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Menorca — Visas and Vaccinations

Most visitors won’t need a visa to get into Spain. This includes travelers from the USA, Canada, Australia and the rest of Europe. Visitors typically get 90 days, while Europeans can stay indefinitely. Check with the http://spain.visahq.com/ to see if you need a tourist visa.

Health and Safety

Menorca is a safe destination, with the only real threats being strong water currents and winding mountainous roads for those who rent cars. The sun is hot year-round and is particularly intense June through August, so be sure to use sunscreen and cover up the kids around midday.

Water is potable, but most people drink bottled. All visitors should have travel insurance, even visitors from the EU who are covered for emergency medical treatment if they carry a European Health Insurance Card. There are no worries regards exotic diseases, and vaccinations are not required.

There is little worry for violent crime in Menorca and far less pick pocketing than in Ibiza or Mallorca. Areas which require a heightened sense of awareness are the main squares in Mahon and Ciutadella, where tourists flock as gypsy folk can sometimes be a nuisance.

The driving is easy though most routes are single-lane and through the mountains or narrow coastal roads. It is best to go slower than normal and drive defensively in the cities, where locals can be aggressive and erratic. Roads on Menorca are good for scooters, but helmets should always be worn.

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Do I need a visa to go to Minorca (or Menorca) Island, Spain?

The Schengen Area consists of 23 EU member states and four non-EU countries:

Additionally, there are many countries whose citizens are exempt from the visa requirement for travel to the Schengen Area. Please visit the official site of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Transit visa:

Citizens of the countries mentioned below need a visa for transit through any airport of the Schengen States to take a connecting flight to a country outside the Schengen area:

Citizens of the countries mentioned below also need a visa for transit through the international zone of any airport in Spain to take a connecting flight to a country outside the Schengen area:

Holders of passports issued by the Palestine Authority also need visas.

Required documents for visa:

• application form.
• 4 passport-size photos.
• valid passport with 1 full blank page.
• return travel tickets or itinerary and proof of payment for tickets.
• proof of purpose of visit.
• confirmed accommodation.
• a stamped, self-addressed, registered envelope if applying by post.
• evidence of sufficient funds for stay.
• letter from the employer; or accountant, solicitor, bank manager or Chamber of Commerce if self-employed. Students should submit proof of attendance.

Validity of visa: 

Short-stay (single- and multiple-entry): Valid for 6 months from date of issue for a stay of maximum 90 days per entry.

Transit  (single- and multiple-entry): Valid for a maximum of 5 days per entry, including the day of arrival. Visas cannot be extended, and a new application must be made each time.

Please note:

For more regarding travel to the Schengen Area please visit Europa.eu

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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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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.

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Menorca travel guide.

Less developed and more tranquil than the other Balearic Islands, Menorca appeals to those in search of relaxed sunny days far from the hustle and bustle. Hazy beach life is well and truly at the fore of the island’s draw, with an abundance of sandy strips perfect for lazing in the heat.

Across the island its Bronze Age past is still evident with Talayots sites, like the impressive ruins at Talato de Dalt. But it is the British influence (a result of the island’s capture in 1708) that has left a more lasting impression.

In the capital, Mahon, Georgian architecture remains a fixture among the old city walls, cliff top churches and tiny squares. It was here, under the influence of 18th century British sailors, that the island’s renowned gin production began.

Steep streets are a feature of the small capital, with all roads (seemingly) leading down to the turquoise sea. Portside visitors bob around an abundance of cafes, bars and restaurants, all well-served by the views of yachts and large liners making their way out to the Mediterranean Sea.

Menorca’s most attractive town is Ciutadella, just 32km (20 miles) from Mahon. Centred around Plaça des Born, its architecture is markedly Spanish, and a walk through the narrow cobbled streets of its Old Town reveal baroque churches and gothic touches that seem unmarked by modernity.

Island-wide, small-scale holiday developments have remained largely self-contained, leaving most of Menorca uncommercialised and bucolic.

Early introductions of conservation areas proved a shrewd move, protecting not only the island’s natural beauty, but also bringing Menorca sustainable tourism and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status.

As a result, the island's most striking features remain its beaches – a glorious girdle of golden white coves and aquamarine waters, particularly in the south – which attract young and not-so-young families year after year.

694 sq km (268 sq miles).

92,348 (2015).

133.1 per sq km.

Mahon (Maó).

Parliamentary monarchy since 1978.

King Felipe VI since 2014.

Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy since 2011.

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If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements .

Your passport must be:

• issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
• valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

Check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

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Passport stamping

Check your passport is stamped as you enter or exit the Schengen area through Spain as a visitor.

Border guards check you’re complying with the 90-day visa-free limit for short stays in the Schengen area. If you do not have relevant entry or exit stamps in your passport, they will assume you have overstayed.

You can show evidence of when and where you entered or exited the Schengen area, and ask the border guards to add this date and location in your passport. Examples of acceptable evidence includes boarding passes and tickets.

Use the desks staffed by border officers. If you are aged 18 or over, and airport staff instruct you to, you may be able to use e-gates where they are in operation.

If you use an e-gate, make sure you get your passport stamped by a border officer.

Additional documents required by tourists

If you enter the Schengen area as a tourist, you may need to provide additional documents at the border. As well as a valid return or onward ticket, when travelling to Spain you could be asked to show:

• you have enough money for your stay
• a hotel booking confirmation
• proof of address if visiting your own property (such as second home)
• an invitation or proof of address if staying with a third party, friends or family, such as a ‘carta de invitation’ completed by your hosts.

You can visit the Spanish Ministry of Interior website for more information (only available in Spanish).

Residents of Spain

If you are resident in Spain your passport should not be stamped when entering or leaving Spain.

Actively show your proof of residence, such as the foreigner’s identity card (‘la tarjeta de identidad de extranjero’ or ‘TIE’), when presenting your passport at Spanish border control. For further information, read about living in Spain .

Travel between Spain and Gibraltar

Spanish border checks can cause delays when crossing between Spain and Gibraltar. If you are travelling to Spain through Gibraltar, check the travel advice for entry requirements for Gibraltar .

There is no charge to enter or leave Gibraltar. You should not hand over money to anybody claiming there is a charge.

Unaccompanied minors

Spanish law considers anyone under 18 to be a minor. If an unaccompanied minor comes to the attention of the Spanish authorities (particularly in connection with criminal incidents or when in hospital) they will be considered vulnerable and may be taken to a minors centre until a parent or guardian is found.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need on TravelHealthPro .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about what goods can be taken into and out of Spain. You can find details on the National Tax Agency leaflet (in Spanish and English). Declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into Spain

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food required for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Taking money and goods into Spain

Check the National Airport Association website for guidance on taking money and goods into and out of Spain.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British Nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British Nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Spain

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Spain.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Recent terrorist attacks in Spain include:

• in January 2023, one person was killed and others injured in a machete attack at 2 churches in Cadiz
• in 2017, 14 people were killed and over 100 injured across 2 incidents where vehicles were driven into pedestrians in Barcelona and Cambrils

Political situation

Demonstrations, political gatherings or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. Follow the advice of police and local authorities.

While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of unrest or violence. If you’re in and around areas where demonstrations are taking place, be aware of what is happening around you and move away if there are signs of disorder.

Protecting your belongings

Most visits to Spain are trouble-free, but be alert to street crime. Thieves use distraction techniques, and often work in teams. Take care of your passports, money and personal belongings, particularly when collecting or checking in luggage at the airport, and while arranging car hire.

Do not carry all your valuables in one place. Keep a photocopy or scanned copy of your passport somewhere safe.

Make sure your accommodation has adequate security. Lock all doors and windows at night, or when out. If concerned about the security of your accommodation, speak to your travel operator or the property owner.

Vehicle crime

‘Highway pirates’ target foreign-registered and hire cars, especially those towing caravans. They may (forcefully) try to make you stop, claiming there is something wrong with your car or that you have damaged theirs. If you decide to stop to check the condition of a vehicle, stop in a public area with lights, such as a service station. Be wary of anyone offering help.

When driving, be wary of approaches by people posing as police officers in plain clothes travelling in unmarked cars. In all traffic-related matters, police officers will usually be in uniform. All police officers, including those in plain clothes, carry official ID. Unmarked police vehicles have a flashing electronic sign on the rear window which reads Police (‘Policía’) or Civil Guard (‘Guardia Civil’), and may use blue flashing lights. Genuine police officers will only ask you to show them your documents and will not ask for your bag or wallet.

Attacks and sexual assault

In an emergency call 112.

Attacks, including sexual assaults, are rare but do occur. See  Get help if you are a victim of crime abroad.

Avoid splitting up from your friends, do not leave drinks unattended and do not go off with people you do not know. Save the location of your accommodation on your maps app, so it’s easy to find. See TravelAware ‘Stick with your mates’ for tips and advice.

British Consulates in Spain (+34 917 146 300 or +44 207 008 5000) can provide local information and support.

Drink and food spiking

Be alert to the possible use of ‘date rape’ and other drugs including GHB and liquid ecstasy.

Buy your own drinks and always keep them in sight to avoid them being spiked. Alcohol and drugs can reduce your vigilance, making you less in control. If you drink, know your limit. Drinks served in bars in Spain are often stronger than those in the UK.

Thieves posing as police officers may ask to see your wallet, claiming they need to see it for identification. Genuine police officers will ask to see ID, but will not ask for wallets or purses.

Timeshare and holiday clubs

Timeshare ownership is well established in Spain. There are respected companies, agents and resorts who operate legally and fairly. However, there are also unscrupulous companies who falsely claim to provide incentives.

Read timeshare fraud advice from Action Fraud , the UK’s national fraud reporting centre.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

You must provide photo ID if requested by a police officer. This includes the Guardia Civil and national, regional and local police forces. The police have the right to hold you at a police station until they have confirmed your identity.

Ignoring direct requests of a police officer can be considered as ‘disobedience’, which is a criminal offence.

Hotels, tourist accommodation and car rental companies have a legal duty to register passport details of tourists when they check-in or collect a vehicle.

When checking-in to your accommodation, wait until hotel staff have registered your passport details, or taken a photocopy of your passport. Do not leave your passport at reception to collect later.

You may need to show ID when buying goods with credit or debit cards. Your driving licence or a photocopy of your passport may be accepted, but they may need you to show your original passport.

Alcohol laws and bans

You cannot drink alcohol in the street in some areas of Spain. You can be given an on-the-spot fine. There are strict controls on drinking and sexual activity in public places, including on beaches.

Alcohol laws in the Balearic Islands

Local laws limit the sale and availability of alcohol in areas of some resorts on the islands of:

Magaluf (Calvià)

Playa de Palma

San Antonio (San Antoni de Portmany)

This prohibits:

happy hours

• open bars (such as all you can drink in 1-hour offers)
• the sale of alcohol from vending machines
• self-service alcohol dispensers
• the organising of pub-crawls and party boat trips
• ‘off-licence’ sales between 9:30pm and 8am

Hotels and other establishments are obliged to evict customers who behave dangerously on balconies. Both the customer and the establishment can be fined for such behaviour.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possession of even a small quantity of drugs can lead to arrest and detention. Possession of large quantities will usually result in prosecution and a prison sentence.

Illegal commercial parties in villas and private homes

There have been a number of serious accidents involving people attending illegal commercially promoted parties in villas and private homes on the islands of Ibiza and Mallorca.

Licensed clubs and bars are required to meet safety and security standards, including emergency exits and capacity limits, and to have trained, licensed security staff. Illegal commercial parties may not meet these standards. Take care of your belongings, make sure you know where emergency exits are and do not take unnecessary risks.

You may receive a fine for attending illegal commercially promoted parties.

In some parts of Spain it’s against the law to be in the street wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts. Being bare-chested is also illegal in some areas in Spain. You may be fined if you’re caught wearing swimwear on the seafront promenade or adjacent streets.

For security reasons, some public authorities in Spain do not allow the burka or niqab to be worn in their buildings. If you visit town council buildings wearing a burka or niqab, you may be asked to remove it while inside.

Changing money

When changing money, always use official money exchange offices or banks because unofficial money changers may give you counterfeit money. Possession or use of counterfeit money is considered a serious crime in Spain and may lead to prosecution.

Spain is a generally tolerant and progressive place for LGBT+ travellers. There are active LGBT+ communities and social venues, particularly in big cities. Same-sex marriage has been legal in Spain since 2005. Since 2007, transgender people are able to register under their preferred sex in public documents such as birth certificates, identity cards and passports without undergoing prior gender reassignment surgery. Spain does not recognise a third gender.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Falls from height.

There have been a number of very serious accidents (some fatal) as a result of falls from height, including balconies. Many accidents have involved British nationals, and have had a devastating impact on those involved and their loved ones.

Do not take unnecessary risks around balconies or other high places, particularly if you’re under the influence of drink or drugs. If you are staying in a room with a balcony, follow the safety advice and watch out for friends who may be at risk.

In some regions you may be fined or evicted from your hotel if you are found to be behaving irresponsibly around balconies. Your travel insurance may not cover you for incidents that take place on a balcony or if you were under the influence of drink or drugs when the incident happened.

Festivals, concerts and processions

Many large events and public processions are held in Spain each year. Follow the advice of police and local authorities when attending events.

Take care of your valuables if attending a festival or large concert. See the festival travel checklist for more advice.

Swimming and beaches

Every year, people drown in the sea and in swimming pools in Spain. Children should always be supervised, even if they can swim or there is a lifeguard present.

Take care when swimming in the sea. Some beaches, especially around Spanish islands, may have strong undercurrents.

Avoid swimming at beaches that are close to rivers. Do not dive into unknown water as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death.

Many beaches have a flag system. Make sure you understand the system and follow any warnings (a red flag means you must not enter the water). Take extra care and seek local knowledge if there are no lifeguards, flags or signs.

If you are walking along unmanned beaches, be aware that waves can come in further than expected and have strong undertows.

Further tips can be found on ABTA’s swim safe pages and the Royal Life Saving Society’s ‘Water Safety on Holiday’ page.

Follow local advice if jellyfish are present.

Hill walking, skiing and mountain activities

Temperatures in some parts of Spain can change very quickly. Take extra care when planning a hike or walk. Check local weather reports for warnings of extreme heat or cold temperatures.

For advice on safety and weather conditions for skiing or other outdoor activities you can:

call the Spanish National Tourist Office in London on 020 7317 2028

see the European Avalanche Warning Services

If an accident occurs while mountaineering, canoeing, potholing or climbing, or if you become lost in the mountains and need mountain rescue, call:

• 112 for the emergency services
• 062 for the Civil Guard

The Catalonia region has started billing climbers, skiers and other adventurers whose negligent behaviour causes them to need to be rescued.

Altitude sickness may be a risk in some of the higher mountain ranges in Spain, particularly in the regions of Granada, Huesca and Tenerife. More information about altitude sickness is available from the TravelHealthPro website.

Transport risks

Check with your airline, tour operator or transport company whether there is any planned strike action which might disrupt your journey.

Only use official registered or licensed taxis, or reputable transport companies you recognise. Licensing regulations differ across Spain and in certain cities pre-booking is required.

Passengers caught using unlicensed taxi services are liable for fines of up to 600 Euros. Make sure you book your taxi or airport transfer through a licensed firm.

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Spain, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC guide .

In 2021 there were 1,508 road deaths in Spain ( source: Department for Transport ). This equates to 32 road deaths per million population and compares to the UK average of 24 road deaths per million population in 2021.

Licences and permits

To drive a car or a motorcycle over 125cc in Spain you must be 18 years of age or above, and at least 16 years old to ride a motorcycle up to 125cc. You must carry a valid driving licence and ID at all times.

If visiting Spain, you can drive on your full UK driving licence. Provisional licences are not valid for driving in Spain.

If you’re living in Spain, check the Living in Guide for information on requirements for residents.

If you are using UK insurance, always carry your certificate with you in case you are stopped. Check that your UK insurance will cover you to drive in Spain, and for how long. This certificate is generally only valid for a stay of less than 3 months.

Driving a British car abroad

You may need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK. In 2021 UK stickers replaced GB stickers. Check the GOV.UK Displaying number plates website for more information on what to do if you are driving outside the UK.

Driving regulations

Motorists drive on the right-hand side of the road in Spain. Driving rules and customs are different from those in the UK.

You must carry 2 red warning triangles which, in the event of an accident or breakdown should be placed in front of and behind the vehicle. They should be at least 50 metres away from the vehicle in each direction. You must have a spare wheel and the tools to change it. If you get out of your vehicle during an accident or breakdown, or while waiting for the arrival of the emergency services, you must wear a reflective vest or you may face a fine.

Spain has strict drink driving laws. Police regularly carry out roadside checks for alcohol and drugs. Penalties include fines, loss of licence and imprisonment.

You can be given an on-the-spot fines from the police for a variety of driving offences including speeding. If you accept the fine and pay within 20 days, it will be reduced by 50%. More information on how to pay is available on the Spanish driving agency website.

Seat belts are compulsory for all passengers in the front and back seats. Children under the age of 12 or under 1.35m in height must use an approved child safety seat and be positioned in the back seat. Children are only permitted to travel in the front seat of the car if the rear seats are already occupied by other children or if the vehicle does not have rear seats. Car hire agencies can provide child seats, so let them know you need one when you reserve the car. Incorrect installation of a child seat or not wearing a seat belt can be considered a serious offence and met with fines.

Motorcyclists (including drivers of mopeds and quads) must wear an approved safety helmet and other protective clothing. Not wearing one is considered a serious offence and can result in a fine.

It is illegal to use a mobile phone when driving, even if you have pulled over to the side of the road. You must be completely away from the road. Using an earpiece is also illegal. Only completely hands-free units are allowed to be used.

Low emission zones

Some inner city areas in Spain have introduced permanent low emission zones (‘Zonas de bajas emisiones’ – ZBE) where only vehicles that meet specific exhaust emission standards and display an air pollution sticker can enter. While air pollution stickers cannot be issued to vehicles with foreign registration plates, some cities do require you to register your vehicle in advance of travel if you wish to enter a low emission zone (e.g. Barcelona). You should check with local authorities in advance of travel for information on local regulations and the requirements for vehicles registered outside of Spain.

The Spanish government’s general information helpline 060 (if calling in Spain) or +34 902 887 060 (if calling from UK) may be able to provide further information.

Some cities also operate emergency anti-pollution protocols to limit exhaust emissions when air pollution levels are high. When activated, vehicle access is restricted and speed limits are imposed. Follow the instructions of the local authorities.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Extreme temperatures.

Extreme temperatures can affect many areas of Spain over the summer months. For severe weather warnings and updates, visit the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET) and European Meteorological Services website .

For information on how to take care in the heat visit the NHS website or the website of the Spanish Ministry of Health (only available in Spanish).

You should check with your travel provider before traveling and follow the advice of local authorities at all times.

Forest fires

Forest fires occur frequently in Spain (including in the Spanish islands) during the summer months, when temperatures regularly reach over 40ºC. Be aware of your environment when visiting or driving through woodland areas. For information on forest fire risk visit the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET).

Causing a forest fire is a criminal offence in Spain, even if unintentional. Make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished, do not light barbecues and do not leave empty bottles behind. You can be heavily fined for not following the rules against lighting outdoor barbecues in forest areas. Make sure you know the rules if considering a barbeque.

For information on what to do in the event of a forest fire, visit the Civil Protection website (only available in Spanish). Immediately report any fire you see to the emergency services on 112. In the case of wildfires, the situation can change quickly, so you should stay up to date with official advice.

Flash flooding can occur, causing travel disruption and damage to property and infrastructure. Check weather warnings from Spain’s meteorological office (AEMET) before travel and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

For more information read guidance on healthcare when travelling in Europe .

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Spain guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK may be different in Spain.

TravelHealthPro explains best practice when travelling with medicines .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Health insurance cards

Apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving the UK. If you already have an EHIC, it will still be valid as long as it remains in date.

The GHIC or EHIC entitles you to state-provided medical treatment necessary during your trip. Any treatment provided is on the same terms as Spanish nationals. If you do not have your EHIC with you or you’ve lost it, contact the NHS Overseas Healthcare Team .

It’s important to take out appropriate travel insurance for your needs. A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance and you should have both before you travel. An EHIC or GHIC does not cover all health-related costs, for example, medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment and non-urgent treatment. Read more about what your travel insurance should cover .

EHIC and GHIC cover state healthcare only, not private treatment. You will be responsible for the cost of any treatment provided by a private doctor or private clinic.

For information regarding access to healthcare in Spain see healthcare for UK nationals visiting Spain .

Healthcare facilities in Spain

You can view a list of English speaking doctors in Spain.

If you need hospital treatment in Spain you’re more likely to receive appropriate care in a public healthcare facility. However, in some tourist areas there may not be any public healthcare facilities nearby. Your insurance or medical assistance company will be able to provide further details. Some hotels may call private doctors or ambulances to take patients to private hospitals. The GHIC or EHIC will not be accepted there. For more information, visit Healthcare for UK nationals .

COVID-19 healthcare in Spain

Rapid lateral flow tests (‘pruebas de antígenos’) are widely available in pharmacies in Spain for a fee.

If you have symptoms or test positive for COVID-19 during your stay in Spain, you are not required to self-isolate.

Hotels and other accommodation providers may have their own COVID-19 protocols in place. Follow any safety measures put in place by your accommodation provider. Your accommodation provider may have a list of private doctors that they can call to assess your symptoms and conduct a COVID-19 test.

Follow the advice of the local authorities.

Use of face masks

Due to an increase in respiratory infections such as flu and COVID-19, you may be required to wear a face mask when using healthcare facilities such as doctors surgeries, hospitals or pharmacies. Specific rules on the use of face masks may vary by region. You should refer to the advice of local authorities in your destination and ensure you are aware of the specific measures in place on how best to protect yourself and others.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Spain

112 (ambulance, fire, police)

Make sure you know the contact details of the local emergency services and the location of the nearest police station.

Reporting crime

To report a crime, including stolen property and lost or stolen passports, visit the nearest National Police (‘Policia Nacional’), regional police (‘Ertzaintza’ in the Basque Country, ‘Mossos d’Esquadra’ in Catalonia, and ‘Policia Foral’ in Navarre) or Civil Guard (‘Guardia Civil’) station to file a police report (‘denuncia’).

Some Spanish cities also offer a Foreign Tourist Assistance Service (‘Servicio de Atención al Turista Extranjero’ or ‘SATE’) run by the Town Hall and National Police where you will be able to report a crime in English.

Violent crime or sexual assault must be reported in person at the nearest police station. If you’ve had belongings stolen, you’ll need to keep the police report for insurance purposes.

While in Spain, you can file a police report online for minor offences such as bag or car theft.

If your passport is lost or stolen, you’ll need to apply for an emergency travel document from the nearest British Consulate and to apply for a replacement passport when you return to the UK.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider

how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

finding English-speaking lawyers ,  funeral directors and  translators and interpreters  in Spain

dealing with a  death in Spain

being  arrested in Spain

getting help if you’re a victim of crime

what to do if you’re in hospital

if you are affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are in Spain and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Madrid or your nearest consulate .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Living in Spain

If you’re living in or moving to Spain, read the Living in Spain guide in addition to this travel advice.

Risk information for British companies

The  Overseas Business Risk service  offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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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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• 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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Ultimate Travel Guide to Menorca

Menorca is found in the Mediterranean and is one of the Balearic Islands which are located off the east coast of Spain. This sunny, popular island is a favourite for summer vacationers across Europe because Menorca boasts a beautifully rugged coastline and a multitude of white sand beaches.

Compared to the other Balearic Islands, Menorca is a quieter place to visit, and you’ll find that the clubs of Ibiza and the rowdy bars of Mallorca haven’t exactly made their way over here yet.

Instead, you can enjoy a more authentic side of the Balearic Islands, and on Menorca, you can visit prehistoric standing stones, you can explore the historic streets of the capital, Mahon, and you can venture into the countryside in search of the island’s rural charms.

To inspire your Spanish getaway, here’s our ultimate travel guide to Menorca.

This ultimate travel guide to Menorca will show you all the most beautiful places in Menorca, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Menorca and things to do in Menorca which will help you in planning a trip to Menorca.

Plan your trip?

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Table of Contents

How to get to Menorca

Menorca has a small airport which is located a few kilometres away from the island’s capital city, Mahon. Menorca is very much a summer destination and the majority of flights to the island are only run seasonally, during the most popular months of the year.

During summer, you can find budget flights from many European cities with airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet offering multiple routes, from countries such as the UK, France and Germany. Package holiday companies such as TUI and Thomas Cook also offer seasonal charter flights.

There are also domestic flights available from major Spanish cities, as well as the neighbouring islands of Ibiza and Mallorca, which are just a short hop away.

The Spanish airlines Vueling and Iberia offer more consistent flights to Menorca through the year from Spain and are a good bet if you are travelling offseason.

You can also catch a ferry from Mallorca, which is just one hour away, or from Barcelona on the Spanish mainland, which is a journey of around 7 hours.

What to expect in Menorca 

Compared to Mallorca and Ibiza, the other major islands in the Balearics, Menorca has a reputation for being a quieter getaway. This doesn’t mean it’s not a busy place in summer of course, but it does mean that it’s still possible to find secluded beaches, while you won’t have as much raucous nightlife in the towns.

Most Menorcans speak several languages, with the local dialect being a form of Catalan similar to that which you find in Barcelona. People will also be fluent in Castilian Spanish, while those working in the tourism industry will certainly speak English.

The main currency in use, as with the rest of Spain, is the Euro , and you can find ATMs and money changers at the airport and in Mahon, the capital.

How to get around Menorca

The main transport hub for the island is Mahon, where you find the airport and the ferry port. If you’re arriving by plane, then you can arrange transfers in advance with local taxi companies, or if you are staying in package accommodation, these may be included.

If travelling independently, you can also catch a public bus outside the arrivals terminal, which can transfer you to the main bus station in Mahon.

From Mahon, you can use the public bus lines to get around much of the island, with most major towns and touristy areas linked to the capital.

Bus schedules are fairly regular, however, for absolute freedom and flexibility, you will want to consider renting a car instead, especially if you want to discover more secluded and hidden spots across the island.

The best time to visit Menorca

Menorca is a very seasonal travel destination, however, given the warm Mediterranean climate, it can be a pleasant place to visit all through the year, even out of the summer high season.

The island is most popular between May and September, and the busiest periods are generally July and August when many countries in Europe have school holidays.

This can be a busy time to visit, but given the island’s seasonality, it’s also when you can rest assured that you’ll find regular flights and ferries, and also when businesses are open across the island.

Things start to close down come October, and there are fewer flights to the island and fewer package deals.

Outside of high season is a good time for independent travel, and while the temperatures won’t be as high, Menorca weather is always good, and there’s still lots of sunshine well into winter, and almost no other tourists around.

Things to do in Menorca 

Mahon is the capital and largest city in Menorca, and even if you don’t stay here you’ll be transiting through to get on and off the island.

Mahon though is well worth a stay, or at the very least a day trip if you are heading off to stay at a resort because this is a truly historic destination.

You can enjoy excellent restaurants and local taverns overlooking the sea, or the ramshackle streets, and Mahon is well known for its wonderful culinary scene.

Explore the harbourfront, and admire the superb blend of architecture, which has influences from Spain, from France, and notably from the 18th century British occupation of Menorca.

Museum of Menorca

For history buffs, one of the Menorca things to do that you can’t miss is a visit to the Museum of Menorca . Located in the capital, Mahon, at the museum you can delve deep into the island’s past.

You’ll find archaeological finds on display in the galleries here, as you’re taken on a journey from prehistoric times, through to the Roman colonisation, the Moorish days and finally to the British and Spanish eras. There’s a lot to learn about Menorca, and this is the place to do it.

Taulas of Menorca

To see first hand just a small piece of Menorca’s long history, then head to the Taulas of Menorca .

Found in the centre of the island, the Taulas are prehistoric monoliths which were raised thousands of years ago by the local inhabitants of Menorca. The Taulas are ancient structures and are often seen as being Menorca’s Stonehenge.

On the opposite side of the island to Mahon, you can find the town of Ciutadella, which is the second-largest settlement on Menorca.

Ciutadella has a rich history and you can stroll through the pleasant streets admiring the different influences that are visible, from Arab and Moorish designs to Italian architecture.

The harbour here is beautiful too, while you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars where you can enjoy the local cuisine.

The highest point on Menorca is Monte Toro, but don’t expect too much, because it only rises to a height of 342 metres.

Although it’s more of a hill than a mountain, Monte Toro is still high in comparison to the surrounding landscapes, and it rises dramatically on the skyline, close to the town of Es Mercadal.

You can hike to the top of Monte Toro, or there’s a four by four-track leading to the summit if you’re feeling lazy. The views from the top stretch across the island and far out into the Balearic Sea.

Beaches and Bays

History, culture, heritage and food aside, the best reason to visit the island is really for the outstanding Menorca beaches.

The coastline is rugged in places, with the north being particularly renowned for its blustery weather and high winds, which together with the surf have carved the cliffs and beaches into a spectacular wilderness over time.

There are also more pristine, white sand beaches across the island too, and plenty of protected and calm turquoise bays glistening in the sun.

In high season, the beaches closest to the towns will always be busy but head further afield and you can always find a quiet spot in Menorca.

Some of the best beaches to visit include Cala Macarelleta and Cala Macarella, both iconic destinations where you can find white sands and clear water.

Calas Mitjana is a lovely, and beautiful cove to visit, but in peak season, it can be one of the busiest spots on the island.

What to eat in Menorca

Menorca has a great culinary scene, and you can find a wide range of restaurants and cuisines from around the world in the resorts and in the towns and cities.

There’s a rich culinary tradition in Menorca, and it’s even claimed that Mahon is the birthplace of Mayonnaise.

The cuisine is very typical of the Mediterranean, with plenty of olives, fish and cheese to sample. Mahon Cheese is a local speciality, and you’ll recognise it by the distinctive orange peel.

You can find fresh seafood everywhere, but a particular local favourite is seafood meatballs . Lobster Stew, or Caldereta de Langosta , is another must-try dish when you are in Menorca, while you’ll find local cured meats for sale everywhere.

Where to stay in Menorca

Budget – Menorca isn’t a big backpacking destination and you won’t find so many hostels on the island. There are some in Mahon and Ciutadella, but budget travellers may find it’s easier to rent out local apartments or rooms on AirBnB.

Mid Range – If you’re wondering where to stay in Menorca, then there’s plenty of mid-range accommodation across the island, and you can find good value resorts complete with pools all along the coast, while you can score excellent deals if you book a package holiday.  

Luxury – Menorca has some lavish luxury offerings, and some of the best on the island include the 16th-century rooms of the Hotel Can Faustino or the boutique, countryside climes of the Hotel Torralbenc .

Tours to do in Menorca

With a beautiful, long coastline to explore, one of the best ways to get around the best of Menorca’s natural sights is to join a boat tour.

From Mahon and other harbours around the island, you can join a variety of boating excursions that take you to both popular beaches, and secluded bays. There are a variety of boats on offer too, from fast, sleek catamarans to rustic sailing vessels.

Try to join a tour that stays out until sunset, so you can enjoy a fiery end to your Menorcan day trip from the water of the Balearic Sea.

Kayaking Tours

Another great way to explore the coastline is to hire a kayak or canoe for the day or to join an organised kayaking tour of Menorca.

It’s a fantastic way to get some exercise while you are on holiday, and it’s a beautiful way to experience the best of Menorca’s great outdoors at the same time.

Many kayaking tours will take you to hidden spots along the coast, that are otherwise inaccessible, while you’ll also have plenty of opportunities for snorkelling and swimming too.

Jeep Safaris

Menorca’s rugged interior is another great part of the island to explore, but much of it is off-limits unless you are driving an off-road vehicle.

Popular jeep safaris will whisk you away from your hotel and into the heart of Menorca’s most dramatic countryside, where the roads end and there’s little around you except wilderness and wildlife.

Day trips from Menorca

North coast marine reserve.

Off the north coast of Menorca, you can find a protected marine reserve that’s well regarded for its high level of biodiversity.

Part of the wider Menorca Biosphere Reserve, which recognises and guards this high level of biodiversity, the North Coast Marine Reserve makes for a fantastic snorkelling or diving destination.

Take a day trip out into the Balearic Sea , and join a boat tour into the marine reserve, where you can find an abundance of underwater life.

You don’t necessarily need to pick between Menorca or Mallorca, because you can actually enjoy the best of both worlds.

Stay on peaceful and relaxed Menorca, but take a day trip over to Mallorca to experience the busy beaches and rowdy bars, or to take in the history and architecture of Palma, the island’s largest city.

Mallorca just just a one hour ferry ride away Mahon, and you can easily make a day trip across from Menorca in the morning, and return late afternoon.

Recommended tours in Menorca

• Private Tour with SUP and Snorkel along the coast of Menorca
• Around the island of Menorca
• Jeep Safari
• Sail Boat Sunset Trip in Menorca
• Hiking Trail Menorca Transfers Stage 6 Son Bou to Cala Porter/ Es Canutells
• Jet Ski trip in the North of Menorca
• Visit and explore Ciutadella
• Guided Visit to Binnisues Natural Sciences Museum of Menorca with Live Entertainment and Food Tasting

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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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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SUMMER 2020 VLOG | MENORCA

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How to Visit Menorca Island, Spain: A Travel Guide

Menorca is a beautiful island located in the Mediterranean Sea, part of the Balearic Islands in Spain. It is known for its crystal-clear waters , stunning beaches , and rich cultural history . In this guide, we will explore what a trip to this beautiful island can look like, how to plan it, and share some of the top things to do and see while visiting Menorca.

How to Get There

Menorca is easily accessible by plane or ferry from mainland Spain. During the summer months (high season), there are many international flights coming into the island. If you can’t find a direct flight from your city, you’ll probably need to do a stop-over in Madrid or Barcelona , before heading to Menorca.

If you’re taking the ferry, you can choose from several different ports on the mainland, including Barcelona, Valencia, and Palma de Mallorca.

Tips for Visiting

• Menorca is busiest during the summer months ( July & August ) as this is when the best weather (hot) allows to enjoy the beautiful beaches of the island. 
• You may want to consider visiting in the shoulder season (May-June or September-October) if you’d like to avoid crowds. Although the weather may not be the best for enjoying the beach! June can be a great month to enjoy the beginning of the hot weather without seeing too many crowds.
• Wear comfortable shoes , as the island has rugged terrain and rocky beaches.
• Be prepared for warm weather, especially in the summer months. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
• The public transport is limited in the island, so renting a car is the best way to get around.
• If you’re planning to rent a car, be aware that the roads can be narrow and winding in some areas.

Where to Stay

Menorca offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. If you’re looking for luxury, consider staying at the Hotel Torralbenc , a five-star hotel that offers stunning views of the island. For a more budget-friendly option, check out the Hotel Artiem Audax , a charming hotel located just a short walk from the beach.

You can read more here about the different areas of Menorca where to stay.

Exploring the Island

Menorca is a relatively small island, making it easy to explore by car or bike. One of the best ways to explore the island is by taking a road trip along the coastline , where you will find some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The beaches of Cala Macarella and Cala en Turqueta are some of the most popular, but there are plenty of other hidden gems to discover.

We share our favourite beaches in Menorca in this other post.

In addition to the beaches, Menorca is home to many historic landmarks and cultural attractions. Visit the town of Ciutadella , which is filled with narrow streets, beautiful squares, and historic buildings. The town of Mahon is another must-visit destination, with its stunning harbor and old town.

Enjoying the Beaches

Menorca is famous for its stunning beaches, and there are plenty to choose from. Some of the most popular beaches include Cala Macarella, Cala en Turqueta, and Son Bou. These beaches are characterized by their crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and rocky cliffs.

If you prefer a more secluded beach experience, head to the beaches of Cala Pregonda or Cala Mitjana . These beaches are located on the northern coast of the island and offer a more untouched and rugged beauty . But that means you’ll need to do some trekking to get to them !

Below you can watch our video, where to take you with us to do the trek of Camí de Cavalls in the south of Menorca, discovering incredible beaches along the way.

Trying the Local Cuisine

Menorca is a food lover’s paradise, with a rich culinary tradition that includes fresh seafood, local cheese, and delicious desserts . One of the most famous dishes in Menorca is the lobster stew, which is made with fresh lobster, tomatoes, and peppers. Another popular dish is the Mahon cheese , which is a local cheese that is used in many different dishes.

For dessert or breakfast, try the ensaimada , a sweet pastry that is filled with cream or chocolate. And don’t forget to try the local gin , which is made with juniper berries in the island, and can be used to make the popular drink, gin and tonic.

A trip to Menorca is the perfect way to experience the beauty and charm of the Balearic Islands. From exploring the island to enjoying the beaches and trying the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque destination. 

So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable getaway in Menorca!

If you want to learn more about the island, you can watch our Menorca YouTube Series here.

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The Guide to Menorca

How to get there, what to see, where to stay

Island of contrasts

A beautiful coastline, enchanting scenery, vibrant cities – Menorca has it all and more besides

Beach paradise

There are more sandy beaches in Menorca than in the rest of the Balearic islands put together

Holiday homes

In Menorca, there’s an apartment or pool home to suit every budget or requirement

Whether a first-timer or an island regular…

Discover the beauty of Menorca

The Balearic island of Menorca, less well-known, less busy and infinitely more attractive than its sisters Mallorca and Ibiza, has been attracting the discerning tourist for the best part of a century. We’ve gathered together the best of Menorca in one handy web guide to help you to plan your visit and to get the best out of your stay, whether it’s a beach holiday, city break or activity holiday

Accommodation guide

Beautiful villas and apartments from Travel Menorca

Sports, sights and style

What does Menorca have to offer?

Restaurants

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• About Menorca
• Accommodation in Menorca
• Attractions in Menorca
• Beaches of Menorca
• Cities of Menorca
• Getting to Menorca
• Restaurants in Menorca
• Site map & privacy policy
• Shopping in Menorca
• Sports in Menorca
• Walking in Menorca

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Exploring The Current Menorca Travel Restrictions And Guidelines

• Last updated Sep 25, 2023
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category United States

Menorca, a hidden gem of the Mediterranean, with its breathtaking beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage, has always been a favorite destination for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. However, with the ongoing global pandemic, travel restrictions have become a reality, preventing tourists from experiencing the allure of this Spanish island. As the world gradually recovers, it is important to stay informed about the current Menorca travel restrictions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip to this paradise.

What You'll Learn

What are the current travel restrictions for menorca due to covid-19, are there any specific requirements or documentation needed to enter menorca, are there any quarantine or testing requirements for travelers arriving in menorca, can i currently travel to menorca if i am fully vaccinated, are there any restrictions or limitations on tourist activities or attractions in menorca.

Menorca, also known as Minorca, is a beautiful island located in the Mediterranean Sea and is part of the Balearic Islands in Spain. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming towns. However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there are travel restrictions in place for those who wish to visit Menorca.

As of now, the travel restrictions for Menorca are subject to change based on the current situation and government regulations. It is important for travelers to stay updated on the latest information before planning a trip.

Entry Requirements:

• All travelers, regardless of their nationality, must fill out a Health Control Form (FCS) before their arrival in Spain. The form can be filled out online and a QR code will be generated, which must be presented upon arrival.
• Travelers must undergo a health screening upon arrival, which may include temperature checks and a visual assessment of symptoms.
• It is mandatory for all travelers above the age of six to present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours before arrival. The test must be a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT), such as a PCR test.

Quarantine Requirements:

• Currently, travelers arriving in Menorca are not required to undergo a mandatory quarantine period upon arrival.
• However, if a traveler presents symptoms upon arrival or tests positive for COVID-19, they may be required to quarantine in a designated facility or their accommodation for a certain period of time, as determined by the local health authorities.

COVID-19 Restrictions:

• Menorca, like the rest of Spain, has implemented various measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These measures include the mandatory use of face masks in public spaces, practicing social distancing, and maintaining good hand hygiene.
• Some public spaces and establishments may have capacity restrictions or limited opening hours. It is advisable to check the specific regulations in place at the time of travel.
• Travelers should also be aware of any local lockdowns or restrictions that may be in place in certain areas of Menorca. These restrictions can vary and may include limitations on travel between regions or restrictions on gatherings.

It is important to note that the situation regarding travel restrictions and COVID-19 regulations can change rapidly. Travelers should regularly check the official websites of the government of Spain, the Balearic Islands, and the local health authorities for the most up-to-date information.

In conclusion, while Menorca remains open to tourists, there are travel restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Travelers must adhere to entry requirements, such as filling out a Health Control Form, presenting a negative test result, and undergoing health screenings. Additionally, COVID-19 restrictions, such as the use of face masks and social distancing, are in place throughout Menorca. It is crucial for travelers to stay informed about the latest regulations and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Menorca.

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Yes, there are specific requirements and documentation needed to enter Menorca, which is part of the Balearic Islands and a popular tourist destination in Spain. Whether you are traveling for a vacation or a business trip, it is essential to have the necessary documents ready to ensure a smooth entry into the country.

First and foremost, travelers need a valid passport to enter Menorca. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the intended period of stay. It is advisable to check the expiration date of your passport well in advance and renew it if necessary.

In addition to a passport, most travelers will also need a visa to enter Menorca. The visa requirements vary depending on the country of citizenship. Citizens of the European Union and the European Economic Area do not need a visa to enter Menorca, as long as they have a valid identification document. However, citizens of other countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and many others, will typically need a Schengen visa to travel to Spain, which includes Menorca.

To obtain a Schengen visa, travelers need to submit an application to the Spanish consulate or embassy in their home country. The application requires several supporting documents, including a completed application form, a valid passport, proof of travel insurance, an itinerary of the trip, proof of accommodation in Menorca, and proof of financial means to cover the expenses during the stay.

It is important to note that the visa application process can take several weeks, so it is advisable to start the process well in advance of your planned trip to Menorca.

In addition to the passport and visa requirements, travelers may also need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test before entering Menorca. As the COVID-19 situation is constantly changing, it is crucial to check the most up-to-date requirements and guidelines before traveling.

Once you have all the necessary documents and requirements fulfilled, you are ready to enter Menorca and enjoy your visit to this beautiful island. Remember to keep your passport and visa with you at all times during your stay, as you may be required to present them at various checkpoints or accommodations.

In conclusion, to enter Menorca, travelers need a valid passport, a visa if required, and potentially a negative COVID-19 test. The specific requirements may vary depending on your country of citizenship, so it is important to check the regulations and guidelines before traveling. By ensuring you have the necessary documents ready, you can have a smooth entry into Menorca and enjoy your time on this stunning island.

Exploring Fukushima: A Guide to Travel Restrictions in the Aftermath of the Disaster

Menorca, a beautiful island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a popular vacation destination for travelers looking for sun, sea, and relaxation. If you are planning a trip to Menorca, it is important to familiarize yourself with any quarantine or testing requirements that may be in place for travelers arriving on the island.

As of the time of writing, Menorca does have some entry requirements in place in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These requirements may change over time, so it is essential to stay updated with the latest information before your trip.

The current guidelines state that travelers arriving in Menorca do not need to undergo a mandatory quarantine period upon arrival. However, it is important to note that this may be subject to change depending on the evolving situation.

Testing Requirements:

Travelers arriving in Menorca are not currently required to take a COVID-19 test prior to their trip. However, it is recommended to have a negative test result before traveling, especially if you are coming from a high-risk area. Some airlines may also require a negative test result before allowing you to board the flight, so it is crucial to check with your airline before departure.

It is important to keep in mind that even if you are not required to take a test before your trip, it is still essential to follow all safety protocols and guidelines during your journey. This includes wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, and maintaining good hand hygiene to reduce the risk of transmission.

It is worth noting that the situation is subject to change, and the authorities may introduce new measures or adjust existing requirements based on the COVID-19 situation. Therefore, it is highly recommended to check the latest guidelines from official sources such as the Menorca Tourism website or the government's travel advisory websites before your trip.

In addition to the entry requirements, it is also crucial to familiarize yourself with any restrictions or guidelines that are in place at your destination. Menorca, like other parts of the world, may have specific rules regarding mask-wearing, social distancing, and capacity limitations in public spaces. By staying informed and adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Menorca.

In conclusion, as of the time of writing, there are no quarantine or testing requirements for travelers arriving in Menorca. However, it is important to stay updated with the latest information from official sources before your trip, as the situation may change. Remember to follow all safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable vacation on this charming Mediterranean island.

Understanding the California to Arizona Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know

As travel restrictions around the world continue to evolve due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many people are wondering if they can currently travel to Menorca if they are fully vaccinated. Menorca, one of the Balearic Islands located in the Mediterranean Sea, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant culture.

At the moment, the answer to the question of whether fully vaccinated individuals can travel to Menorca depends on the specific travel policies and entry requirements implemented by the Spanish government and the regional authorities in the Balearic Islands.

As of now, Spain has reopened its borders to fully vaccinated travelers from certain countries, including the United States, European Union member states, and some other countries with a favorable epidemiological situation. However, it is important to note that entry requirements may vary depending on the traveler's country of origin.

To travel to Menorca, fully vaccinated individuals should check the most up-to-date information from the Spanish Ministry of Health and the Balearic Islands' regional government. These sources will provide details on any testing or documentation requirements, such as presenting a negative COVID-19 test result or proof of vaccination. It is crucial to adhere to these requirements to ensure a smooth entry into Menorca.

Additionally, it is important to monitor the local COVID-19 situation and follow any guidelines or restrictions put in place by the Spanish government and the regional authorities in the Balearic Islands. These guidelines may include wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and following any curfews or capacity restrictions that are in place to prevent the spread of the virus.

It is also worth noting that travel restrictions and guidelines can change rapidly, especially as new variants of the virus emerge or cases surge. Therefore, it is essential to stay informed about any updates or changes in the travel policies for Menorca before making any travel plans.

In conclusion, while Menorca is a popular tourist destination, fully vaccinated individuals should stay informed about the current travel policies and guidelines set by the Spanish government and the Balearic Islands' regional authorities. Checking the latest information from reliable sources, monitoring the local COVID-19 situation, and following any entry requirements and restrictions will help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Menorca.

European Union Recommends New Travel Restrictions for Non-Essential Travelers

When it comes to tourist activities and attractions in Menorca, there are a few restrictions and limitations to keep in mind. While the island offers a wide range of exciting things to do and see, it's important for visitors to be aware of these restrictions to ensure a pleasant and hassle-free experience.

One of the main restrictions in Menorca is related to the conservation and protection of the island's natural resources. Menorca is renowned for its stunning beaches, pristine coastline, and diverse marine life. To preserve these natural wonders, there are certain rules in place that prohibit activities such as fishing, hunting, and the collection of rocks, shells, or any other items from natural areas.

Another limitation in Menorca is related to the protection of historical and cultural heritage sites. The island is home to numerous archaeological sites and historical monuments, which are important for preserving the island's rich history. Visitors are required to respect these sites and should not damage or remove any artifacts from them.

In terms of tourist attractions, there might be limitations or restrictions imposed on certain activities, especially those that could have a negative impact on the environment or local communities. For example, in some areas, there might be restrictions on motorized water sports to protect the marine ecosystem. Additionally, some attractions, such as caves or nature reserves, might have specific regulations in place to ensure the safety of visitors and the conservation of the natural habitat.

It's also important to note that during certain times of the year, some attractions or activities might be temporarily closed or limited due to weather conditions or other factors. Visitors should check the opening hours and availability of attractions before planning their visit to avoid disappointment.

Overall, while there are restrictions and limitations on tourist activities and attractions in Menorca, they are in place to protect the natural and cultural heritage of the island. By respecting these restrictions, visitors can enjoy the beauty of Menorca while contributing to the preservation of its unique environment and history.

Canada Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know about Traveling from Canada to Costa Rica

Frequently asked questions.

Yes, there are currently travel restrictions in place for visiting Menorca. The Spanish government has implemented a series of measures to limit the spread of COVID-19, including restricting entry to non-essential travelers. Only essential travel is allowed, such as for work, health, or other urgent reasons. Tourist travel is currently not permitted.

Even if you are fully vaccinated, travel to Menorca may still be restricted. While being vaccinated may exempt you from certain entry requirements, such as testing or quarantine, it does not guarantee unrestricted travel. It is important to check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements before planning your trip to Menorca.

If you are eligible to travel to Menorca, you will need to provide several documents. These typically include a negative COVID-19 test result taken within a specified time frame before your departure, a completed health declaration form, and proof of valid travel insurance. It is important to check the specific entry requirements and documentation needed for Menorca before your trip.

The quarantine requirements for Menorca can vary depending on factors such as your country of origin and vaccination status. Some travelers may be required to quarantine for a specified period upon arrival, while others may be exempt. It is essential to check the latest entry requirements and guidelines from the local authorities to understand if you need to quarantine upon arrival in Menorca.

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Discovering Menorca

The guide to an island of nature and culture

Hiking in Menorca island

The camí de cavalls guide, stage by stage.

A perfect way of following the coast of Menorca island at your own speed along a celebrated old trail. 20 waymarked walks to discover beaches, rocks, pinewoods and cliffs of Menorca, all described stage-by-stage. The Camí de Cavalls is divided up into 20 stages that can be walked as a single long hike or individually in sections, or can be used simply as somewhere go for a stroll. READ MORE

What to do in Menorca island

The best proposals to know the island.

What to do in Menorca? All that you can not miss on your holiday in Menorca island: beaches, festivals, snorkeling, monuments, walks, kayak trips, lighthouses, etc. READ MORE

Talaiotic Menorca

Megalithic culture of talaiotic menorca.

The Talaiotic culture refer to the customs and skills of the pre-historic inhabitants of the Balearic Islands up to the Roman conquest (123 BC). Most of the archaeological remains that have been excavated –of which most are on Menorca – correspond to the so-called Talaiotic culture that can be dated from around 1,000 BC. READ MORE

British Menorca

The big legacy of british menorca.

The British presence in Menorca island lasted for almost all of the eighteenth century in three consecutive periods lasting from 1708 to 1802, the year in which the island was returned to the Spanish crown. The British legacy remains in the Anglicisms found in the local language, the characteristic bow windows seen on many Menorcan houses, the typical British-style furniture, the taste for gin and, above all, the wonderful architectural legacy in the shape of defensive military structures that dot the whole of the island’s coastline. READ MORE

Menorca by kayak

Paddling right around the island in a kayak is the best way to gradually get to know Menorca’s coastline. The island’s shallow coastal waters are an ideal place for kayaking since they offer a wide variety of subtly changing landscapes, with coves and shallow bays, sandy and pebbly beaches, cliffs, solitary headlands, semi-submerged sea-caves and small unspoilt islands, all bathed by inviting transparent waters. READ MORE

Privacy Overview

A guide to visiting Menorca

• Cheap Travel
• Family Travel

Visiting Menorca: Everything you need to know

• The Travel Mum

Visiting Menorca should be on everyones bucket list! It is one of the Balearic Islands nestled in the Mediterranean Sea. This picturesque island, often overshadowed by its more lively neighbours, Mallorca and Ibiza, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and authentic culture.

The paradise beaches are definitely a highlight, and despite being smaller than its neighbouring islands, Menorca has more beaches than Mallorca and Ibiza combined! If you are dreaming of visiting Menorca, this article is for you! We will delve into the enchanting world of Menorca, highlighting the best places to stay and the best things to do for an unforgettable yet budget friendly experience.

Where to stay when visiting Menorca

Mahon (mao).

Menorca’s capital city, Mahon, is a vibrant and historical hub with a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. It is only a 10 minute drive from the airport making it a great place to stay for a shorter trip. The city is known for its natural harbour, one of the largest in the world, where visitors can enjoy waterfront dining and watch ships come and go. You can choose from boutique hotels, charming guesthouses, or even luxurious resorts if your budget allows. Look at more peripheral accommodation to get the most for your money.

Mahon is a transportation hub making it a great spot for those wanting to explore using public transport. Es Castell is a charming little village located by Mahon which you may wish to check out whilst visiting Menorca. It offers a more laid back, authentic experience without the tourist price tags.

Located on the western coast of the island, this city around a 45 minute drive from the airport, Ciutadella is Menorca’s former capital and boasts a rich history. I personally preferred this city to Mahon. The cobbled streets, quaint squares, and elegant architecture create a perfect setting for a romantic getaway. Ciutadella hosts the San Joan Festival every June, a fantastic time to visit and enjoy Menorca’s cultural heritage. With lots of great public transport routes to nearby beaches, it is a great location if you are exploring the island without a car.

If you prefer a quieter, more authentic experience, Fornells is an idyllic fishing village on the northern coast of Menorca. It is around a 30 minute drive from the airport. Known for its stunning bay and water sports opportunities, Fornells offers charming accommodation like family-run inns and boutique hotels. This peaceful village is perfect for travellers seeking peace and relaxation. Fornells is known for having some of the best seafood restaurants on the island.

Cala Galdana

Cala Galdana, situated on the southern coast, is often considered one of Menorca’s most beautiful beach resorts. Located just a 30 minute drive from the airport. The resort features a huge horseshoe-shaped bay with golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It is a stones throw away from some of the most beautiful virgin beaches on the island. Several upscale resorts and family-friendly hotels dot the coastline, providing breathtaking sea views and direct access to the beach. Cala Galdana is an excellent choice for those seeking sun, sea, and sand.

Punta Prima

Located on the south eastern tip of the island, Punta Prima offers a range of budget-friendly accommodation, including affordable hotels, apartments, and guesthouses. It is only a 20 minute drive from the airport. The town has a beautiful sandy beach with shallow, crystal-clear waters making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing – a free and fun way to spend your days!

As we drove down to Punta Prima we were blown away by just how white the sand was. The sea is crystal clear and calm, perfect for little ones. From here you can take a little tourist train to Binibeca, a beautiful coastal village with white washed houses. Think Santorini, Greece and you wont be too far off!

Cala’n Bosch

Located around an hours drive from the airport, Cala’n Bosch is one of the most popular resorts on the island. It was purpose built as a tourist resort, meaning it is a convenient place to stay with many bars, restaurants and things to do. The town is centred around a huge marina offering a lively yet charming atmosphere. Accommodation here is really well priced, and with lots of choice for places to eat and drink there are options to suit all budgets. There is a lovely sandy beach close to the marina, meaning you won’t need to spend a fortune to keep yourself entertained. The charming city of Ciutadella is close by, making a great day trip out.

Visiting Menorca: When should I go?

The best time to visit Menorca will depend on what type of trip you are wanting. The island has so much to offer all year round. Naturally prices soar during the peak summer months of July and August.

I want to sunbathe and swim in the sea

Visiting between May and September will be ideal for you, with the hottest weather being in July and August. Note that these peak summer months also bring the bigger crowds. We visited in August and couldn’t believe how busy many of the beaches were. To visit the beautiful virgin beaches along the south coast, you had to be in the car parks before 7:30am otherwise they were full! A level of tourist crazy I have never experienced before! Visiting Menorca in May, June or September could be a good compromise to get cheaper accommodation, less crowds and still experience the sunshine.

I want to hike and experience nature

Spring is a great time to visit when the weather is cooler, there are minimal crowds and wild flowers are in bloom. This is a great time of year to explore the many coastal hiking trails. Note that many of the beach resorts close down outside of the summer season, so for an early spring trip you are best looking for accommodation in one of the cities.

I want to do a bit of everything!

Throughout the Autumn months Menorca still has a very pleasant temperature, with highs of 23C in October. There is more chance of experiencing overcast days compared to the summer months, but this cooler weather is perfect for sight seeing and exploring. You will very likely have days where it will be sunny and perfect for the beach, but overcast days which will be great for exploring the cities and coastal hiking trails. We tried to do some of the hiking trails between the beaches in August and it was just too hot. Walking around a city in 38C heat is not very pleasant!

I want a relaxing city break

You can get some fantastic prices throughout winter when the island is in low season. Mahon is a great base for a short weekend trip at this time of year. Menorca’s winter is mild compared to a lot of Europe, with December highs of around 15C. With a Christmas market and festive lights throughout the city, a December trip to Mahon will be magical and budget friendly. A romantic idea that we love to do in the winter months is have a picnic on an empty beach! Wrap up warm, get some supermarket snacks, and enjoy this unique experience that you could never get in the summer months!

What to do when visiting Menorca

Visit the beaches.

Menorca boasts some of the most pristine and beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. You will struggle to find whiter sands and more turquoise water! There are numerous virgin beaches which are pretty untouched by mass tourism. I say this, in the summer months they are VERY touched by tourists! We had to get to the car park at 7:30am to secure a spot at one of the beaches! But most are set away from the car parks, with minimal facilities, giving that isolated paradise vibe.

Our favourite virgin beach was Cala Turqueta, the middle of 5 virgin beaches connected by coastal hiking trails. These beaches spanning from west to east are Son Saura, Cala des Talaier, Cala Turqueta, Macarelleta and Cala Macarella. You can park at Son Saura, Cala Turqueta or Cala Macarella. There are cafe facilities by the car parks at Turqueta and Macarella. If you want to combine some beautiful hiking trails with a cool down in the sea, a day exploring this area will be perfect.

Explore Historic Sites

Menorca is steeped in history, with a rich assortment of archaeological sites and historical landmarks. The Talaiotic period left behind a legacy of pre historic stone monuments, including the Naveta des Tudons and Torre d’en Galmés. Menorca has an impressive 1500 megalithic sights, perfect for anyone with an interest in ancient civilisations. Ciutadella and Mahon are also home to charming old towns with historic churches, fortresses, and palaces.

Hike the Cami de Cavalls

The Cami de Cavalls is a 185km coastal trail that goes around the entire island, providing breathtaking views of Menorca’s coastline. It originated in 1330 when the king insisted everyone have an armed horse ready to defend the island! A path going around the entire island made it easy to keep watch.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or are just looking for a leisurely stroll, this trail offers a unique perspective of the island’s beauty.

Sample Menorcan Cuisine

The typical food in Menorca is a delicious blend of Mediterranean flavours, showcasing fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and traditional recipes. The most famous Menorcan dish is lobster stew (caldereta de langosta). They use the local spiny lobster cooked in a tomato, onion and garlic sauce. Absolutely delicious and available across the island.

Don’t miss out on trying Mahon cheese too, a white cheese made from cows milk with a salty edge to it due to the sea salt on the grass the cows eat! If you have a sweet tooth, ensaimadas are a delicious traditional sweet pastry enjoyed across the island.

Visit Lithica

We stumbled upon this one by accident but it’s a really unique and fun way to spend an hour or two. This former sandstone quarry has been transformed into something beautiful. Now home to a huge maze and gardens that you can walk around and explore. Leo absolutely loved the maze and running around the gardens. It is only €7 for adults and is free for under 12’s, so a great budget friendly and unique activity to add to your trip. You can buy tickets here .

Visit Illa del Rei (a budget friendly boat trip)

Leo loves a boat ride, so this fulfilled his wishes and meant we got to see somewhere interesting at the same time. From Mahon you can take a boat across to ‘Hospital Island’ for just €10 return (Leo was free), a great value way to spend a few hours. It takes around 15 minutes to get to the island. You can sit at the top of the boat enjoying the sun and wonderful views.

Once on the island there are a variety of art galleries with some free activities for little ones. There is also a lovely place to get an al fresco lunch or some drinks. The old hospital here was constructed in 1711 by the British who controlled Menorca for most of the 18th Century. You can walk around and explore this unique building.

The boat that takes you there is a big yellow catamaran – you can learn more about this here . The boats left for the island on the hour, and returned back from the island at half passed the hour. We stayed for an hour and a half. When you get back to Mahon, keep an eye out for a lovely little playground right by where you will depart the boat.

Where did we stay?

A lot of you like to know exactly what we did. We stayed in Santo Tomas, a quiet resort town on the south of the island. Would we recommend it? Maybe.

Accommodation

Our accommodation choice was based purely on budget. Visiting in August and planning to explore the island by car, meant our location didn’t matter as much as nabbing the best possible price. We managed to get our flights and a weeks accommodation for £1300 for the three of us, which is a bargain for an August stay on this popular island. (This trip was found using our Start your Journey website feature!)

Our accommodation was called Vistamar Apartments a great budget friendly option for families. We had a lovely balcony overlooking the sea and a kitchen which meant we saved tons on eating out. One downside was that our room didn’t have air conditioning, but it’s worth noting that lots of the rooms do. It seems to be pot luck which you get!

The lady at reception said we should have messaged ahead to say we had a young son and would like an air conditioned room if one was available. Something you should definitely do if you plan to stay here. They did provide us with lots of fans which kept us comfortable. There is an on site restaurant, a pool and the hotel is right by the beach. Santo Tomas isn’t the liveliest town and restaurants are limited, but it is the perfect base if you are planning to explore, or just want to spend a week by the pool.

Getting about

We chose to hire a car for our 7 night stay. Having a car allows you to work to your own schedule and not that of public transport. It is also the most convenient way for our son to travel, allowing us to work around any potential tiredness. We used a company called OK mobility which had the cheapest price for our stay. At just £250 for 7 nights, in August, we were willing to take the risk with a company we hadn’t used before. Overall our experience was good. They pick you up at the airport and take you to their air conditioned office to fill out some paperwork and collect your car.

I always recommend using a comparison website to look for car hire prices and not simply heading to a specific companies website. The best value company will vary depending on when and where you are travelling.

Are you thinking of visiting Menorca?!

Use our Start your Journey search tool for look for the best value flights and hotels. All of the hotels we recommend are in good locations and have great reviews.

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Menorca Tourist Tax Explained – Everything You Need To Know

Relatively new to be introduced, the menorca tourist tax has been instated and imposed not just on menorca but on all of the balearic islands. everything you need to know on the tourist tax for menorca can be found below..

Contents [Click To Show]

Before we get started, f you haven’t booked your holiday to Menorca just yet, feel free to search for some of the best hotels and deals on the island by clicking here.

Menorca Tourist Tax 2024 Explained

There are many tourist taxes around the world, including tourist taxes in France, Japan, The Netherlands and more. Potentially exacerbated by Covid, governments may now see this as a useful way to increase tourism revenues that were lost during this period. Whereas some countries see this as a way of supporting key areas of their country, such as environmental, research etc.

The Menorca tourist tax, also known as the Menorca Eco Tax or Sustainable Tourism Tax was first introduced through the Balearic Government in 2016. Meaning if you also visit Ibiza and Majorca you will be under the same tourist tax scrutiny.

The tourist tax in Menorca falls under a local taxation. Meaning any holidays booked through package deals, or holiday only stays are unlikely to include the Balearic tax. However, some accommodation on the island may absorb these charges. To be sure, double check with your accommodation upon checking in.

Significantly it’s used to support activities on the island and charged based on a variety of factors, including type of accommodation and quality, age and length of stay.

How Much Will The Menorca Tourist Tax Cost Me?

Determining how much the tourist tax in Menorca is, is worked out through various factors. The Eco Tax uses your accommodation star rating, your length of stay and finally the age of those who are staying.

During the off-peak season (November to April), the rates are discounted by 50%. The tax also drops to half price after 10 days. Meaning if you are staying for 14 days, the final 4 days will be half price.

Each new hotel stay means the day count is reset and you will pay the new amount. Consequently, if you switch hotel mid holiday you will miss out on the 10 day discount.

Accommodation Charges

• 5-star and 4-star superior hotels = €2
• 4-star and 3-star superior hotels = €1.5
• 1, 2 and 3-star hotels = €1

For example, those accommodations featured on our best hotels on Menorca list will likely adopt a €2 daily eco tax charge.

Age charges

• Adults (Over 16 years Old): €2 – €1
• Children (Under 16 years Old): Free

Balearic Eco Tax Example

Using peak season price estimates.

• €2 x 2 adults = €4 x 10 nights = €40. Discounted €2 x 4 nights = €8. Total Cost = €48 approximately.
• €1.5 x 4 adults = €6 x 7 nights = €42 Total Cost
• €1 x 2 adults = €2 x 7 nights = €14 Total Cost

How Is The Menorca Tourist Tax Used?

Now you know the background of the Menorca Eco Tax and how to calculate this tax. The final question you may be left asking is how are the funds generated used and what is the money being spent on?

Fortunately, the benefits are laid out below and largely the reasons behind the tax are not for directly increasing the revenue of the government, but to benefit the wider community, locals, island, history and environment. Which hopefully we can all agree will benefit the island for the long term, causing greater sustainable tourism.

Environment

Namely the protection, preservation and recovery of the Menorcan environment. Including preserving the natural parks such as Parc Natural de s’Albufera des Grau in addition to conserving Menorca’s natural ecosystems, fauna, flora and surrounding waters of the island.

Sustainable Tourism

Promoting in sustainable and low-season tourism on the island. Increasing visitor numbers to Menorca during Autumn, Winter and Spring. This will also include maintenance of cycling, walking and hiking routes. Therefore including the infamous Cami de Cavalls route.

Cultural Heritage

Protecting cultural and historical buildings and sites of importance on the island. Repairing those historical and archaeological sites, recovery and rehabilitation of them. As well as ensuring safe and sustainable accessibility to those sites for tourists.

Training and Jobs

Improvement of skill and quality of Menorcan locals. As well as increased training and higher employment outside of the peak hospitality summer season.

Lastly, the promotion of scientific research projects which help and support sustainable tourism and fighting against climate change. Utilising technology to support and maintain the island and surrounding waters.

Menorca Tourist Tax Frequently Asked Questions [FAQ]

1. what is the tourist tax in menorca.

It’s a tax on tourists that visit the island of Menorca to fund projects.

2. Do you have to pay tourist tax in Menorca?

Yes. If you are staying in any sort of accommodation the tourist tax in Menorca with either be baked into the cost of accommodation. Although it’s more common that upon arrival you will asked to pay the taxes applicable to you and your party.

3. How much is tourist tax in Menorca?

This depends on multiple factors. Significantly your party size, how old you are, the star rating and subsequent quality of your accommodation and how long you are staying for. However for further information you can refer to our easy to read examples above in the costing section.

4. What is the tax spent on?

Firstly we would point you to the above section on “How Is The Menorca Tourist Tax Used”. But in short, the funds generated are spent on the environment, sustainable tourism, cultural heritage, training and jobs and research.

5. Do the other Balearic islands have tourist tax?

Yes. It’s actually a Balearic island taxation. Consequently this includes all of the Balearic islands including Majorca, Menorca and Ibiza.

6. Can you get a discounted Menorca tourist tax?

Yes you can receive a discounted tourist tax in Menorca. Discounted rates are during the off-peak season of November to April. During this period the rates are discounted by 50%. The tax also drops to half price after 10 days. Therefore, if you are staying for 14 days, the final 4 days of you stay will be half price.

7. Important reminders of the Balearic tax

Adults over 16 years old incur a age. Whereas children under 16 years old don’t incur any charges.

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Plan your getaway to Menorca with ease!

• Ferry Tickets

Menorca is the second-largest island of the Balearics and is considered one of the best destinations for relaxing holidays in the Mediterranean. Its picturesque settlements, magnificent beaches and stunning landscapes are some of the island’s defining features.

The beauty of Menorca does not stop there, however. You can find additional information on our Menorca travel guide , including must-see beaches, sightseeing and travel tips. But before that, let’s see how you can travel to Menorca hassle-free!

Stunning crystal-clear waters in Menorca

Flight or ferry to Menorca?

Traveling to Menorca is smooth sailing, as you can reach the island either by ferry or plane . While plane trips tend to be shorter, catching a ferry to Menorca is highly recommended.

Read below some of the key benefits of planning a ferry trip to Menorca :

• Ferry traveling is more comfortable , as you can stroll around and breathe fresh air on the deck, all while overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
• Taking the ferry to Menorca is a great way to bring along your car and explore every corner of the island.
• Traveling by ferry with your pet is the most convenient way to bring along your little friend to the Balearics.
• When it comes to sustainability, traveling by ferry to Menorca is the most eco-friendly way to visit the Balearic Islands. Learn more about sustainable ferry travel on Ferryhopper.

Traveling to Menorca from the Balearic Islands

Reaching Menorca by ferry from the rest of the Balearics is easy and convenient. There are direct ferry crossings from Mallorca , the largest island of the Balearics.

Here, you can find useful information about how long it takes to get to Menorca from Mallorca .

How to get to Menorca from Mallorca

You can easily travel by ferry to Menorca from Mallorca throughout the year, with additional connections available in summer. The route is operated by  4 companies : Baleària , Menorca Lines , Trasmed , and Corsica Ferries .

The ferry crossings from Mallorca to Menorca last around 1-5.5 hours , depending on the company and type of vessel you’re traveling with (high-speed or conventional). Normally, the prices of a ferry ticket range from about €30 to €100 .

Note : you can also catch a flight from Mallorca and Menorca. There are usually 3-4 daily plane trips that last 40-55 minutes . 

Traveling to Menorca from mainland Spain

You can easily reach the Balearic Islands and Menorca from nearby Spanish destinations. This is a great way to bring along your vehicle and easily explore the landscapes of Menorca.

Below, you can find more information about ferry crossings between mainland Spain and Menorca , and plan your trip step-by-step !

How to get to Menorca from Barcelona

Traveling to Menorca from Barcelona is rather simple. You can find approximately 20 weekly crossings from Barcelona to Menorca, operated by 3 companies : Baleària, Trasmed and GNV . There is usually increased frequency in summer.

The duration of the ferry trip from Barcelona to Menorca lasts from 3.5 to 9 hours , depending on the port of arrival and type of vessel (conventional or high-speed). The price of a standard ferry ticket usually ranges from around €57 to €100 . The final cost depends on available discounts, seasonality and the company you’re traveling with.

Note : there are direct flights from Barcelona to Menorca. The trip by plane lasts around 1 hour .

A rocky beach with emerald waters in Mallorca

Ferry from Valencia to Menorca

There is at least 1 weekly ferry connection from Valencia to Menorca throughout the year, served by Trasmed .

The Valencia - Menorca ferry route is operated by conventional ferries that reach the port in about 16.5 hours . A standard ferry ticket to Menorca costs around €66 .

Note : alternatively, you can catch a flight from Valencia to Menorca. There are multiple flights to the island that last approximately 1 hour .

Book ferry tickets to Menorca online

Your holidays in Menorca await you! On Ferryhopper, you can find all ferry connections to Menorca, along with the respective ferry schedules in Spain . Compare prices and companies, check schedules, and book ferry tickets to Menorca without any hidden fees .

Tip : on our Map of ferries , you can find all ferry connections between Menorca and nearby Spanish destinations. Don’t forget to check our island hopping guide for the Balearics and take your adventure to the next level!

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Spain set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Spain’s embassy or consulates in the UK .

If you are planning to travel to Spain through France, check the latest FCDO travel advice for France before you start your journey.

If you are planning to travel to Spain through Gibraltar, check the latest FCDO travel advice for Gibraltar before you start your journey.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Spain.

Passport validity requirements

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements .

Your passport must be:

• issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
• valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

Check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

Contact Spain’s embassy or consulates in the UK if you think that your passport does not meet both these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to .

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or for short-term studies or training.

If travelling to Spain and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer, to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons, you need to meet the Spanish government’s entry requirements. Check with Spain’s embassy or consulates in the UK before you travel about what type of visa or work permit you may need.

If travelling to Spain for work , read the guidance on visas and permits.

If you cannot return to the UK before the expiry of your visa, permit or visa-free limit, contact the Spanish government’s national information service (In Spanish, English speaking operators are available). You can dial 060 from a Spanish phoneline.

If you are visiting Spain and need to extend your visa-free stay for exceptional reasons, such as a medical emergency, you must apply to the immigration authorities (‘Extranjería’) (in Spanish).

If you stay in Spain with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Passport stamping

Check your passport is stamped as you enter or exit the Schengen area through Spain as a visitor.

Border guards check you’re complying with the 90-day visa-free limit for short stays in the Schengen area. If you do not have relevant entry or exit stamps in your passport, they will assume you have overstayed.

You can show evidence of when and where you entered or exited the Schengen area, and ask the border guards to add this date and location in your passport. Examples of acceptable evidence includes boarding passes and tickets.

Use the desks staffed by border officers. If you are aged 18 or over, and airport staff instruct you to, you may be able to use e-gates where they are in operation.

If you use an e-gate, make sure you get your passport stamped by a border officer.

Additional documents required by tourists

If you enter the Schengen area as a tourist, you may need to provide additional documents at the border. As well as a valid return or onward ticket, when travelling to Spain you could be asked to show:

• you have enough money for your stay
• a hotel booking confirmation
• proof of address if visiting your own property (such as second home)
• an invitation or proof of address if staying with a third party, friends or family, such as a ‘carta de invitation’ completed by your hosts.

You can visit the Spanish Ministry of Interior website for more information (only available in Spanish).

Residents of Spain

If you are resident in Spain your passport should not be stamped when entering or leaving Spain.

Actively show your proof of residence, such as the foreigner’s identity card (‘la tarjeta de identidad de extranjero’ or ‘TIE’), when presenting your passport at Spanish border control. For further information, read about living in Spain .

Travel between Spain and Gibraltar

Spanish border checks can cause delays when crossing between Spain and Gibraltar. If you are travelling to Spain through Gibraltar, check the travel advice for entry requirements for Gibraltar .

There is no charge to enter or leave Gibraltar. You should not hand over money to anybody claiming there is a charge.

Unaccompanied minors

Spanish law considers anyone under 18 to be a minor. If an unaccompanied minor comes to the attention of the Spanish authorities (particularly in connection with criminal incidents or when in hospital) they will be considered vulnerable and may be taken to a minors centre until a parent or guardian is found.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need on TravelHealthPro .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about what goods can be taken into and out of Spain. You can find details on the National Tax Agency leaflet (in Spanish and English). Declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into Spain

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food required for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Taking money and goods into Spain

Check the National Airport Association website for guidance on taking money and goods into and out of Spain.

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Visit Menorca: Top 17 Things to Do and Must See Attractions

The 17 best things to do in menorca (bucket list).

You want to visit Menorca and you’re looking for  the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 17 best things to do in Menorca , with all the must-see attractions of the island.

In this article, I will tell you everything about Menorca’s must-see attractions, the most beautiful beaches , the best boat trips , and all the activities you can do on the island.

In addition, I will also give you all my best tips as well as my list of the best accomodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Menorca? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

2. La Mola Fortress

3. ciutadella, 4. the most beautiful beaches and coves of menorca, 5. boat trip in menorca, 6. diving in menorca, 7. best activities to do in menorca, 8. the cami de cavalls – hiking in menorca, 9. the monte toro lookout, 10. the most beautiful villages of menorca, 11. the lighthouses to see in menorca, 12. s’albufera des grau natural park, 13. pont d’en gill, 14. visiting menorca: the talayotic sites, 15. cycling in menorca, 16. sampling menorca’s gastronomy, 17. the best hotels in menorca, best things to do in menorca: the tourist map, rent a boat in menorca, you’re traveling to menorca these articles will help you , visit menorca: the 17 best places to visit and must-see attractions.

Let’s kick off this tourist guide to Menorca with the capital: Mahon .

The city, nestled in the southeastern corner of Menorca , is particularly charming, especially its historic heart . It’s just a treat to amble through its adorable pedestrian-friendly streets . You’ll be spoiled for choice with all the boutiques, cozy cafes, and dining spots that you’ll come across.

I particularly recommend a stroll through Carrer de ses Moreres where you’ll also find the Menorca tourism office, Carrer de Hannover, and Carrer Nou .

Places of interest to visit in Mahon:

• The Mercat del Claustre: a really cute market with shops located under arcades and a terrace in the old church cloister
• The Fish Market (“mercat des Peix”): divided into 2 parts, it has stalls of fresh fish and a gourmet market selling beautifully presented and very appetizing tapas
• The Museum of Menorca on the history of the island. It is located in the old Sant Francesc Church.
• The portal of Sant Roc: built in the 14th century, it’s the only remaining gate of the old city walls. It is flanked by two towers of different heights.
• The Santa Maria Church and its rather impressive organ made up of over 3,200 pipes
• The Ca’n Oliver : This remarkable art and history center, housed in a beautiful 1800s house, presents a collection of maps and period furniture that vividly depict the story of the city.

Departing from the port located below the old town, you should make the most of your stay in Menorca by taking a one-hour mini-cruise in Mahon Bay .

You’ll get beautiful views of the colonial houses, coves, small islands, and the Mola fortress (I’ll talk about it next). You’ll enjoy historical and cultural commentary to enrich your understanding of the area.

Book your boat trip to Mahon by clicking the green button below:

How to get to Menorca?

If you’ve chosen to fly to Menorca (from Mallorca, Barcelona or another country), you’ll be landing in Mahon since the airport is just 5 km from the city center .

For those who’ve opted to take the ferry to Menorca from Valencia, Barcelona or Mallorca, the boat terminal is at Port Mahon, on the opposite side of the bay from the city .

The La Mola Fortress is one of the absolute must-sees in Menorca .

It was built in 1850 , at the very tip of Mahon port, to defend it against various European powers when they realized that the island had become a real strategic enclave , both commercially and militarily.

Today, you can fully visit this huge, well-preserved fortress and explore the many underground passages . Throughout your visit, you’ll also enjoy beautiful views of the coast .

It’s even become one of the main tourist attractions in Menorca!

Practical information for visiting La Mola Fortress:

• Entry fee is €8 per person.
• You can choose to rent an audioguide for an extra charge or scan the QR codes scattered around (free) for all the explanations about the fortress’s history and the buildings you’ll see.
• Allow about 2.5 hours for the visit because the site is really big and be prepared to walk in full sunlight.
• You can also rent golf carts to explore the outdoors.

Opening hours can be found on the official website .

For your itinerary in Menorca (and especially to visit the fortress which is not served by any public transport), you should not ask yourself too many questions and just rent a car . It’s clearly the most convenient way to get around Menorca to access all the beaches and tour the island .

To compare rates from all car rental companies in Menorca and book your vehicle, you should use Rentalcars.com . All you have to do is click on the green button here :

To continue with the list of the most beautiful places to visit in Menorca, head to Ciutadella .

Once the capital until the 18th century , the island’s second-largest city rests on the western coast, facing Mahon .

It has a really lovely historic center with beautiful quaint buildings, several squares and churches , and bourgeois houses with beautiful facades .

Must-sees in Ciutadella during your trip to Menorca :

• Es Born Square where you’ll find an obelisk and one of the most beautiful buildings: the city hall
• The viewpoint (mirador) located behind the town hall offering a superb view of the port
• Ses Voltes: the main shopping street with its lovely shops under the arches
• The Cathedral of Ciutadella in typical Catalan Gothic style
• The many palaces and manor houses : the Olivar palace, the Casa Squella, the Vivo palace
• The small fish market where you can taste fresh fish and seafood
• The port of Ciutadella for the view of the city and the monuments.

If you’re wondering what to do in Menorca with children, I recommend taking them to the old Lithica quarry , located on the road before arriving in Ciutadella.

The quarry visit includes a workshop for carving stone and a giant labyrinth dug into the quarry itself. The place is undeniably one-of-a-kind . I personally found it refreshingly original .

If you’ve decided to visit Menorca as a family , I assure you, it’ll be a hit with everyone!

Wondering where to go for a beach day in Menorca ?

That’s an easy one: pretty much anywhere.

The 200 km Menorcan coastline boasts no less than 100 beaches and coves ! With white sands and turquoise waters , they’re all simply stunning and provide a slice of paradise for a swim.

Unlike Mallorca , which is much more urbanized, most coves are wild and untouched , free from any visible construction, and we all absolutely love that.

I’ll spare you the list of all 100 – that would be a bit of a bore – but here’s my selection of the most beautiful beaches to enjoy a swim in Menorca :

• Cala Mesquida : A lovely sandy beach bordered by a small cape. It’s the nearest beach to Mahon.
• Es Grau beach : Its calm, shallow waters make it the ideal beach for families with children in Menorca.
• Sa Caleta : A beautiful cove with turquoise and shallow waters. Absolutely breathtaking with a great view of the tower.
• Cala en Brut : A fantastic place, but there’s no actual beach here. There are several concrete platforms built for sunbathing, jumping directly into the water, or accessing the water via ladders. Popular with the local younger crowd.
• Son Bou beach : The longest beach on the island.
• Cala Algaiarens : A lovely wild beach in the shape of a double cove bordered by dunes and pine trees. Just a 5-minute walk from the parking lot.
• The 4 coves of Binimel, the most famous of which is Pregonda . A beautiful walk takes you through the coves with striking color contrasts between the red rocks, trees, ochre sand, and blue water.
• Cala Mitjana : A superb beach in a cove with very clear water. Easily accessible via a 1.2 km trail from the parking lot. This beach easily made it into my top 5 most stunning spots during my Menorca road trip!
• Cala en Turqueta : Nestled in the pine forest and accessible after a 1 km walk, it’s also one of the prettiest in my humble opinion.
• Cala Macarella and Macarelleta : Very similar to Cala en Turqueta.
• Cala de Binidali : A very small, peaceful cove with crystal clear water.
• Es Calo Blanc : A tiny cove with fine sand and turquoise water, with a few rocks to lounge on.
• Cavalleria beach bordered by clay hills.

You can’t possibly plan a trip to Menorca without at least one boat excursion .

A sea trip with swimming stops is the best way to access some coves and discover the most beautiful corners of the island .

Since there are a lot of different outings, I’ve prepared my selection of the best boat excursions in Menorca to help you choose.

But remember, you’ll need to book well in advance to secure a spot as these cruises are among the most popular tourist activities on the island . You can make reservations by clicking on the orange links or the green buttons .

The most beautiful boat outings in Menorca (south coast):

• A full-day cruise to discover the most beautiful coves on the south coast of Menorca: Son Saura, Cala en Turqueta, Cala Macarella, and Cala Macarelleta .

Departing from Ciutadella port , you’ll first head to Son Saura for 2 hours of swimming . Then, you’ll enjoy a delicious paella served on board accompanied by a glass of sangria, before setting off for a second 1.5-hour swimming stop at Cala Turqueta .

For me, this is the best boat excursion in Menorca because it allows you to see all the most famous coves in the area in one day, something that isn’t really possible by car or on foot.

Don’t wait any longer and book directly by clicking the button below :

• 3.5-hour cruise to Son Saura, Es Talaier, Turqueta, Macarella, Macarelleta, Mitjana, Trebaluger, Fustam, and Escorxada + 2 stops of 30 min for a swim + tapas – Departing from Cala Galdana.
• 2-hour glass-bottom boat excursion from Cala Galdana + 1 hour of swimming.
• 2-hour sea trip on a small boat that can accommodate a maximum of about ten people – Passing by the South coves and a short break for a swim. Also departs from Cala Galdana.
• 3.5-hour boat trip from Cala’n Bosch including 1 hour of snorkeling.
• Sunset boat trip with a complimentary cocktail – From Cala’n Bosh – An excellent choice of activity to do in Menorca as a couple!

The best boat excursions in Menorca (north coast – all departures are from Fornells):

• Catamaran cruise along Menorca’s north coast . Small-group excursion that accommodates up to 10 passengers and offers a friendly crew, a refreshing snorkeling stop, and complimentary unlimited drinks.
• Full-day sailing excursion to beaches only accessible by boat + lunch included – Paddle and snorkeling equipment provided.
• 3.5-hour cruise on the beaches of the north coast , towards Cap Cavalleria + swimming at Cala Pregonda.
• Fast boat excursion – 3h – 2 snorkeling stops + aperitif featuring local cheese and cold cuts.
• Llaut Cruise , a traditional wooden boat from the Balearic Islands – Small group – If you’re wondering what to do in Menorca with friends or family , this is the perfect boat excursion! Local appetizers and drinks are included!
• 3-hour sunset sea trip – Fast boat.
• Sunset sailboat cruise
• Private boat excursion in Menorca at sunset

Make the most of your Menorca getaway and embark on an incredible adventure: scuba diving .

Just like Malta , Corsica , Greece or Sardinia , the Balearic Islands are among the best places to dive in the Mediterranean .

If you’ve never dived before, I highly recommend using your visit to Menorca to do a dive initiation. You’ll take a brief theory lesson before choosing your equipment and boarding the boat to go diving in the marine reserve located in the North of the island .

The reserve is home to a variety of species including groupers , scorpionfish , octopuses , and lobsters .

The initiation I’ve selected for you is a real proper dive initiation , meaning you’ll spend about an hour underwater with your instructor .

The diving center is located 20 minutes north of Mahon.

Book your diving initiation in Menorca by clicking on the button below:

If you’d rather try this activity in the southern region of Menorca , you have a variety of exciting excursions to choose from:

• Dive initiation from Cala Galdana
• Dive initiation from Ciutadella

For those who are already certified divers, here is a list of the most beautiful diving spots in Menorca :

• Cagaires : a set of natural galleries on 3 levels
• S’Embut de S’Algar and its 2 connected caves
• Cap del Bisbe to spot barracudas
• Llosa dels Ocellers filled with tunnels and caves
• Pont d’en Gil: a 200-meter long cave full of stalactites and stalagmites
• The wreck of Francisquita , a Spanish cargo ship that sank in 1952
• The wreck of the steamship, the Malakoff.

Discover my selection of the best activities you’ll find in Menorca !

If you want more details about each of them (prices, duration, reservations), feel free to click on the orange links below :

• Jet ski excursion on the north coast of Menorca – Duration 1h
• Snorkeling trip to the caves of Macarella and the stunning cove of Cala Trebaluger , in the south of Menorca. You will be taken to the snorkeling sites by boat from Cala Galdana.
• 2-hour snorkeling trip in the marine reserve 
• Kayaking excursion with an instructor from Fornells (north). Pass under the cliffs, into the caves, and stop for a swim at S’Arenelet beach.
• Kayak tour of the cliffs and caves of the south , from Cala en Porter
• Guided kayak excursion at sunset from Fornells
• Kayak rental (from 1 hour to a full day)
• 2-hour paddle board trip with an instructor , in the bay of Fornells
• Paddle board rental
• One-day 4×4 off-road excursion that takes you both on established tracks and off the beaten path.
• Horse riding : several riding centers organize rides along the Cami de Cavalls.

Visiting Menorca on foot is also one of the best ways to discover stunning landscapes and reach the most beautiful coves on the island .

The most famous hiking trail in Menorca is the Cami de Cavalls (or GR223) which allows you to go all around Menorca on foot along the coastline.

Stretching across a length of 185 km , it is divided into 20 stages, ranging from 5 to 14 km each . For those aiming to hike the entire route, it typically requires 10 days of walking* when commencing from Mahon and following the trail counterclockwise.

Of course, you don’t have to walk the whole trail, you can also explore it on shorter hikes in Menorca and reach your favorite coves .

I had a wonderful time strolling along the section that stretches from Binimel to Pregonda and also the one from Son Saura beach to Cala Trebaluger .

*Note that the Cami de Cavalls can also be explored by bike or on horseback.

One of the key highlights of Menorca is the highly recommended ascend to the Monte Toro viewpoint .

The highest point on the island , at 358 meters high, offers a wonderful panorama over much of Menorca and Fornells Bay. And if fortune favors you with a clear sky, you might even catch a glimpse of Menorca’s sister island, Mallorca .

The Monte Toro viewpoint is located in the center of the island and is a quick 5-minute drive from the village of Es Mercadal.

On-site, you’ll discover complimentary parking , a charming restaurant/café with a terrace offering splendid views, a souvenir shop , and the sanctuary of the Virgin (the patron saint of Menorca).

You simply cannot miss some of the charming and picturesque villages in Menorca, such as:

• Sant Climent with its cute little church sporting a yellow and white facade
• Es Castell and its fishing harbor lined with some of the island’s top restaurants to enjoy fresh fish and seafood
• Sant Lluis also home to cracking eateries for dining in Menorca: pop into La Caraba and Sa Pedrera des Pujols. I’d also recommend a stop at Bodegas Binifadet, where you can take guided tours of the winery and enjoy wine tastings.
• Alaior for a leisurely wander through the medieval city’s winding streets. Make sure to visit the church of Santa Eulalia, the Salort Palace and the San Diego convent where you’ll find the tourist office.
• Ferreries , where you can stroll along the narrow streets of the historic center.
• Es Mercadal : an absolute charmer with its traditional Menorcan whitewashed houses and the main square surrounded by cafes and two superb bakeries: Cas Sucrer and Forn de sa Plaça.

Last but not least, Fornells, an authentic village with its fishing boats by the water’s edge serving one of the most famous traditional Menorcan dishes: caldereta de langosta , a kind of lobster stew.

The two top-notch restaurants serving this dish in Fornells are Sa Llagosta and Es Cranc (booking is essential).

I’d also recommend a trip to the tower of Fornells to admire the view of the village and the Cavalleria lighthouse .

Continuing with this list of the best things to do in Menorca , let’s go lighthouse spotting .

The seven lighthouses scattered across the island continue to serve their primary purpose of guiding ships, and interestingly, three of them have also evolved into significant tourist attractions in Menorca. So much so, that today it is referred to as the Menorca Lighthouse Route.

If you’ve decided to visit the north of Menorca I recommend:

• The Cavalleria lighthouse : built in 1857 following over 700 shipwrecks, it’s the oldest lighthouse on the island. The site offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire north coast and also features an interpretation center that delves into the history and construction of the island’s lighthouses.
• The Favaritx lighthouse on the northeast coast. During my visit, the weather was incredibly windy. Surrounded by gray rocks and devoid of vegetation, it felt like the end of the earth. A landscape quite unlike the rest of the island.

In the southern region of Menorca , don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Artrutx lighthouse , renowned for the spectacular view it provides of Mallorca . While you’re there, why not grab a drink on the terrace of the bar set up in the old keeper’s house?

These three lighthouses are among the most beautiful places in Menorca to watch the sunset .

If you’re still wondering what to see in Menorca , head on over to the S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park .

This protected natural area is famous for being a haven for a diverse range of bird species , including herons, cormorants, coots, ospreys, and even eagles.

To explore this area, you can take advantage of three designated walking routes (the map is available at the visitor center located near the parking lot, and the routes are also clearly marked with signs):

• Mirador de Cala Llimpa – 1,700 meters – 40-minute walk 
• Santa Madrona – 2,800 meters – 75-minute walk
• Sa Gola – 2,200 meters – 40-minute walk

To be honest, although there are a few viewpoints offering glimpses of the water, I personally didn’t find it exceptionally captivating, and unfortunately, I didn’t come across any birds. However, it’s worth noting that the day I visited was scorching hot, and the trails were fully exposed to the sun, which somewhat diminished the enjoyment of the walk.

But by all means, let me know in the comments if you enjoyed your visit.

To beat the heat, why not make your way to the exquisite Es Grau beach? From there, you also have the option to take a shuttle boat to the nearby island of en Colom , just across the waters.

The boat will transport you to one of the island’s two beaches: Els Tamarells beach or Arenal d’en Moro beach . Once there, all you need to do is unwind and savor the pristine, crystal-clear waters .

You can book your boat taxi transfer from Es Grau to the island of Colom by clicking on the button below:

If you’re passionate about birdwatching , the tourist office provides a map outlining various routes for birdwatching in Menorca.

In addition to the Es Grau lagoon , you’ll discover birdwatching routes around Son Bou beach , the Cap de Favaritx (including the Mongofre cliffs and Addaia salt pans), the Cap de Cavalleria , La Vall , and in the Barranc d’Algendar .

For the latter, you might spot several birds of prey. And even if there aren’t any, I found the walk along the bottom of the Gorges to be easy, enjoyable, and rather nice as it’s quite shaded.

I’ve already let you in on a little secret that lighthouses are one of the most spectacular spots for sunset viewing .

But if you’re keen on catching this magical hour while you’re exploring Menorca, I suggest you make your way to Pont d’en Gil .

This stunning stone arch , just a 10-minute walk from the parking lot along the Cami de Cavalls, becomes a photographer’s paradise when the sun starts to set.

What to see in Menorca if you’re into history and archaeology ?

Check out the Talayotic sites!

If you’ve never heard of this term before, don’t worry, neither had I before I set foot in Menorca. The Talayotic era is a prehistoric period dating from 1050 to 123 BC .

The Talayotic sites in Menorca boast a unique architecture, consisting of large limestone blocks stacked on top of each other without anything to hold them together.

There are mainly three different types of monuments: the talayots, the taulas, and the navetas. The last two are considered to be unique in the world . Even in Mallorca, nothing similar has been discovered.

The main Talayotic sites to visit in Menorca include:

• The Talayotic village of Talati de Dalt : one of the best-preserved on the island
• Naveta des Tudons : a funerary monument housing dozens of skeletal remains
• The necropolis of Cala Morell ; a collection of caves carved into the rock, used as a necropolis
• The Talayotic village of Trepuco , one of the largest in Menorca
• The Talayotic village of Torre d’en Galmés is home to several talayots, funeral caves, houses, and a taula.

As I mentioned earlier, it’s possible and even great to explore Menorca by bike , particularly along the Cami de Cavalls trail .

Most of the routes are not particularly challenging, because unlike its sister Mallorca, Menorca doesn’t have high-altitude peaks (the apex being Monte Toro, towering at a height of 358 meters), so the gradients are never too steep.

The Menorca council has also established a cycling route (ruta cicloturistica), a signposted itinerary that allows you to cross the island by bike from Ciutadella to Sant Lluis .

The route covers 69.9 km, which is roughly 6 hours and 10 minutes . You can do it in a day, but you could also split it into several stages ranging from 6 to 19 km.

Let’s continue our Menorca guide with a few local specialties you absolutely must try :

• Mahon-Menorca cheese, the only one in all of the Balearics to have received a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin). It’s recognizable by its square shape with rounded corners and its orange rind. If you’re in the mood, you can take part in a cheese-making workshop by clicking here !
• Sobrassada : a pork sausage
• Carn-i-xulla : a sausage made from pork meat and fat + spices
• Crespells : jam-filled cookies dusted with powdered sugar
• Ensaïmadas : spiral-shaped pastry dusted with powdered sugar. If you have a sweet tooth, you definitely shouldn’t miss the versions filled with chocolate or cream. They’re absolutely delightful!
• Rubiols : meat or fish empanadas
• Caldereta de Llagosta : a lobster stew. The top spots to taste it can be found in Fornells.
• Oliagua : a soup made from tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, water, and olive oil
• Stuffed carabassons : usually eggplants and zucchinis stuffed with a mix of tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, bread crumbs, and eggs
• Arros de la terra which is actually made not from rice but from wheat semolina accompanied by potatoes and pork meat
• Wine : the local production carries the “Vi de la Terra Illa de Menorca” guarantee label
• Xoriguer Gin : a distinctively flavored gin produced exclusively in Menorca. Can’t wait to hear what you think of these!

To round things up, I’ve put together my top hotel picks in Minorca tailored to your budget.

Even if you’re planning a one-week itinerary in Minorca or more , there’s no need to switch accommodations repeatedly. The island’s not massive, making it pretty easy to get around .

Best hotels near Mahon

• Eurohotel : Nestled in the heart of Mahon, this unassuming little establishment offers fairly basic but spotless rooms from €110 a night. Strong points: the friendliness of the staff and the location near the city center.
• Catalonia Mirador des Port : Situated not far from the Menorca Museum, in the center of Mahon. Spacious and comfortable double rooms with a lovely view from €130 a night. Strong points: the pool, the jacuzzi, the varied breakfast.
• ARTIEM Capri : Modern, well-equipped double room with comfortable bedding, from €160, breakfast included. Strong points: the rooftop pool and jacuzzi, free refreshments and snacks served in the Green space, and the hearty breakfast. One of the best hotels to stay in Mahon !
• Bordoy Casa Ládico – Hotel Boutique Adults Only : This 5* hotel offers superb suites with a terrace and refined decor from €330 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: attentive staff, intimate hotel, the pool, and the homemade, cooked-to-order breakfast. The best hotel in Mahon for a luxury stay !

Best hotels near Ciutadella and surroundings

• Hostel Menorca : A youth hostel located in the center of Ciutadella. Dormitory bed from €30 per night. Ideal for budget-friendly accommodation in Ciutadella .
• Prinsotel La Caleta : Located a 5-minute walk from the beach. Super comfortable and bright double room or apartment with a balcony, from €150 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: the beautiful pool and garden area, the setting, the tranquility, and the excellent breakfast. My favorite for its value for money !
• Aparthotel Ferrer Skyline : Located just opposite the sea and 1 km from the historic center of Ciutadella. 1 to 3 bedroom modern, very spacious apartment with a terrace that can accommodate up to 6 people, from €180 a night. Strong points: the pools, the view, cleanliness, and tranquility. A great hotel for an unforgettable family vacation in Ciutadella !
• Hotel Playa Santandria Adults Only : Located 5 meters from the Cala Santandria cove. Double room with a balcony, some with sea views, from €180, breakfast included. Strong points: the exceptional location on the beach, the great breakfast, and tranquility.
• Faustino Gran Relais & Chateaux : A superb luxury hotel located in a beautiful 17th-century building. Everything is elegant, refined, and cared for. Double rooms from €400 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: the decor, the quality of the food, the pools, the spa, the concierge service. The best hotel in Ciutadella for a luxury stay !

Where to sleep on the south coast of Menorca

• Son Bou Playa Gold : Located a 10-minute walk from the large Son Bou beach. Several small houses divided into apartments. The upper apartments have been tastefully renovated and furnished, starting at €80 a night. Strong points: the quietness, the pool, well-equipped, plenty of parking spaces. It’s my favorite for value for money in south Menorca !
• Seth Mestral & Llebeig : Located 100 meters from the Santo Tomas beach. Recent, functional, and well-equipped 1 to 3 bedroom apartments starting from €120 a night. Also possible to book half board. Strong points: the large well-maintained pools, the children’s games, the beach right next door. If you’ve chosen to visit the south of Menorca with children, this is the perfect place to stay !
• Menorca Binibeca by Pierre & Vacances Premium Adults Only : Located in the village of Binibeca. Warm double room with kitchenette, jacuzzi tub, and large terrace from €160, breakfast included. Strong points: the breathtaking sea view, the superb setting, the pools, the good breakfast buffet.
• ARTIEM Audax – Adults Only : Located in Cala Galdana, a mere 2-minute walk from the beach. Double room from €240, breakfast included. Strong points: the spa area with its indoor pools and saunas, the outdoor pool, the magnificent view.
• Melia Cala Galdana : Located on the beautiful Cala Galdana beach, this 5* hotel offers very cozy rooms, with large bay windows and a balcony with a sea view from €310 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: the indoor and outdoor pools, the friendliness of the staff, the excellent quality of the breakfast, the incredible view. The best hotel in south Menorca for a luxury stay !

Accommodation in the north of Menorca

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

To help you visualize the island a bit better, I’ve made a tourist map of Minorca listing the places to visit that I talk about in this top 17 things to do in Minorca. You can display the map legend by clicking the button with a small arrow at the top left corner.

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your stay in Menorca, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Menorca? 😊

What destinations are enticing you the most for your trip to Menorca?

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
• Where to stay in Menorca? My guide of the best accommodations for a perfect stay
• 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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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Mallorca vs Menorca: 11 Key Differences for Tourists

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Deciding to travel to Mallorca or Menorca? If you are already traveling to the Balearic Islands, you might as well spend your best vacations just yet on two of the most beautiful islands in the world.

However, if you still only want to visit one, in this article, you will find the 11 most important differences between Menorca and Mallorca to help you decide. 

Plus, if you would rather listen to this article, we have a video about all the Spanish islands, including a comparison between Mallorca and Menorca. 

Now, get some pen and paper, weigh the pros and cons of each island, and choose the one that you have dreamt about all this time!

Here is my WhatsApp 🤳  +34917401167 in case you prefer to solve some doubts with a quick text!

Table of Contents ▼ ▶

1. Menorca is a great destination to go with kids 

Menorca is an excellent destination for kids. It is much quieter than Mallorca so it will be a more relaxing trip.  It has been named a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Menorca has managed and kept its nature intact by combining tourist development with the preservation of its territory.

In addition, there is a wide variety of hotels specifically for kids so that all family members can enjoy top vacations on the island.

The nature, the open spaces, and the many activities and excursions you can do make Menorca a fantastic place for a family vacation. 

For example, you could go to the S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park for a nice time in nature; close to it, you will have Es Grau beach and a big lagoon where you can kayak. 

Menorca is an ideal destination for traveling with children, as it offers various activities and attractions.

2. There is more nightlife entertainment in Mallorca 

I have been to Mallorca several times, and I can assure you the nightlife there is impressive. If you like to party at night, you would prefer Mallorca. It is a popular destination for young adults as they are the ones who enjoy the nightlife of Mallorca.

Palma de Mallorca, the island’s capital, is full of places that offer good parties from the afternoon until late at night . This city offers many clubs and discotheques, such  as Tito’s and Pacha Mallorca , where, without a doubt, you can experience some of the best nights of your life. 

Another option is BMC; this large discotheque offers theme parties on weekends. 

On the other hand, the nights in Menorca tend to be much quieter, and finding clubs and discotheques is much more difficult.

3. Mallorca has more beaches 

The largest island in the Balearic is Mallorca; it has a coastline of 555 kilometers with more than 200 beaches of all types.  

The island offers a wide variety of beaches, from beaches with all amenities and services to the wildest and most remote, surrounded by pure nature. 

Mallorca has a diverse and extensive coastline, with various beaches, coves, and cliffs. Some of Mallorca’s most famous beaches include  Playa de Palma, Cala Millor, and Cala d’Or.  

For example, one of the most popular beaches of Mallorca is Es Trenc.  It stretches along 2 kilometers of white sand and transparent turquoise-blue waters. These types of beaches are what make Mallorca one of the best vacation destinations.

If you are only staying in the capital, Palma de Mallorca, choose the Es Trenc beach over the one right next to the city. Es Trenc is stunning and way bigger than Es Arenal. Plus! There is paid parking lot! So, wake up early, get a spot, and enjoy Es Trenc.

Menorca is bit of the opposite. Menorca is known for its smaller, quieter beaches with a wilder and less developed coastline.  Cala Macarella, Cala Turqueta, and Cala Mitjana are some of Menorca’s beautiful coves.

Menorca also offers many beaches to discover around a much less populated area. The island has 216 kilometers of coastline, smaller than Majorca, and up to 75 different beaches, most of which are small coves of fine sand hidden between rocky cliffs.

4. In Menorca, you can take relaxing day trips 

Menorca is a perfect destination for a relaxing day trip. You can go for a walk, bike, or even horse riding. The most famous and popular hiking route is the  Camí de Cavalls  (The Way of the Horses), which runs around the island’s perimeter for more than 185km.

But here are three options for your perfect relaxing day trip in Menorca:  

• Ciutadella: A charming port town perfect for a day trip. You can stroll through its picturesque streets, visit the impressive Ciutadella Cathedral and explore the old town with its stores, restaurants, and historic squares.
• S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park: This natural park is a UNESCO-declared biosphere reserve home to various flora and fauna. You can enjoy hiking the trails, bird watching, or visiting the Cap de Favàritx defense tower and relaxing on the unspoiled beaches of Es Grau.
• Mahón and the port: Mahón is the capital of Menorca and has one of the largest natural harbors in the world. You can explore the historic center of Mahon, visit the church of Santa Maria, and enjoy the panoramic views from the Fort of La Mola. You can also take a boat trip around the harbor to admire the views and learn about the island’s maritime history.

5. Menorca is a better destination for couples

Menorca is a smaller island than Mallorca, but Menorca has incredible things to offer. From walking its historical path, the Camí de Cavalls, to discovering its ancient and unique history or tasting its traditional cuisine.

All this and its quiet coves and postcard landscapes make Menorca a perfect island for a couple’s vacation.

It has many romantic plans that can be made on the island. Still, one of my favorites is to enjoy a spectacular sunset from one of the lighthouses of Menorca.

6. You will spend the same money in Mallorca or Menorca

During the high season months of July and August, Mallorca can become a more economical vacation destination. As Menorca is a smaller island, everything is unique and authentic. You can also find this in Mallorca, but there is more variety of hotels and restaurants than in Menorca. The hotel offer is inferior to Mallorca’s, although extensive and diverse. 

Also, Mallorca is a more meaningful and popular tourist destination; more than 10 million tourists go annually. In exchange for Menorca, they only go 2 million people. 

So, all this, added to the lower influence of tourism, means that prices in Menorca can be slightly higher than in “the neighboring island.”

For transportation both destinations have public transportation options, but costs may be similar. That said, you will find options suitable for all budgets in both islands.

7. You can enjoy more water sports in Mallorca

Indeed, Menorca only has a few services for water activities on its beaches. However, enjoying its calm, transparent waters by kayak can be a perfect alternative.

In exchange, Mallorca is the ideal place to practice water sports in the heart of the Mediterranean. Mallorca is known for its incredible crystal-clear waters and beautiful reefs, so diving is a great option.

Going on, Mallorca is a popular destination for sailing enthusiasts. There are sailing schools offering courses for beginners and boat rentals for those with experience. Windsurfing is another excellent option to practice on Mallorca’s coastline as it provides the perfect conditions for windsurfing.

Moreover, exploring Mallorca’s caves and coves by kayak is a unique experience. Not to miss practicing paddle surfing! 

8. More tourists go to Mallorca

Mallorca and Menorca have stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters that are a great attraction for tourists. Both islands have a favorable climate, and their natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes are impressive. 

Mallorca is much more popular than Menorca for tourists.  Mallorca receives more than 10 million tourists yearly compared to the 2 million visitors that go to Menorca annually. 

Mallorca has a solid tourist infrastructure that includes many accommodation options, from luxury hotels to apartments and villas for rent. It has many activities, including the water sports mentioned above. 

Mallorca is easily accessible from many points in Europe.  It has an international airport that receives regular flights from different countries.

9. Experience one of the most beautiful sunsets in Menorca or Mallorca 

Every day you spend in Menorca or Mallorca is a new opportunity to see an incredible sunset. I have seen these islands on the best evenings of my life. That is why I’m going to give you some tips.

When looking for the best sunsets in Mallorca or Menorca on the internet, there are high chances that are going to recommend you to go to the typical Beach Club where you will have to book in advance, show up much earlier, make queues, and then you will be able to take the panoramic picture at sunset time but with thousands of other tourists wanting to do the same. 

In Menorca, the sports where I recommend you go and where I’ve seen the best sunsets of my life are  Punta Nati  (lighthouse in the north of the island) and  Pont d’en Gil , which are impressive cliffs just 15 minutes drive from  Ciutadella de Menorca.  

On the other hand, the best spots to watch a sunset in Mallorca are  Sant Elm , with privileged views of the islet of  Sa Dragonera . To get there, you will find a path along the coast until you reach an area known as  Punta Blanca . The other option is the  Lighthouse of Cap Gros , where you will see an incredible sunset from the cliffs of  Cap Gros .

10. Menorca has more natural landscapes 

Beyond the incredible beaches and lighthouses, Menorca has several hiking trails worth it. 

Menorca has a unique natural heritage and a vast network of routes and itineraries where you can practice all kinds of activities in contact with nature, such as hiking, cycling, running, and walking.

One of the most interesting routes is the  Barranc d’Algendar , in Ferreries, a ravine with vertical walls up to 80 meters high. Another great option is the  Natural Park of S’Albufera des Grau , as it is the core of the Biosphere Reserve.

11. Move around Mallorca is easier

As Mallorca is more extensive, it has different transportation methods to move around the island. Most tourists prefer to move around Mallorca by car to have more freedom of movement. Some people arrive on the island with their car since loading the vehicle on the ferry is possible. Others prefer to rent it.

The motorcycle is ideal for moving around Palma de Mallorca, the capital. You can go quickly to coves near your accommodation or to move around the inland villages.

Public transport is another ideal alternative for those who want to forget about driving. Mallorca has an extensive public transport network. Besides the bus, you can also choose the train, depending on the route you want to take. The train and bus are the cheapest options and work very well.  

Read more about how to get around Mallorca in our featured article: How to Get Around Mallorca: 9 Tips I Wish Someone Told Me

I hope this island comparison has helped you make a decision. If you still aren’t sure which one to pick, text us! This is the  link  to the contact section in our blog; we would love to read you and answer all your questions. 

Plus I will also leave you my WhatsApp number in case you prefer a quick text message 🤳  +34917401167

READ NEXT: 9 Best Hotels in Mallorca for the Vacation of a Lifetime

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