This idyllic holiday island in the western Mediterranean is famous for its pristine sandy beaches and seaside resorts. Menorca is a lot quieter than Ibiza and Majorca, which means it's great if you're looking for pure relaxation and a slower pace of life. Whether your vision of the ideal holiday is endless lazy days on the beach, or exploring secluded coves and historic sites, you'll find plenty of things to do in Menorca.
Explore the Cami de Valls trails in Menorca
These beautiful paths and tracks offer fantastic views of the Menorcan coast and are the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors with the family. Just remember to bring a good pair of shoes, plenty of water, and a fully charged camera/phone so you can take lots of photos. In high summer, it's better to do the Cami de Valls trail in the morning or evenings, when the sun is less intense and the temperature is more pleasant for long walks.
Visit Mahon
In the eastern part of Menorca, Mahón, the capital city, is best known for its 18th century architecture and historic port. The city, also known as Maó', overlooks one of the world's biggest natural deep-water ports, and is home to the Xoriguer Gin Distillery, where you can try the island's uniquely aromatic gin.
Make some time for the town's Franciscan monastery, which dates to the 15th century and includes artefacts from the Roman and Byzantine eras.
Throughout the year, Mahón celebrates many big festivals, one of the most famous of which is the Fiestas de Gracia in early September, with magnificent horse parades and live music. It's one of the best things to do in Menorca if you want to experience local culture at its best.
Visit Ciutadella
This charming city, the former capital of the island, has a well-preserved medieval quarter and is most noted for its cathedral. This fortified church has stood for more than 650 years, and still has the remains of a minaret that belonged to a mosque that once occupied this site.
Ciutadella is also home to the Castell de Sant Nicolau, a watchtower that was built in the 17th century and has amazing panoramic views all the way to Majorca. In late June, one of the best Menorca things to do is to attend Ciutadella's Festival of Sant Joan, which includes delicious traditional foods, fireworks, and a special horse parade.
Explore Menorca's stunning coves and beaches
Most of the beaches on the Menorcan coast have gently shelving sands, making them ideal for timid toe dippers and families with young children. You'll find that many of the main resort beaches are more secluded and greener than you'd find on much of the coast of mainland Spain. When it comes to adventurous things to do in Menorca, expect a decent range of water sports facilities on the beaches of key resorts like Cala Galdana, Arenal Den Castell and Punta Prima.
However, many of the beaches on the northern coast are more remote and may only be accessible by car or foot. Naturally, though, these most 'difficult-to-get-to' beaches are often the most beautiful. One is Algaiarens, a huge bay where parking is limited to 400 spaces, so arrive early in the high season. Another is Playa Cavalleria with its distinctive red sand and double horseshoe shape, accessible by car and a 15-minute walk.
