Menorca

DESTINATIONS spain minorca

Menorca

Beat the crowds in Menorca (or Minorca), the most tranquil of the Balearic islands. The stunning coves and secluded, white sand beaches are matched with the idyllic countryside and historic ruins. This island's charm attracts visitors year-round.

The Island Beach Life

The Island

Menorca, the most eastern isle of Spain's Balearic Islands, is only 48 kilometres long and 16 kilometres wide, but it still manages to pack in over 70 beaches along its ravishing coastline. Consequently, unfurling a towel and soaking up the rays are the most prevalent thoughts of the thousands of holidaymakers who touch down at Mahón Airport during the six-month season. Menorca is also a perfect place to go snorkelling and discover hidden caves. You can also get spectacular views of the stunning coastline, and the island's marvellous nature by either hiking on Monte Toro, its highest peak, or by going on a horseback excursion. The reward of any activity is always a breathtaking view, and on a clear day, you can even see all the way to Mallorca. However, Menorca has a lot more to offer than just sandy beaches, amazing landscapes, and its beautiful coastline. Take a stroll to the historic cities to see the architectural heritage of the British occupation or the medieval era: to Fort Marlborough with its gloomy tunnels, to La Mola or the Cathedral Basilica, a beautiful church with lovely stonework and stained glass windows. On top of that, you can sample one of the best legacies of the British ruling: locally distilled gin.

Beach Life

Beach-goers are spoilt for choice in Menorca. Some are only accessible by private road where a small toll is often charged during the summer months.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Many visitors immediately head east through the flower-freckled meadowland of the interior to the resorts of Cala en Forcat, Cala en Bosch and Cala Galdana. However, step off the beaten track and you will be rewarded — Mahón (or Maó), an interesting capital with a turbulent history, saw many sea conflicts as the Spanish, British and French grappled for control of this strategically important naval base. The influences of all three cultures, as well as the native Balearic one, can be seen here today.

Mahón

Menorca's capital Mahón (or Maó, in Catalan) boasts terrific sights and a colourful history that is best explored by boat trip along the harbour. Do also stroll around, starting at Placa Colona, and lose yourself in a warren of tight …

Fort Marlborough

The low-lying Fort Marlborough was built by the British in the 18th century, and as a cover operation, its entrance was hidden in a deep tunnel. Take a tour through the fort's gloomy tunnels for a unique …

Pedreres De S’hostal

Pedreres de S’Hostal is one of the most beautiful ethnological places on the island. An astounding natural labyrinth made of incredible sandstone shapes left by both manual carvers as well as mechanical carvings, this part-quarry and part-sculpture field is a tranquil place. Visit in summer to enjoy one of the many live …

Xoriguer Gin Distillery

A relic from the 18th-century British rule, Xoriguer produces perhaps the oldest gin in the Mediterranean, crafted using a 1700s recipe and copper stills that are over 250 years old. Their showroom in Menorca offers an array of flavours to taste — don't miss the traditional pomada. Their unique process has earned them the …

Ciutadella

Ciutadella de Menorca is a small town and the cultural rival of Mahón. Take a stroll along the canal-like harbour and dine on fresh lobster in one of the waterside restaurants, before checking out British colonial …

Cap de Cavalleria

Menorca has many beautiful lookout points, and one of them, in the island's north, is Cap de Cavalleria. Visit at sunrise or sundown for the most spectacular views. The beautiful Faváritx Lighthouse also offers lovely coastal views of quaint little roads which end in crystal clear …

La Mola

La Mola is one of the major European fortresses built in the 19th century. Located by the harbour in Mahón, it offers both an interesting insight into history and panoramic view points onto land and …

Cala Morell

Cala Morell is the hidden gem of Ciutadella. Here, you can explore different caves, go snorkelling or just admire the picturesque village and its laidback …

Monte Toro

Monte Toro is Menorca’s highest point, with a simply breath taking view. On a very clear day, you may even catch a glimpse of Mallorca. Take a picnic or enjoy coffee or lunch at the cafe at the …

Cathedral of Ciutadella de Menorca

A beautiful Gothic church in Ciutadella, with lovely stonework and stained glass windows, this is a peaceful and tranquil place to spend a couple of quiet …

Torre d'en Galmés

One of the biggest archaeological sites on the Balearic Islands. On a clear day, you can see all the way to …

Lloc de Menorca

This small zoo is home to monkeys, lemurs, wallabies, kangaroos, domestic Menorcan animals, and creatures from all around the world. This is a family-friendly venue suitable for all …

Menorca a Cavall

Enjoy diverse scenery on a guided horseback excursion through the exciting landscape of Menorca. This adventure is open to everyone from beginners to seasoned …

Aqua Center

This aqua park offers rides of all kinds, as well as a cafe and restaurants. Spend the whole day relaxing in the lazy river, zoom through the Black Hole, giant slides, water tunnels, children's water chutes, the exhilarating kamikaze, and then back to the …

Jeep Safari Menorca

Step off the beaten track and enjoy spectacular views of the sunset (while listening to a traditional Spanish guitarist!) on this Jeep tour. Discover the geological and ecological side of Menorca in the interior of the island while learning about its unique history. The guides are happy to share their local knowledge, and will …

Bodegas Binifadet

Enjoy a wine tasting and a free tour in this local winery. Wine can be accompanied by goat cheese, marinated in red wine and wine-based …

Isla del Rey

This island is a protected natural site with important local fauna and flora. Learn the history of a naval hospital in a unique building from the XVIII century, and the remains of a Paleocristian Basilica from the VI century. Take a boat to Isla del Rey, and join one of its tours that …

Parc Natural de s'Albufera des Grau

A Marshland conservation area with nature trails, as well as facilities for picnicking, kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife …

Museum of Menorca

Dive into the rich tapestry of Menorca's cultural heritage at this regional museum. With exhibits spanning prehistoric sculptures, Roman artefacts, fine art, and even a unique food exhibition with traditional Menorcan recipes to take home, it's a journey through time. Immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of the many civilizations that have shaped this …

Dining

The island’s signature dish is (unsurprisingly) seafood – caldereta de llagosta, or lobster stew, to be precise. Anyway, you can also expect pork with apples or plums, and dozens of variations of oliaigues, or garlic soup, but you should not be tempted by a Minorcan breakfast, unless you are of a robust constitution, as you will then order some great neat gin!

Es Nautic Ciutadella

This restaurant serves high-class seafood, and outstanding views over the harbour on top. While this is the best spot in town for trying lobster stew, you will also enjoy its very pleasing …

Es Molí d'es Racó

This restaurant invites you to traditional Minorcan dining experience, in the confines of an old windmill with a very special atmosphere. Specialities include partridge with cabbage and roast suckling pig, so head here for having a proper traditional …

Sa Figuera

With four fishing boats and ten waiters, the chances of getting fresh fish really fast are more than high at Sa Figuera, and it will also most likely please every taste bud. While all the dishes are of high quality, the selection of top-class white wines is also highly …

La Caprichosa

This pizzeria is famed for its Minorcan-style pizzas, but also for serving a gamut of grilled meats and other dishes, all fresh. The terrace tables are literally only four paces from the harbour, while the inside seating is in a cave-like environment, and both these areas will make for a great experience …

Haiti

Haiti is a Caribbean styled restaurant offering indeed a bit of everything such as traditional Minorcan food as well as Spanish and Indian dishes. Head here if you have not decided yet about what to eat …

Restaurante España

Restaurante España serves all kind of dishes ranging from European classics and seafood to excellent Spanish dishes, among which you definitely have to try their paella. While the service is attentive and friendly, the atmosphere is quite cosy and indeed …

Pan y Vino

Pan y Vino serves delicious French food, and its fabulous location is quite perfect for if you have a special occasion to celebrate. Needless to say that this French venue boasts a great wine selection but they also feature an incredible atmosphere that invites you to enjoy your …

Ca Na Marga

Ca Na Marga serves typical Mediterranean barbecue in a lovely setting that will spread some nice atmosphere with its wine cellars close by. Just about anything goes on the grill here, and from meat and fish to vegetables, everything tastes equally …

Casa Tia

This family-run venue offers Spanish food and a wide selection of tapas to chose from. As everything is very reasonably priced, there is no need to miss out all the favourites such as the Mahón cheese with honey, the lamb empanadas and the Chorizo …

Ulisses Menorca

Right next to the fish market, the freshest fish and seafood are, consequently, the speciality of this restaurant that also serves a very exotic array of gin and other liquors to choose from. While having here lunch or dinner is quite some start into day and night, you can also stay here for several …

Cafes

Coffee breaks are obligatory in the Menorcan culture, and thanks to its many cafes, you will not have any difficulty finding the right spot when longing for a pause. On top of satisfying this craving, by serving both drinks and snacks, many venues also offer spectacular ocean views for a more enjoyable experience.

Chiringuito Es Bruc Sant Tomàs

Es Bruc is as close to the briny as you can be without getting salt water sloshing into your coffee, as the outside terrace is mere metres away from the water’s edge. This is a great pit stop for a cup of coffee, a glass of wine, or a light bite to …

Ca na Divina

This cafe in the old quarter of Alaior is a local's favourite, as to its great coffee and its huge selection of Menorcan pastries. On its summer terrace, the friendly service will provide you with everything you need for enjoying a sunny day …

Ca na Maru

This bakery is a sweet tooth's paradise, as you can buy traditional Menorcan snacks and pastries here. You can also head here for lunch, as they serve great salads with fresh ingredients as …

Herbera Bakery

At the very heart of Mahón's Old Town, this bakery serves a huge array of pastries along with great coffee and freshly-squeezed orange juice. Head here for breakfast or a quick coffee, as this will be a great start of the day before strolling around …

Pipet & Co

At Plaça Bastió in Mahón, Pipet & Co is popularly known for its breakfast menu, and its egg dishes are said to be done to perfection. Fried or poached, they come with toppings such as avocado or bacon. The variety of dishes is fantastic, as well as the attentive service and attractive …

Bars & Nightlife

A word of advice: do not come to Menorca if you're a nocturnal neon-seeker with a penchant for high decibels to which you may be used to after visiting Mallorca 'next door'. Although this smaller island is not the destination for a heavy night out, the lights will not turn off at bed time already, as Mahón, Ciutadella, and most resort areas have a profusion of bars and a handful of club. However, do not expect A-list DJs and dancing till dawn, and you will most certainly enjoy a quite great night.

Cova d'en Xoroi

Menorca’s most famous hotspot, Cova d'en Xoroi, is located in a cave halfway down a cliff, and popular legend has it that this is where a famous pirate drowned. While this venue is a bar by day, by night it turns into a disco featuring live music …

Casino Maritim Menorca

If you want to try your luck while in Menorca, then head over to Casino Maritim. And after, hopefully, winning some money, kick back and relax at their snack bar or terrace, where you can enjoy a delicious cocktail or a beer while admiring the beautiful views of the Port of …

Jazzbah

As one of the best nightspots in Ciutadella’s buzzing Pla de Sant Joan, Jazzbah offers three different areas for an unforgettable night out. It is either live music and DJ sessions, a chill out lounge, or a private one that needs to be booked. Head here for enjoying fantastic music and great …

La Margarete

In the tranquility of this hangout garden bar, you can savour great cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere as well as enjoy live band performances and independent music on …

Kit Kat Bar

If you are looking for a genuine English pub, with sports on TV, a pint and a ploughman’s lunch, then this venue is the right place to go. While quiz nights and a pool table will entertain you best, the owner is also always up for a …

Akelarre Restaurant & Live Music

Jazz Club not only famous among jazz-lovers but also for anyone who enjoys a night out with great food, regular live music performances, and a view of the harbour on …

Bar Nou

You cannot leave Minorca without going to Nou Bar, as this Art Nouveau styled venue is the perfect for having a fantastic night out in a great atmosphere. While you can head here with good friends, you can also mingle with locals over a nice drink, or maybe …

Sa Falua

Right on the waterfront in the Port of Mahón, Sa Falua is a true gem and a little cocktail oasis. Take a seat in their lovely courtyard in the back of the building and enjoy your cocktail in the tranquillity of their indoor garden, where candle lighting and potted plants perfect even more the …

Mai Tai Son Bou

This lovely little bar in the heart of Son Bou offers an excellent and most friendly service that will prepare the cocktails right in front of you. Go ahead and try their Gin & Tonic, as this one is nearly as known as the name-giving Mai Tai …

Shopping

For sheer diversity of shops, you should head for Maó or Ciutadella. In Maó, the area around Carrer Ses Moreres and Carrer Nou are home to the high-street labels. For stores of more individual character you’ll need to stroll down Moll de Ponent in the port area. Ciutadella’s ground zero for shopaholics is Ses Voltes and its numerous offshoots, where you will find plenty of opportunities to replenish your wardrobe. Lovers of bric-a-brac have numerous artisan markets to choose from including Es Migjorn Gran on Tuesday evening, Maó on Friday evening and Ciutadella on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.