Menorca, Spain: a mediterranean hidden gem
Menorca, the tranquil gem of the Balearic Islands, is known for its unspoiled natural beauty, rich history and of course its stunning beaches. Unlike its well-known neighbors Mallorca and Ibiza, Menorca offers a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and stunning coastal landscapes. Here's your ultimate guide for a relaxing vacation on Menorca.
Menorca in a nutshell
Best Beaches – Cala Macarella, Cala Macarelleta, Cala En Turqueta, Cala Mitjana, Cala en Brut
Best time to visit – June & September to avoid the crowds while still enjoying the warm weather
Towns to visit – Binibeca Vell, Ciutadella, Mahón, Es Castell, Fornells
Where to stay – Vestige Son Vell, Morvedra Nou, Hotel Rural Sant Ignasi, Torralbenc, Faustino Gran, Casa Ladico
Where to eat & drink – Vermell, Nonna Bazaar, Enricana, Sunset Bar, Smoix
How to get around – Menorca has some public transfer like busses but it is definitely recommended to rent a car
Menorca’s best beaches
Cala Macarella and Cala Macarelleta, its smaller sister beach, are the source of Menorca's postcard-perfect beauty. These two beaches on the south coast of the island are nestled between pine-covered cliffs and offer crystal-clear, turquoise waters. Cala Macarella is slightly larger and more accessible, while Cala Macarelleta, just a short walk away, is more secluded. The soft, white sand and calm waters make these beaches ideal for swimming and sunbathing. These are two of the most popular beaches on the island, which is why they are only accessible by public bus during the summer months (June - September) in high season. The bus departs from Ciutadella every hour and goes directly to a separate parking lot in Cala Macarella. Alternatively, you can also reach the beaches by parking your car at one of the nearby bays, for example in Cala Galdana or Cala Turqueta. From Cala Galdana, it is a 30-minute walk (easy level) to Cala Macarella and around 15 minutes to Cala Macarelleta.
Cala Mitjana is another beautiful beach on the south coast of Menorca, known for its deep blue waters and surrounding cliffs. The beach is relatively easy to reach from the nearby parking lot. If you prefer a more intimate setting, Cala Mitjaneta, a smaller cove just around the corner, offers a more secluded experience. These beaches are ideal for those who want to swim, snorkel or simply relax in a tranquil setting.
Cala Turqueta is famous for its turquoise waters that are almost impossibly vibrant. This southern beach is a favorite among locals and tourists, offering a slice of paradise that feels like it's straight out of a travel magazine. Surrounded by pine trees, Cala Turqueta has a wild, untouched feel, despite being quite popular. Arrive early in the summer months since the parking can get quite full in the peak hours.
Cala en Brut, located on the west coast of Menorca near Ciutadella, offers a different kind of beach experience that is more about adventure than relaxing on the sand. This unique place consists of flat rock platforms and concrete terraces built into the cliffs, offering space for sunbathing. The main attraction at Cala en Brut is cliff jumping, with cliffs of varying heights suitable for both beginners and advanced cliff jumpers. The crystal clear, deep blue water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling and is a popular spot for locals and tourists looking for a dynamic day at the beach.
Towns to visit
Mahón (or Maó in Catalan) is the capital of Menorca and is located on the east coast. The city is home to one of the largest natural harbors in the world, which has shaped much of the city's history and architecture. Don't miss a visit to the historic fortress of La Mola, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the harbor and the surrounding area. In the evening, the waterfront comes alive with restaurants and bars, perfect for a relaxed dinner with a view.
Ciutadella is situated at the other end of the island. It is the former capital of Menorca and a town with impressive historical charm. With its labyrinth of narrow streets, stunning palaces and impressive churches, Ciutadella feels like a step back in time. In the evening, the picturesque harbor is the perfect place to enjoy seafood while watching the sun set over the water.
Fornells is a charming fishing village on the north coast of Menorca, famous for its beautiful bay and delicious seafood, especially its signature dish, caldereta de langosta (lobster stew). The whitewashed houses and narrow streets of the village lead to a picturesque harbor filled with fishing boats.
Binibeca is a picturesque village on the south-east coast of Menorca, famous for its labyrinth of whitewashed houses and narrow streets that symbolize Mediterranean charm. Stroll through the winding streets of the village, where every corner offers a new postcard-perfect view of white walls, blue shutters and blooming bougainvillea. The village is also close to some beautiful beaches, such as Binibeca Nou, which is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea with its golden sand and clear waters.
Es Castell, located in the easternmost part of Menorca, is the first place in Spain where you can see the sunrise every day. The center of the town is the beautiful port of Cales Fonts, a picturesque place with colorful fishing boats, waterfront restaurants and lively markets.
Where to stay
As Menorca is a very quiet, relaxing and tranquil paradise, there are many rural hotels in the middle of nature that can only be reached by car. You can mainly stay in the area in and around Ciutadella, in Mahón or simply somewhere in the middle of Menorca.
In and around Ciutadella
Vestige Son Vell is an extensive 180-hectare estate and restored manor from the 18th century. The boutique hotel is located around an 15-minutes drive southbound from Ciutadella. From the property you an reach the closest beach Cala Son Vell by foot or by bike. Menorca’s famous hiking path, Camí de Cavalls, is also just around the corner. Vestige Son Vell is definitely a place for those seeking slow luxury in an immersive historic scenery.
Morvedra Nou is known for its gorgeous sunset bar and the green-white striped designs paired with colourful flowers and whitewashed buildings. It is a typical balearic finca on a huge property with various room categories and a well known restaurant. It is also located in the area around Ciutadella, approximately 15 min by car from the center.
Hotel Rural Sant Ignasi is a recently renovated old farmhouse around 5 min from Ciutadella. It offers different rooms and Suites with private terraces and a boho styled interior. The whitewashed boutique hotel with its light green window shutters, lavender flowers, bouganvilla and olive trees spreads beautiful mediterranean vibes. They also have a tennis court to play squash or tennis.
Faustino Gran, located in the city of Ciutadella is a stunning boutique hotel composed of three palaces from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. The various rooms and suites are designed in a traditional Menorcan style with beautiful details and a modern touch. They also offer different experiences like boat trips.
In and around Mahón
Amagatay, offers 20 Suites in an authentic and original Menorcan style combined with modern influences. Just as its sister hotel Morvedra Nou, it is a beautiful rural finca hotel with the recognisable white and green design. It is locates around a 15-min drive from Mahón.
Torralbenc is one of the small luxury hotels in Menorca. It is located in Alaior, a few minutes by car from Mahón. The renewed farmhouse consist of different buildings, offering various rooms and suites as well as a seperate spa house. From the pool you can see right to the sea while sunbathing on their sunbeds with a light breeze in your hair. And not to forget: the breakfast there is delicious!
Bordoy Casa Ládico is the perfect choice if you plan to stay in Menorcas capital Mahón. It is located in a beautiful small street only a few minutes away from from the city center. The charming boutique hotel is designed in a modern but also traditional design. Daily breakfast is included and they also have a swimming pool in their courtyard.
Jardí de ses Bruixes is located just around the corner of Bordoy Casa Ládico and is also the perfect city hotel for a more budget friendly Menorca trip. They offer various room categories and even garden suites with their own patio. Breakfast takes place in their cute green courtyard oasis. Even if you’re not staying here you have to stop by for breakfast.
Where to eat & drink
Menorca offers various restaurants – from local spots around the harbour of Es Castell or Fornells up to touristic Restaurants in the harbour area of Ciutadella or romatic date night spots with a fantastic sunset view or a stunning ambiance surrounded by nature.
Vermell is the main restaurant at Vestige Son Vell and offers delicious mediterranean cusine with a healthy and light touch in one of the most stunning ambiances we ever had dinner at. This is definitely the place to go if you want to have the most romantic dinner in the most exclusive setting. Make sure to try their Matcha lava cake – I am sure this was the best one I ever had.
Nonna Bazaar is definitely the right dinner spot if you’re seeking a perfect dinner experince in an stunning setting with great food and a huge menu. They offer dishes from various parts of the world such as Italy, Spain and Morocco as well as regional dishes from Menorca. The vibe in the evening is amazing, especially when the DJ is playing some chillout music.
Enricana, a seafront restaurant with japanese cusine and great sushi is known for its whitewashed facade which creates a beautiful atmosphere when the sun is slowly setting. If you want to visit during the sunset time, you should definitely make a reservation.
Smoix belongs to the Hotel Rural Sant Ignasi and is located close to Ciutadella. The restaurant offers mediterranean cuisine with a modern touch in a great evening setting.
If you’re seeking a stunning sunset, you should definitely visit the Sunset Bar at Morvedra Nou. It is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner in the evening sun with great wines and small dishes such as burrata, local cheese platter and more.
How to get around
Renting a car is by far the most convenient and flexible way to get around Menorca. The island is relatively small, and having your own vehicle allows you to reach even the most remote beaches, explore charming inland towns, and take in the scenic countryside at your own pace.
Why Rent a Car? Menorca’s public transportation system is reliable but limited in scope, especially if you want to explore off-the-beaten-path locations or travel outside the main towns. With a rental car, you can easily visit multiple sites in a day, stop for spontaeous photo opportunities, and access secluded beaches that aren’t reachable by bus.
Driving in Menorca: The roads in Menorca are well-maintained, and traffic is generally light, making driving a pleasant experience. The island’s main road, the Me-1, runs from Mahón in the east to Ciutadella in the west and connects most of the major towns and attractions.
Parking: Parking is usually easy to find in smaller towns and rural areas, though it can be more challenging in the busier towns of Mahón and Ciutadella, especially during peak season. Many beaches have designated parking areas, but these can fill up quickly in summer, so it’s a good idea to arrive early.
Of course you’ll also find public transportation and busses on Menorca. Menorca’s bus network offers a viable alternative, especially for getting around between the main towns and popular tourist areas.
Bus Routes: The bus service in Menorca is operated by TMSA and Torres, covering most of the island’s major routes. The buses are modern, air-conditioned, and generally run on time. The main bus routes connect Mahón, Ciutadella, and other key towns like Alaior, Es Mercadal, and Fornells. During the summer, there are also additional routes that serve popular beaches such as Cala Macarella.
Taxis can be a convenient option for short trips, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or after a late night out. You’ll find taxi stands in most towns, as well as at popular tourist spots and the airport. Taxis in Menorca are metered, and the rates are regulated, so you won’t need to worry about negotiating fares.