What to do in Menorca 20 must-sees© Rulan - Adobe Stock
Often less well known than its neighbor Majorca, the island of Menorca is full of surprises! While you won't find as much partying as on Ibiza, another Balearic island close to Spain, there are plenty of surprising things to see and do. For your next vacation, treat yourself to an Ibiza-Majorca-Minorca combo, or just an ultra-complete visit of the latter. Here are 20 ideas for things to do on this island that's well worth a visit.
1. Discover the medieval streets of Ciutadella de Menorca
Menorca© davidsandron - Adobe Stock
Ciutadella de Menorca is the island's former capital. It is one of the must-see places in the Balearic Islands. This old town, Menorca's second largest, has a rich aristocratic and ecclesiastical history. You'll be able to see a number of palaces, and stroll through the old, shady streets. Ciutadella de Menorca is a charming town, where colors of ochre, red and yellow mingle from street to street.
Book your guided tour of Menorcahere and immerse yourself in the welcoming atmosphere of Ciutadella with your guide. You'll see its marina, cathedral and many other ancient treasures.
2. Santa Maria de Ciutadella Cathedral, Menorca
Santa Maria de Ciutadella Cathedral, Menorca© travelview - Adobe Stock
We've already told you about it, now we'll tell you all about it: Menorca's Santa Maria de Ciutadella cathedral. It is the symbol of the Catalan conquest of Menorca, which explains why it was built on the site of a former mosque. It's a lovely place to visit, and one of the main points of interest on your vacation in Menorca. The interior is very pretty, and you'll learn a lot about this historic episode in the life of the island. A small museum also awaits you inside.
Petit Futé tip: To best prepare your trip to Menorca and find out what activities you can do there, we recommend you read our article Menorca: a mosaic of year-round activities!
3. A boat trip from the capital
A boat trip from Menorca© tagstiles.com - Adobe Stock
Why not discover the island of Menorca in a different way during your stay? A boat trip will allow you to see the island's crypts, cliffs and beaches in a whole new light. Sailboats, motorboats, catamarans, no-license boats: a variety of options are available. The Balearic Islands have many magical places to discover from the sea. While some boat trips are short (1 or 2 hours), others can last the whole day, to discover the Balearic Islands in greater depth from the Mediterranean.
Book your day trip to Menorca's southern coveshere, and visit unspoilt beaches such as Son Saura, Cala en Turqueta and Cala Macarella-Macarelleta.
4. Menorca's most beautiful beaches
Menorca beaches© pkazmierczak - Adobe Stock
There are plenty of beaches on Menorca, and some are well worth a visit. Pretty coves and pristine beaches await you, such as Turqueta, Sa Mesquida and Mitjana, part of Cala Escorxada. Menorca also boasts coppery-sand beaches such as Cala Pilar and Cavalleria. Menorca is a great place to have fun on vacation, but you also need to think about a bit of far niente! Beaches can be very different in Menorca. Some will be adorned with fine white sand, while others will have more red sand. We advise you to go and relax on several of them, to discover different places. Some beaches are also close to cultural attractions. So you can combine beach and sightseeing in a single day!
5. Unusual island tour: the Lithica labyrinth
The Lithica labyrinth© Rulan - Adobe Stock
The palaces of the Ciutadella were built with stones from a local quarry. Today, this former quarry is home to an incredible labyrinth. You'll be surrounded by towering cliffs and landscaped gardens, for your viewing pleasure. If you're traveling with children, a visit to the Lithica labyrinth is a great family outing! Lithica is quite simply an open-air museum, with so many natural wonders to discover. The site was created by French sculptor Laetitia Lara, who was also responsible for the beauty of Ciutadella. Once the quarries were shut down, due to the arrival of concrete, the site was abandoned for a time. Faced with the splendor of the site, this designer imagined a cultural and leisure center. A successful gamble!
A little extra : in summer, many concerts are held here, as the acoustics are simply fabulous.
6. Kayaking in Fornells
Fornells© tobago77 - Adobe Stock
Fornells is a charming little fishing village. Do you like water sports? Head for the superb bay of Fornells, for a kayak trip around this pretty village with its white facades. You'll be able to see the Tour de Fornells from the sea, as well as discovering the island's biodiversity. Local plant and animal species await you during your kayak trip in Menorca! In addition to kayaking, this Balearic island offers a wide range of water sports activities. Companies such as Servinautic offer motorboat rentals. Thrill-seekers can turn to providers such as Dia Complert for stand-up paddling, jet-skiing and flyboarding.
Tempted? Book your sunset kayak trip in Fornells right here !
7. The superb Menorca Museum
Menorca Museum© ANADEL - Adobe Stock
Menorca's main museum is well worth a visit! There are many museums on the island, but the one in Mahon is one of the most beautiful. Built on the site of a former convent, it showcases the art, archaeology and culture of this Balearic island. An entire floor is devoted to the island's prehistoric period. This Spanish island has undergone many upheavals in the course of history. That's why the Menorca Museum features objects from the Muslim, British and French eras.
There are other museums to visit in Menorca, if you enjoy this kind of tour. These include
- binissuès Natural History Museum,
- hauser & Wirth Menorca Museum,
- the Menorca Military Museum,
- the Ciutadella Diocesan Museum.
The island has a rich history, both historically and militarily. So it's with a mind full of interesting information that you'll leave the island!
8. Treat yourself to Menorca's local specialities
Pastissets© nito - Adobe Stock
What would a vacation be without sampling the local culinary specialities? In Menorca, you can enjoy :
- aOC Mahon cheese,
- pastissets,
- flaons,
- formatjades, etc.
In the evening, settle down in one of the island's restaurants for a succulent lobster soup. Many restaurants offer this local specialty, such as the upscale Cafè Balear. However, it's possible to findexcellent restaurants on Menorca to suit all budgets.
If you'd like to find out more about gastronomy in Menorca, read our article: Menorca: a gourmet's paradise between land and sea!
9. Discover the island's night markets
Menorca night markets© serghi8 - Adobe Stock
The summer season gives way to numerous night markets on this Balearic island. If you happen to be in Mahon, Alaior or Es Mercadal on that day, extend your visit a little longer to discover the street vendors and their wares in a convivial atmosphere. It's a great opportunity to treat yourself and your loved ones, and bring back some original souvenirs!
10. Go hiking on the Cami de Cavalls
Cami de Cavalls© tuulijumala - Adobe Stock
The horse trail, or cami des Cavalls, takes you all the way around the island. On foot, mountain bike or trail, let yourself be carried along these well-maintained paths, for a sporting vacation! there are 23 stages, most of them accessible to families with children and beginners. It's an opportunity to see a deeper Minorca, while enjoying beautiful views of the sea and the island's small coves. If you'd like to be guided along your route, we recommend you contact Cami de Cavalls 360°. The company will suggest various routes and travel solutions adapted to your level, age and so on. Accommodation, logistical assistance, detailed maps: nothing is left to chance, so that you can have a positive experience.
11. Escape to the Cavalleria lighthouse
Cavalleria Lighthouse© Carlos - Adobe Stock
This lighthouse, built in 1857, was intended to guide sailors through this hazardous area. Nestled atop a 94 m-high cliff, the Cavalleria lighthouse is simply majestic! It's a must-see during a stay in Menorca, for nature lovers and those who love breathtaking views. On the left, you'll find a small cave offering a beautiful view.
A visit to this area is also an opportunity to stop off at Cavalleria beach. With its red sand, it's one of the most original on the island.
Want to extend your visit a little further? This is the ideal spot for stargazing! So grab a bite to eat in one of the good restaurants nearby, and wait patiently for nightfall in this magical island spot...
12. Visit the island's capital: Mahon
Mahon© travelview - Adobe Stock
Today, the capital of this Balearic island is Mahon (or Maó in Catalan). As you stroll along its ancient streets, you'll find many restaurants and shops of all kinds. Excellent addresses such as Anna et Pepe and Mercat de Peix are just waiting to delight you!
First stop: thetourist office at Carrer de ses Moreres. Carrer Hannover de Mahon is another must-see! If you fall on the right day, there are several markets in Mahon, including the Mercat del Claustre. As for Mahon's must-see sights, in addition to the aforementioned museum, we recommend the following:
- the Portal de Sant Roc, a vestige of the town's ancient walls,
- the Ca'n'Oliver art and history center,
- colonial houses,
- the Santa Maria church: its organ will leave you speechless!
A short trip to the port of Maó is a great way to continue your tour of the island's capital. Here, you can take a boat trip to visit the island from the sea. Click here to book your guided tour of Mahon with boat trip and Binibeca!
13. Menorca's talayotic sites
Menorca's talayotic sites© Philip J Openshaw - Adobe Stock
Talayotic culture is unique to the architecture of this part of the Balearic Islands. It spans the period from 1050 to 123 BC. These sites are distinguished by their unique composition: very large, stacked limestone blocks. They fall into three main families:
- taules,
- navetes
- talayots.
The first two are unique to this island. If you spend part of your vacation on Mallorca, you won't be able to see anything like them!
Talayotic sites on Menorca include the village of Talati de Dalt, the necropolis of Cala Morell and the talayotic village of Trepuco.
14. The prehistoric site of Torralba d'En Salord
Torralba d?En Salord© Anibal Trejo - Adobe Stock
Close toAlaior, discover this unique monument. The remains of a prehistoric village, the site of Torralba d'En Salord is as surprising as it is splendid. Scientists still have many questions about this site, which has counterparts all over the island. Here you can see a 4.30 m-high edifice. Columns and burial caves have been found here, along with numerous prehistoric artefacts. If you're interested, some of these objects can now be seen at the Menorca Museum in Maó. As this tour doesn't take very long to complete, you can round off your day with a visit to the town of Alaior. Good restaurants such as Es Festuc, Torralbenc Menorca and Can Jaumot serve succulent dishes.
15. La Mola fortress
La Mola fortress© Naeblys - Adobe Stock
Another must-see on your vacation in Menorca! Built in 1850, the fortress of La Mola, located at the end of the port of Mahon, can be visited in its entirety. It's an interesting historical and cultural visit that will fascinate young and old alike during a stay on the island. Also known as Isabel II, the fortress of La Mola was originally built to defend the port of Maó against British attacks. Because of their position, the Balearic Islands, and especially Menorca, were a strategic battleground against France. Later, the fortress was used to quarantine travelers before they officially set foot on the island.
16. Star gazing north of Menorca
Star gazing in the north of Menorca© david - Adobe Stock
Head to the north of Menorca, free from light pollution, to observe the stars. It's no coincidence that in 2018, UNESCO decided to classify the island as a "Starlight Destination"! Yet another daring way to visit part of the island, while enjoying an unusual spectacle.
17. Take in the sunset from the top of Monte Toro
Monte Toro© Lotharingia - Adobe Stock
Want to enjoy the best view on the island? You'll have to climb the short 357-meter ascent to the summit of Monte Toro. The Virgin Monte Toro is considered the protector of Menorca and a symbol for its inhabitants. From up there, you'll have a breathtaking view of this part of the Balearic Islands, and maybe even Majorca on a clear day!
Take the opportunity to visit her church and, as in Rio, contemplate her Christ the Redeemer.
18. Visit the S'Albufera des Grau Nature Park
S?Albufera des Grau© cbruzos - Adobe Stock
Birdwatchers, we invite you to visit the S'Albufera des Grau Nature Park and its three pedestrian itineraries. Herons, coots and eagles, to name but a few, await you, as well as beautiful viewpoints. The various trails are
- Mirador de Cala Llimpa: a 40-minute walk,
- Sa Gola: also 40 minutes,
- Santa Madrona: approx. 1h15 walk.
Of course, as the birds are not captive, you'll only see them if they're willing to show themselves! In any case, the flora and fauna to be discovered in this natural park are well worth the detour.
19. Visit the village of Es Castell
Es Castell© Massimo Pizzotti - Adobe Stock
We recommend the small village ofEs Castell if you like charming, picturesque places. A short visit at the end of the day is all it takes. Its small port is very pleasant, and you can stop off for a drink or to enjoy local dishes on the restaurant terrace. Le Trébol and La Josefina are two interesting places to visit in Es Castell, Menorca. Interested in picturesque villages? Check out our top10 villages to discover in Spain!
20. Menorca: the Eldorado of cycle tourism!
Cycle tourism© stockphoto-graf - Adobe Stock
Menorca is a small Spanish island that can be visited by bike. The Cami de Cavalls trail, already mentioned, is ideal for this. While Mallorca's trails are often steep, this is not the case on Menorca. So, even with children, you'll have no trouble visiting the island by bike. We also invite you to discover the ruta cicloturistica. This is a signposted itinerary designed for bike tours. It stretches from Ciutadella to Sant Lluis.
Where to stay in Menorca?
Menorca has some great places to stay during your vacation.
- In La Ciutadella
Among them is the Hôtel Nou Sant Antoni in La Ciutadella, with its tastefully decorated rooms and above all... peace and quiet! You'll love its stately home architecture, and the kindness of the owners. Everything is designed to help guests relax: spacious rooms, peace and quiet and local breakfasts. Click here for for availability and rates!
- At Es Marcadal
In Es Marcadal, thehotel-restaurant Jeni welcomes you. Local cuisine, spa area, swimming pool, air-conditioned rooms: all the services you'll need at this establishment. An ideal address for families with children, at affordable prices. Click here for for availability and rates!
How to get to Menorca
Menorca has its own airport. It's the easiest way to get to this island close to Spain, if you're coming from France. However, it's advisable to book your tickets as early as possible. That way, you'll get better prices, and more importantly, space! Don't hesitate to use our flight comparator to find your best-value route. You can also get to Menorca by sea. Several ferry companies are at your disposal. From Barcelona, Balearia and Trasmediterranea will take you by boat. Other cities can also be reached by ferry:
- valencia,
- toulon,
In addition to the two above-mentioned companies, there are also GNV, FRS and Corsica Ferries.
How do I get around Menorca?
Renting a car is the best way to get around Menorca. You'll be able to get around at your own pace, and without wasting time! Bus travel is still possible on the island, but connections are often long. What's more, not all of the island is served by bus, depending on the season. There are a number of car rental companies on the island, including Kayak, Interrent, Europcar and Meno-Cars in Mahon. As mentioned above, you can also make some of your journeys by bike. However, if you really want to explore the island in its entirety, a car will be quicker and more practical.
What's the most beautiful part of Menorca?
The island of Menorca has some splendid spots. But if we had to name just one, it would be the beach of Cala Macarella. UNESCO has awarded it the title of "Biosphere Reserve". Here you'll find some of the most beautiful coves in the Balearic Islands, not to mention Spain!
One is Macarella , with its 105-metre-long cove. Then there's Macarelleta, a smaller but equally splendid cove. Its waters are transparent and incredibly blue. Purity itself awaits you in this small, unspoilt part of Menorca. Let yourself be seduced by the cliffs, the turquoise waters and the calm. A real favorite! Located 15 km from Ciutadella de Menorca, you can get there easily by bus (or by car if you've rented one). You'll need good walking shoes, though, as the parking lot is about a 15-minute walk from the coves. A small inconvenience, but well worth it to preserve this little jewel of Balearic perfection.Bonus: a beach bar, the Suzy cafeteria, is on site to serve you.
When is the best time to visit Menorca?
If you want to make the most of your stay, we don't recommend the period from October to March. Many restaurants, hotels and shops are closed during this low season ("temporada baja").
If you want to save a little money, you should also avoid the period from July 15 to August 15. Activity will be at its peak... but so will prices! The ideal time to visit Menorca is therefore June, early July and September. Temperatures are very pleasant during these periods in Spain and on the Spanish islands. All the island's shops and restaurants will be accessible, and prices much more affordable. If you're traveling with children, you're bound by school vacations. In this case, opt for early July and late August for your family holiday in Menorca. Prices will be a little lower than at the height of summer, and it will be less crowded.
Menorca is a vacation destination with a lot to offer. There are plenty of things to do in Menorca, from sightseeing to walking and eating out. This selection will help youplan your next vacation in the best possible way, by choosing the best activities, between relaxation, culture and tasting!
You'll also find the latest things to do in Menorca:
