdana is one of the best beachfront hotels in Menorca, sitting in a plum position in the middle of the bay (it was built before current planning restrictions). It has recently refreshed itself with 5-star facilities including hot tubs and an adults-only infinity pool overlooking the sea (though you will need to purchase a VIP package to access). Families are not forgotten though, with child-friendly pools and rooms available.

If you prefer an adults-only environment, the Artiem Audax has soothing minimalist interiors and a well-equipped spa.

For packages check TUI and Jet2 .

3-bedroom Miramar I is perched upon a hill and has epic views from its pool – perfect for sunsets.

CALA EN BOSC

Sitting on the south-west tip of Menorca is the popular purpose-built resort town of Cala en Bosc which sports two beaches and a marina.

The main town beach is a deep cove beach, and within a few minutes you can also be at the secondary beach of Son Xoriguer which has excellent watersports facilities.

But life in Cala en Bosc centres around its marina, which is ringed with palms and laid back cafes and eateries. If you get easily bored in the evenings without a variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment then this is one of the better resorts in Menorca for you. Its range of facilities for all ages makes it popular with those looking to stay longer than one week, as well as with its regulars. There’s also a frequent bus service to Ciutadella.

Transfer time : 45 minutes from Menorca Airport

There are a number of resort hotels are centred around the beach:

• La Quinta Menorca by Portblue Boutique – 5-star adults only
• Valentin Star Menorca (adults-only) – adults-only with a large lagoon pool
• Grupotel Aldea has the best spot in town, overlooking the main beach
• Lago Resort (adults-only) – 4-star adults-only with spa near the harbour
• Hotel Cala’n Bosch – 4-star with direct beach access and family facilities

For self-catered look to the area west of the marina. 

CALA BLANCA AND CALA SANTANDRIA

Just a few kilometres south of Ciutadella, Menorca’s charming and historic second city, you’ll find the twin resorts of Cala Blanca and Cala Santadria. Both have popular cove beaches in pretty bays with fine sands and blue seas, and could almost be considered beach suburbs.  

Cala Blanca has a larger beach with beach bars, cliffside trails and some family facilities, whereas Cala Santandria is more of a local area and has a quieter beach and a peaceful atmosphere. However, there are more restaurants at Cala Santandria, which is more residential and merges into Ciutadella as you head north.

Both beaches can get very crowded in July and August due to their proximity to the city. It’s a 15-minute trip by bus into the city, and there’s also a bus route south to Cala en Bosc.

You’ll find a choice of resort hotels in Cala Blanca, and the highest-rated are:

• Globales Mediterrani
• Cala Blanca Sun Hotel

In Cala Santandria, the adults-only Hotel Playa Santandria Menorca is right on the beachfront and has a modern feel.

Cales de Ponent Apartamentos has fresh white rooms not far from the beach.

Tucked away in the hills you will find many villas and apartments  –  check VRBO for rentals

Mahon may be Menorca’s capital now, but once that title was claimed by charming west coast city Ciutadella. Arguably it’s most beguiling. Until the 18th century, this was the most important city on Menorca, and it still bears a Baroque and Gothic grandeur that the current capital lacks.

It has quite a distinct look, with honeyed hues, ornate brickwork, green shutters, and labyrinthine backstreets reminiscent of Sicily and Malta than the clipped mansions of Mahon. It’s one of the loveliest small old towns in the Mediterranean (and one of the least-known).

These days Ciutadella is a weekend break destination for Spaniards and the chicest place to stay on the island. It’s becoming something of a hotspot for boutique abodes. The areas to the north and south of the city are prime package tourism destinations so it also gets its fair share of daytrippers. It’s a short bus ride fro Ciutadella to Menora’s most exquisite (though hardly undiscovered) coastal scenery.

STAY IN CIUTADELLA

The city has an excellent selection of lovely boutique hotels:

• Hotel Can Faustino – impeccable 5-star in a historic conversion with spa and beach shuttle bus
• Tres Sant – stylish 4-star with hammam spa
• Smoix Hotel – chic boutique townhouse
• Hotel Boutique Can Sestre – Pinterest-worthy townhouse hotel
• Divina Suites Hotel Singular – arty and comfortable adults-only 4-star
• Sodium Boutique Hotel – modern design vibes
• Hotel Nou Sant Antoni – calming neutrals in a converted mansion
• Hotel Boutique Abranca – Balearic chic 4-star in converted stable buildings
• S’Esparteria – rustic minimalist design
• Hotel Romantic Los 5 Sentidos – small and friendly townhouse with modern decor

On a budget? Check out Hostel Menorca which has dorm beds and private rooms. The Hotel Cala Bona-Mar Blava is a seafront hotel close to the beach with budget rooms, a small pool.

CALA EN FORCAT AND CALA’N BLANES

To the north of Ciutadella is a family getaway set in a picturesque area of inlet cove beaches, a resort which mushroomed in the 80s. It encompasses several areas which have merged into one – Cala en Forcat, Cala’n Blanes, Caka’n Brut, and Los Delfines – so there are a few beaches to choose from (although none are particularly big and get very crowded in high summer).

This is not the place to come if you’re looking nightlife or shopping – or for a slice of authentic Menorca. It’s pretty much a British enclave, calmer than it used to be, but there is a focus on British food and bars. 

But it’s popular with families that have young children and you’ll find hotel activities, amenities, restaurants and play areas catering for the little ones, shady beaches, and a generally flat area that is easy to whizz around with a buggy (although some of the beaches involve a few steps).

For package deals to Cala’n Forcat:

• Check LoveHolidays

For apartments and villas, see VRBO .

CALA MORELL

One of a handful of small resorts on Menorca’s north coast, the white cube houses of Morell are surrounded by craggy scenery and glistening turquoise waters that look like they’ve been borrowed from Greek islands or Malta. It’s a hidden gem and has a (sometimes windy) wilderness that’s missing on the south coast.

The rocks have a reddish tinge and the sand is stonier and darker than the southern beaches. But as well as the cove beach there are numerous rocky platforms that are popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and sunbathers. 

Cala Morell is best suited to those looking to escape the crowds. It’s popular with daytrippers and locals, but is otherwise quiet, with just one bar and restaurant and a cluster of apartments and villas. Walking trails run through the village, and there are intriguing prehistoric cave tombs nearby.

Transfer time : 40 minutes from Menorca Airport

  Apartamentos Sa Cala is a traditional low-rise aparthotel with a pool and snack bar.

There’s family-run country house charm at Agroturismo Biniatram which is 1 mile inland.

Check VRBO for villas.

The next stop is halfway along the north coast at fishing village Fornells (not to be confused with Cala Fornells on Mallorca ), a charming village of white houses with orange tiled roofs set around a harbour. Its waterfront promenade is lined with palms and cafes.

Fornells has a traditional Menorquin feel and is renowned for its seafood restaurants (it’s a great place to try the local speciality lobster stew).

The beach (Playa Fornells) It can get windy on this part of the north coast, but Fornells is located on a peninsula at the entrance to a natural harbour (Fornells Bay) – which makes it ideal for fans of windsurfing and dinghy sailing. There is plenty of unspoilt coastline to discover, with some of Menorca’s most beautiful untouched beaches in the wider area.

On the other side of the peninsula is Playa de Fornells, a smart landscaped resort complex on the beach of Cala Tirant. It’s peaceful and upmarket, consisting of a few all-inclusive hotels and apartment/villa blocks. The beach is a wide crescent of sand and shallow waters, suitable for small children.

It’s a 5-minute drive or 30-minute walk between Fornells and Playa de Fornells.

Transfer time : 30 minutes from Menorca Airport

In Fornells :

The clean modern rooms at the Hostal La Palma guesthouse are good value, with harbour views and an outdoor pool.

In Playa de Fornells :

• Carema Club Resort – 4-star resort hotel for families
• Carema Garden Village – aparthotel with access to family facilites
• TRH Tirant Playa – 4-star aparthotel
• Tramontana Park – 3-star aparthotel
• Villas Playas de Fornells

Son Parc has two obvious appeals. The first its beach – long, sandy, and backed by dunes. It’s spacious and has an organised section with watersports available.  The other attraction here is its 18 hole golf course. 

There’s not much to the village itself beyond a handful of restaurants and shops along one small road, and a warren of purpose-built tourist accommodation in landscaped grounds. Son Parc is quiet in the evening – the aparthotels have in-resort entertainment – but there are a few bars.

There are 3 large aparthotel complexes:

• Son Parc Beach Club

You can also find studios and villa rentals:

ARENAL D’EN CASTELL

Arenal d’en Castell (or simply Arenal )  is a contender for the best family beach resort on Menorca is thanks to its sheltered horseshoe-shaped bay. It’s a hit with little ones thanks to its golden Blue Flag beach, watersports, boat trips and resort hotels with waterparks. 

There is an increasing number of all-inclusive hotels pitching mainly to a British crowd.

The resort is on a hill, with most shops and restaurants at the top and buildings cascading down to the beach in an amphitheatre effect. This makes for some great views. There’s enough to keep you occupied for a week or so, and there are frequent buses to Fornells and Mahon.

The golf course at Son Parc is a short drive away, and within walking distance over the hill are the traditional harbour villages Na Macaret and Port d’Addaia which are popular with second homeowners, yachties, and older couples.

The big family-friendly resorts to check out in Arenal are:

• Palladium Hotel – sleek 4-star at the top of the hill
• White Sands by Beach Club by Diamond Resorts – 3-star apartment complex with infinity pool
• Club Hotel Aguamarina – 3-star with water slides

For self-catered accommodation:

A fishing village on the edge of the wetlands of the S’Albufera Natural Park, Es Grau is a little pocket of traditional Menorca. There is a small beach of dark sand and extremely shallow waters which attract local families for paddling and seafood suppers. It’s a roll-your-trousers-up kind of place, with a small quay and whitewashed fisherman houses.

You’ll only find self-catered accommodation in tiny Es Grau.

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Image credits:

Cala Turqueta: © tuulijumala / Shutterstock

Cala Macarelleta: © Paolo Gallo / Shutterstock

Cala Presili: © tuulijumala / Shutterstock

Cal Mitjana: © Naeblys / Adobe Stock

Cala en Porter boardwalk: © Pawel Kazmierczak / Shutterstock

Map of Menorca: © The Mediterranean Traveller

Mahon: © kite_rin / Adobe Stock

Es Castell: © Rulan / Adobe Stock

 Punta Prima: © photobeginner / Adobe Stock

Cala en Porter: © lunamarina / Shutterstock

Cova d’en Xoroi: © DoKuPiX / Adobe Stock

Son Bou beach: © lunamarina / Shutterstock

Cala Galdana: © pkazmierczak / Adobe Stock

Cala en Bosc: © Ibfotomotor / Adobe Stock

Cala Santandria: © Gareth Bevan / Adobe Stock

Ciutadella: © tuulijumala / Shutterstock

Ciutadella harbour with boat: © Kite_rin / Shutterstock

Cala Morell: © Anibal Trejo / Adobe Stock

Arenal d’en Castell: © Pawel Kazmierczak / Shutterstock

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Where to Stay in Menorca – 15 Best Areas

Where to stay in Menorca? for first-time visitors, without a car? In this blog, I will give more detail about the best areas to stay in Menorca for tourists (include map and video), the best hotels in Menorca for all budgets.

Menorca, also known as Minorca in Catalan, is part of the Balearic islands , a small group of Spanish islands located off the east coast of the mainland, in the Mediterranean Sea. It is the second-largest island of the four including Menorca, Ibiza, Formentera, and Mallorca.

Menorca was declared a Unesco Biosphere Reserve in 1993, it is heaven for nature lovers with a variety of flora and fauna. The S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park is a broad area of wetlands and coastline.

Menorca is where  Mayonnaise  was first created during an 18th-century occupation by the French. Go wine tasting, cheese tasting, and gin tasting are must-do experiences on this island.

Where to stay in Menorca first time?

The best areas to stay in Menorca for tourists are Mahón, Ciutadella de Menorca, Punta Prima, Cala Blanca, Cala en Porter, and Son Bou. These are the most popular towns on the island that provides a variety of tourist attractions and amenities.

Mahon is the best place to stay in Menorca without a car because it is a transport hub of the island, home to a central bus station, airport, and ferry terminal. Additionally, the town is also easily explored on foot, by taxi, and by water boat. 

In addition to Mahon, other best places in Menorca without a car are Cala en Bosch, Cala en Blanes, or Cala Galdana. They both popular resorts with well-connected public transport, as well as many things to do the each area itself.

The best places to stay in Menorca for couples both young and old are Cala En Porter , Cala Galdana, Cala’n Bosch, Binibeca, Mahón, and Ciutadella. These towns offer plenty of beachfront hotels, private villas, and adult-only resorts that cater for romantic couples getaway.

The best places to stay in Menorca with family are Son Bou, Cala Galdana, Cala’n Bosch, Punta Prima , Arenal d’en Castell, Ciutadella, and Mahón. These towns offer plenty of family-friendly hotels and resorts with amenities and activities for children of all ages.

Map of areas and towns in Menorca:

15 Best areas to stay in Menorca for tourists:

Mahón, also known as Maó by locals, is one of the best places to stay in Menorca for first-timers because it is the capital city of the island, conveniently located within easy access to Menorca Mahon Airport and the ferry terminal.

Mahón is known for its British-style Georgian houses and the Port of Mahon, which is the second-largest natural harbor in the world after the Pearl Harbour in Hawaii. Mahon’s natural harbour is one of the cit’s main attractions and is the departure point of glass bottom boat tours.

While it has traditional tourist features aplenty, such as bars, seafood restaurants, boutique hotels , and swish shops, it also features more unique attractions to give it its own special feeling. The city center is small and you can easily explore on foot.

In the heart of the city, you will find the 18th-century colonial style Plaza de la Constitución, home to the neoclassic 18th century Town Hall, British Clock Tower, as well as the Santa Maria de Maó Church (Iglesia de Santa Maria) with more than 3000 wooden and metal pipes where you can listen to the wonderful sound of the organ.

There are numerous of churches nearby including the French baroque-style building of Principal de Guardia, the Sant Francesc Church, the Church of Carmen, and the Church of la Concepción.

Another must-see landmark around the port is the La Mola (the Fort of Isobel II ). It was built in the 19th century at the orders of Queen Elizabeth II. To see the fortress from the water, don’t miss out the harbour cruise or glass-bottomed boat trip from Mahon.

If you head to the southern side of the entrance to Maó harbor, you can also find the 16th-century San Felipe Castle by Italian engineer Giovanni Battista Calvi. It was demolished on the orders of King Carlos III in 1805 to prevent it from falling into foreign. The most impressive sights are to be found underneath the site.

If you love art and history, you can visit the Museum of Menorca which is set in a 17th-century monastery; the Military museum, Ca n’Oliver Museum and art center, and Teatro Principal opera house which is one of the oldest opera houses in Spain opened in 1829.

It also has the most vibrant nightlife on the island. If you’re looking to dance, party, and be entertained, this capital city is without a doubt the place to be.

Gin was a popular drink in 18th-century Britain, and during the British occupation of Menorca, locals imported juniper berries and distill gin using alcohol from local vineyards and built a gin distillery.

The Xoriguer gin factory in the harbour area is a place to sample the wide array of gins they have on offer as you find out how they are produced, before purchasing your favorites direct from the factory to take home with you.

Shoppers will want to visit the Placa de S’Esplanada with many stylish boutique shops. The fish market (Mercat del Peix) offers views right across the port and bay; while the Mercado del Claustro del Cármen is a great place to find Menorcan gifts to bring home.

With a wide range of prices and hotels and restaurants and everything within a reasonable walking distance, this is one of those traditional tourist destinations where there’s something for everybody.

Best places to stay in Menorca in Mahón :

luxury ($$$): Jardí de Ses Bruixes Boutique Hotel , 5-star hotel, one of the best places to stay in Menorca for couples and adults aged 18 and older, located in central Mahón, within walking distance from the harbor. It has an on-site restaurant and bar.

mid-range ($$): ARTIEM Capri , popular 4-star family-friendly hotel, conveniently located within walking distance from Mahon’s main shops and bars, as well as Mahon Harbour and Mahón Bus Station. It offers indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a spa.

budget ($): Hostal Jume – Urban Rooms , great guest house, one of the best places to stay in Menorca on a budget, located in the centre of Mahón, easy walk from the city’s port, Santa María Church and Plaza de Conquesta.

• Where to stay in Menorca with Family
• 10 Best Restaurants In Menorca
• 15 Best Beaches In Menorca

2. Ciutadella

Ciutadella de Menorca along with Mahon is one of the best areas to stay in Menorca for the first time because they are both beautiul and popular for tourists. Mahon is the current capital of the island, while Ciutadella is the island’s former capital city.

Located on the west coast of Menorca, Ciutadella de Menorca or simply Ciutadella, is the historic capital of Menorca , built by the Romans. Even today, the city is surrounded by the Contramurada Wall, following the exact same path it did at the time of the city’s construction.

Other than the wall, you will find several good examples of Baroque and Gothic churches in the city. There are churches, plazas, squares, winding streets , and even a cathedral of the Plaza de Pio XII, you can spend your days roaming around to learn more about what the area and indeed the island are truly about.

Start explore Ciutadella with the beautiful port city’s charming square, Placa d’es Born . It has an obelisk to memorialize the Turkish invasion. Around this square, you will find the 19th century Town Hall, Teatre Municipal d’es Born, the Torre Saura Palace, and the Palace of Salort.

The square is also the location of the Friday and Saturday market, which take place from 9am to 2pm. There is also evening craft market in summer at Carrer de Pere Caplloncan.

You will find some religious buildings such as the Ciutadella de Menorca Cathedral (the Cathedral of Santa María), the Catalan Gothic style, which was built in the fourteenth century with a single nave and several side chapels.

There are also some museums and galleries to visit like VidrArt Gallery, Palacio Olivar, and Museum Municipal de Ciutadella to learn more about the history of the region.

Another interesting landmark is Saint Nicholas Castle , which was built in the late 17th-century to defend the port of the Ciutadella de Menorca.

Along with the old town, you can not miss Port de Ciutadella, charming port and harbour with plenty of photo opportunities. It is home to many excellent shops and diverse gastronomic, as well as Menorcan specialties.

Unlike Mahon, Ciutadella is a city that is much more about experiencing the culture and history of the area than it is shopping and partying.

But there are still plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy your evenings in, but these tend to be more local establishments as opposed to the big tourist watering holes you’ll find elsewhere.

If you are visiting Ciutadella in July and August, you will have a chance to take part in the Summer Music Festival in the cloister in the Church of El Socorro seminary. The first festival took place in 1973. Since then, famous classical music groups and artists come to Ciutadella every summer.

While maybe a little more expensive, the area is still reasonably priced and cost shouldn’t be a barrier if you are looking to stay in this area. You can easily find the best beach resorts in South Ciutadella.

Best places to stay in Menorca in Ciutadella :

• luxury ($$$): Hotel Can Faustino Relais & Chateaux , 5-star hotel, located opposite the port of Ciutadella in Menorca, easy walk from Menorca Cathedral. It has luxury suites and rooms for both couples and families with children of all ages.
• mid-range ($$): Seth Port Ciutadella , 4-star hotel stylish located within walking distance from Ciutadella’s Platja Gran Beach and the old town, offering stunning views of the sea.
• budget ($): Hostal Menurka , great 2-star family-run guest house, located in a quiet part of Ciutadella, next to Alfons III Square and 5 minutes’ walk from the Cathedral. It has rooms for singles, couples, and families.

3. Punta Prima

Punta Prima is on the southeast part of the island, located just 10km from Mahon, 6km from Sant Lluís, 20 minutes from the airport. It is a great base for families and couples alike because its beaches have crystal blue water and soft sand, as well as lot of services for kids and whole families.

Featuring all-inclusive resorts and tourist amenities, it offers all the conveniences for a laid-back trip, although it can get quite crowded. it has a good choice of hotels, apartment complexe s, and privately owned properties.

The Blue Flag, Punta Prima beach, has white sands, warm, shallow crystal clear water , safe place to swim for families with small kids. Punta Prima playa is a tourist-friendly beach with lifeguard, shops and cafes, sun bed to rent.

You can also take your children to Splash Sur Menorca Waterpark which is the best water park on the island. There are plenty of activities for all ages, from ramps, slides, pools, jets to restaurant, lockers, lifeguards, the water park has it all!

Punta Prima’s location on the golden triangle offers plenty of choices to explore charming villages nearby. However, as a smaller town, it also has a quieter, more traditional side too. This makes it equally suitable for those who want a more authentic trip.

Local supermarkets and restaurant s are plentiful, giving you lots of ways to experience a truly Menorcan environment.The nightlife, on the other hand, doesn’t miss a beat.

From local bars to cabaret shows at the resorts, you’ll be able to find something to keep everyone entertained until the early hours.

Best places to stay in Menorca in Punta Prima:

• mid-range ($$): Occidental Menorca , 4-star family-friendly hotel, located within easy walk from Punta Prima Beach in southeast Menorca. I has a buffet restaurant serves international food and offers show cooking, as well as a poolside bar, and tennis courts.
• budget ($): Hotel Xaloc Playa , 3-star hotel, one of the best places to stay in Menorca on the beach, located just a few steps from Punta Prima Beach in the South of the island.
• budget ($): Comitas Isla del Aire , 3-star family-friendly hotel, located in Punta Prima, a 5-minute walk from the beach. It has an outdoor swimming pool, free parking, and a children’s playground.

4. Cala Blanca

Located close to the former capital of Menorca, Ciutadella, the connected towns of Cala Blanca and Cala Santandria are two beautiful beach resorts , lying in coves on the western side of the island.

Both feature fabulous Blue Flag beaches with golden sandy, soft sand and crystal-clear water , perfect for relaxing on land or going for a swim. Located on the west coast of Menorca, it makes it perfect to watch the sunsets.

Cala Blanca is the more stereotypical tourist area of the two. A larger beach with more activities and amenities, it is perfect for beach bums and families . The selection of bars around it also creates a vibrant atmosphere, both day and night.

Meanwhile, Cala Santandria is the much more traditional side of the area. A smaller, quieter beach with fewer amenities, is ideal for those who want to escape and get some peace.

The traditional Menorcan-style restaurants will let you enjoy stunning food and experience the local cuisine.

Best places to stay in Menorca in Cala Blanca/Cala Santandria:

• mid-range ($$): Hotel Spa Sagitario Playa , 4-star hotel, one of the best places to stay in Menorca with kids, featuring children’s playground and a games room with billiards and table tennis. It is located within a short walk from Menorca’s Cala Blanca Beach.
• mid-range ($$): Hotel Playa Santandria Adults Only , 3-star beachfront hotel, one of the best places to stay in Menorca for and couples. The Mediterranean restaurant is the perfect place for an intimate dinner with the views of the ocean.
• budget ($): Apartamentos Blancala , 2-star family-friendly accommodation, located in Cala Blanca, within short distance from Santandria Beach.

5. Cala En Porter

Located on the south-eastern coast, within easy distance of the capital Mahon, Cala en Porter Menorca is one of the island’s earliest developed resorts, with its charming beach cove overlooking the high cliffs.

While it’s known as one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island, it has achieved its reputation due to its incredible scenery and iconic views, as opposed to the bars and nightlife that often draw the crowds.

Home to the most famous bar on the island, Cova D’en Xoroi, Cala En Porter is located up in the cliffs on the south-eastern coast of the island, about halfway between Son Bou and Binibeca.

Cala En Porter sits high up on cliffs looking down onto a pretty bay in a protected nature area. The beach is crystal clear turquoise and shallow waters, a safe beach for families with young children, looked after by lifeguards .

While it has both Spanish and English bars, and restaurants to make any holidaymaker happy, it’s the spectacular views that will sell this place to almost anyone who sees them.

Looking out into the bay, as the sun sets over the Mediterranean Sea , is a simply breath-taking experience, that draws not just holidaymakers but also photographers from all over the world.

Not as built up and touristy as some parts but more affordable than others, this may also be one of the best all-round areas to stay on the island.

Best Places to Stay in Menorca in Cala En Porter :

• mid-range ($$): Torralbenc, a Small Luxury Hotel of the World , 4-star hotel, located in the small town of Alaior, a 10-minute drive from Menorca airport and Cala en Porter.
• budget ($): Nelva Resort , great family-friendly accommodation, located in Cala’n Porter, short walk from Cova d’en Xoroi. It has an on-site restaurant, and free parking which is great for those travel with a car.
• budget ($): Hotel Sa Barrera – Adults Only , 3-star hotel, great base in Menorca for couples and young adults, located within easy reach from numerous bars, restaurants and shops, as well as Cala En Porter Beach and the famous Cova d’en Xoroi nightclub.

Located on the south of the island, in the municipality district of Alaior, the village of Son Bou is a popular location as it features the longest beach on the island . Son Bou encompasses areas of Central Son Bou, San Jaime and Torre Soli Nou.

The Blue Flag beach with plenty of watersports activities like scuba diving, kayaking, and boat tour makes it an ideal place for families with older children.

Over 2 miles of golden sands and dunes sprawl out along the coast, lined by the ocean on one side and a nature reserve on the other. Inhabited by a variety of species of amphibians, birds, and insects, the sounds and sights surrounding the area bring you that feeling of a true tropical paradise.

The village features two large hotels, as well as a pair of villa and apartment complexes, providing a variety of options, whatever your preferred type of accommodation.

There is also plenty of local shops for you to stock up on supplies and souvenirs, as well as numerous restaurants and bars that serve a good range of British, Indian, Chinese, and Mediterranean dishes.

The highlight of the area’s tourist attractions comes in the form of the remains of a 5th-century church, the Basilica Paleocristiana De Son Bou . Whether you’re a history buff or simply enjoy experiencing local culture and traditions when you go away, this is a must-see if you’re in the area.

Within a short walk from central Son Bou, you will find San Jaime Jaime which is home to Club Sant Jaime Club, a large swimming pool and an indoor amusement area.

You can also visit the Cala de Llucalcari bay beach, Prat de Son Bou nature preserve , and dine at a commercial center on the eastern side of the beach. The one restriction of the area is that there are some steep hills in the area , so if you don’t have a car be prepared for more than a little stroll.

Best Places to stay in Menorca in Son Bou:

• mid-range ($$): Valentin Son Bou , 4-star popular hotel, great base in Menorca for families with children of all ages. It is located on Menorca’s south coast, on a hill overlooking the beautiful Son Bou Beach.
• mid-range ($$): Royal Son Bou Family Club , 4-star children-friendly hotel located within walking distance from the beach in Son Bou. It has a large swimming pool and a children’s pool, as well as a large children’s playground and a games room.
• budget ($): HG Jardín de Menorca , great family-friendly accommodation, offering a free shuttle bus to Son Bou Beach, the longest beach in Menorca.

7. Arenal D’en Castell

Located in the north-eastern of Menorca around 30 minutes by car from the airport near Mahon, the family-friendly area of Arenal D’en Castell (Arenal) is a purpose-built resort for tourists. The town is centered around a golden Horseshoe bay.

Intentionally designed to be a resort, instead of a local village, you will find plenty of entertainment for both children and adults alike. The hotels in the area provide cabaret and live music to keep you enjoying yourself into the evenings, while kids clubs and bouncy castles are set up to occupy your little ones.

The beach is also perfect for families as, while it’s not as impressive as Son Bou, it still features beautiful golden sands and shallow waters that are perfect for small children to safely enjoy the sea. You will have a quality beach holiday with beautiful cliffs views.

As you would expect from an area designed for families, it provides good value in everything from the bars and accommodation to the local supermarkets and souvenir shops in Coves Noves commercial center.

Similar with other popular Menorca resorts, Arenal d’en Castell has its own mini train to get around with the kids. It will take you to Aquamarine, the Marina Parc, Castell Playa hotels, and the Na Macaret fishing village.

You will also be close to the 18 hole Golf Course,  Golf  Son Parc Menorca which is famous for its Men’s Menorca Open Championship.

Best places to stay in Menorca in Arenal D’en Castell :

• mid-range ($$): Palladium Hotel Menorca , 4-star kid-friendly hotel, featuring family rooms, a kids’ clubs, and children’s playground. It has air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a kettle, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a balcony and a private bathroom with a shower
• budget ($): White Sands Beach Club By Diamond Resorts , 3-star family-friendly hotel, situated in Arenal d’en Castell, on Menorca’s north coast. easy walk from the beach.
• budget ($): Apartamentos Arenal Playa , great apartment in Arenal d’en Castell, 300 metres from the beach. It has family rooms, a laundry service, children’s playground and pool. Short drive by car from S’Albufera des Grau Nature Reserve.

8. Sant Lluis

The typical whitewashed Menorcan village of Sant Lluis is a municipality that lies on the south-eastern end of the island, within a short drive by car from the capital Mahon. Sant Lluis is the biggest town in the Sant Lluis municipality.

Sant Lluis is famed for its coastline, as it features sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and stunning coves of Binissafúller, Biniancolla, and Binibeca, providing a little bit of everything to keep everyone happy.

Built by the French in the 1700s, the central features of the area include a large Saint Louis church and a traditional windmill, Dalt Windmill (Molí de Dalt) that has been converted into the island’s Ethnological Museum.

There is also a winery that provides guided tours and sampling of their products.

It’s not all history and culture though, as one of the beach resort areas, Punta Prima , is one of the finest on the island. Not quite as touristy as some of the others, the beach at Punta Prima allows you to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea in a more refined manner.

In the evenings there are plenty of local restaurants and bars and even a limited amount of entertainment in some of the local hotels. Perfect for keeping your nights just as full as your days.

Best places to stay in Menorca in Sant Lluis:

• mid-range ($$): Alcaufar Vell Hotel Rural & Restaurant , great accommodation, built in the 14th Century, and is surrounded by gardens and extensive farmland.
• mid-range ($$): Hotel Rural Biniarroca – Adults Only , 4-star hotel, great base for couples and adults, located in Sant Lluis in Menorc, within easy walking distance from restaurants, shops and bars. The hotel can help arrange activities such as cycling, horse riding and hiking.
• budget ($): Refugi Biniati Vell , family-friendly hotel, situated in Sant Lluis in the Menorca Region, offering Free on site private parking .

9. Binibeca

Technically, Binebeca is still in the municipality of Sant Lluis. However, what separates this area is that it is a little more upmarket. It consists the Binibeca Vell, Binibeca Nou, and Cala Torret .

Gone are almost any signs of the tourist world, allowing you to fully integrate yourself with the local culture, of which there is plenty in every direction.

While the town of Sant Lluis lies to the north, you have the traditional Mediterranean fishing village of Pueblo De Pescadores to the west, the Binibeca beach to the south, and Cala Torret to the east- a small area featuring beautiful cliffs and coves, as well as an assortment of bars, restaurants, and shops.

When it comes to accommodation options, you will find an assortment of private white-washed villas and apartments, which are often rented directly from the locals.

There’s certainly less in the way of nightlife here but you still won’t struggle to find a nice local bar to eat and drink the night away in. Binebeca is a quiet resort for those looking for a relaxing holiday. And it is easy to reach the bigger resorts by public transport like Punta Prima, Mahon and Es Castell.

Best place to stay in Menora in Binibeca :

• budget ($): Binibeca Beach Villas this villa is located on the Binibeca Vell residential estate, next to south Menorca’s coastline. Each unit has a kitchen with a coffee maker.
• luxury ($$$): Barceló Nura , 5-star hotel, located near Binibeca, offering free car parking, daily buffet breakfast, and 24-hour front desk.

10. Fornells

Located on the northern coast of the island, the traditional 17th-century fishing village of Fornells is a charming village of white houses with orange tiled roofs around set around a pretty palm tree-lined port.

Playa de Fornells , just down the coast from charming Fornells village, is famous for its seafood and regular visitor, Juan Carlos I, former King of Spain. If you’re a fan of seafood, you must try famous local food lobster stew. There are plenty of local seafood restaurants and bars at the harbor side. The most famous Es Pla restaurant is known for its lobster Caldereta.

Like Binibeca, Fornells is a much quieter area than most of the island resorts, more suited to those looking for the true Menorcan experience. Its rolling hills meet the ocean at its deep fishing bay, which is the perfect spot for watersports , such as snorkeling, windsurfing, boat trip, canoeing, sailing, and scuba diving.

You can stroll along its small marina and a pedestrianized waterfront, and admire some of the luxurious boats anchored in the marina.

Then, when you’re worn out from a day in the water, what better way to relax than to retire to your own, traditional whitewashed rental house in the village. These are the most common source of accommodation in Fornells and further enhance your overall experience.

Apart from strolling around its natural bay and enjoying a typical Mediterranean town of whitewashed houses, you can also visit Torre de Fornells , a 19th-century watchtower with stunning views of the Mediterranean ocean.

You also have San Antonio Castle, Iglesia de San Antonio Abad, Cabo de Cavalleria , and the beaches and sandy coves at the bay of Fornells, Cala Cabra Salada, and Cala Tiran beaches.

Best Places to Stay in Menorca in Fornells:

• mid-range ($$): TRH Tirant Playa , 4-star family-friendly hotel, located within walking distance from Cala Tirant Beach, featuring a café-bar and a buffet restaurant serving a selection of Menorcan and international cuisine.
• budget ($): Comitas Tramontana Park , 3-star children-friendly hotel, located on the north coast of Menorca, 600 metres from Fornells Beach. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a buffet restaurant and a gym.
• budget ($): Hostal Restaurant s’Algaret , great 2-star accommodation that has family rooms, located close to S’Arenalet Beach, Es Pou de s’Albufereta Beach and Fornells Port.

11. Santo Tomás

Located on the South Coast of Menorca , in the municipality of es Migjorn Gran, Santo Tomas is within a short distance to both Cala Galdana and Son Bou. It’s an ideal holiday destination for young families and couples after a relaxing holiday!

Santo Tomas consists of three beaches: San Adeodato beach (Binicodrell), Sant Tomas beach , and the most popular Binigaus beach. The beach is child-friendly, good for those who have small kids.

Santo Tomas beaches have white and thin sand and clear water. it can be crowded in the high season between July and August.

In this resort town, you have the option of staying in both private villas and hotels , although do be aware the latter close down outside of the main season. Hotels are concentrated along the seafront, while villas and apartments are scattered up the hillside.

The hillside is covered by beautiful pine forests , perfect for balancing your days if you don’t want to spend your whole trip lazing on the beach or in the ocean.

This certainly won’t be suitable for those looking to party the nights away but if you’re looking for a more active holiday, away from all the hustle and bustle, this certainly fits the bill in this resort town.

Best Places to Stay in Menorca in Santo Tomás :

• luxury ($$$): Villa Le Blanc, a Gran Meliá Hotel , 5-star beachfront hotel, located between Santo Tomás and San Adeodato Beaches, 30 minutes’ drive from Menorca Airport. It has rooms for families and couples of all ages both young and old.
• mid-range ($$): Hotel 55 Santo Tomas , 4-star beachfront hotel, located in Es Migjorn Gran.
• budget ($): Hotel Santo Tomás , 4-star hotel, located on the south coast of Menorca, few steps from Santo Tomás Beach. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and fitness centre.

12. Cala Galdana

Located on Menorca’s south coast , 36km from the airport in Mao, at the base of the Algendar Gorge, Cala Galdana, also known as the Queen of the Calas, is an area completely designed for tourists.

It happens to be located in one of the most stunning parts of the island, with a beautiful bay in front of you and a sprawling pine forest rolling up the hill to the rear.

You can easily take a boat trip to the coves of Cala Macarella, Cala Mitjana, and Turqueta.

The area is packed with options for entertainment, both day and night, for holidaymakers of all ages. This modern town has restaurants, bars, souvenir shops, and supermarkets .

You can find Menorca’s best horse shows at the Club Escola Menorquina .

It also features a shallow, protected beach, with white golden sands and turquoise waters, which makes it perfect for families with small children. It has numerous beach activities such as kayaking and paddle boats.

You will some trails along the Algendar river and along the coast with the famous route of the Cami de Cavalls.

You can also visit Ferreries , which is well-known for its shoes and furniture. There is also a farmers’ market, the Castle of Santa Agueda, a fort built in the 13th century by the Arabs.

That combo makes it the perfect spot for those who want to take in nature and scenery but are looking for the kind of deals on accommodation that you only find in tourist hotspots and aren’t worried about the crowds.

Accommodations are mostly owned villas and apartments and a good range of hotels to suit all budgets.

Best Places to Stay in Menorca in Cala Galdana :

luxury ($$$): Meliá Cala Galdana , 5-star beachfront resort, one of the best hotels in Menorca. It is located within easy walk from the centre of Cala Galdana, where there is a selection of shops, bars and cafés. It is a short drive from the coves at La Serpentona and Sant Francesc.

mid-range ($$): ARTIEM Audax – Adults Only , 4-star beachfront hotel, one of the best places to stay in Menorca for couples, located within a nature reserve, offering views of Cala Galdana Bay.

budget ($): Comitas Floramar , family-friendly accommodation, located in the quiet resort of Cala Galdana, 40-minute walk along the coast from the unspoilt beaches of Cala Mitjana and Macarella. .

13. Cala En Bosch

Located in a beautiful bay on the west side of the island , 5 miles from Ciutadella, Cala En Bosch, also known as Cala D’en Bosch, Cala n Bosch or Cala en Bosc, and Cap d’Artrutx, is a specifically designed resort town.

With numerous amenities and pleasant beaches with pure white sand and crystal clear waters, it is a destination all can enjoy a relaxing vacation in. it is ideally suited for couples and families after a peaceful holiday.

That said, the star of the show here is undoubtedly its stunning marina. Incredible boats bob up and down in the water, surrounded by bars, shops, and cafes. It’s perfect whether you want to go for a scenic stroll or relax with a picturesque view while enjoying a meal or a drink.

Families with children will want to spend a fun day at the Aquarock waterpark and go-karting track, or the Goody Goody park on the Marina.

As a popular fishing spot, many of the restaurants feature some of the freshest seafood on the island. Meanwhile, its collection of shops, facilities, and attractions mean your every need and want will be catered to, no matter how long you stay.

Best places to stay in Menorca in Cala En Bosch:

luxury ($$$): Lago Resort Menorca – Suites del Lago Adults Only , 5-star hotel in Cala’n Bosch, one of the best resort in Menorca for couples both young and old. Located close to Cala en Bosch Beach, Son Xoriguer Beach, and Artrutx Lighthouse. It has car hire and bike rental services.

mid-range ($$): Lago Resort Menorca – Casas del Lago Adults Only , 4-star hotel, located in Cala’n Bosch, in south-west Menorca, offering views of the town’s marina. It is only a few steps from the beach, and is one of the best places to stay in Menorca for couples.

budget ($): Valentin Star Menorca- Adults Only , great adult-only complex located close to Menorca’s Cala’n Bosch Beach, featuring spacious rooms for singles and couples.

14. Son Xoriguer

Located in the southwest of Menorca, 30 miles from Menorca International Airport, 10km to Ciutadella, and just a short way from Cala En Bosh, you’ll find another resort town, Son Xoriguer.

This 110 meters long and 40 meters wide beach has bright and fine sand, y clear, and calm waters. Families with kids can head to the eastern part of Son Xoriguer which is largely free of rocks in the water.

Its beach is considered one of the best on Menorca and connects to Cala En Bosch’s, allowing you to stroll for hours along the seafront , taking in the views of the neighboring island of Mallorca.

At the other end of the beach, you’ll also find a fabulous marina . This is the heart and soul of the area, both day and night. 

Cruises and glass-bottom boat tours allow you to get out on the waves during the day.

Meanwhile, its collection of bars and restaurants produces a vibrant atmosphere late into the night, with options suitable for people of all tastes and budgets

Best places to stay in Son Xoriguer:

• mid-range ($$): Hotel Princesa Playa
• mid-range ($$): Grupotel Playa Club
• budget ($): Grupotel Club Menorca

15. Son Parc

Located on Menorca’s northern coast on the borough of Es Mercadal, 20kms west of Mahon and 7kms east of Fornells, Son Parc is a small quiet village, with only a small number of shops and restaurants, primarily catering to the locals.

A few resort hotels are dotted around, but accommodation mainly revolves around guest houses and self-catering apartments.

The main reason many come here, other than for the peace and quiet , is because Son Parc features one of the best beaches on the island, Son Parc Beach, also known as Arenal Son Saura. it is a great holiday for young families and couples looking for a quieter relaxing beach.

Stretching as far as the eye can see, its beautiful sands and turquoise waters are perfect for relaxing or taking a stroll. They even have a selection offering water sports like windsurfing, water-skiing, and jet-skiing for more active visitors. 

The beach has two beach bars where you can grab tapas and fruity cocktails. There are also beach facilities such as sun lounges, sunshades, showers, and toilets.

It does boast another attraction too, in the form of the island’s only golf course , Golf Son Parc Menorca. An 18-hole course with well-manicured greens, it’s the perfect choice for anyone who wants to play a round or two during their stay.

In the resort’s town center, you will find one main street known as the strip , where most of the bars and restaurants are located. There is a couple of tapas bars, an Italian pizzeria, and a British-style pub.

Best places to stay in Menorca in Son Parc:

• budget ($): HOMEnFUN Menorca Villa Son Parc
• budget ($): Apartamentos Els Vents. Son Parc

Where to stay in Menorca without a car?

The best areas to stay in Menorca without a car are Mahon, Cala en Bosch, Cala en Blanes, and Cala Galdana. Each of these areas offers easy access to amenities, public transportation, and attractions, making them a great base for a car-free holiday in Menorca.

Menorca is a small island, you can easily get around by bus, taxi, or renting a car . You can get almost anywhere using the public bus service. There is a decent taxi service on the island. Take the taxi meters, and the price list card before go. It is easy to take the taxi from airport to your hotel.

Renting a car is the most popular ways to get around. You can hire a car from the airport, in Mahón, Ciutadella and in all the resorts. The roads on the island is generally good.

Mahon on the east and Ciutadella on the west are some of the best areas to stay in Menorca without a car because they are the two main cities in Menorca that have good bus connection. You can easily travel around without a car if you staying in these towns.

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In conclusion, Mahón, Ciutadella, Punta Prima, Cala Blanca, Cala en Porter, and Son Bou are the best places to stay in Menorca for tourists . They provide safe central bases for easy access to attractions and beaches, and a wide selection of accommodations for all budgets.

Overall, in my opinion, Mahón is the best location in Menorca for first-timers . It is easily accessible by plane and ferry, and it is well-connected to the rest of the island, making it a great base to explore the island.

About Author: Linda Smith

I'm Linda Smith, the Hotel Expert, an experienced travel blogger who passionate about traveling. I'm here to share with you all my travel experiences and tips. I cover a wide range of travel topics, specializing in sharing information about the best areas, neighborhoods, and hotels in each city. I hope all these things will make your travel easier.

2 thoughts on “Where to Stay in Menorca – 15 Best Areas”

My family has just booked a summer holiday to Menorca. I have looked at many of the web sites hunting for interesting things to do on Menorca and yours was the perfect site for me. It is an easy site to navigate and to finding out all about the best things to do with a family on holiday in Menorca. Having to vacate our villa at lunch time, and our flight not departing Mahon until around 8.30 pm. The information your website has about Mahon will be a Godsend in keeping the children interested. So instead of having to hang around an airport there will be plenty to still see and do before our flight. So thank you.

Great to hear it’s useful! I hope you have a great family vacation in Menorca.

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Furious UK holidaymakers boycott Spain after 'tourist go home' protests on Canary Isles and Balearics

S pain is a popular destination for British holidaymakers - with dozens of flights taking off from the UK every day over the summer to take thousands of people to destinations across the country. The Iberian country is one of the nations most frequently visited by Brits seeking sunshine and culture.

However, increasingly there has been backlash in some areas of the country. Thousands of local people have protested in the Canary Islands, which includes popular destinations for Brits such as Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Tenerife, about what they consider to be overtourism - and the impact this is having on affordable housing for the people who live there.

Around 15,000 people also descended onto the streets of Mallorca (Majorca), one of the Balearic Islands along with the other tourist hotspots of Menorca and Ibiza, calling for Brits to 'go home' and 'stay out' of the holiday island - BirminghamLive reports. Elsewhere, the city of Girona in Catalonia has also seen calls for a crackdown on overtourism.

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A number of British tourists have threatened to boycott Spain as a result of the protests - and advised that people 'be careful what you wish for'. One defiant Brit wrote: "The island [Mallorca] earns most of its income from tourism. They should be careful what they wish for."

Another commented: "What other income have these tourist areas got? Tourism is the main income." One more wrote: "Stop going to Spain for 12 months and they will be begging us to come back... Many British tourist spots would appreciate our patronage far more."

Another said: "Yesterday evening, Palma city centre ground to a standstill as thousands of residents from all over Mallorca protested about the complete saturation of the island not just from the pressures of tourism, but the catastrophic property situation. This means many local people can no longer afford to live here."

"The video is out now on the Mallorca Under the Sun YouTube channel. I want to make it clear this is not just about tourism. It's a wider issue." Another said: "Tourists go home" is a pretty clear statement wider issue or not. I have saved for over a year for my September holiday this year.

"It is the first holiday I've had since 2016. I just don't want to spend my time and money somewhere that neither are wanted. If I had the option I would cancel the holiday and go elsewhere. I certainly won't be back after this year. I can spend my money anywhere and Spanish residents can deal with their wider issues as they see fit."

"Tourists go home is a very inflammatory statement, for someone who comes over twice a year, saving hard earned money for the opportunity, should I look elsewhere for future holidays?" another asked. "Can you explain what the wider issue is ? I know rental prices are crazy what are the other issues ?"

"As someone who has been a "tourist" for 20 plus years up to 4 x a year and spends in local bars, restaurants and not all inclusive it all comes across as pretty aggressive and inflammatory If the tourists do go home or don't come how will a lot of these businesses survive ?" another asked.