Take a ferry to Menorca and explore this rural island paradise, away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the warm breeze of the Mediterranean!
Menorca, also known as the hidden gem of the Balearic islands, is located in the Mediterranean Sea and is part of the Balearic islands of Spain, along with Mallorca, Ibiza and Formentera. The island of Menorca is special with a coastline of 216 kilometers and an exquisite collection of architectural, archaeological and cultural monuments that reflect the island’s rich and fascinating history. Its name derives from the size of the island in comparison to the nearby Majorca and it has a mix of local and colonial architecture due to the different cultures, since prehistoric times that used Menorca as a staging ground.
In 1993 Menorca was declared by Unesco a Biosphere Reserve with a goal to preserve environmental areas as the Parc Natural S’Albufera des Grau wetland. The island also has a wealth of fauna, flora and landscapes and has always been supporting sustainable development and tourism and the maintenance of natural resources and ecosystems.
Unlike the other Balearic Islands, Menorca is a quiet, low profile destination with a small population, making it an ideal destination for those looking for tranquility and relaxation and of course for nature lovers and visitors that want to enjoy outdoor activities. Menorca is mostly famous for its divine beaches, amazing seafood, historical landmarks, fine architecture and the laid back atmosphere.
Book in advance your ferry tickets to Menorca of the Balearic islands, this ideal destination for a family holiday and enjoy the picture perfect beaches, the sun bleached shores and villages that bring back visitors time after time.
How to reach Menorca by ferry
The tranquil island of Menorca can be reached either from Barcelona or Mallorca. From the port of Barcelona there are at least 3 routes available per week, all year round and the duration of the sailing is approximately seven hours and thirty minutes.
If you want to travel from the neighboring island of Mallorca you can also take a ferry from the port of Alcudia, located in the northeast of Mallorca, with more than 4 routes available per week and the duration of the journey is only one hour and fifteen minutes.
Menorca ferry port
Ciutadella Port: the port of Ciutadella is located in the western part of the island of Menorca. It’s a relatively small port divided in four parts: the fishing port, the commercial port, the passenger port and the marina. It is worth a visit because it has a typical Mediterranean charm with a great variety of restaurants, cafes and bars for all budgets.
Mahon Port: Mahon was once the Royal Navy’s principal base and remains as a spanish naval station. The picturesque Mahon is one of the biggest natural harbors in the world with a total length of 6km. It is located on the eastern coast of the island. It offers an excellent shelter to ships from high winds as it is located in a bay and it's so big that it has the islets of Lazareto Mahon and Isla del Rey inside. Around the port and in a small distance there are many facilities, hotels, restaurants and museums. The famous sandal markets are also worth a visit. The wealthiest and most powerful families of Menorca used to live in Mahon and their mansions are now open for visitors.
Menorca Airport
Menorca has also a small airport that serves mainly domestic flights and is located about 5 km southwest of Mahon and about 45 km from Ciutadella. There is a public bus service ( line 10) just outside the only terminal of the airport that leaves you close to the port of Mahon.
Transportation in Menorca
Bus
The ports of Mahon and Ciutadella as well as other main villages of the island and some popular beaches are connected with bus routes.
For more information please visit buses in Menorca.
Taxi
For a more convenient transfer to your destination you can also use Menorca’s taxi services.
To book a taxi please visit taxis in Menorca or call +34 971 37 43 00.
What to do in Menorca
Visit the ancient town of Ciutadella
Once the capital of Menorca, the city and port of Ciutadella is mostly known for its unique architecture. Take a walk through the alleys of the city, visit the Cathedral Basilica that was built in the 13th century or try the local cuisine in one of the many restaurants that offer amazing views of the island.
Taste some of the Finest Wines at Bodegas Binifadet
You can take a day tour of the winery and learn about the process of winemaking and taste some of the finest wines that Menorca has to offer.
Τake a walk through the charming Village of Fornells
In the small village of Fornells you can either go horseback riding, kayaking, sailing or just enjoy the breathtaking view of the Torre de Fornells, a watchtower that was built in the 19th century.
Climb to the Top of Monte Toro
Monte Toro is the tallest mountain in Menorca but the top can easily be reached with a car. Once you reach the top visit the Mare De Deu del Toro Sanctuary and enjoy the views of the entire island.
Visit the picturesque Village of Santo Tomas
The small but beautiful and scenic village of Santo Tomas is located on the southern edge of Menorca and it is one of the most photographed areas of the island. Make sure you try the local pastries like the Catalan cake and ensaimada.
Spend a few hours in the Nature Parc of S'Albufera des Grau
Unesco declared Menorca a biosphere reserve because of the Nature Parc of S'Albufera des Grau, home of unique fauna and flora, that stretches across more than 5000 acres of Menorca.
The park is really popular for bird watching lovers and a tour through it will allow you to discover Menorca’s diverse species.
Join a party inside a Cave
Menorca has many open caves that are also a meeting point for locals and visitors, like the famous Cova d'en Xoroi, where many come every night to have a good time with drinks and music.
Visit the Historic Plaza de Sant Agusti Vell
Plaza Sant August Vell is one of the largest villages of Menorca. Take a walk through the picturesque village and admire the remains of stone structures, houses and buildings dating back to the 10th and 12th century.
Make a stop at the Fishing Village of Binibeca
The white washed houses and the sunset views of the sea make the little village of Binibeca look like a postcard with a fine architecture and a typical Mediterranean vibe.
Admire the Fortaleza de la Mola
The Fortaleza de la Mola, built in the 19th century, has many prehistoric remains and one military prison and is one of the largest fortresses in Europe.
Menorca beaches
Like the rest of the Balearic islands Menorca is famous for its jaw dropping beaches. In fact Menorca, even though it’s more low key than its neighboring islands it has more beaches than Mallorca and Ibiza combined. The untouched beaches of Menorca will definitely amaze you with their turquoise clear waters in bays that are called calas and the white sand, most of them surrounded by pine trees that reach the level of the sea, wild, rocky landscapes and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean sea.
Τhe most popular are:
Cala Pregonda: A spectacular, curvy beach mostly famous for its impressive rocks, the glassy water, the strange islets and its golden sand. It’s practically a completely isolated and unspoilt cove with a reddish and golden texture both in the sand and on the cliffs.
Calo Blanc: Calo Blanc is ideal for diving in sapphire waters. Make sure you bring a towel to lay on its rocky foreshore.
Platja de Cavalleria: A long wild beach, close to one of the most spectacular lighthouses on the island, with shimmering blue green waters and a reddish brown sand. This secluded beach that has crystal clear waters is ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Cala Mitjaneta: Make sure you arrive as early as possible as Cala Mitjaneta is a small beach and there is space only for 20 or so sunbathers. It is definitely worth a visit though as its palette of silver sand, blue waters and dark green pines will amaze you.
Cala Escorxada: Cala Escorxada is a first class virgin beach, located between the Sant Antoni and de s’ Avi points, within an idyllic cove and crystal clear waters. It’s one of the most secluded beaches of the island as it has a difficult access.
Cala Turqueta: The beach of Cala Turqueta is made up of two small beaches, surrounded by lush forests and divided in two by a strip of rocks with white soft sand, blue transparent waters and an unspoilt natural beauty.
Cala Macarelleta: One of the most beautiful bays in Menorca with beautiful views of yachts that seem to hang in space. Cala Macarelleta is a small picturesque beach hidden between rocks with pristine waters and white sand.
Menorca hotels
If you are planning to visit the island without the vehicle it is important to decide where you want to base carefully in order to see and do all the things you want to enjoy on the island. Some areas of Menorca are ideal for families whilst there are other parts of the island that are ideal for independent travelers or hikers. Either you are looking for a low budget accommodation or a luxury villa the touristic hubs of Menorca offer hotels, rooms and apartments for rent with easy access to sandy beaches and various facilities.
If you wish to stay as close as possible to the island’s best beaches we suggest you stay on the southern part of the island, if you prefer some peace and quite the isolated area of Binibeca on the southeastern part is ideal for you and the best location for families with children is the area of Cala Galdana.
Please find below a list of the best rated accommodations:
- Insotel Punta Prima Prestige Suites & Spa
- Occidental Hotel
- Bimbolla Apartments
- Punta Prima Beach
- Hotel Santo Tomas
- ADR Rustic House by the Sea
- Binibeca by Pierre & Vacance Premium
- Apartamentos HLG Binivell Park
- Royal Son Bou Family Club
- Artiem Capri
- Miramar
- Melia Cala Galdana
- Ubicación privilegiada en Ciutadella
Island Hopping from Menorca
Thanks to its proximity to Mallorca, the island of Menorca is ideal for some island hopping. So don’t miss the chance to visit the beautiful island of Mallorca, spend a few hours or even some days in Mallorca and explore its amazing coastline, the stunning beaches and the impressive wineries and fresh produce farms.
