MENORCA, SPAIN: TRAVEL GUIDE TO MALLORCA’S EPIC NEIGHBOR
Menorca might not be as famous as its glamorous neighbor Mallorca, but the island definitely holds its own as one of the best holiday destinations in Spain. It’s a place I’ve been wanting to visit for a few years, and I finally made the journey this summer. From the turquoise water of the calas to dramatic whitewashed cliff bars, the island blew away all expectations. It’s the perfect warm weather escape, and a very different experience from Mallorca. Below is my complete guide to Menorca including the best calas, beaches, towns, cliff bars, restaurants, hotels, travel tips, Google Map pins and more.
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The sweeping sea views from Cova d’en Xoroi cliff bar.
The bar is a ticketed entry with the best vibe at sunset. OUTFIT DETAILS: Petal & Pup two-piece set linked here.
MENORCA TRAVEL TIPS
- WHAT IS A “CALA?” – You’ll hear this word a lot on Menorca. A cala is a coastal cove or inlet. Most of the island’s best beach spots are calas, hence the names Cala en Brut, Cala Macarella, Cala en Turqueta, etc.
- CROWDS – How crowded is Menorca? For the most past, the island has flown under the radar as a bucket list summer destination (I feel like most Americans have never heard of it). That said, the island gets its share of crowds during the summer, mostly Europeans. But the crowds just don’t compare to other popular islands in Europe like Mallorca, Santorini, Mykonos, etc.
- SIESTA – Note that siesta on the island usually lasts from 2 PM to 5 PM when most businesses and restaurants close for the afternoon.
- CURRENCY – The local currency is the Euro. It’s always a good idea to have cash, but it was hardly necessary on Menorca. Everywhere took credit cards – restaurants, gelaterias, boat rentals, petrol stations, etc.
- STAYING CONNECTED – Most hotels and restaurants on the island offer free wifi that makes it easy to stay connected on the island. Another option if you want connection 24/7 is to purchase an eSIM before your trip. They are quick, affordable and take just a few minutes to activate. I’ve use Airalo, Jetpac and Holafly on past trips.
Beach days at Cala Macarelleta, one of the most popular spots on the island.
HOW MANY DAYS ON MENORCA
EIGHT DAYS. Menorca is much smaller than its neighbor Mallorca, but you’ll still want at least eight full days to explore the island at a relaxed pace. It takes about an hour to drive end to end, but most days it’s just 15 to 25 minutes to reach the beach or another town. With an eight-day stay, you can divide your time between the north and south, experience all the best calas, eat at the best restaurants and explore the cutest towns.
It’s all about the vibes at Cala en Brut.
WHEN TO VISIT MENORCA
- JUNE & SEPTEMBER – It’s impossible to escape the summer crowds, but June and September offer the best balance of warm weather, hotel selection and hotel prices. And it’ll be less busy than July and August.
- JULY & AUGUST – July and August temps can get pretty toasty, and summer crowds peak this time of the year.
- APRIL, MAY & OCTOBER – Lodging prices are reasonable during shoulder season, but some businesses might be closed for off season. Weather can be hit and miss this. April temps are probably too cold for swimming, but temps in early October might be perfect.
- NOVEMBER TO MARCH – Avoid visiting in off season. The weather is cold with chances of rain.
The whitewashed Binibeca Vell is absolutely charming. OUTFIT DETAILS: Petal & Pup two-piece set linked here.
BEST MENORCA CALAS & BEACHES
CALA BINIDALI
A small stunning cala located close to the Mahon Airport. The sparkling blue water winds its way between craggy rocky outcrops that provide shelter and keep conditions generally pretty calm for swimmers and sunbathers. The beach itself is small, so it can feel pretty crowded midday during high season.
CALA EN BRUT
Cala en Brut is absolutely stunning and serves up the most infectious energy. This was hands-down my favorite spot on Menorca. Both sides of the cala are accessible, and it’s a vibe to see the rocky platforms along the water filled with sunbathers, towels and umbrellas. There are lots of cliff jumping spots (both high and low) at Cala en Brut, and the jumping is constant. Arrive before 10 AM for the best real estate options for your towel. It’s busiest from 10 AM to 2 PM, and usually clears out a bit in the afternoon. There are no facilities, and very little shade – pack an umbrella if you can!
CALA EN TURQUETA
Cala en Turqueta sits sheltered from the wind on the southwest coast, an ideal destination for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. The picturesque sandy bay is surrounded by lush pine forest, and on a sunny day the calm water radiates blinding shades of blue.
CALA ESCORXADA
Absolutely stunning remote beach that is only accessible via hiking trail or boat. The tricky location keeps the crowds away, and you’re likely to share the stretch of white sand with only a handful of visitors. Prepare yourself for brilliant turquoise sparkles that are idyllic and calm for swimming on a sunny day.
CALA MACARELLA
This is one of the most popular beaches on the island, but note that during summer it’s a bit trickier to access due to crowding. The beach parking lot is closed off mid June through the end of September, and the easiest access this time of the year is via the 69 bus from Ciutadella. Pick up locations are Via Perimetral and Plaça dels Pins. Travel time is approximately 40 minutes, and best to arrive early in summer months. We purchased our bus tickets in advance here. It’s also possible to reach Cala Macarella by hiking the the Cami de Cavalls from Cala Galdana (see below).
CALA MACARELLETA
The sister cala to Cala Marcella is accessible via a 10-minute hike along the picturesque coastline. The bus and parking situation is the same for Cala Macarelleta, so best to visit the two beaches on the same day. Between the two, I thought Cala Macarelleta was more beautiful as a beach day, and Cala Marcella better suited for a boat day. This beach gets busy during the summer, and it’s a trek to get to it. Best to arrive before 11 AM to secure a spot for your towel and umbrella.
CALA MITJANA
Yet another stunning south coast beach, Cala Mitjana has it all. The intense blue water, sunbathing rocks and soft white sand make this a very popular beach in high season. It’s a 15-minute walk to reach the beach from the Cala Galdana parking lot – an easy stroll, but it can be hot in summer, especially if you’re carrying beach equipment. No facilities at this beach.
CAMI DE CAVALLS
The Cami de Cavalls is a historic 185-km trail that has encircled the island of Menorca since the 14th century. It’s divided into 20 sections that can be tackled as full day treks or mini coastal hikes to access hard to reach beaches. Obviously tackling the entire trail is a major endeavor, but hiking short stretches is a popular activity on Menorca. One of the more popular sections is starting at Cala Galdana and hiking to Cala Macarelleta via Cala Macarella. This journey takes approximately 90-minutes one way.
Cala en Brut was my favorite spot on the island.
MENORCA TOWNS TO VISIT
BINIBECA
The whitewashed fishing village of Binibeca Vell sits on the southern tip of Menorca. It’s home to a small labyrinth of narrow cobbled lanes lined entirely with white houses, archways and staircases that are completely picturesque. While Bibibeca Vell looks historic, it was actually designed in the 1960s by FJ Barba Corsini to look like a traditional Mediterranean fishing village. This is a must-visit while on Menorca, and can easily be experienced as a day trip if you’re staying further north.
CIUTADELLA
The former capital of Menorca is home to the most beautiful Old Town, and makes a great base for exploring the island. Walk the maze of cobbled streets lined with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, cathedrals, castles and storybook structures. Mornings in Old Town are serene, while evenings wonderfully lively, especially on the waterfront.
ES CASTELL
The Es Castell waterfront is a lovely destination for dinner in the early evening. Stroll the vibrant promenade that is lined with colorful bars, gelato shops and restaurants housed in facades that are a mix of Menorcan and British architecture.
ES MERCADAL
Without a beach or cala in sight, Es Mercadal is one of the few non-coastal destinations on Menorca. The little town is filled with whitewashed houses that line little lanes and vibrant squares. The historic center is the highlight of any visit to Es Mercadal, filled with colorful flags, tiny shops and cafes.
FORNELLS
Fornells is a north coast fishing village that offers a quiet escape from some of the busier towns and villages on the island. It too boasts whitewashed architecture, winding lanes and a charming harbor.
MAHON
Also known as Mao, the capital city of Menorca sits on the southeast coast of the island. Old Town bursts with history, a vibrant bustle of historic squares, picturesque buildings and a lively waterfront promenade. There are lots of amazing restaurants to choose from, as well as food halls and local markets (don’t miss the Mercat des Peix Food Hall).
Ciutadella.
GOOGLE MAP PINS
Menorca is one of the prettiest destinations in Spain, and I’m sharing more than 50 of my Google map pins from across the island with you guys here. The map is savable to your Google account, and easy to use for trip planning and navigation once on the ground on Menorca. Map available here.
Map pins include:
- must-visit towns, historic sites, viewpoints
- hotels, villas
- bars, cafes, cliff bars, gelato shops, restaurants
- beaches, calas, cliff jumping locations
- boat rental companies, ferry ports
- photo from several of these locations
WHERE TO STAY ON MENORCA
If you’re on a budget, 120 Hotel Boutique is a good option that sits at the edge of Old Town in Ciutadella. The new property is designed with a simple white and neutral color scheme, and everything feels fresh and new. It’s no frills in terms of service – there’s someone to check you in, but otherwise the hotel isn’t staffed throughout the day. And I suggest booking a room without someone above you as the sound of footsteps travels in this building.
Agroturismi Llucasaldent sits on a sweeping farm estate surrounded by more than 7,000 grape vines and 800 olive trees. The adults-only property is home to 12 rooms and suites in an estate adorned with whitewashed stone, wood gates and terracotta rooftops.
FAUSTINO GRAN RELAIS & CHATEAUX
Set across four 17th century palaces in Ciutadella, Faustino Grans Relais & Chateaux is a fitting stay in the historic Old Town. There are 56 rooms, nine suites and a villa spread across the picturesque property that is just steps away from all the main tourist sights.
Menorca Experimental is one of the lovelier stays on the island, walking distance from Cala Llucalari. This reimagined 19th century finca is gorgeous, home to 43 beautiful rooms, a spa, infinity pool and stunning grounds. Note that the property is located in the middle of Menorca, so it’s a 20 to 40-minute drive to reach Ciutadella, Binibeca and Mahon.
This charming finca sits 15 minutes from Old Town Ciutadella, close enough for evening dinners and far enough to feel like a countryside escape at the end of the day. The whitewashed buildings, blooming bougainvillea and oversized green + white sun beds burst with summer Mediterranean vibes. Morvedra Nou Menorca offers a selection of simple rooms and suites featuring white and pale green color palettes, high wood beam ceilings and private gardens.
For a more traditional resort experience, consider the lavish Suites del Lago, a five-star, adults-only property in west Menorca. The modern rooms and suites are beautiful, designed with wood, rattan, bronze fixtures and a white + neutral color palette that give upscale Boho vibes. There are two restaurants, a stunning pool, plush sun beds and a spa. This is a solid luxury stay on the island.
Torralbenc is another traditional farm that has been converted into an agro-conscious boutique property. The gorgeous whitewashed countryside retreat houses more than 25 spacious rooms and suites. The minimalist luxury design here is beautiful. As with most of these fincas, the property’s location feels a bit remote, but that’s part of the appeal.
Another classic Menorcan finca that has been transformed into a countryside retreat on the island’s southeast coast. The property and rooms at Torre Vella Fontenille are lovely, but overall service and restaurant leave room for improvement (if those are dealbreakers).
Vestige Son Vell is set in the coastal countryside, but it’s only a 15-minute drive from Ciutadella. This restored 18th century manor has been converted into a five-star boutique hotel surrounded by two swimming pools, two restaurants, scenic ground and, a fruit and vegetable garden. One of the loveliest stays on Menorca.
If you’re on a budget, 120 Hotel Boutique is a new, clean property that is well-located in Ciutadella.
Typical morning in Old Town.
BEST MENORCA GELATO SHOPS
- Don Gelato (Cala en Porter)
- El Cucurucho Gelateria (Es Castell)
- El Turronero (Mahon)
- Gelateria Deliri (Ciutadella)
- Heladeria Artesanal Nocciola (Es Mercadal)
- Sa Gelateria (Ciutadella)
Sunset dinner at beautiful Enricana Menorca.
EAT & DRINK ON MENORCA
BAMBU MENORCA
The most popular restaurant in Binibeca is Bambu Menorca. The bar + restaurant serves fresh Asian fusion cuisine in three lovely settings that guests choose from when they make their reservation – the sunset terrace, middle terrace and indoor restaurant. The dinner menu includes a range of options including grilled seabass, prawn tempura, bao buns, fresh salads, curries and meat dishes.
CATHEDRAL COFFEE
A small coffee shop with baked goods located in the middle of Ciutadella’s Old Town. Cathedral Coffee was my go-to breakfast spot every morning for their delicious flaky pain au chocolat and fresh orange juice.
COVA D’EN XOROI CLIFF BAR
This is Menorca’s famous whitewashed cliff bar that sits built into the rocks along the epic west coast. The best vibe for drinks is on the rocky terraces overlooking the water. The “indoor” seating that surrounds the cave bar was filled with flies, at least when we were there. There are paid daytime and sunset admissions that can be purchased in advance online, or at the door.
ENRICANA CALA MORELL
The sushi at Enricana is nothing special, but the setting over Cala Morell at sunset is truly spectacular and worth a visit. The restaurant sits on the cliff overlooking the water, and everything is designed entirely in white. It’s beautiful.
NIBBS HEALTHY BAR
Healthy outdoor cafe at the edge of the Ciutadlla that serves vegan bakes goods, acai bowls, scrambles, vegan pancakes, salads and fresh juices.
NONNA BAZAAR
This farm-to-table restaurant is located in the Menorcan countryside, built in and around a 200-year old farmhouse. Seating is outside surrounding the beautiful aging estate painted in the loveliest muted shades of brick red, yellow and sage green. The setting of Nonna Bazaar is the prettiest on Menorca. We actually made a sunset reservation just to experience the dinner vibe, knowing full well the reviews of this place are very mixed. To our surprise, the food was delicious. We got the homemade focaccia, grilled prawns and lobster tagliatelle.
PIGALLE
French bakery in Old Town Mahon that serves a selection of delicious fresh pastries, baked bread, coffee and fresh juice. Highlights are the croissants and pain au chocolat.
PIQNIQ
Piqniq is a little shop in the Ciutadella that serves up the perfect stop before a day at the beach. The take away menu includes made-to-order salads, sandwiches and pastas, perfectly packaged for a day at a cala. This place is a gem because most beaches on the island don’t have food options.
RESTAURANT CAFE BALEAR
Food can be hit or miss, but Cafe Balear is one of the most popular restaurants in Old Town Ciutadella. If anything, it’s worth a visit for the lively atmosphere and people watching if you can get a table on the water in the evening. Its popularity keeps the restaurant packed in high season, best to reserve a table in advance.
SES FORQUILLES
Ses Forquilles is a delicious affordable tapas spot in Mahon that serves fresh oysters, croquettes, grilled prawns, grilled aubergine, fresh fish, lobster, beef tenderloin and pork dishes. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner (reservations recommended in the evening).
SMOIX
A solid little spot tucked away in Ciutadella. The restaurant menu changes seasonally, but samplings include creamy lobster rice, beluga lentils, crayfish ravioli and baked suckling pig.
TREBOL
Trebol is a waterfront restaurant that sits at the end of the picturesque harbor in Es Castell. Seafood is the specialty, and it is fabulous (our tastiest meal on Menorca). Highlights were the fresh mussels in white wine sauce, garlic shrimp and grilled sea bream.
The tastiest meal of the trip was this fresh seafood feast at Trebol in Es Castell.
Cathedral Cafe – my go-to breakfast spot every morning in Ciutadella.
For a healthy breakfast, Nibbs Healthy Bar is a fab option in Ciutadella.
GET AROUND MENORCA
- CAR – The easiest way to explore Menorca is by car. The island is small, but the beaches and towns are spread out ranging anywhere from a 15-minute to one-hour drive. All the major car brands have rental counters at the airport. It’s low stress to drive on the island – lots of country roads and roundabouts.
- FOOT – Most of the Old Towns and waterfront promenades on the island are pedestrian zones that can be explored on foot. All pedestrian zones have nearby parking lots to leave your car for the day or evening.
- BUS – There are buses and shuttle buses on the island. Schedules available here.
The prettiest dinner at Nonna Bazaar’s beautifully converted farmhosue.
GET TO MENORCA
The Menorca Airport in Mahon connects the island to domestic destinations within Spain, as well as dozens of cities throughout the Europe. The budget airline flights make Menorca a quick, affordable weekend escape for most Europeans.
Additionally, the ferry connects Menorca to destinations within Spain including Barcelona, Mallorca and Valencia. I always use Ferryhopper to look up all ferry schedules and to book my tickets.
Cala Marcella.
Living the cala life.
IF YOU LIKED MENORCA …
If Menorca was your first trip to Spain’s Balearic Islands and you’re a fan, I suggest a visit to the neighboring island of Mallorca. Despite being so close to one another, the two islands are dramatically different. Mallorca offers even more beach options, as well as a number of charming towns and villages completely unique to the island. My complete guide to Mallorca is here.
A morning in Old Town Ciutadella.
