22 Things to do in Menorca, Spain
Encompassing enthralling escapes, enchanting villages and eminent beaches, this Balearic Island is a bucket list destination. This seaside haven is scattered with surprises. So, let’s suss out the Best Things to do in Menorca.
Fixed with whitewashed fishing villages, history-drenched ruins and flourishing marine life, Menorca is fringed with a full spectrum of natural splendour. Posing a paradisal paradox, age-old ruins are camouflaged among captivating coves and coveted beaches.
Whether you want to soar over the island on a paragliding experience, relish in the flavours at an authentic vineyard or dive deep beyond the surface in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Menorca makes for a fantastic foray.
Steeped deep in attractions and activities, this Mediterranean mecca is one of Europe’s most underrated destinations. Hold your horses, here are the Best Things to do in Menorca.
Menorca Travel Guide: 22 Things You Shouldn’t Miss
When compared to the neighbouring nightlife scene in Ibiza and the mind-blowing scenery in Mallorca, Menorca is often overlooked by travellers. Sheesh, I even did it the first time I visited the Balearic Islands. But you live and you learn, right?
Planted with perplexing sights, rugged coves and adrenaline-infused activities, Menorca is a piece of paradise. Providing a gateway into the glorious underwater world, you can explore just as much on land as you can in the saltwater. Here’s a basic breakdown of the best tours, activities and attractions in Menorca:
Cova d’en Xoroi
Pont d’en Gil
Fornells
Binibeca Vell
Lithica
Quad Bike Tour
Mahon
Kayaking
Horseback Tour
Waterparks
Taste The Cuisine
Sailing
Talayotic Route
Tour the Vineyards
Monte Toro
Spot Dolphins
Go Paragliding
Old Town Ciutadella
Bicycle
Ocean Activities
Albufera des Grau Biosphere Reserve
Beaches
22. Sip Cocktails Cliffside at Cova d’en Xoroi
Picture this. You’re sitting under the shade of whitewashed curtains, peering up at the towering cliffs above. You order the cocktail of your choice and begin the afternoon on a high note. The music’s buzzing, the breeze is blowing and you’re living all your Mediterranean dreams. That’s exactly the experience you can get at Cova d’en Xoroi.
This cliff-hugging bar boasts spellbinding scenery, sumptuous sofas and sexy-ass cocktails. Whether you want to spend the afternoon recovering from the sunshine or crank things up in the early evening, Cova d’en Xoroi is the ultimate place to do so. This is the place where the Med sparkles and shines, so to avoid missing out, make sure you book online and in advance.
21. Peruse Pont d’en Gil
Let’s kick things off in Menorca with a sheer spectacle. Assimilating a suspension bridge, wave-sculpted Pont d’en Gil is a natural sight that’s not to be missed. Serving as a testimony to Mother Nature’s brutal forces, this naturally-formed arch is just as humbling as it is a highlight.
Similar to Australia’s Great Ocean Road or Portugal’s Algarve coast, this natural sight makes for a stellar spot to watch the sunset. You can reach Pont d’en Gil by walking from Cala en Blanes or biking from Camí de Cavalls.
If you’re looking for an authentic travel experience Pont d’en Gil is one of the best things to do in Menorca, Spain.
20. Eat Lobster Stew in Fornells
Dowsed with a delectable gastronomy scene, Fornells is the ultimate spot for lobster stew in Menorca. This charismatic, port-based town sits right on the seashore. Given its position, you can only expect the most scrumptious seafood in Menorca.
This traditional dish is prepared in a caldereta (a clay pot) and is cooked with tomatoes, garlic and parsley among a handful of other ingredients. The hottest restaurants include Sa Llagosta, Can Tanu and Es Port. Nestled in the north of the island, you can devour this palatable plate in an authentic Mediterranean setting. And when you’re done, waltz on over to the San Antonio Castle or the 19th-century Fornells Tower for teeming vistas.
19. Swing by Binibeca Vell
Brimming with bohemian vibes and whitewashed edifices, Binibeca is a south-facing seaside haven. Teeming with slow-paced living, this former fishing village oozes tranquillity.
Stop by for a coffee, stroll through the maze-like streets of Binibeca Vell and pop down to Binibeca Beach for a dive.
After admiring the church and main square, you can pop down to Es Calo Blanc or Cala Torret for a lazy afternoon.
Don’t miss the local’s favourite, Restaurante en Binibeca-Bar Piscina Es Furat. This gem boasts delectable food, great service and funky tunes. Better yet, the tables overlook the Binibeca Vell, and there’s even a pool you can splash away in. I accidentally spent 5 hours here. No regrets!
18. Spend the Day at Lithica
Coined as Ses Pedreres de s’Hostal, Lithica is not what you’d typically expect from a Balearic Island.
Hugging the beating heart of Menorca, Lithica is lapped with rock-carved gems, verdant gardens and a series of idyllic labyrinths.
You’ll find myriad mazes made of excavated stone, orchards, minerals and plants. Taking place in a former limestone quarry, Pedreres de s’Hostal hones in on an enchanting endeavour.
Hosting frequent exhibitions, events, workshops and concerts, this dramatic space will take you back in time. Sitting just outside the Ciutadella, Lithica is a must-see in Menorca.
17. Go Wild on a Quad Bike Tour
Rev your engines, it’s time to let loose. If you’re keen to amp up the energy, head out on a quad bike tour around Menorca. Get your adrenaline pumping on a four-wheel motorbike as you discover the depths of this beautiful Balearic Island. On a side note, you’ll have to have a driver’s license!
16. Hang Out in Mahon
Nestled with the Mediterranean’s largest natural harbour, Mahon is melded with an intriguing mix of cultures. From the Romans to the French, this city has stood the test of time. Navigate the narrow cobblestone streets, colonial architecture and multitude of military fortifications. Cemented with a charming cosmopolitan culture, Mahon makes for a seriously stellar sojourn.
Meander through the Museum of Menorca and admire the Baroque building and learn about history in the 18th-century barracks of the Museo Militar de Menorca. Frolic through the old forts and be sure to slide in Fort Marlborough to your itinerary. For a fresh perspective on Mahon, jump on this wallet-friendly harbour cruise from Port Mahon.
15. Kayak Along the Coast
From the flourishing underwater world to the saline-white sands, Menorca is a mecca for seaside lovers. Kayaking around the coast allows you to discover more, in less time.
This pocket-friendly activity can be done practically anywhere along Menorca’s shores. As an alternative to biking or walking around, kayaking allows you to reach hidden coves and secluded beaches. Hot spots include Cala Galdana and the north coast’s marine reserve.
14. Saddle Up on a Horseback Tour
Yeehaw, cowgirl! Teeming with a rich equine tradition, Menorca is home to its very own breed of horse, the Cavall Menorqui.
Hop on a horseback tour and uncover some of the island’s most idyllic spots. Trail through the pine forests, clop up dusty roads and along the powdery-sand beaches.
This horseback riding tour trots through the inland roads to the eye-catching coastline of Cala Mitjana in Menorca.
13. Get Wet at a Waterpark
Who says that kids have to have all the fun? Spend the day going mental at one of the many waterparks in Menorca. Sitting on the southeast coast, Splash Sur Menorca features super-fast waterslides, a rolling river and an adults-only zone.
Whether you want to scream your heart out or relax in the Jacuzzi pool, Splash Sur Menorca is a great way to break up all the sightseeing. Kids or no kids, a day at the waterpark is one of the top things to do in Menorca.
12. Taste Fresh Farm-to-Table Cuisine
Crowned with a congenial climate, Menorca’s Mediterranean weather draws in tourists from all over the world. Not only is the climate perfect for beaches and outdoor activities, but it’s fit for creating fertile crops.
Sun-drenched Menorca is pinned for its lush pasture, and with that comes a world of delectable dairy products, wines and meats. Don’t forget to try local delicacies like Mahon cheese, sobrasada sausage, flaó pastries, lobster stew and sweet pudin de requesón.
11. Go Sailing
There's no better feeling than sailing through Menorca.
With the saltwater kissing your skin and the breeze blowing in your hair, you'll be feeling like some sort of mermaid-pirate-goddess. Argh, me hearties!
There’s no doubt that sailing is in abundance in the Balearic Islands. Enjoy this full-day boat tour with a paella lunch or this sunset sailing trip from Fornells Bay.
Sailing the seas is one of the best things to do in Menorca, especially if you’re interested in accessing sheltered coves and off-the-beaten-track beaches.
10. Discover the Talayotic Route
Dotted with over 1,500 history-drenched sites, Menorca is coined as an open-air museum.
Intertwined with Iron Age gems, this island has been inhabited for more than 3 millennia. Originally home to the Talayotic civilisation, their remains can be found scattered around the island.
You’ll encounter intact stone structures and megalithic defence towers, and the major show-stoppers include the Trepuco and Torralba d’en Salort.
9. Tour the Vineyards
Nestled with nine main cultivators, Menorca boasts verdant vineyards and traditional wineries. Spend a leisurely afternoon meandering through Menorca’s vineyards and sampling the island’s flavours. Bodegas Binifadet Vineyard steals the show, with guided tours, wine samples, and cheese and jam tastings too. Get off the grid on this family winery tour and tasting.
8. Climb Monte Toro
Menorca is framed by a fairly flat terrain, with unparalleled splendour straddling the sloping hilltops. You’ll find Monte Toro smack bang in the heart of the island, soaring up to 350m. As the centre of centuries-old pilgrimage, this humble mountain merits some sort of a spiritual journey.
Home to a 17th-century monastery and a traditional restaurant, Monte Toro poses panoramic scenery all around. Starting the hike in Es Mercadal, you can reach the top in under an hour.
7. Spot Dolphins
This Mediterranean mecca is a hot spot for dolphins, sea turtles and depending on the season, sperm whales. If you’re a nature lover, spotting dolphins is one of the top things to do in Menorca.
If you didn’t know by now, Menorca is a must-see for marine enthusiasts…
6. Go Paragliding
Reach for the skies! Get a fresh perspective on this Balearic Island as you fly over all the pinnacle points.
If you’re not overly ardent when it comes to paragliding, you could swap the mountains for the ocean on a parasailing experience.
Among adrenaline junkies, paragliding is one of the most popular things to do in Menorca. Harbouring two launching points, you can soar like a bird from Monte Toro or Son Bou.
5. Uncover the Old Town Ciutadella
Menorca’s capital city is stretched with scintillating stories, awe-worthy architecture and a character-packed personality.
The Old Town Ciutadella really steals the show, with aesthetic appeal reigning throughout.
Enclosing the western stretch of Menorca, Ciutadella is scattered with a picturesque harbour and a maze-like Medieval centre.
Stop for a sunset vermut, indulge in some Spanish tapas and admire the unique fusion of gothic, baroque and neoclassical influences in the 14th-century Santa Maria Cathedral in Placa des Born. Shop ‘til you drop at the Mercat Municipal de Ciutadella, enjoy the greenery in the Bishop’s Palace Courtyard and appreciate the opulence at Casa Olivar.
4. Explore by Bicycle
It’s no secret that this island is home to an inundating inventory of possibilities. It turns out that cycling is one of the best things to do in Menorca, especially thanks to the Camí de Cavalls. This legend-packed trail follows the coastline, wilding through all the hot spots.
If you’re serious about cycling or you’d like to give part of this a go, don’t miss out on the opportunity of a lifetime. Covering a total of 185 km, the Camí de Cavalls is fringed with forests, cliffs, beaches and coves.
3. Dive Deep into the Ocean
Considering Menorca is encircled by water, it’d be a bit ridiculous to not include it in this list of things to do. Bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, this Spanish utopia is unparalleled when it comes to the water.
Whether you want to try your luck doing watersports, come face to face with wildlife or bury your feet in the sand, Menorca is melded with an invigorating mix of possibilities. Learn how to scuba dive in a Marine Reserve, check out the colourful sealife on a snorkelling safari tour, or see it all from above on a pocket-friendly glass-bottom boat trip.
Test out your balance on a paddle board, challenge yourself windsurfing or keep it calm on a traditional llaut boat cruise.
2. Wander Astray in the Albufera des Grau Biosphere Reserve
Nestled in the island’s northeastern corner, the Norte de Menorca marine reserve is a quintessential experience. Touted as the ‘green lung’, the Albufera des Grau is a natural park that boasts a getaway from godsend.
As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, you’ll find a flourishing diversity of coastal inlets, olive woods, marshlands and plunge-worthy ponds.
Harnessing a handful of endemic species like the Balearic lizard and the fisher eagle, this is a stellar spot for nature and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Bask in all the beauty on this speedboat tour around Albufera des Grau. Topped with paddle boarding and snorkelling, you’ll get to discover the island’s coves and beaches too.
1. Beach it!
Fringed with pine forests, palm-frond parasols, craggy coves, and azure-coloured water, visiting the beaches in Menorca is an absolute must. When compared to Mallorca, the beach scene remains relatively untouched, making it the perfect fit for those looking to get off the beaten road.
This Balearic Island is blended with that much silky-white sand that you might have to pinch yourself. Literally. Grab your sunglasses, it’s time to hit the highlights.
Here are some of the best beaches in Menorca:
Cala Galdana, Ferreries
Cala Turqueta, Ferreries
Cala Escorxada, Ferreries
Playa de Binigaus, Es Migjorn Gran
Cala Mitjana, Ferreries
Cala Macarella, Ferreries
Cala Macarelleta (my personal favourite)
Cala Pregonda, Es Mercadal
Playas Banyul, Ciutadella
Playa de Cavallería
Playa Son Bou, Alaior
I spent two days jumping between Menorca’s best beaches. If you’ve only got time to visit one, make sure you don’t miss Cala Macarelleta. You can reach this gem by walking along the cliff-hugging coastal track from Cala Macarella. Or, you can do what I did and hike from Cala Turqueta.
To get to Cala Macarelleta from Cala Turqueta, follow the coastal track and signposts ‘Cami de Cavalls’. It usually takes around 45 minutes, and the walk isn’t too strenuous if you’re wearing the right shoes (no flip-flops!). I’m a hiking fanatic, so I powered through and arrived in less than 25 minutes. Heck, you could even run it in 15 minutes. But hey, this is a summer vacation that we’re talking about. Not the Olympics, right?
If you’re visiting Menorca in the peak season (June to August), make sure you arrive early to claim your spot. I’m talking before 9 - 10 am, people! The beaches get packed and from afar, it looks like a sea of sardines (people) on the sand. But if you’ve been to Europe before, you’ll know that this is the standard in the Mediterranean. The piercing, impossibly blue water is worth the trip, trust me.
Jump on this Menorca boat trip to see all the island’s highlights. Stopping off at an array of natural coves and notorious beaches, this top-rated day trip even includes a paella lunch.
More Things to do in Menorca
Museo Etnologico Molí de Dalt
Torralba d’en Salord Talaiotic Village
Fort Marlborough
Cova des Coloms
Favàritx Lighthouse
La Naveta des Tudons
Son Bou
S’Hort de Sant Patrici Winery
Best Time to Visit Menorca
The shoulder seasons, May and October, are considered the best time to visit Menorca. With pleasant temperatures and sun-filled days, you can enjoy fewer crowds too. This is the ideal season for budget travellers, considering significantly lower prices of accommodation, transport, flights and activities.
June and September hone in on hot weather, waltzed with village celebrations and citadel festivities. The Ciutadella’s Fiesta de Sant Joan and Mahon’s International Jazz Festival are some of the best things to do in Menorca, Spain.
Where to Stay in Menorca
For a small island, Menorca is certainly no short of a place to stay.
From the sprawling shopping scene in Mahon and the family-focused Punta Prima to the blissful beaches in Cala en Porter and the watersports-loving Son Bou, there is a lot on offer.
Here are some of the best places to stay in Menorca:
Backpacker: Hostal Port Fornells
Backpacker: Hostal La Palma
Budget: Palladium Hotel Menorca
Budget: Grupotel Playa Club
Families: Comitas Floramar
Families: RVHotels Sea Club Menorca
Couples: Hotel Petit Sagitario
Couples: S’Hotelet d’es Born Suites & Spa
Luxury: Villa Le Blanc
Luxury: Meliá Cala Galdana
How to Get Around Menorca
With hidden coves, secluded beaches and quaint villages tucked around every corner, Menorca is a mecca for travellers. Whether you want to explore the underwater world in the north, spend a day snorkelling in the south, or discover the history in the east or west, every inch of this Balearic Island is a must-see.
There are so many things to do in Menorca, but what’s the best way to get around?
Renting a car is the most common and convenient option. Don’t forget that Spaniards drive on the right-hand side of the road, so always practice extra caution.
If you're like me and don't have a driver's license, it turns out that you're in luck. Walking and cycling are very popular in Menorca. There is an eclectic array of cycling routes throughout the island, so if you're keen on an active holiday, this is an ideal option.
Buses in Menorca run rather frequently, with routes connecting almost every end of the island. You can check the various routes and timetables here. During the high season (May to September), there are buses that run to the local beaches. Just make sure you book your tickets online and in advance to avoid missing out! From Ciutadella (Old Town), you can catch the following buses:
Bus 68: Cala Turqueta - 30 minutes + 15 minute walk to the beach
Bus 69: Macarella - 40 minutes + 20 minutes walk to the beach
Bus 66: Son Saura - 30 minutes + 10 minute walk to the beach
Bus 62: Cala Morell, La Vall Algaiarens - 20 - 30 minutes + 10 minute walk to the beach
The aforementioned bus tickets can’t be purchased on the bus. I watched big groups of travellers get turned away because they didn’t book beforehand. So don’t miss out!
Google Maps doesn’t serve well when travelling in Menorca. The best way to figure out directions is by looking at online forums and transport pages.
Lastly, you can always catch a cab too. Make sure the driver is using the meter, and if not, ask to see a price guide.
FAQS
What is Menorca famous for?
Menorca is well-known for its beautiful beaches, quaint towns and honey-coloured Old Town (Ciutadella). This Balearic Island is famed for its Xoriguer gin, rich marine life and seafood cuisine.
What is the most beautiful part of Menorca?
The Ciutadella (Old Town) is one of the most beautiful parts of Menorca. The capital city Mahón and the town of Binibeca are also picturesque. The southern coast boasts beautiful beaches like Cala Macarelleta, Cala en Turqueta and Playa des Talaier.
Does Menorca have dolphins?
Thanks to Menorca’s biosphere reserve status and well-preserved waters, the island is home to an abundance of marine life. You’re more likely to see dolphins on a sunrise cruise at Port d’Alcudia.
How many days do you need to see Menorca?
7 days is enough time to scratch the surface. In one week, you can dabble in the cuisine, swim with marine life and bathe at some of the best beaches in Menorca. To dive deep into the history, culture and landscape, 10 – 14 days would be ideal.
Why Visit Menorca?
Gosh, why not? Although Menorca is often overlooked when compared to Mallorca or Ibiza, this island is something truly special. Decked out with dazzling beaches, secluded coves and ancient citadels, this Balearic Island is a must-see.
Whether you want to explore a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, drink at a cliff-hugging bar or kayak through turquoise waters, Menorca is home to a world of opportunities. This petite piece of paradise poses a getaway like no other. Before you book your trip, make sure you add these 21 Things to do in Menorca to your bucket list.
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