What to see and do in Menorca?
The Spanish island of Menorca is small but perfectly formed. Famous for its relaxing beach holidays, this UNESCO biosphere reserve is also home to historic towns, wild nature reserves and sleepy fishing villages.
Whether you want to snorkel in turquoise coves or enjoy delicious food, there is enough to do in Menorca to satisfy everyone.
Due to its large number of attractions, Menorca is often referred to as the open-air museum.
Therefore, we have written this guide just for you to help you decide which sites and activities to include in your itinerary.
Pack your bags and let's go!
Read also: What to do in Mallorca? The 55 must-see things to do on the dream island!
Read also : What to do in Ibiza? 65 must-do activities and visits
Map of Minorca
Where to stay in Menorca?
The island of Menorca offers its guests hundreds of attractive hotels, all with unique characteristics.
Luxury hotels
La Quinta Resort & Spa
The luxurious resort La Quinta Resort & Spa is located in the resort of Son Xoriguer.
It is one of the most sought after and popular hotels on the island. The La Quinta Hotel is designed in a colonial style and its interior is enriched with works by modern artists. The hotel boasts one of the most luxurious day spas on the island, offering exclusive services to hotel guests. The list of services includes outdoor massages and treatments using natural cosmetics. La Quinta's restaurant specialises in Mediterranean dishes and regularly hosts various events.
Sol Gavilanes
Hotel Sol Gavilanes is located on the picturesque beach of Cala Galdana. Only a few minutes from the coast, it offers guests excellent views from the hotel's panoramic rooftop terraces. The rooms and public areas of the Sol Gavinales are decorated in a modern style with artistic lighting. The hotel also offers a number of additional services, including an excellent kids' club with a team of qualified entertainers to keep the younger guests entertained.
Es Mercadal
Tourists interested in the history of the past should visit the town of Mercadal. The charming historical hotel Es Mercadal, which occupies an impressive 19th-century building, is an excellent stopover. The old manor house has retained many original features complemented by modern decorations. The day at the hotel begins with a hearty breakfast, and there are many popular restaurants and cafés nearby. The greatest advantage of the Es Mercadal is its location close to popular beaches and important points of interest.
Morvedra Nou
Morvedra Nou is a historic hotel located in Ciudadela. It occupies a beautiful 17th century building that is popular with tourists. The hotel is literally filled with an atmosphere of harmony and romance that makes it irresistible to travellers. Elegant wooden designer furniture, lots of soft flowers and exotic plants, spacious furnished terraces and a cosy lounge with a fireplace create ideal conditions for a holiday.
Where to stay in Menorca on a budget?
While the best-known resorts are home to large, elegant hotels, there are many budget options on the island. The best places to stay are in Ciutadella and Mahon, but there are good bus links to the surrounding beaches.
Cheap & Chic
Cheap & Chic, in Ciutadella's old town near the cathedral, is a great value guesthouse that feels more like a boutique hotel than budget accommodation. Pop-art paintings on whitewashed walls, white cotton bedding, minimalist furnishings and high ceilings contribute to the trendy atmosphere. Sant Jeroni, 10.
San Miguel
In Mahón, the three-star Hotel San Miguel, located in the old town (Calle Comercio 26), less than a ten-minute walk from the port, is another good choice. The 16 rooms are simply but tastefully decorated and if you are travelling with a baby, cots are available free of charge.
Aparthotel Skyline Menorca
For self-catering options, the Aparthotel Skyline Menorca complex in Ciutadella offers stylish, budget flats built around two outdoor swimming pools (Passeig de Sant Nicolau, 171).
Read also: Hotel Menorca: Top 82 best places to stay
Monuments and architectural works
Enigmatic monuments
Research into the history of the island of Menorca suggests that more than three and a half thousand years ago, an ancient civilisation settled in Menorca. These people possessed valuable knowledge and left many mystical monuments. Modern scientists call them the "ships of the dead", as the function and identity of the ashlar constructions remain the island's greatest mystery.
In appearance and appearance, these ancient monuments resemble huge carved pyramids. These remains of Menorca are much older than the famous pyramids of Egypt. The scale constructions are not the only prehistoric monuments and landmarks on the island, as there are more than one and a half thousand navetas (burial chambers) in its territory. These stone constructions resemble boats turned from bottom to top, as were the first dwellings of the islanders.
The island has also preserved mysterious taulas. These are high T-shaped towers that were probably used for religious rituals. Travellers who wish to learn more about the archaeological findings of scientists should visit the area of Torre-d'en-Galmes, which has preserved many interesting artefacts and relics dating back thousands of years. The area features ancient ruins and mysterious religious structures.
Playa de Santa Agueda
The site of a monument from a later period is the Playa de Santa Agueda. The area preserves an ancient castle of Santa Agueda. This majestic fortress has survived the long course of history perfectly and appears to visitors in all its glory. The beautiful chapel of Santa Ana is located not far from the fortress. The start of the Roman road is near the chapel. The age of the road is more than two thousand years and walking along it will turn into a great experience for travellers.
It should also be noted that the playa has several well-equipped observation platforms offering vibrant views of the area.
The Castell de Sant Nicolau
An important historical monument in Menorca is the Castell de Sant Nicolau, which was built in the late 17th century to resist the British occupation.
The need to restore the building (mainly the exterior) arose in 1960, and the second restoration was carried out in 1990. It should be noted that the interior of the castle is no less attractive than its exterior.
From an architectural point of view, tourists are interested in the Palacio Salort building, which today serves as the town hall. And since the palace is right on the beautiful waterfront, it offers great views. The Placa de Ses Palmeres is an ideal place to walk around Ciudadela. There are many beautiful shops surrounded by palm trees.
The small island of Isla del Rey
The small island Isla del Rey, associated with the name of Admiral Nelson, in whose honour a monument was erected here, is another important historical site. Its main attraction is the hospital. It is best to explore the island as part of a tour and listen to the stories behind it.
Thanks to the Museo de Menorca in Mahon, tourists will have a clearer understanding of the archipelago's history. Fans of fortifications will be interested in the Fortaleza de Isabel II, which has defended the island on several occasions against attacks. It was built in 1875 on the site of the San Felipe castle that once stood there. Near the fortress is the easternmost point of Spain.
Fort Marlborough
Another fortification that deserves attention and is located nearby is called Fort Marlborough. It was built by the British in 1726 and named after John Churchill, Duke of Marlborough. Destroyed by the Spanish in 1782, it was restored during the last period of British rule on the island (in 1802). For a more detailed introduction to Menorca's history, you should visit the nearby Museo Militar de Menorca.
As the island's history is closely linked to war, it has been passed from hand to hand, and this cultural institution fully reflects its history. Among its exhibits are weapons from different eras.
Gastronomy
Menorca offers its guests a good choice of gastronomic destinations, among which travellers will find both inexpensive family restaurants and high-end restaurants specialising in haute cuisine.
Mahon
In the area around Menorca, special varieties of cheese are produced, the most famous of which is "Mahon". This hard cheese is made from selected cow's milk and is now sold in various parts of Spain.
Mahon cheese has a moderately salty taste and a pleasant spicy aftertaste, and is an essential component of many salads.
Mayonnaise
There are several interesting culinary legends in Menorca. According to one of them, local chefs invented mayonnaise, which is now popular all over the world. The recipe for this sauce was first introduced by immigrants from the French town of Mahon. The locals liked the sauce so much that they started adding it to many dishes, modifying the recipe in their own way.
Pan de higo
Bread-making traditions are also special on the island. A special type of bread called Pan de higo, considered a real local delicacy, is baked here. This fig bread has a rather dense texture and is served with cheese.
Cocarroi and Format-hades
Pies, which can be filled with meat, fish, vegetables and sweets, are an important part of the local gastronomy. Unsweetened pies with fish and meat are called "Cocarrois", and "Format-hades" pies are prepared with an original filling of cottage cheese and cinnamon.
Where to eat in Menorca
Es Tast de na Silvia
One of the most successful and popular ethnic cuisine restaurants is Es Tast de na Silvia. Its customers will find all the popular dishes of Spanish cuisine, as well as many of the chef's specialities and delights. Es Tast de na Silvia has a refined interior design. Its spacious and bright room will be the perfect place to organize an original banquet.
Restaurante Aquarium Port Ciutadella
The name of the aquarium reveals its speciality. The restaurant serves seafood and delicacies. Dishes in the middle price range predominate on the menu, but true exotic gourmets will also find dishes to their taste. Visitors with children will be offered a special menu, making the restaurant an ideal place for family dinners.
Cafe del Nord
Cautious tourists are strongly recommended to visit the Cafe del Nord restaurant as it serves excellent Spanish cuisine at very attractive prices. The main feature of this restaurant is the size of the portions, which is why ordering a dish for two people is very reasonable.
The Anchor
The Anchor is an elegant and refined restaurant specialising in European cuisine. The restaurant will also please its guests by offering low prices for culinary masterpieces. During the day, The Anchor restaurant offers a rich and substantial menu. The cost of a rich three-course dinner will not exceed 10 euros for customers of this popular restaurant.
Tast
The Tast restaurant is an excellent choice for a romantic evening. In the evening, the atmosphere is pleasant and quiet and the music is pleasant. The restaurant's menu offers traditional European dishes and unique chef's specialities. The restaurant offers a good selection of wines to accompany the dinner.
Restaurant Las Brasas
Grill lovers will enjoy the Las Brasas restaurant. Some of the tables are served on the terrace, so that all visitors have the opportunity to sit comfortably in the open air and watch the expert cooks prepare meat and fish over the open fire.
The Las Brasas restaurant will be of great interest to vegetarians as it offers a good selection of vegetable dishes.
Mr Jaume
Meat lovers cannot miss the opportunity to try and taste the best kebab in the Mr Jaumes restaurant. The house specialty is served with original side dishes. For dessert, the restaurant offers various fruit salads and delicious oriental sweets.
What to do in Menorca?
Relax in Cala Macarella
Nestled on the pristine shores of southwest Menorca and easily accessible from Ciutadella, Cala Macarella is the beach of your dreams. The clear water and sandy bay tick all the boxes, while the striking white cliffs give a wilderness feel.
The beach is a popular stop for boat trips, where you can swim and snorkel. Want to stretch your legs? Follow the coastal path and explore the quieter Macarelleta beach.
Read also: Menorca beach: top 21 best places to swim
Enjoy kayaking in Cala Fornells
Also known as Cala Tirant, this vast bay is popular with nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Perfectly situated on the north-east coast, next to the old fishing village of Fornells, this natural lagoon is something of an insider's secret.
A trip to Cala Fornells takes place on the water, where you can kayak through the protected marine reserve, or anchor a boat to swim and snorkel.
Dive into the slides at Splash Sur Menorca
Adventurers of all ages love to go down the slides at Splash Sur Menorca. Get your heart racing on the Kamikaze and take a ride on the scary Black Hole.
Take it down a notch by floating down the quiet river to catch your breath. Meanwhile, the young ones will splash around on the pirate ship, complete with its own mini-slide and water jets.
Travel back in time at Ciutadella de Menorca
This ancient historical capital of Menorca is a cultural treasure trove of Mediterranean architecture and medieval squares. Stroll along Ciutadella's tranquil harbour and fortified walls, before heading to the old quarter of Es Born to explore the churches, fortresses and museums.
Make a reservation at one of the authentic restaurants to sample real Menorcan cuisine - the seafood is freshly caught and cooked in the traditional style.
Swimming at Cala Pregonda
This remote northern beach is a hidden gem. It takes a bit of effort to get there, either by a 30-minute hike from Binimel-la or a boat trip. Yet when you set eyes on this unspoilt cove, all efforts are forgotten.
Surrounded by rocky outcrops, the distinctive golden-red sand makes Cala Pregonda one of the most beautiful things to see in Menorca. Take a dip in the ocean and enjoy a picnic on the beach.
Visit a religious sanctuary in Monte Toro
Monte Toro, which is the highest peak on the island, was once home to a watchtower, a monastery and, according to legend, a bull!
Today you can still see the remains of the gothic church, but the breathtaking view of the island is the main event.
Enjoying the beautiful beach at Cala Galdana
To enjoy the laid-back Caribbean atmosphere and inviting blue waters, head to the resort of Cala Galdana for a day of surfing. Grab a sun lounger or stroll along the promenade that runs along this curved bay on the southwest coast.
Take a kayak or boat trip after exploring the nearby bays of Cala Mitjana and Cala de Trebalúger. Don't forget to bring your camera!
Hike along the wild Algendar Canyon
Ready for an adventure? Then dive into the Algendar Canyon for a good dose of wilderness and pure nature. Start your expedition at Ferreries and follow the narrow path down through this spectacular 8km long limestone gorge.
Keep your eyes peeled for pine trees and weasels in this legendary ravine, and take photos of the sheer cliffs teeming with tropical vegetation.
Dive into the water at the aquatic centre
Spend an unforgettable day at the Aqua Center, where thrill seekers of all ages will find plenty of fun. Get your adrenaline pumping on the Black Hole slide, or relax in the hot tub.
The little ones think it's one of the best things to do in Menorca, racing their friends in the go-karting area and exploring the water tower. Keep your energy up at the restaurant with homemade paellas and pizzas.
Relax in nature at Cala Turqueta
It may be difficult to choose which beach to visit in Menorca as there are so many. Yet Cala Turqueta, near Ciutadella in southwest Menorca, is an easy win with its dazzling turquoise water and fine white sand. No need for camera filters here!
This pristine lagoon is a popular stop on boat trips around the south coast, so come early in the morning to swim and snorkel without the crowds.
Explore the Cami de Cavalls
Discover Menorca at your own pace along the Cami de Cavalls, which runs around the island along the coast. Choose one of the 20 signposted paths and admire the secluded beaches, pine forests and towering cliffs.
Hiking this famous route is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Menorca, and it's also popular with cyclists. Continue the adventure with a horseback ride and explore the lesser-visited areas of the island.
Explore the marine world on a scuba diving trip
The marine life off the coast of Menorca is simply breathtaking, with crabs, octopus, scorpion fish and even barracuda. What will you see when you dive beneath the waves on an exciting scuba diving trip?
Admire the vibrant underwater kingdom as you glide across the seabed, where red coral thrives and seahorses dance in the algae forests. Trips are available for beginners and experienced divers.
Hike or horse ride along the Cami Reial
Fill your lungs with fresh air and your soul with joy as you walk along one of Menorca's oldest paths. This ancient road linking Ciutadella and Mahón dates back to Roman times and has changed little over the centuries.
The Cami Reial winds through wild olive groves, bringing you closer to nature. Keep an eye out for the historic wells of Es Pouets, the prehistoric caves and the spectacular cliffs of Algendar. Ride a horse along the trail to enjoy nature in all its glory.
Go down the slides at Aquarock Waterpark
Relax in Menorca's largest water park and spend the day splashing in the sun. Try the giant slides and jump in the wave pool, before relaxing under the watchful eye of the Aquarock dragon.
Back on dry land, race for pole position with your friends on the Kartingrock track and see how far you can bounce on the open air trampolines.
Jet ski across the waves
Fancy an adventure that combines nature and water? Then discover the hidden coves and little-visited coastal areas of northern Menorca on a thrilling jet ski tour.
Feel the majesty of the spectacular cliffs overlooking the ocean and master the waves as you glide through the water on this epic excursion. Whether solo or tandem, you can take turns as driver and passenger to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Venture inland on an epic jeep tour
Get truly off the beaten track by exploring the rugged interior of this Mediterranean island. Drive along rural tracks and discover all the hidden places rarely seen by other visitors.
Highlights of this unique adventure include charming villages, secluded beaches and spectacular ravines.
Visit the famous Menorquín horses at a renowned agricultural estate and cool off in the picturesque coves along the way.
Visit the Binissues Museum
Travel back in time and discover what life was like in the 17th century at the Binissues Museum. The stately manor house was once the home of the nobility, while the traditional farmhouse was owned by a local working family.
Learn how to make cheese and raise animals, and pop into the museums to see historic tools and old earthenware. The highlight is the Natural Science Museum, where you can marvel at 8,000 exhibits of species from around the world.
Relax in the turquoise cove of Binibeca
This charming coastal village on Menorca's south coast is the perfect place to take in the narrow streets and traditional whitewashed houses.
Pack a towel for a swim in the quiet bay and picnic in the dunes along the white sandy beach. Snorkelling is also superb in Binibeca, as the water is shallow and there are many rocky crevices where sea creatures hide.
Stroll through the old town of Mahón
Culture lovers will love strolling through Mahón's traditional streets, lingering in the sunny squares and quenching their thirst in the quaint cafés of the old town.
The pretty capital is famous for its Georgian houses and peaceful harbour, as well as its bustling market and military fort.
Hidden in a 17th-century monastery, the Museo de Menorca, which traces the island's history, is a real gem. The building is also photogenic.
Read also: Mahon Menorca, the 25 must-see visits and activities
Discover the fortress of La Mola
While exploring Mahón, visit the La Mola fortress, which offers superb views of the city and the bay. This 19th century military fortress offers a historical overview of Menorca and was built to prevent the British from reoccupying the island.
Inside the fort, delve into secret underground passages and visit the old weapons shops. Afterwards, wander the ramparts and check out the watchtowers - keep your camera handy for the view.
Watch wildlife at the Albufera des Grau Nature Park
This pristine national park is a haven for wildlife, with freshwater lagoons, olive forests and sand dunes to discover. Several endemic species live here - look out for lizards scurrying over rocks and eagles soaring overhead.
Follow the easy paths and elevated walkways around the wetlands, which are teeming with local birds. Guided tours are available around the Albufera des Grau Natural Park, with its unspoilt beaches and Roman ruins.
Get in touch with wildlife at Lloc de Menorca Zoo
Lloc de Menorca Zoo is a great family outing, with several native species to discover. There are also animals from all over the world, and kids think it's one of the most fun things to do in Menorca.
Head to the forest to see cheeky lemurs, and watch acrobatic macaques swinging over your head. Smaller explorers can feed the goats.
Enjoy a swim at Cala Tamarells
Remote and peaceful, Cala Tamarells is an idyllic beach on Menorca's east coast, near Es Grau. Getting there is an adventure, with rocky steps to negotiate before reaching the cove.
It's a popular spot on the Camí de Cavalls hiking trail, but it's also a great destination in its own right. Relax on the sand and soak up the sun or jump in for a refreshing swim.
Paddling in the shallows of Es Grau Bay
Located on Menorca's northeast coast, just 10km from Mahón, Es Grau is perfect for family fun by the sea. The water is warm and shallow - you can wade in for some distance before it gets deep enough to swim.
Intrepid travellers can go kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding, and many visitors enjoy hiking along the coastal path for the spectacular scenery and distant sea views.
Menorca's most popular beaches
Son Bou, Alaior
Stretching for almost three kilometres along Menorca's southern coast, Son Bou is the island's longest beach by far. At its eastern end is the eponymous holiday resort, popular with young families, largely due to the child-friendly waters of the gently sloping beach.
A chiringuito is open during the summer months and there are a few sun loungers for lounging. Note that as you move further up the coast, the beach becomes increasingly popular with sunbathers.
Cala Macarella, Ferreries
Often held up as the epitome of Menorca's idyllic beaches, Cala Macarella comprises a strip of white sand overlooking turquoise water, flanked by low limestone cliffs. It offers a balance between unspoilt natural beauty and discreet facilities and services, such as a restaurant and lifeguard in summer.
The car park is a 20-minute walk along a forest path, but as it closes in high season, it's best to arrange transfers in advance. For even more seclusion, the twin bay of Macarelleta is just a short walk from the cliffs.
Son Saura, Ciutadella
At Son Saura cove, you have two beaches in one - Playas Banyul and Bellavista - separated by a rocky promontory. The shallow, sheltered bay offers child-friendly waters and is a particularly popular spot with local families.
There are no lifeguards or facilities, so make sure you bring your own food, drink and shade. A nearby car park can fill up quickly, so remember to arrive early in the summer months.
Cala Galdana, Ferreries
Few places in the Mediterranean can match the shimmering magnificence of Cala Galdana - a wide horseshoe bay fringed by white cliffs dotted with pine trees. A long stretch of golden sand juts out into calm, crystal-clear waters, ideal for small swimmers.
Clusters of pine trees provide shade for picnic tables, while several restaurants offer front row seating. An inlet and a small marina make this an ideal place for water sports such as sea kayaking - perfect for escaping the summer crowds.
Cala Mitjana, Ferreries
Just along the coast from Cala Galdana, this is another enchanting spot. The powdery white sand, incredibly blue water and high pine-capped cliffs (popular with divers) combine to stunning effect.
The lack of facilities is part of its charm and adds to the off-grid beach atmosphere. Its beauty and accessibility - there is a large car park nearby - mean that it can be crowded in high season. Swim or stroll to nearby Cala Mitjaneta for less crowds.
Cala Pregonda, Es Mercadal
This secluded cove on the island's less explored north coast boasts golden sands and pink cliffs that highlight the beauty of its aquamarine waters. Islets just offshore protect bathers from the swell and provide excellent snorkelling opportunities.
Although there are a few houses dotted around the area, facilities are non-existent, so plan ahead. The nearest car park is about a 30-minute walk away, so it's best to leave before it gets too hot - or arrive by boat.
Playa de Cavalleria, Es Mercadal
Coarse reddish sands backed by eroded dunes and rocky slopes give this bay on the north coast a wild and isolated character. However, this does not prevent it from being very popular during the summer months, as crowds flock to this spectacular setting, thanks to easy road access and parking.
Exposed to the northerly sea winds, it is also one of the few beaches on the island where surfers gather to catch the breakers during the breezy seasons.
Playa Arenal d'en Castell, Es Mercadal
This wide, crescent-shaped cove, one of the island's largest, is most impressive when viewed from the elevated resort that has been built around it. A wide strip of golden sand offers plenty of space for the inevitable summer crowds, and the waters are some of the calmest on Menorca's northern coast.
Sedentary water sports take the form of kayaking and pedalos, and there is no shortage of bars directly on the beach.
Cala Presili, Es Grau
Partly sheltered from the wind by rugged cliffs, Cala Presili defies the norm of north coast beaches with its fine white sand. It also lies within the boundaries of the protected area of the Albufera des Grau, which helps to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
There is a small car park near the Favàritx lighthouse and it is easy to walk around. Despite its relatively easy access, the beach is not usually disturbed by the summer crowds.
Cala Trebalúger, Es Migjorn Gran
Cala Trebalúger is another unspoilt beach that is difficult to access, but all the more pristine and peaceful for it. A rectangle of soft white sand lies in a low pine-covered gorge, one side of which opens onto a freshwater river.
It is a 35-40 minute walk from the Cala Mitjana car park, so most visitors choose to go by boat. The sea is particularly clear here, and usually teeming with marine life, so don't forget your mask and snorkel.
Read also: Top 15 most beautiful beaches and coves in Majorca
How many days do you need in Menorca?
A 7-day stay is ideal to discover the beautiful beaches, wild landscapes, unique monuments and delicious local cuisine.
If you prefer a short break in Menorca, this peaceful island is also ideal for a weekend beach holiday, as it is quite small and easy to reach from mainland Europe.
Getting around Menorca
Many holidaymakers and business visitors opt to rent a car. It's an easy way to explore this beautiful island and search for hidden treasures.
Getting around Menorca by car
Driving abroad can be a lot of fun, but the procedures and requirements differ for many visitors. It is always advisable to familiarise yourself with the regulations and to respect the speed limits.
Always drive with caution, especially at junctions and intersections. An essential point to remember! And it's easier than you think, because in Spain you drive on the right side of the road.
If you have never driven on the right side of the road, it is not as bad as you think. When you drive on the left side of a vehicle, everything falls into place and within 10 minutes you feel almost natural in the traffic flow.
Driving in Menorca
Remember to carry your driving licence with you at all times when driving, as well as your passport and car rental agreement (if you have hired a car).
If you do not produce these documents when requested by the police or authorities, you will be fined immediately. We don't want that!
Wearing a seatbelt is compulsory in the front and back of a vehicle or in a minibus.
As you are driving in a hot country in summer, you should be careful when driving in the rain, as the road becomes slippery. This is even more likely after a long period of heat and when the sky opens up, the road becomes extremely slippery. Be careful!
Have you had a road accident?
If you are unfortunate enough to have a road accident, first call the police on 112. Call your car rental company and then contact a representative at your holiday destination.
Always use a high-visibility waistcoat (if available) if you are out of a vehicle on the roadside.
Minorca taxis
There is a decent taxi service on the island. Most taxis are metered, but if you take one without a meter, it should have a fare card from which the taxi driver can give you a price before setting off to your destination.
Often, at taxi ranks, a price guide is displayed. Lounges will only take a maximum of 4 people (including babies).
If you need a taxi for more than 4 people, there is an English-speaking taxi service at the following numbers
971 36 71 11 for the Mahon area or 971 48 22 22 for the Ciutadella area.
Menorca Bus
Most resorts and towns in Menorca have a bus service. Some are more frequent than others. Most buses run every hour or half hour on the busiest stretches.
Special buses are often organised for local festivals. This encourages residents and tourists to leave their cars and use the public bus service.
Less traffic and more buses allow everyone to enjoy the festivals to the full!
How do I get to Menorca?
Flight or ferry to Menorca?
Getting to Menorca is easy, as you can reach the island either by ferry or by plane. While air travel tends to be shorter, it is highly recommended to take a ferry to Menorca.
Read on for some of the main advantages of travelling by ferry to Menorca:
- Ferry trips are more comfortable, as you can walk around and breathe in the fresh air on deck, while overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
- Taking the ferry to Menorca is a great way to take your car and explore all corners of the island.
- When it comes to sustainability, travelling by ferry to Menorca is the most environmentally friendly way to visit the Balearic Islands. To find out more about sustainable ferry travel, visit Ferryhopper.
- Ferry travel offers a safer environment in the age of Covid-19, as you can sit on the deck in the open air and practice social distancing with ease. Before your trip, we suggest you check out the latest updates on Covid-19 and ferry travel in Spain.
Getting to Menorca from the Balearic Islands
Getting to Menorca by ferry from the other Balearic Islands is easy and convenient. There are direct ferry connections from Mallorca, the largest island in the Balearic Islands.
How do I get to Menorca from Majorca?
You can easily travel by ferry to Menorca from Mallorca all year round, with additional routes available in summer. The line is operated by 3 companies: Baleària, Trasmediterránea and Corsica Ferries.
Ferry crossings from Mallorca to Menorca take between 1.5 and 6 hours, depending on the company and the type of ship you travel with (conventional or fast). Normally, the price of a standard ferry ticket varies between €34 and €87.
Note: You can also fly from Majorca and Menorca. There are usually 3 daily flights of 45 minutes duration.
Getting to Menorca from the Spanish mainland
You can easily reach the Balearic Islands and Menorca from nearby Spanish destinations. It's a great way to bring your car and easily explore Menorca's landscape.
Below you'll find more information on ferry crossings between mainland Spain and Menorca, so you can plan your trip step by step!
Getting to Menorca from Barcelona
Getting to Menorca from Barcelona is fairly straightforward. You can find up to 20 weekly crossings from Barcelona to Menorca, operated by 2 companies: Baleària and Trasmediterránea. The frequency is generally higher in summer.
The duration of the ferry journey from Barcelona to Menorca varies from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the port of arrival and the type of ship (conventional or fast). The price of a standard ferry ticket usually starts at €50. The final cost depends on discounts available, seasonality and the company you travel with.
Note: There are direct flights from Barcelona to Menorca. The journey by plane takes about 1 hour.
When to go to Menorca?
Generally, Menorca can be visited all year round, as the island is ideal for active holidaymakers, even between late autumn and spring, with appropriate clothing. However, some hotels are closed outside the high season and open mainly between April and November.
The tourist season lasts from the beginning of April to the end of October. The rainiest month of the year is August. Travellers planning a rich tourist circuit are advised against visiting the island in December, as this period is characterised by strong winds and frequent heavy rain, which is rather unfavourable for excursions.
The best time to visit Menorca starts with the significant rise in temperatures in May, the good swimming season with water temperatures of 20°C to 25°C is between June and October.
We recommend June to the end of September as the best time to travel to the small Balearic island.
Some tips before you travel to Menorca
1. Tourists with enough time should not limit their visit to just exploring the island. There are daily boat trips between the islands of the archipelago, giving them the opportunity to visit other areas and explore their sites. As a rule, the cost of travelling from one island to another is no more than 30 euros.
2. During the island tours, you should listen carefully to the guide, as it is forbidden to touch strange plants and flowers without his permission. The islanders take care of nature, so any damage to plants or littering in the area will be punished with heavy fines.
3. The beaches are kept very clean and have been awarded for the highest ecological safety. All major beaches have sports and beach equipment rental centres which are quite affordable.
4. For memorable gifts and souvenirs, travellers should pay attention to the genuine leather sandals "avarcas". These shoes are of the highest quality and are made of the best materials. It should also be noted that the sandals are still handmade as they were centuries ago.
5. The island is convenient for excursions by car. There are many rental car centres offering car rentals. To rent a car, a passport and an international driving licence are required. Customers under 21 years of age and those who have been driving a car for less than a year may be denied access to the rendering services.
Read also: Visiting Menorca, 21 things you need to know before you go
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The beaches!
There's no better way to spend your next holiday than on one of Menorca's beaches. With fine white sand, almost unbelievable turquoise seas and breathtaking scenery, Menorca's beaches are often compared to those in the Caribbean. Yet they are so close to home for most of you.
Final Thoughts
Menorca is a charming little island in the eastern Balearic Islands. With most visitors coming from Ibiza for a day trip, the small number of tourists makes the island an ideal place to stay and experience the local culture.
The Balearic Islands have always had a balance of Spanish and Catalan cultures, with a little Mediterranean twist thrown in.
Menorca is an excellent example of this and also illustrates the historical importance of the islands.
So what are you waiting for?
FAQ What to do in Menorca
What to do in Menorca in October?
As the summer tourist season enters its last official month in October, the reduced crowds and good weather create ideal conditions to discover the landscape and lifestyle of Menorca. It is at the end of the season that we move away from the typical tourist urbanisations and return to the traditional urban life that is the true beauty of the island. There are many activities that lend themselves to this time of year when the heat and humidity of summer has passed, but the sun is still out and the sea is still warm. If you are looking for relaxation, this is the perfect time to hire a car and stop in the towns for a walk, visit museums and churches, or have a long lunch and coffee, followed by a siesta. A visit to Menorca is not complete without a session in one of the island's many spas, an affordable but luxurious way to relax. If you prefer a more active way to disconnect on holiday, activities such as nature walks, day trips to secluded beaches, golf, fishing or cycling excursions are available. Or simply exploring the countryside on the back of a scooter is the ideal Mediterranean-style adventure.
What to do in Menorca when it rains?
-Visit one of the Menorcan farms where Mahón cheese is made, and taste the most famous international product of Menorcan gastronomy. There are both free and guided tours. Some farms, such as Subaida or Sant Patrici, are open practically all year round. -Visit the Museo de Menorca, located in the Convento de Sant Francesc de Mahón, a baroque cloister built in the second half of the 16th century according to a square plan. The collection of more than 250,000 exhibits can fill a whole day. Visit the Ca'n Oliver Palace, a late 18th-century manor house converted into an art and history centre with over 1,000 square metres of space. The exhibition calendar is constantly updated. -Take a trip to Menorca's craft centre in Es Mercadal. Here a video shows you Menorca's traditional crafts and the shop offers you the chance to buy products that are very different from the typical holiday souvenirs.
What is Menorca's culinary speciality?
Menorca's most famous dish is caldereta de langosta (lobster stew), and it is served in most of the island's restaurants. Lobster is the local lobster, and it is cooked in a tomato, onion and garlic sauce, almost like a soup.
Is Menorca a good holiday destination?
Menorca is an ideal destination for a romantic holiday. If you are travelling with your loved one, you may want to find accommodation in a place that offers the perfect mix of beautiful scenery, beautiful beaches and a lively city centre to find the perfect place for a romantic dinner.
Is Menorca very touristy?
Menorca is the most relaxed and tranquil of Spain's popular Balearic Islands - less clubby than Ibiza, less touristy than its neighbour Majorca.
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