If you’re thinking about visiting Menorca for the first time, you’ve picked a quiet gem in the Balearic Islands. It’s smaller than Mallorca and less flashy than Ibiza, but that’s part of the charm. Menorca is calm, natural, and beautiful in a soft, simple way.
It’s the kind of place where you can swim in hidden coves, eat fresh seafood by the water, and walk through old stone streets without bumping into crowds. If you’re not into wild parties and prefer peaceful sunsets, Menorca might be your favorite place in Spain.
Here’s a guide to help you plan your first visit to this amazing island.
Getting there
Menorca has its own airport, and it’s easy to fly in from mainland Spain or other parts of Europe. Flights from Barcelona, Madrid, or Palma de Mallorca are frequent and short. In summer, many airlines offer direct flights from cities like London, Paris, or Milan.
If you’re already in Mallorca, you can also take a ferry to Menorca. It takes a few hours, but it’s a nice way to travel if you’re not in a hurry.
Getting around
Once you arrive, renting a car is your best option. The island is small, but the best beaches and towns are spread out. Public buses are okay for main towns, but if you want to explore hidden coves or small villages, a car gives you freedom.
Roads are simple and quiet. It doesn’t take long to drive from one side to the other. Just follow the signs, enjoy the views, and don’t rush.
Where to stay
Menorca has two main towns — Mahon and Ciutadella. Both are great, and which one you choose depends on what you’re looking for.
Mahon
This is the capital of the island. It sits on a big natural harbor, one of the largest in Europe. Mahon has a mix of British and Spanish influence, with old buildings, quiet plazas, and waterfront restaurants. It’s peaceful, classy, and relaxed.
Ciutadella
Located on the west side, this town has more of a medieval feel. Narrow streets, Gothic churches, and a lovely old port. At night, the city lights reflect on the water, and the atmosphere is super romantic. Many people love the charm of Ciutadella.
If you want beach vibes, you can also stay in coastal areas like Cala Galdana, Son Bou, or Punta Prima. These spots have resorts and are good for families.
Top beaches
Menorca is all about beaches. The coastline is full of small, hidden coves with turquoise water and white sand. Some are easy to reach, others need a walk, but they’re all worth it.
Cala Macarella and Cala Macarelleta
These are two of the most famous beaches on the island. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is soft and white. Macarelleta is smaller and feels more private. Both get busy in summer, so try to go early.
Cala Mitjana
Another favorite. It’s surrounded by pine trees and cliffs. You can walk here from Cala Galdana. It’s a good beach for swimming and relaxing.
Son Bou
This is the longest beach in Menorca. If you like long walks by the sea, this is perfect. There are sunbeds, beach bars, and restaurants nearby.
Cala Pregonda
It’s a bit off the path, but it looks totally different from other beaches. The sand is golden-red, and the rocks around it are smooth and strange-shaped. The walk to get there is about 30 minutes, but it’s peaceful and beautiful.
What to eat
Food in Menorca is simple and delicious. Local dishes use fresh seafood, cheese, olive oil, and herbs. You won’t find fancy stuff everywhere, but you’ll taste honest flavors.
Try the local cheese called Mahon cheese. It’s slightly salty and comes in different ages. Great with bread and olives.
Seafood is a big deal. Go for caldereta de langosta, a lobster stew that’s rich and full of flavor. It’s a bit pricey but a local favorite.
You’ll also find sobrasada, a soft sausage made with pork and paprika. And don’t miss ensaimadas, a sweet pastry that’s light and fluffy.
For drinks, try pomada — it’s gin mixed with lemon soda. Menorca has its own gin called Xoriguer, made since the 1700s. You can visit the distillery in Mahon.
Best things to do
Even if you come just for the beaches, there’s more to see and do in Menorca.
Walk the Cami de Cavalls
This is a historic trail that goes all around the island. It was once used to protect the coast. Today, it’s used for walking and biking. Some parts are easy, others more rugged, but the views are always stunning.
Visit Monte Toro
This is the highest point on the island. It’s not very tall, but the view is amazing. You can see the entire island from the top on a clear day. There’s also a small church and a café.
See the Naveta d’Es Tudons
This is one of the oldest buildings in Europe, older than the pyramids. It’s a burial monument made of stone, shaped like an upside-down boat. It’s near Ciutadella and easy to visit.
Explore Binibeca Vell
This is a small whitewashed village by the sea. It looks like a postcard. Narrow paths, low arches, and houses all painted white. It’s calm and perfect for slow walks and pictures.
Sunset at Cap de Cavalleria
This lighthouse sits on a cliff at the north of the island. Come here in the evening. The light, the sea, the wind — everything feels dramatic and peaceful at once.
Local tips
- The island is quiet in winter, and many places close. Best time to visit is from May to October
- Wear good shoes if you plan to hike to beaches. Some paths are rocky
- Water is safe to drink, but most locals use bottled
- Always bring sunscreen and a hat — the sun gets strong even on cloudy days
- In small villages, many shops close during siesta (around 2 to 5 PM)
Menorca is not about big events or flashy attractions. It’s about small moments. A quiet beach with no one else. A slow meal by the harbor. The sound of the sea and the wind in the pine trees.
If it’s your first time here, go slow. You don’t need to do everything. Just let the island set the pace. It has a way of showing you the beauty in the simple things.
