VISIT MENORCA. To assist you in organizing your trip, I have compiled a guide featuring the top 15 must-see attractions and activities on the island. This comprehensive article covers everything from Menorca's captivating landmarks to its stunning beaches, unforgettable boat trips, and a wide range of activities available for you to enjoy.
Additionally, I will provide you with valuable tips and recommendations, including a selection of accommodations tailored to different budgets. With this information in hand, you'll be well-prepared to make the most of your visit to Menorca.
So, whether you're interested in discovering Menorca's cultural treasures, lounging on its picturesque beaches, or embarking on exciting adventures, this guide will provide you with all the essential information to plan an unforgettable stay on the island.
VISIT MENORCA : The 15 Best Things to Do
Visit Menorca : If you're planning a visit to Menorca and seeking the best places to explore, you've come to the right source!
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Visit Menorca : The 17 Best Places to Visit and Must-See Attractions
1. Mahon
Visit Menorca : Let's begin this tourist guide to Menorca with a focus on its capital: Mahon.
Nestled in the southeastern corner of Menorca, this city exudes a particular charm, especially within its historic core. It's an absolute delight to wander through its charming pedestrian-friendly streets, where you'll encounter a plethora of boutiques, cozy cafes, and inviting dining establishments.
I highly recommend taking a leisurely stroll through Carrer de ses Moreres, where you'll find the Menorca tourism office, as well as Carrer de Hannover and Carrer Nou.
Here are some notable places of interest to visit in Mahon:
The Mercat del Claustre: This charming market features shops located under arcades and a terrace in the old church cloister, offering a delightful shopping experience.
The Fish Market ("mercat des Peix"): Divided into two parts, this market houses stalls brimming with fresh fish and a gourmet section where beautifully presented tapas are available, tempting your taste buds.
The Museum of Menorca: Housed in the former Sant Francesc Church, this museum provides insights into the history of the island, allowing visitors to delve into its fascinating past.
The portal of Sant Roc: Dating back to the 14th century, this ancient gate is the only remaining vestige of the city's old walls. Flanked by two towers of different heights, it serves as a testament to Mahon's historical significance.
The Santa Maria Church: Don't miss the impressive organ, comprised of over 3,200 pipes, housed within this splendid church.
The Ca'n Oliver: Situated in a beautiful 19th-century house, this remarkable art and history center showcases a collection of maps and period furniture that vividly illustrate the city's story.
Departing from the port located beneath the old town, I highly recommend taking advantage of your time in Menorca by embarking on a one-hour mini-cruise in Mahon Bay. This experience offers breathtaking views of colonial houses, idyllic coves, small islands, and the Mola fortress (which I'll discuss next). You'll also benefit from historical and cultural commentary, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the area.
2. La Mola Fortress
Visit Menorca : The La Mola Fortress stands as an absolute must-see attraction in Menorca.
Constructed in 1850 at the very tip of Mahon port, the fortress was designed to defend against various European powers who recognized the island's strategic importance, both commercially and militarily.
Today, visitors have the opportunity to fully explore this immense and well-preserved fortress, including its numerous underground passages. Throughout your visit, you'll be treated to breathtaking coastal views, further enhancing the experience.
In fact, the La Mola Fortress has become one of the main tourist highlights in Menorca!
For practical information regarding a visit to the La Mola Fortress, please note the following:
The entry fee is €8 per person.
Audioguides are available for rental at an additional cost, or you can utilize the free option of scanning the QR codes located throughout the fortress to access explanations about its history and the buildings you will encounter.
Plan for approximately 2.5 hours to fully explore the site, as it is quite expansive. Also, be prepared for walking under direct sunlight.
For outdoor exploration, you have the option of renting golf carts to conveniently navigate the grounds.
3. Visit Menorca : Ciutadella
Continuing our exploration of the most exquisite destinations in Menorca, let's venture to Ciutadella.
Formerly the capital of the island until the 18th century, this charming city is nestled along the western coast, facing Mahon.
Ciutadella boasts a delightful historic center, characterized by its enchanting buildings, numerous squares and churches, and elegant bourgeois houses adorned with beautiful facades.
When visiting Ciutadella in Menorca, be sure to explore the following must-see attractions:
Es Born Square, featuring an obelisk and one of the city's most stunning buildings: the city hall.
The viewpoint (mirador) situated behind the town hall, offering a magnificent view of the port.
Ses Voltes, the main shopping street adorned with charming shops nestled beneath arches.
The Cathedral of Ciutadella, showcasing typical Catalan Gothic architecture.
Numerous palaces and manor houses, including the Olivar palace, Casa Squella, and Vivo palace.
The small fish market, where you can savor the freshness of local fish and seafood.
The port of Ciutadella, providing panoramic vistas of the city and its iconic landmarks.
Exploring Ciutadella will reveal a treasure trove of architectural marvels and cultural delights, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the rich history and unique ambiance of Menorca.
4. Visit Menorca : The most beautiful beaches and coves
If you're seeking a beach day in Menorca, you're in luck because the options are abundant. With a coastline stretching over 200 km, Menorca boasts an impressive collection of 100 beaches and coves. Each one showcases white sands and turquoise waters, creating picturesque settings that offer a slice of paradise for swimming.
Unlike the more urbanized beaches of Mallorca, Menorca's coves remain wild and untouched, free from visible construction. This natural beauty is truly appreciated by visitors and locals alike.
While listing all 100 beaches would be tedious, here's a selection of the most stunning beaches in Menorca that are perfect for a refreshing swim:
Cala Mesquida: A lovely sandy beach situated alongside a small cape, conveniently close to Mahon.
Es Grau beach: With calm, shallow waters, this beach is ideal for families with children in Menorca.
Sa Caleta: This beautiful cove boasts turquoise waters and a shallow depth, offering breathtaking views of the nearby tower.
Cala en Brut: While it lacks an actual sandy beach, several concrete platforms are available for sunbathing, jumping into the water, or accessing it via ladders. It is popular among the younger local crowd.
Son Bou beach: Menorca's longest beach, offering ample space for relaxation and leisurely walks.
The most beautiful beaches and coves
Cala Algaiarens: A stunning wild beach comprised of a double cove surrounded by dunes and pine trees. It is just a 5-minute walk from the parking lot.
The four coves of Binimel, with Pregonda being the most famous. These coves boast striking color contrasts between the red rocks, trees, ochre sand, and blue water, and can be explored on foot.
Cala Mitjana: Located in a superb cove with crystal-clear water, this beach is easily accessible via a 1.2 km trail from the parking lot. It ranks among the top five most stunning spots in Menorca, according to my personal experience during my road trip.
Cala en Turqueta: Nestled within a pine forest, this beach can be reached after a 1 km walk. It is considered one of the prettiest coves in Menorca.
Cala Macarella and Macarelleta: Similar to Cala en Turqueta, these beaches offer breathtaking beauty.
Cala de Binidali: A peaceful cove with crystal-clear water, offering a small and serene environment.
Es Calo Blanc: A tiny cove featuring fine sand and turquoise water, complemented by a few rocks perfect for lounging.
Cavalleria beach: This beach is bordered by clay hills, creating a unique and picturesque setting.
Whether you're seeking a secluded cove or a more expansive beach, Menorca's coastal gems provide a variety of options for you to enjoy a memorable beach experience.
5. Boat trip in Menorca
Planning a trip to Menorca would be incomplete without considering a boat excursion, as it provides the perfect opportunity to access stunning coves and discover the island's most beautiful corners.
Given the variety of boat outings available, I have compiled a selection of the finest boat excursions in Menorca to assist you in making a choice. However, it is crucial to book well in advance, as these cruises are highly sought-after tourist activities on the island. Reservations can be made by clicking on the provided links or buttons.
Here are the most exceptional boat outings on the south coast of Menorca:
Full-day cruise to explore the exquisite coves of the south coast: This excursion departs from Ciutadella port and takes you to Son Saura, Cala en Turqueta, Cala Macarella, and Cala Macarelleta. You'll have two hours to swim at Son Saura before savoring a delightful onboard paella accompanied by a glass of sangria. The journey continues with a 1.5-hour stop at Cala Turqueta for another refreshing swim.
In my opinion, this is the ultimate boat excursion in Menorca as it allows you to visit all the renowned coves in the area within a single day, an experience that is not easily replicated by car or on foot.
6. Diving in Menorca
Take full advantage of your Menorca getaway by embarking on an extraordinary adventure: scuba diving.
Similar to destinations like Malta, Corsica, Greece, or Sardinia, the Balearic Islands are renowned for offering exceptional diving experiences in the Mediterranean.
If you're new to diving, I highly recommend using your visit to Menorca as an opportunity to try a dive initiation. This experience typically begins with a brief theory lesson, followed by the selection of your diving equipment. You'll then board a boat and head to the marine reserve located in the northern part of the island for your diving session.
Within the reserve, you'll encounter a diverse range of marine species, including groupers, scorpionfish, octopuses, and lobsters.
The dive initiation I've chosen for you ensures a comprehensive experience, allowing you to spend approximately an hour underwater under the guidance of an instructor.
The diving center is conveniently situated a 20-minute drive north of Mahon, making it easily accessible for your diving adventure.
7. Best activities to do in Menorca
Explore my curated selection of the finest activities available in Menorca!
For more detailed information about each activity, including prices, duration, and reservations, simply click on the orange links provided below:
1-Jet ski excursion along the captivating north coast of Menorca - Duration: 1 hour.
2-Snorkeling trip to the remarkable caves of Macarella and the breathtaking cove of Cala Trebaluger, located in the south of Menorca. You'll be transported to the snorkeling sites by boat from Cala Galdana.
3-2 hour snorkeling adventure in the marine reserve.
4-Kayaking excursion with a knowledgeable instructor from Fornells (north). Navigate beneath the awe-inspiring cliffs, explore hidden caves, and enjoy a refreshing swim at S'Arenelet beach.
5-Kayak tour exploring the mesmerizing cliffs and caves of the southern region, starting from Cala en Porter.
6-Guided kayak excursion at sunset departing from Fornells.
7-Kayak rental options available for durations ranging from 1 hour to a full day.
8-2hour paddle board trip with an instructor in the picturesque bay of Fornells.
9-Paddle board rental services for your own leisurely exploration.
10-Full-day 4x4 off-road expedition that takes you on established tracks as well as off-the-beaten-path routes, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty.
11-Horse riding opportunities offered by various equestrian centers, enabling you to embark on scenic rides along the Cami de Cavalls.
Indulge in these exciting activities and make the most of your time in Menorca!
8. The Cami de Cavalls – Hiking in Menorca
Embarking on a walking adventure is undeniably one of the most rewarding ways to uncover the mesmerizing landscapes and reach the pristine coves of Menorca.
The renowned Cami de Cavalls, also known as GR223, stands as the most well-known hiking trail on the island, allowing hikers to circumnavigate Menorca along the scenic coastline.
Covering a distance of 185 km, the trail is divided into 20 stages, with each stage spanning from 5 to 14 km in length. For those seeking to complete the entire route, it generally requires approximately 10 days of walking when commencing from Mahon and following the trail counterclockwise.
However, you need not commit to the entire trail, as you can also embark on shorter hikes in Menorca to explore specific sections and reach your preferred coves.
Personally, I had an exceptional experience strolling along the trail segment that extends from Binimel to Pregonda, as well as the section from Son Saura beach to Cala Trebaluger. These stretches showcased breathtaking scenery and allowed for unforgettable moments of exploration.
So, lace up your hiking boots and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that Menorca has to offer!
9. The Monte Toro Lookout
A highly recommended experience in Menorca is the ascent to the Monte Toro viewpoint, which is truly a standout attraction.
Situated at the highest point of the island, towering at 358 meters above sea level, this viewpoint provides a breathtaking panorama that stretches across a significant portion of Menorca and encompasses the picturesque Fornells Bay. If you're fortunate enough to have clear skies, you may even catch a glimpse of Menorca's neighboring island, Mallorca.
The Monte Toro viewpoint is conveniently located at the heart of the island and can be reached with just a quick 5-minute drive from the village of Es Mercadal.
Upon arrival, you'll find ample complimentary parking facilities, along with a delightful restaurant/café featuring a terrace that offers splendid views. Additionally, there is a souvenir shop available for those seeking memorable keepsakes, and the site is also home to the sanctuary of the Virgin, who holds a special place as the patron saint of Menorca.
10. The Most Beautiful Villages of Menorca
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the charming and picturesque villages scattered throughout Menorca, each offering its own unique appeal:
Sant Climent will captivate you with its adorable little church adorned with a yellow and white facade.
Es Castell boasts a delightful fishing harbor where you can find some of the island's finest restaurants, perfect for savoring fresh fish and seafood delicacies.
Sant Lluis is another must-visit village, featuring excellent dining establishments such as La Caraba and Sa Pedrera des Pujols. Don't forget to make a stop at Bodegas Binifadet, where guided tours of the winery and wine tastings await.
Alaior invites you to leisurely wander through its medieval streets, offering glimpses of the Santa Eulalia church, the Salort Palace, and the San Diego convent, where you can find the tourist office.
Ferreries welcomes you to stroll along its narrow streets in the historic center, soaking in the village's authentic atmosphere.
Es Mercadal is an absolute gem, with traditional Menorcan whitewashed houses and a vibrant main square surrounded by cozy cafes. Make sure to visit the renowned Cas Sucrer and Forn de sa Plaça bakeries.
Last but certainly not least, Fornells is an authentic village with its fishing boats dotting the water's edge, serving one of Menorca's most famous traditional dishes, caldereta de langosta, a delectable lobster stew. For an unforgettable culinary experience, book a table at renowned restaurants like Sa Llagosta and Es Cranc.
While in Fornells, a trip to the tower of Fornells is highly recommended, offering panoramic views of the village and the Cavalleria lighthouse, creating a memorable vista to cherish.
11. The Lighthouses to See in Menorca
Let's continue exploring the best attractions in Menorca, this time focusing on lighthouse spotting.
Menorca is home to seven lighthouses strategically placed across the island, serving as navigational beacons for ships. Interestingly, three of these lighthouses have become notable tourist destinations, forming what is now known as the Menorca Lighthouse Route.
If you're venturing to the northern part of Menorca, I highly recommend visiting:
The Cavalleria lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse on the island, constructed in 1857 following numerous shipwrecks. From this vantage point, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire northern coastline. The site also features an interpretation center that provides insight into the history and construction of Menorca's lighthouses.
The Favaritx lighthouse, located on the northeast coast, offers a unique experience. Surrounded by barren gray rocks and devoid of vegetation, it creates a landscape unlike any other on the island. During my visit, the winds were strong, adding to the sense of being at the edge of the earth.
Visit the Artrutx lighthouse in southern Menorca for its stunning view of Mallorca. Enjoy a drink on the terrace of the bar in the old keeper's house. These lighthouses provide practicality and a chance to appreciate coastal views and Menorca's maritime history.
12. S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park
If you're still contemplating what to explore in Menorca, make sure to visit the S'Albufera des Grau Natural Park.
This protected natural area is renowned for its rich birdlife, providing a sanctuary for a diverse range of species such as herons, cormorants, coots, ospreys, and even eagles.
To discover the park, you can follow three designated walking routes, clearly marked with signs and accessible from the parking lot near the visitor center:
Mirador de Cala Llimpa: A 1,700-meter trail that takes around 40 minutes to complete.
Santa Madrona: A 2,800-meter route that offers a 75-minute walk.
Sa Gola: Covering a distance of 2,200 meters, this trail can be completed in approximately 40 minutes.
While I personally didn't find the park exceptionally captivating during my visit, it's important to note that the day was scorching hot, and the trails were fully exposed to the sun, which affected my experience. Share your thoughts in the comments if you had a more enjoyable visit.
To escape the heat, consider heading to the stunning Es Grau beach. From there, you can also take a shuttle boat to the nearby island of En Colom, located just across the waters. The boat will transport you to either Els Tamarells beach or Arenal d'en Moro beach on the island, where you can relax and indulge in the pristine, crystal-clear waters.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Menorca and relish the tranquil beaches as a refreshing retreat from the heat.
13. Visit Menorca : Sampling gastronomy
Let's explore some of the local specialties that you should definitely try during your time in Menorca:
1-Mahon-Menorca Cheese: This cheese is unique to Menorca and holds a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). Recognizable by its square shape with rounded corners and orange rind, it is a must-try. You can even participate in a cheese-making workshop for a hands-on experience.
2-Sobrassada: A delicious pork sausage with a distinctive flavor. It is often enjoyed spread on bread or used as an ingredient in various dishes.
3-Carn-i-xulla: Another pork sausage made with a combination of pork meat, fat, and spices. It is commonly enjoyed grilled or cooked in stews.
4-Crespells: These are jam-filled cookies dusted with powdered sugar, offering a delightful sweet treat.
5-Ensaïmadas: These spiral-shaped pastries are a Menorcan specialty. They are typically dusted with powdered sugar and can be filled with chocolate or cream, satisfying any sweet tooth.
Visit Menorca : Sampling gastronomy
6-Rubiols: Meat or fish empanadas, which are savory turnovers filled with a flavorful mixture of ingredients.
7-Caldereta de Llagosta: A delicious lobster stew that is a local favorite. For the best taste, head to the village of Fornells to savor this specialty.
8-Oliagua: A traditional soup made from tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, water, and olive oil. It is a refreshing and flavorful dish.
9-Stuffed Carabassons: Eggplants and zucchinis stuffed with a mixture of tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, bread crumbs, and eggs. It's a tasty and filling dish.
10-Arros de la Terra: A unique Menorcan dish made with wheat semolina instead of rice. It is accompanied by potatoes and pork meat, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal.
11-Local Wine: Menorca produces its own wine, carrying the guarantee label "Vi de la Terra Illa de Menorca." Don't miss the opportunity to taste and appreciate the local wine varieties.
12-Xoriguer Gin: Menorca is also known for its distinctively flavored gin, produced exclusively on the island. Be sure to try this local specialty and experience its unique taste.
Indulge in these culinary delights and savor the flavors of Menorca's gastronomy during your visit.
14. Cycling in Menorca
Visit Menorca : As I mentioned earlier, exploring Menorca by bicycle is a fantastic option, especially along the Cami de Cavalls trail.
The cycling routes on the island are generally not too challenging, as Menorca doesn't have high-altitude peaks like its sister island, Mallorca. The highest point, Monte Toro, stands at 358 meters, ensuring that the gradients are never too steep.
To facilitate cycling exploration, the Menorca council has established a designated cycling route called the "ruta cicloturistica." This signposted itinerary allows cyclists to traverse the island from Ciutadella to Sant Lluis.
The entire route covers a distance of 69.9 km, which typically takes around 6 hours and 10 minutes to complete. You can ride the whole route in a day or split it into stages ranging from 6 to 19 km. Splitting it offers a relaxed cycling experience, letting you enjoy the scenery and attractions.
15. Visit Menorca : The Best Hotels in Menorca
To wrap up, I've compiled a selection of hotels in Menorca that cater to various budgets:
Best hotels near Mahon:
1-Eurohotel: Located in the heart of Mahon, this modest hotel offers clean rooms starting from €110 per night. The staff is friendly, and it's conveniently situated near the city center.
2-Catalonia Mirador des Port: Situated close to the Menorca Museum, this hotel in Mahon features spacious and comfortable double rooms with a delightful view starting from €130 per night. Enjoy the pool, jacuzzi, and varied breakfast options.
3-ARTIEM Capri: Offering modern and well-equipped double rooms with comfortable bedding starting from €160 per night (breakfast included). Take advantage of the rooftop pool, jacuzzi, complimentary refreshments, and snacks in the Green space, as well as a hearty breakfast.
3-Bordoy Casa Ládico – Hotel Boutique Adults Only: This luxurious 5-star hotel provides superb suites with a terrace and refined decor starting from €330 per night (breakfast included). Enjoy the attentive staff, intimate atmosphere, pool, and homemade breakfast for a truly luxurious stay in Mahon.
Best hotels near Ciutadella and surroundings:
1-Hostel Menorca: A budget-friendly youth hostel located in the center of Ciutadella, offering dormitory beds starting from €30 per night.
2-Prinsotel La Caleta: Situated just a 5-minute walk from the beach, this hotel features comfortable and bright double rooms or apartments with a balcony starting from €150 per night (breakfast included). Relax by the beautiful pool and garden area and enjoy the tranquility and excellent breakfast.
3-Aparthotel Ferrer Skyline: Located opposite the sea and 1 km from the historic center of Ciutadella, this hotel offers modern and spacious apartments with a terrace, accommodating up to 6 people starting from €180 per night. Enjoy the pools, views, cleanliness, and tranquility for an unforgettable family vacation.
4-Hotel Playa Santandria Adults Only : Situated just 5 meters from Cala Santandria cove, this hotel offers double rooms with a balcony, some with sea views, starting from €180 per night (breakfast included). Benefit from its exceptional beachfront location, great breakfast, and peaceful ambiance.
5-Faustino Gran Relais & Chateaux : This superb luxury hotel housed in a beautiful 17th-century building offers elegant and well-maintained double rooms starting from €400 per night (breakfast included). Enjoy the exquisite decor, quality food, pools, spa, and concierge service for an indulgent luxury stay in Ciutadella.
Choose the hotel that suits your budget and preferences, and make your stay in Menorca truly memorable.
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