14 Exciting Things to Do in Mahon: The Capital of Menorca

Mahon, the capital of Menorca, sits perched on the edge of one of the world’s largest natural harbours in the island’s south-east corner. Charming, unhurried, and packed with history, there are plenty of incredible things to do in Mahon. Far more than you might expect from a small island capital.

Menorca’s only airport sits just 5 km away, so chances are you’ll begin and end your trip here. Whether you’re spending a couple of nights or popping in for a day trip from elsewhere on the island, Mahon is well worth a visit, and this guide covers the very best things to do in Mahon.

History of Mahon

Mahon has a history that goes back a very long way. The city is thought to take its name from Mago Barca, the Carthaginian general and brother of Hannibal, who is said to have sheltered here around 205 BC.

The harbour is one of the largest natural harbours in the world, and its strategic importance meant that Mahon was passed between some of Europe’s greatest powers for centuries. The Romans, the Moors, the Ottomans and the Spanish all played their part in shaping the city. But it is the British who left the most visible mark. In 1708, British forces captured Menorca and moved the island’s capital from Ciutadella to Mahon. They transformed the city, building Georgian townhouses, fortifying the harbour and establishing a Royal Navy base that became one of the most important in the Mediterranean. They also introduced gin, which the locals took to so enthusiastically that they are still producing their own version today.

Mahon finally passed to Spain in 1802, but the legacy of all those centuries of occupation is still very much present. You can see it in the architecture, in the clifftop fortresses and in the winding streets of the old town. Even mayonnaise is said to have been invented here, by a French chef following the city’s capture in 1756. It is a place where history is genuinely interesting, and that is a big part of what makes it so worth visiting.

The Best Things to Do in Mahon

Because of its vibrant history, there are loads of fantastic things to do in Mahon. Below I have listed some of my favourites!

Wander Around Mahon Old Town

It isn’t a large city, so one of the best things to do in Mahon when you first arrive is simply to wander. The heart is centred around the Old Town, and you can easily get yourself lost and find your way again walking the narrow streets and small squares.

A good place to start is Plaça de la Constitució, the main square next to the Town Hall, which is lined with cafe terraces and is the perfect spot to sit with a coffee and watch the world go by. As you explore, keep an eye out for the boinders, the distinctive overhanging bay windows on many of the older townhouses. They are a legacy of the British occupation, along with sash windows and highly polished brass door knockers, and they give Mahon a character that feels unlike anywhere else in the Balearics.

One of the best streets to walk is Carrer Isabel II, lined with beautiful 18th-century townhouses and the best display of those iconic balconies and bow windows in the city. It is also worth hunting out Plaça Bastió, a small square that is easy to miss but well worth finding, with a lovely local feel and some great spots for food and drinks.

When it comes to stopping for a bite, Es Llonguet Forn Artesà is a brilliant little bakery tucked away on a side street, perfect for pastries and a coffee in the sun. If you have a sweet tooth, El Turronero is a long-standing local favourite for ice cream and horchata.

Discover History in Ca’n Oliver 

Found in a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion, which belonged to one of the most powerful families at the time. Ca’n Oliver is home to Hernández Sanz’s collection of artworks. Don’t miss the stunning wrought-iron staircase with a painted fresco that will impress you as you arrive.

The lower floor of this museum is also dedicated to the British period and its lasting influence on the island. If you are interested in history, this is one of the best things to do in Mahon. Opening hours are limited, so do check in advance.

Visit the Museu de Menorca – Things to Do in Mahon

Another interesting museum, and one of the top things to do in Mahon, is the Museu de Menorca (Museum of Menorca), which is located in the old Franciscan monastery. The museum covers a broad period of history from the first inhabitants of Menorca, including an exhibition on the interesting Tayoltic period, through the period of Roman and Islamic occupation and then the various occupations by European countries.

Be aware, it does have limited opening hours:
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, & Sundays: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Mondays: Closed

So make sure to plan your visit accordingly!

Visit Hauser & Wirth – Things to do in Mahon

Located on the Isla del Rey is the Hauser & Wirth Gallery, which can only be reached by boat. It is a family-owned contemporary art gallery that opened in 1992 on the site of the former Naval hospital of Menorca. The brand began in Zurich and has since expanded to other locations across the globe. Including this one in Mahan Harbour.

The gallery isn’t huge, but there is also a restaurant on the island, which makes for a wonderful setting for lunch, and one of the best things to do in Mahon.

Visit The Carmelite Cloisters & Grab Tapas at Mercat des Peix

The Mercat Des Peix is the historic fish market in Mahon. It is housed in a 1920s market building and is a lively place full of hustle and bustle. Still home to several fish stalls, you can head there in the morning and grab locally caught fish sold at the seven stalls. But it is at lunchtime when the place really comes to life. Half of the original counters have been turned into pintxo and tapas bars, where you can grab your choice of bites to eat. The tapas stalls and bars generally open from 11:00 AM to roughly 11:00 PM (Monday–Saturday; closed on Sundays).

Right next door is the Carmelite Cloisters found in the historic Church of El Carmen. These were once home to the Carmelite order and now serve as a cultural and community hub. You can wander through the stone arches and open courtyards, as well as browse the stalls that offer local produce, cheeses and Menorcan crafts. The market and cloisters generally open Monday to Saturday from roughly 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM and on Sundays from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Grab Your Own Pair of Menorcan Sandals

No trip to Menorca would be complete without leaving with your own pair of Menorcan Sandals, or avarcas. They were traditionally worn by rural farmers on the island, as they could handle the rough terrain. However, they have now become somewhat of a fashion piece. And now you can purchase in any colour and pattern imaginable, from lace to cow print. They are still worn by locals, not just for tourists!

There are places all over Menorca where you can purchase them, including large-scale factories. However, in Mahon, there is one small shop that still makes them by hand. S’Abarca den Toni can be found at the Port in Mahon. You can choose your colour style and material, and then collect a couple of days later.

Eat, Drink and Walk the Waterfront (Moll de Llevant)

Mahon almost feels split into two halves: the old town located at the top of a large hill, and then the Moll de Llevant stretches along the water below. There is actually an outdoor elevator that takes you from the waterfront into the old town, if you don’t fancy the steps! The Moll de Llevant is a busy promenade that is located along the southern side of Mahon’s natural harbour. This part of the city is best known for its many restaurants and nightlife. It is also the perfect place to try and decide what yacht you would want to own! This is where they are all moored.

Sample the Local Gin – Things to do in Mahon

If you are a gin lover, then this is one of the must-do things to do in Mahon! Menorca was under British rule for over 200 years, and one result was the local Gin, Xoriguer. A local family created it to quench the thirst of the British sailors on the island. It is still family-run, and you can sample the different flavours from the local distillery. This little distillery and shop can be found in Mahon, and you can see how the gin is made on a self-guided tour. The best bit is that you don’t even need to book!

Top Tip: If you are looking to try the local gin, why not try this tasting tour, which adds a layer of local knowledge and some tapas!

Take a Boat Trip around Mahon Harbour – Things to do in Mahon

Getting out on the water is one of the best things to do in Mahon, and an excellent way to experience the natural harbour. There are one-hour boat trips, run by two companies that, between them in peak season, depart every half an hour. They are both glass-bottom boats, meaning that you also get the chance to see schools of fish swimming under the boat!

The boat trip includes commentary, so it is a fantastic way to learn about the interesting history of Mahon. Including the British rule for much of the 18th Century. Sights include the English Arsenal, Quarantine Island and San Felipe Castle. Make sure to book in advance to ensure your spot!

Top Tip: THIS TOUR combines a boat trip with a visit to surrounding areas, such as Binibeca Vell and Punta Prima, for the perfect day out.

Enjoy Music Night and The Night Market

If you are visiting Mahon in the summer months, then you have to check out the Music Night. Mahón’s historic streets come alive every Tuesday evening with Music Nights. This is a free, open-air celebration of live music that runs through the summer.

The Tuesday Night Market also launches at the same time. This is where the old town is filled with artisan stalls, food vendors and a buzzing atmosphere. So if you are in Menorca on a Tuesday, make sure you head to Mahon for the evening to enjoy what is one of the most enjoyable free nights out on the island. All around the city, small stages and local performers are singing and playing music. A lovely way to spend an evening.

Visit the Fortress of La Mola – Things to do in Mahon

A little out of the city is the Fortress of La Mola. Sitting on the peninsula at the mouth of Mahon Harbour, it is around 10 km from the city centre.

The most important work of military engineering in Menorca and one of the largest and best preserved fortresses in Europe. It was built in the 19th century by Queen Isabel II, and the story behind it is a fascinating one. With France occupying Algeria and increasing tension in the Western Mediterranean, Menorca was left almost defenceless. And in the British Chamber of Lords, it was even suggested that if Spain did not protect the island, England would take matters into its own hands. The fortress was the answer to this threat.

There are guided tours available in Spanish, Catalan, English and Frebch hwich takes around 1.5 hours. Admission is € 8.25, and it is open daily between 10 am and 8 pm, in peak season. It’s closed in January and February, and opening hours vary in the shoulder seasons.

Where to Stay in Mahon

Staying in Mahon

Mahon makes for a great base when staying in Menorca. The only airport is located 5 KM away, so very easy to access. And from Mahon, you have the best options for public transport to other parts of the island. If you choose to stay in Mahon, you have some excellent accommodation options to suit all budgets:

BUDGET: Hostal La Isla – Located just 450 metres from Mahon Port, Hostal La Isla is a charming guesthouse. It is clean, central and great value, making it a brilliant base if you want to spend your money on experiences rather than accommodation.

MID-RANGE: Catalonia Mirador des Port – sits in a privileged location with magnificent views over the natural port of Mahon. Renovated in 2023, it has a seasonal outdoor pool, beautiful garden and free Wi-Fi, with bright modern rooms, some of which have a terrace with views of the Mediterranean.

LUXURY: Bordoy Casa Ládico – A 5-star spa hotel set in an elegant 19th-century mansion in the historic centre of Mahon, featuring hardwoods, local marés stone, a locally sourced breakfast with regional cheeses and made-to-order eggs, and a bistro focused on seasonal market produce.

Staying Elsewhere in Menorca

Alternatively, if you choose to base yourself in a smaller town and visit Mahon as a day trip, then these are some places I recommend:

Agroturismo (Rural Hotel):
These spots are about peace, nature, and indulgence. You’ll typically find high-end dining, beautiful pools, and views over vineyards or fields, often in a central location perfect for exploring both coasts.
Recommended: Torralbenc (near Alaior) for rustic luxury and wine-country views, or Hotel Rural Biniarroca (near Sant Lluís) for an enchanting, secluded garden setting.

Binibeca (Binibèquer)
Perfect for couples and families who want a quiet, picturesque village atmosphere. Famous for the stunningly whitewashed fishermen’s village of Binibeca Vell (great for visiting, but quiet stays are often found nearby).

How to Get to Mahon

The only airport on the island is Menorca Airport (MAH), which is located just 5km from Mahón. Making the city a perfect place to start your trip.

• From the UK: Direct flights take about 2 hours and 20 minutes. In 2026, major carriers like easyJet, Jet2, Ryanair, TUI, and British Airways will operate some routes from London (Gatwick, Stansted, Luton) and regional hubs like Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Edinburgh and Belfast.
• From Europe: You’ll find daily direct connections from major Spanish cities like Barcelona (55 mins) and Madrid (1h 30m), as well as seasonal routes from Paris, Milan, and Berlin.

Once you land, buses run every 30 minutes into the city and are a much cheaper option than a taxi, though both are available outside the arrivals hall.

Bus Line 1 runs between Mahon and Ciutadella, stopping at towns along the way, so if you are based on the west side of the island, it is a straightforward journey. That said, Menorca is a small island and hiring a car is by far the most flexible way to get around. The drive from Ciutadella to Mahon takes around 45 minutes, and from most of the southern beach resorts, you are looking at no more than 20 to 30 minutes. Parking in Mahon is available down by the port, from where you can take the steps or the lift up into the city centre.

Once you are in Mahon itself, you will not need much transport at all. The city is compact, and almost everything is within easy walking distance.

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Other Menorca posts:

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15 Beautiful Things to Do in Ciutadella: Menorca’S Charming Old Capital
Binibeca, Menorca: Ultimate Guide to Visiting this Charming Town
Lithica Quarry Menorca: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting
The Ultimate Guide to Menorca Fiestas 2026
Best Beaches in Menorca: 23 Stunning Places

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