You’ve probably heard of Mallorca, right? But let me introduce you to its charming little sister, Menorca, which is just as stunning! When I first asked about it in a travel group, some folks thought I had a typo.
Related read: Top Mallorca Attractions & Activities
I didn’t even know Menorca existed until I moved to Spain, and I feel so lucky to have discovered it!
This island may be small, but it’s bursting with incredible beaches, quaint towns filled with picturesque alleys, and an overall vibe of endless freedom. Sounds like your kind of getaway?
If you want to see all the beauty for yourself, check out the highlights on my Instagram!
Here’s an overview:
Menorca is one of the stunning gems in the Balearic Islands, nestled alongside the lively Ibiza, the chic Mallorca, and the charming little Formentera. And let’s not forget there are a few more islands sprinkled around in the Mediterranean, just a short 80–90 km hop from the Iberian Peninsula!
You’ll hear both Spanish and Catalan spoken here, which adds a lovely local flavor to your experience.
As of 2025, the island is home to about 100,000 residents, which is roughly a tenth of Mallorca’s population. It’s a cozy community that makes Menorca feel like a hidden paradise waiting to be explored!
Sailing boat in a bay in Menorca, Spain.
Arrival to Menorca
Depending on where you’re flying from, you might not find direct flights. I usually hop on Expedia to explore the latest options, and I recommend you to do the same.
But don’t worry—there are definitely flights with quick connections all over Europe. If you’re in Barcelona, you can catch a flight that’s just about half an hour long, or for a more scenic route, there’s a ferry that’ll take you and your car across the sea in around eight hours.
When to Visit?
We visited in early to mid-April, and the weather was just perfect! It was that sweet spot where it wasn’t too hot or too cold—just pleasantly mild.
Now, if you’re thinking about a dip in the sea, I have to say, the brave souls in our group took the plunge, even though the water was pretty chilly. The swimming season officially kicks off on May 1st and runs through October 31st.
If you can swing it, I’d highly recommend aiming for June. That’s when the water is warm enough for a nice swim, and the island hasn’t yet been overrun by tourists from northern Europe.
A friend of mine shared that she and her buddy rode their motorcycles down in August, and they struggled to find parking at the beaches. So, keep that in mind if you’re planning a summer trip!
Related read: The Best Beaches in Barcelona (Including the Nude & Gay Beaches)
Car Rental in Menorca
If you want to explore the island comfortably, even though it’s not super big, I definitely suggest renting a car. It makes getting around so much easier!
There are plenty of rental companies right at Mahón Airport, and there are also some that aren’t at the airport but will deliver a car to you when you land.
You can use PAAPM, which searches for the best car rental deals. So I think it’s worth looking into!
use the Paapm Paapm search to find the best rates
Public transportation is available—use the below map or Google Maps.
Public transport map of Menorca, Spain.
Where To Stay In Menorca?
Just like in Mallorca, finding a hotel room for a family of four can be a bit of a challenge. Thankfully, we were traveling with my parents, so we ended up splitting into two rooms—one for the couple and one for each kid. It worked out perfectly!
The hotel I stayed in is this one:
Hotel Gran Sagitario
This place is relatively small and cozy, offering great value for what you pay.
Now, I have to be honest—the food wasn’t exactly mind-blowing, but honestly, that seemed to be the vibe on the island overall. What I did love was the indoor pool; we spent a few days enjoying that, especially when we needed a break from the sun.
But the real gem for me was the cove just a two-minute stroll from the hotel. It’s tiny and absolutely beautiful, making it the perfect backdrop for my morning runs.
And let’s talk about Ciutadella! Just a quick seven-minute drive away, it’s such a charming city that I really enjoyed exploring. Everything’s close enough to be convenient, but you won’t feel overwhelmed by crowds. Perfect balance, if you ask me!
Book it here!
Hotel Gran Sagitario in Menorca, Spain.
Other Great Places To Stay In Menorca
I always have my travel lists ready to go! I’ve got a bunch of spots lined up from the US to the UK, and let me tell you, Menorca had some amazing places I was eyeing that just weren’t available this time around.
Here are a few that really caught my attention and I would’ve loved to stay at!
Alcaufar Vell Hotel Rural & Restaurant
The spot I was really hoping to check out ended up being booked up for us. It had that perfect rustic vibe with a restaurant—just my style! Honestly, I think that’s all you really need for a great experience.
Book it here!
Alcaufar Vell Hotel Rural & Restaurant in Menorca, Spain.
Ses Sucreres Small & Slow Hotel
I absolutely love those laid-back spots, especially when they’re tucked away in a charming 19th-century building. There’s just something so delightful about simple rooms that have a little bit of flair, plus a tasty local breakfast to start the day off right!
Book it here!
Garden of the Ses Sucreres Small and Slow Hotel in Menorca, Spain.
Hotel Hevresac Singular & Small
If you’re looking for a cozy spot just a short stroll from the capital, this charming 4-star hotel is a gem! It’s not too big, but that just adds to its charm. The decor is delightful, giving it a warm and inviting vibe. Plus, you really can’t beat the value for what you get here. It’s got some impressive ratings across various booking platforms, so you know you’re in for a treat!
Book it here!
Lobby of the Hotel Hevresac Singular & Small in Mahon, Menorca, Spain.
Carema Garden Village
We stumbled upon this charming 3-star hotel, and let me tell you, it looked absolutely delightful! The surrounding area is just as beautiful and peaceful—definitely a nice spot to unwind.
Book it here!
View onto Carema Garden Village and its pool in Menorca, Spain.
Barceló Nura
If you’re looking for a fantastic spot for the whole family, I highly recommend this 5-star hotel that’s super close to Splash Water Park. It has both an outdoor and indoor pool, plus a spa for some well-deserved relaxation. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of fun!
Book it here!
Barceló Nura in Menorca, Spain.
The Cami de Cavalls is an amazing coastal trail that wraps around Menorca, perfect for those who love to hike and soak in the stunning views of the island’s rugged coastline. If you’re into water sports, you’re in for a treat!
There are tons of options for kayaking, surfing, and snorkeling that will keep your adrenaline pumping and your spirits high.
Cami de Cavalls in Menorca, Spain.
The Capital City, Mahón
Mahón didn’t quite wow me. Sure, there’s a charming promenade to stroll along and a distillery that I’ll dive into shortly, but I wouldn’t say it’s a must-visit if you’re vacationing in Menorca.
Maybe I just didn’t uncover its hidden gems, but I didn’t really find anything that sparked my excitement here.
The Distillery Xoringeur Gin Distillery
The Xoringeur Gin Distillery has been around since the 17th century! Founded by the Xoringeur family, who originally hail from Italy, this place has been crafting gin using traditional methods passed down through generations.
Now, you might be wondering, “How did gin make its way to Menorca?” Well, during the time when Menorca was under British rule, sailors from the Royal Navy brought their gin-making skills to the island. Who wouldn’t want to hang out on a sunny island instead of heading back home?
Today, the distillery proudly continues this legacy, using only the finest ingredients and those beautiful traditional copper stills. If you get a chance, definitely take a guided tour! You’ll get to see all the old-school tools they used back in the day. The best part is at the end of the tour when you get to taste a fantastic variety of gin flavors—everything from the classic London Derry to unique versions infused with local plants.
They produce over half a million bottles a year, and you can find their gin not just in Spain but all over the globe—from the U.S. to Japan, Australia, and even New Zealand!
We decided to pop in on a whim, and unfortunately, there wasn’t a guided tour available at that moment. But we made the most of it and we explored the distillery on our own, sampled different gins, and even picked up a few bottles to take home as souvenirs. It turned out to be a delightful experience, even without the tour!
So if you’re ever in Menorca, don’t miss out on this gem. Whether you go for a tour or just to taste some gin, you won’t regret it!
To book a guided tour, visit their website.
Address: Moll de Ponent, 91, 07701 Maó, Illes Balears
If you do visit, hop to the other side of the road; maybe you’ll be lucky and a fishing boat will dock and you can observe the sea catch.
Gin distillery Xoringeur in Menorca, Spain.
The Cardamom Menorca Indian Restaurant
If you’re looking for food that warms the heart (especially for my vegetarian friends out there), this is the place to be!
I can’t recommend this restaurant enough. It even won over my mom and my little guy, who aren’t usually fans of Indian cuisine. You’re in for a treat!
Address: Moll de Llevant, 267, 07701 Maó, Illes Balears
Restaurant Cardamom Menorca, Spain.
Ciutadella
Ciutadella is such a charming spot! Once the capital of Menorca, this place has roots that stretch back to the 13th century. I love wandering through its old town, where you’ll find an impressive cathedral that really stands out, along with cozy alleys filled with boutique shops and fantastic restaurants just waiting to be explored.
These days, Ciutadella is a lively port city and a key commercial hub for the whole island. It’s got this great mix of history and modern life that makes it so enjoyable.
Let’s talk about the beaches! Cala Macarella and Cala Turqueta are absolute gems. Picture this: turquoise waters that sparkle in the sun and soft, fine white sand that feels amazing underfoot. You won’t want to miss spending a day soaking up the sun at these beautiful spots.
Ciutadella Menorca, Spain.
Café Central
This café is like a slice of heaven! I’ve honestly never experienced anything quite like it. The vibe is so unique, with an atmosphere that feels almost monastic, complete with a striking image of Jesus on the wall.
I was totally charmed by how they poured the tea using a wooden stick—it took me back to a cozy matcha spot I visited in Tokyo.
The dishes here are not just tasty; they’re a feast for the eyes too. We indulged in this thick, meaty cookie that was absolutely bursting with peanuts and flavor. It had that perfect balance of softness with just a hint of crispiness around the edges.
Don’t miss this place, as it’s a must-visit on your culinary adventure!
Address: Carrer de Ca’l Bisbe, 1, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca, Illes Balears
Cafe Central, Ciutadella Menorca, Spain.
Gelateria Deliri DeLaCrem
I was so excited to discover that DeLaCrem, the amazing ice cream spot we love in Barcelona, has a branch in Menorca! It’s just as fantastic as I remember—same top-notch quality and friendly service.
I have to say, it’s definitely some of the best ice cream I’ve had in recent years, maybe even in my entire life!
Ice cream at Gelateria Deliri – DeLaCrem in Menorca, Spain.
Nibs Healthy Bar
You’ve got to check out this spot for lunch! It’s super vegetarian-friendly and has a fantastic vibe. Plus, it’s right in the heart of a gorgeous central square, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy your meal.
Address: Plaça d’Artrutx, 7, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca, Illes Balears
Pasta at Nibs Healthy Bar in Menorca, Spain.
Self-Sailing From Ciutadella
This adventure turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip! You don’t need a license to rent a small motorboat for some self-sailing fun, which is a huge plus.
In April, it was a bit tricky to find a rental place since it was still off-season. But persistence paid off when we finally found a guy who miraculously had a boat ready for us.
When we arrived, all smiles and excitement with our cold drinks, hats, swimsuits, and sunscreen in tow, we were hit with some unexpected news—the engine was broken.
“I’ll be back in half an hour with a new boat,” he assured us. Spoiler alert: it definitely took longer than half an hour! But that turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it gave us the chance to check out this amazing little café nearby (seriously, it’s heavenly).
After about an hour and a half, our guy showed up with a new boat, and this one actually started! We were off into the sparkling sea, still buzzing with excitement.
With the wind whipping through our hair, the engine sputtering along, and the waves bouncing us around, we were in our element. The 11-year-old in our group quickly took the helm and embraced his role as captain for the next four hours while we kicked back and enjoyed our drinks.
What a thrill! Honestly, it doesn’t even matter where you sail; you’re bound to discover some stunning beaches along the way—there are just so many! We were thrilled to revisit some spots we loved from previous stops.
And for those of us with Eastern European roots, jumping into the water when it was 16 degrees and cloudy was a must-do experience. It was definitely worth it!
Pay attention:
- Don’t go too far from the coast.
- The ferries leave from Ciutadella (and also from Mahón). They are extremely large and make high waves.
Recommended Beaches in Menorca
Cala en Brut
This was one of the first “beaches” we checked out, and wow, it’s absolutely stunning!
It’s not an actual beach with sand, but getting there is a very easy, though be prepared for a few steps down. The water is crystal clear and inviting.
While there’s no traditional beach access, you’ll find concrete steps leading right into the water. It’s a unique spot that’s definitely worth a visit!
Cala en Brut in Menorca, Spain.
Cala Mitjana/Mitjaneta
If there’s one spot you absolutely have to check out, it’s this one. It’s like a slice of paradise! The beach is totally worth the kilometer trek to get there.
Just park in the lot and hit the path. You’ll reach it in about fifteen minutes (or even less if you’re without kids ).
Here’s a little insider tip: keep going along the path to Cala Mitjaneta, the charming little cove further down. It might take you a bit to get there, but that’s just because every step is a chance to snap another stunning photo.
Just a heads up, there aren’t any beach services here, so make sure to pack everything you’ll need.
It’s simply a dream destination!
Cala Mitjana/Mitjaneta in Menorca, Spain.
North of the Island: Fornells and the Area
If you’re looking for a charming spot to explore, definitely check out Fornells up north on the island. This little town features a quaint port, a handful of cozy restaurants and cafes, and some adorable, winding streets.
As you stroll through, you’ll notice the picturesque white houses with their cheerful green shutters. It’s just a delightful place to wander around and soak in the atmosphere.
After you’ve taken in the town, hop in your car and head over to Platges de Fornells beach. Park there and take a nice walk to Cala Tirant – the views are absolutely stunning!
When you start feeling a bit worn out, make your way to the Cape Cavalleria Lighthouse. Right as you leave the parking area, you’ll spot a kiosk. Grab a refreshing drink or a scoop of ice cream, and then take some time to explore the lighthouse area. It’s a perfect way to wrap up your day!
Related read: A Week in Spain: From Madrid to Barcelona
Platges de Fornells in Menorca, Spain.
South of the Island
Binibeca
The main town here is Binibeca, and it’s super cute. It’s worth hopping onto the Bufador de Binibequer beach and walking there for a while.
Church in Binibeca, Menorca, Spain.
Cala en Porter
You’re in for a treat at Mirador Cala en Porter!
Just park your car and take a quick 10-meter stroll, and you’ll be greeted by a stunning view of a charming little bay. Once you soak in the scenery, make your way down to the sandy beach—it’s absolutely worth it!
Cova d’en Xoroi
We didn’t make it there, unfortunately, since we rolled in with tired kiddos and even more exhausted parents right as it was closing for the day.
I’m not entirely sure how kid-friendly it is since it’s a music bar-club vibe. But definitely check out the pictures on Google Maps; it looks like such a cool little spot! It kind of reminds me of Rosh HaNikra.
There’s an entry fee, so be sure to check out their website for details. If you do get the chance to go, tag me on Instagram and let me know how it went!
Related read: The Best Beach Bars in Barcelona
Cova d’en Xoroi in Menorca, Spain.
Visiting a Dairy
Menorca isn’t just about its famous gin; it’s also home to the delicious Mahón cheese. This delightful dairy, nestled right in the heart of the island, crafts its cheeses on-site, making it a must-visit.
You can opt for a guided tour or simply grab a tasting platter loaded with snacks. We decided to wander around on our own (somehow we overlooked the guided tours!), and ended up enjoying a lovely meal.
Now, I’ll be honest—there are definitely some standout cheeses in northern Spain that might outshine Mahón. But for cheese enthusiasts, it’s worth giving it a shot!
Don’t forget to check out the air-conditioned factory store, where you can snag some other tasty treats to take home.
Address: Carretera Alaior a Arenal d’en Castell s/n, 07740, Balearic Islands
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Inbal Cabiri is a food and travel photographer & writer, based in Barcelona.
View all posts Inbal Cabiri is a food and travel photographer & writer, based in Barcelona.
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