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Menorca, in the beautiful Balearic Islands, is the perfect European summer getaway due to its laid-back, chilled vibes and slower pace than the other islands in the Balearics, Ibiza and Mallorca, which adds to its charm. Plus, it is a stunning island, with turquoise seas, rocky landscapes, whitewashed villages, and unspoilt beaches. This island has something to offer everyone, so here are the best things to do in Menorca for the perfect trip.
To help plan your trip to Menorca, check out all my guides HERE:
MENORCA GUIDES
The 23 Best Things to Do in Menorca
No matter what vibe you are after for your holiday, this list has the best things to do in Menorca that will guarantee you will have an amazing time on the island.
Wander around Binibeca Vell
Binibeca Vell (Binibéquer Vell) is a small fishing village packed full of winding alleyways to get lost in. As well as some yummy local restaurants to grab a bite to eat. An Instagrammer’s dream, and not too far from the beach. It consists of 165 houses and a small church. All woven together with a small maze of cobbled streets winding through the whitewashed buildings. It doesn’t take long to explore the little alleyways, and while it might feel like you are getting lost, all lead to the parade of shops or the small harbour.
Top Tip: There is more to Binibeca than just Binibeca Vell. Find out all you need to see in this area:
Binibeca, Menorca: Ultimate Guide to Visiting this Charming Town
Discover Ancient Historical Sites – Things to do in Menorca
Menorca is absolutely crammed full of prehistoric sites. These Talayotic sites first appeared nearly 3,000 years ago, and were inhabited until around 110 AD, when the Romans arrived. There are over 1,500 of these sites on the island, so it is hard not to spot one! They vary in size and impressiveness, and the boards at the sites categorise them as ‘must-sees’, ‘other interesting sites’ and ‘other prehistoric sites’. With 13 on the must-see, and 17 on the ‘interesting sites’.
These villages are characterised by the Taula enclosures, which are unique to Menorca. They are thought to be sites of worship or temples, and each site had one. Other buildings found are circular dwellings, Talayots and Hypostyle Halls. The Talayots’ exact purpose isn’t known, but they are believed to have been used for surveillance and as symbols of the settlement.
Choose a site near where you might be staying, but also check out Torrabla D’en Salort, Torre D’en Galmés and the Menorca Museum in Mahon.
Explore Mahon – Things to do in Menorca
The capital of the island, Maó in Catalan, is definitely worth a wander around. It is home to one of the largest natural harbours in the world, and it is also a great place to learn about the island. It isn’t a large city, so it is very easy to explore on foot.
There is much to learn about the city’s history. Take the time to explore the harbour area and admire the beautiful yachts. In the summer, on a Tuesday, it is music night in the city, with many musicians performing throughout the city. There are plenty of delicious restaurants and bars to discover. As well as lots of local shops. This city has something for everyone!
Discover all of the best things to see and do in Mahon: 14 Exciting Things to Do in Mahon: The Capital of Menorca
Visit the Old Capital of Ciutadella – Things to do in Menorca
Ciutadella was the original capital of Menorca before it was moved to Mahon under British Rule. In contrast to much of Menorca, Ciutadella is characterised by honey coloured stone buildings, rather than the usual whitewash of the island. Think cobbled alleyways, street cafes, a pretty harbour and cathedrals and churches.
Use this post to plan your visit to Ciutadella: 15 Beautiful Things to Do in Ciutadella: Menorca’s Charming Old Capital
Explore Menorca’s Charming Harbour Towns – Things to do in Menorca
Menorca is home to some beautiful coastal harbour towns, which are definitely worth checking out. These towns are perfect little havens, where you can enjoy waterside dining with stunning views, as well as lots of places to shop. Take a look at Es Castell, which has a harbour and shops built into the rock face. Fornells and Port d’Addaia are also well worth a visit.
Get Lost in Lithica – Things to do in Menorca
Lithica is a former quarry located on the west of the island, not far from Ciutadella. Saying you should spend time in a quarry as one of the best things to do in Menorca might sound a bit odd, but trust me, it is worth it! Until 1994, it supplied the marés stone, the building material used for much of western Menorca. Once production ended, instead of leaving it to mar the landscape, it was converted into a cultural and beautiful space.
Now you can wander the towering stone labyrinths and geometric gardens that occupy the space. There is a massive stone labyrinth in the centre that is a bit of a workout for the brain, but the best bit is in the hidden Medieval Garden, which you can discover by literally walking through a rock. In the summer, there are also sunset concerts, which are well worth checking out.
Find out all you need to know about visiting Lithica:
Lithica Quarry Menorca: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting
Find Menorca’s Windmills – Things to do in Menorca
Windmills in Menorca are iconic remnants of the island’s agricultural heritage, which was very dependent on wind power. They can be particularly found around Sant Lluís and Ferreries. The most famous is Molí de Dalt in Sant Lluís. You can’t miss its bright white tower and wooden sails. It’s been beautifully restored into a folk museum, so you can actually head inside to see how the grain was ground back in the day.
Visit the Highest Point on the Island – Things to do in Menorca
Menorca is notorious for being quite a flat island, so it is easy to spot Monte Toro, which is the highest point on the island. You can either walk or drive up to this spot, but make sure you choose to do so on a clear day to ensure you have the best panoramic view of Menorca. The summit is home to a 17th-century sanctuary dedicated to the patron saint of Menorca. It is a significant religious site managed by a community of Franciscan nuns.
Attend a Traditional Menorcan fiesta
If you are in Menorca during the summer, then a visit to a traditional Menorcan Fiesta is a must, and one of my favourite things to do in Menorca. These generally run from the end of June to the end of September, with a different fiesta being held in different towns across the island. The first fiesta of the season is always held in Ciutadella, and the last is Fiestas de Sant Nicolau in Es Mercadal.
The heart of the fiestas is the Jaleo, which involves riders navigating through streets and squares to the rhythm of traditional music, with the highlight being the bot or elevada (a rearing on the hind legs). It is an intense, thrilling spectacle where locals and visitors often attempt to touch the horses’ hearts for good luck. You can also find music, food, drink and fairground rides. Simply a must-do of things to do in Menorca.
Find out EVERYTHING you need to know about attending a Menorca fiesta:
The Ultimate Guide to Menorca Fiestas 2026
Walk the Cami de Cavalls
The Cami de Cavalls is definitely one of the most famous things to do in Menorca. This incredible pathway has existed since the 1300’s, when King James III required all settlers on the island to keep an armed horse at the ready to defend the island if needed. The settlers and their horses used the path to do so, hence Cami de Cavalls, which translates to ‘way of the horses’.
Today, the path is divided into 20 sections; it is 185km long, and you can hike all or some of them. A full day is sufficient to walk one section and return by public transport.
Take a Walk in S’Albufera des Grau
The whole of the island of Menorca was designated as a Biosphere Reserve in 1993, and key to this was the area of S’Albufera des Grau. This has one of the most diverse ecosystems in all of the Mediterranean. It’s essentially the “green lung” of the island, acting as the core of the reserve. You’ve got everything here: freshwater lagoons, dunes, olive groves, and wild coastline. If you’re a birdwatcher, then keep your eyes peeled for ospreys and flamingos.
There are three main signposted routes starting from the visitor centre, but the Sa Gola route is a personal favourite. It’s an easy 45-minute loop that takes you over wooden boardwalks and up to viewpoints with some of the best panoramic views of the lagoon.
Kayak Along the South Coast
One of the best ways to explore Menorca’s stunning coastline is to take a kayak tour along the south coast. The perfect way to stop at coves and beaches that are only accessible by sea, or via a very long hike! This is the best way to get a chance to discover Menorca’s fascinating cave and grotto world, which you can’t get to any other way. Plus, the tours offer a chance to snorkel to see the abundance of fish!
Chill out on Menorca’s Amazing Beaches
Menorca has some of the prettiest towns and villages, but no trip would be complete without sand and sea. Luckily, Menorca has over 100 beaches, meaning not only are you spoilt for choice, but really, days spent on the beach have to be one of the top things to do in Menorca.
My favourite is Binibequer beach, which has beautiful white sand and brilliant blue water. Other beaches that are notoriously stunning on the island are Caló Blanc, Cala Mitjaneta, and Cala Pregonda.
Discover all the best beaches Menorca has to offer:
Best Beaches in Menorca: 23 Stunning Places
Have a drink on the Beach
If you decide to spend time on Binibeca Beach, then you are in the perfect spot to grab a sundowner or a bite to eat right next to the water. The little whitewashed restaurant, Los Bucaneros, is located right next to the sea. Known as a “barefoot” chiringuito, the vibe is relaxed and perfect for a seaside break after swimming or sunbathing in Binibeca. The menu is limited and slightly expensive given its prime location, but it is worth it for the atmosphere.
Explore the Coastline
If kayaking is a little energetic, there is another way to explore the beautiful coastline of Menorca – on a day trip boat excursion. The best way to sit back, relax and watch the stunning turquoise water that Menorca is famed for. This also offers you the chance to visit some of the harder-to-reach beaches, and you can see more in one day than if you were visiting by car or on foot.
WHY NOT TRY:
From Ciutadella: Full-day boat tour which visits Cala Turqueta and Cala Macarella
Starting in Cala’n Bosc – 3.5 hour tour which goes past many bays, and includes an hour stop at Cala Trebalúger
From Fornells – this tour of the northern beaches includes Cala Pregonda and Playa de Cavalleria
Swim Off The Rocks
A Menorcan hidden gem! The island is not only home to stunning beaches but also plenty of swimming areas that are carved directly into the limestone cliffs. If you’re tired of getting sand in your belongings, this is the way to do it. These rocky platforms offer some of the clearest, deepest turquoise water you’ll ever see, making them a dream for snorkelling.
Head to places like Cala en Brut near Ciutadella, where polished rock “solariums” have been built at different heights. It’s a local favourite for cliff jumping. You’ll also find these rugged swimming spots tucked away in Binibeca and Cala Morell, often with metal ladders bolted right into the stone so you can climb in and out of the sea easily.
Try the Local Food
Menorca is home to a thriving local food scene, featuring a mix of rural traditions and Mediterranean flavours that earned it the title of European Region of Gastronomy in 2022. You can’t leave without trying the Caldereta de Llagosta (lobster stew), which is the island’s crown jewel, especially in the fishing village of Fornells. For something a bit more “everyday,” grab a pastisset (flower-shaped sugar cookies) or a slice of Ensaïmada from a local bakery. One of my firm favourites for tapas is sobresada. Best served on warm bread, drizzled with honey.
Sample the Local Gin
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!
Eat all the Menorcan cheese
Another famous local product is the Menorca cheese. Driving around the island, you won’t go far without seeing a sign to the local farms selling this cheese. Although the cheese is named after the capital, Mahon, it is produced throughout Menorca and appears on nearly every menu. Made from cow’s milk, with a mild, buttery taste; it’s salty, sharp, and addictive. Perfect to pair with a glass of gin!
Top Tip: If you really want to learn all there is and try all the flavours of cheese, why not book THIS TOUR, which takes you to 8 different farms on the island!
Drink some Pomada
One more drink you need to try when in Menorca! Pomada is the island’s unofficial national drink, and you’ll find it at every local fiesta, bar, and backyard BBQ. It’s a simple mix of Gin Xoriguer and cloudy, tart lemonade, usually served over a mountain of crushed ice. While you can buy it pre-mixed in bottles, nothing beats the fresh version. The ratio is typically 1 part gin to 2 parts lemonade. Just a word of warning: it goes down very easily, but the local gin packs a punch, so take it slow!
Buy Some Avarcas
You can’t visit Menorca and not come away with a pair of Avarcas, the ultimate souvenir. These Menorcan sandals were once the traditional footwear of Menorcan farmers. Nowadays, you can purchase them all over the island, and they come in every pattern you can think of! I can also attest that they are extremely comfortable. Check out the gift shop in Binibeca Vell, the shops along the harbour in Es Castell and the factory shop in Es Migjorn Gran for a wide range of options!
Visit a Menorcan Vineyard
Did you know Menorca also produces its own wine? Binifdadet is the largest vineyard on the island and was opened in 2004. You book a one-hour guided tour to find out all about the vineyard, or, if you prefer, explore on your own at your own pace. The vineyard also offers wine tasting. It has a wonderful restaurant on site, which serves the most delicious food on the terrace under the vines.
Sunset Drinks in a Cave
For a final memorable Menorcan experience, head to Cova d’en Xoroi—a natural cave located in Cala en Porter, which has been turned into a bar. There are three options for visiting: during the day, at sunset, and at night. There are plenty of areas to sit and chat carved into the side of the rock, which makes it the perfect place to head for sunset.
You need a ticket for each session, so even if you head for sunset, you will need to leave and re-enter as they turn it into the nightclub. Inside the caves are dancefloors and DJs set up for dancing.
Where to stay in Menorca
Deciding where to base yourself is the biggest hurdle because, honestly, every corner of the island has a different vibe. Whether you want to step out of your door and into a cobblestone history book or wake up to the sound of the Mediterranean, here is the breakdown:
Ciutadella
If you love old-world aesthetics, boutique hotels, and being able to walk to dinner, Ciutadella is my top pick. It’s the former capital on the west coast, filled with narrow alleys and pink-hued palaces. It gives you the city-break vibe, with easy access to the beaches.
Binibeca
One of the most iconic Menorca photos is the whitewashed village of Binibeca Vell. It’s incredibly pretty and peaceful, and staying here means you get to see it without the crowds. Alternatively, stay just down the road in Binibeca Nou for access to the beach.
Cala Galdana
If your holiday goal is “maximum beach time with minimum effort,” head south. Cala Galdana is a stunning horseshoe bay with bright turquoise water. It’s more developed than the north, but the views are unbeatable.
The “Agroturismo” Experience
For a truly authentic Menorcan stay, look for an Agroturismo or Finca. These are restored farmhouses turned into luxury rural hotels, often tucked away in the countryside among olive groves.
Top Tip: Menorca is small, but the roads don’t go around the coast. They mostly go through the Centre. If you want to see both ends of the island, staying somewhere central like Es Mercadal makes it easy for day trips!
How to get to Menorca
The quickest way to start your holiday is to fly into Menorca Airport (MAH), located just 5km from the capital, Mahón.
- From the UK: Direct flights take about 2 hours and 20 minutes. In 2026, major carriers like easyJet, Jet2, Ryanair, TUI, and British Airways operate frequent routes from London (Gatwick, Stansted, Luton) and regional hubs like Manchester, Birmingham, and Bristol.
- 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.
Check out my other posts on Menorca for more local recommendations:
- Why visit Menorca, the gem of the Balearic Islands
- Ultimate Menorca Travel Guide: Discover the Most Beautiful & Charming Spots
- Best Beaches in Menorca: 23 Stunning Places
- Binibeca, Menorca: Ultimate Guide to Visiting this Charming Town
- The Ultimate Guide to Menorca Fiestas 2026
- 15 Beautiful Things to Do in Ciutadella: Menorca’s Charming Old Capital
- 14 Exciting Things to Do in Mahon: The Capital of Menorca
- Lithica Quarry Menorca: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting
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