Menorca, the jewel of Spain’s Balearic Islands, beckons with its unspoiled beaches, rich history, and laid-back Mediterranean charm. This tranquil isle offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, ancient sites, and vibrant local culture that will leave you enchanted. The key is to choose the neighborhood that best suits your interests and let’s trip to Menorca.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Menorca
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Insotel Punta Prima Resort
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Casa Miranda - Adults Only
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Es Cucó
- 💸 Cheap: Grupoandria El Claustre de Ciutadella - HOSPEDERIA
Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Menorca 📍
- 🧘 Lazy vacation: Punta Prima
- 🏰 For history enthusiasts: Mahón (Maó)
- 👨👩👧 For families: Es Mercadal
- 🍸 Best for nightlife: Ciutadella
- 🏠 Best for exploring local life: Alaior
1. Punta Prima: The Natural Beauty of Southeast Menorca
🔥 Must-visit: Sink your toes into the soft golden sandy beach, one of the best beach in Menorca, where turquoise waters gently lap against the shore, creating an oasis of tranquility and relaxation. Whether you’re basking in the sun, taking a refreshing dip in the sea, or indulging in water sports like snorkeling and paddleboarding, This place offers endless opportunities for fun and rejuvenation.
🌅 Memorable views: Far de Punta Prima – Marvel at the iconic PP Lighthouse, a historic landmark perched atop the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding landscape, or simply admire its striking silhouette against the azure sky as you explore the coastal pathways and scenic viewpoints.
⛱️ Coastal Promenade: Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque coastal promenade, offering stunning views of the sea and coastline. Lined with palm trees and dotted with charming cafes and restaurants, the promenade is the perfect spot for a romantic sunset walk to the beach or a leisurely afternoon spent soaking in the Mediterranean ambiance.
🍲 Local Cuisine: Treat your taste buds to the flavors of Menorca at PP’s charming restaurants and eateries, where fresh seafood, traditional Spanish dishes, and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine take center stage. Whether you’re savoring grilled fish caught that morning, sampling local specialties like caldereta de langosta (lobster stew), or indulging in homemade ice cream with a view of the sea, dining in this place is a culinary adventure not to be missed.
Punta Prima invites you to experience the beauty and tranquility of Menorca’s southeastern coast, where sun-kissed beaches, turquoise waters, and warm hospitality await. Whether you’re lounging on the sand, exploring coastal pathways, or savoring local cuisine, this area offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for travelers of all ages and the best area of Menorca for families.
Recommended hotels:
💎 Luxury Hotels:
- Insotel Punta Prima Prestige Suites & Spa – This 5-star adults-only resort offers 62 exclusive suites in a tranquil beachfront setting.
- Insotel Punta Prima Resort – A luxurious 5-star beachfront property that caters very well to families. In addition to having direct access to beautiful sandy beach, it boasts 4 outdoor pools, a kids’ club, playground, and dedicated children’s areas.
- Minura Sur Menorca & Waterpark – One of the best family place, Situated a short walk from the beach, this aparthotel offers modern self-catering apartments along with impressive facilities like an outdoor pool complex with slides and a separate splash pool for little ones.
🏨 Medium price range:
- Occidental Menorca – This large resort is located just 300 meters from beach and offers excellent value for families.
- Bimbolla Apartaments – These modern self-catering apartments offer a great option for families or groups, with amenities like an outdoor pool, kids’ playground, and easy access to local restaurants, beach club and shops.
- Hotel Xaloc Playa – If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodations with cozy rooms and basic amenities, located just a short walk from the beach, with its convenient location and affordable rates, it’s a great option.
2. Mahón: Your Gateway to Menorca’s Charms
🏰 La Mola Fortress: Perched atop a cliff overlooking Mahón’s harbor, La Mola Fortress is a monumental military complex that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and the best location to open for yourself ancient Mahon. Explore the labyrinthine tunnels, ramparts, and barracks while learning about the fortress’s strategic importance throughout history.
🌊 Mahón Harbor: Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade of Mahón Harbor, lined with colorful buildings, bustling cafes, and seafood restaurants. Admire the elegant Georgian architecture of the buildings that reflect the city’s British colonial past and watch as boats of all sizes navigate the tranquil waters.
✨ Plaça de s’Esplanada: Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Plaça de s’Esplanada, Mahón’s main square, bustling with locals and visitors alike. Admire the neoclassical façade of the Town Hall and soak in the lively ambiance as street performers entertain the crowds.
🚶♂️ Camí de Cavalls: Embark on a scenic hike along the Camí de Cavalls, a historic trail that encircles the entire island of Menorca. Experience the natural beauty of the island as you meander through rugged coastline, hidden coves, and lush countryside, offering a unique perspective of Menorca’s diverse landscapes.
🚌 Accessibility: Mahón is well-connected by public transportation, including buses and taxis, making it easy to explore the city and its surrounding areas. Whether you’re venturing to nearby beaches, historical sites, or picturesque villages, Mahón serves as an ideal hub for discovering all that Menorca has to offer.
Best Hotels in Mahon:
💎 Expensive hotels:
- Jardí de Ses Bruixes Boutique Hotel – This adults-only boutique hotel occupies an artfully restored 19th-century townhouse in Mahon’s historic center.
- Agroturismo Malbuger Nou Menorca -Adults only -Adults only – A rustic adults-only agriturismo set in a renovated 18th-century manor house surrounded by gardens and good location to stay in Mahon.
- Cristine Bedfor – Cristine Bedfor provides affordable accommodations with simple yet cozy rooms, located within walking distance of Mahon’s main attractions and dining options.
🏨 Medium price range:
- Catalonia Mirador des Port – This modern hotel enjoys a prime location overlooking Mahon’s picturesque natural harbor.
- Hotel Casa Miranda - Adults Only – Adults Only – A beautifully restored 18th-century palace turned into an elegant boutique hotel in the heart of Mahon’s historic quarter.
- Calallonga Hotel Menorca – Set in a tranquil rural location just outside Mahon, this family-run hotel occupies a renovated 17th-century finca (estate).
3. Cala Galdana: Lovely Place to Stay for Families
🏖️ Idyllic Beach Cove: Cala Galdana is centered around one of Menorca’s most beautiful and famous calas (coves) and located in south coast of Menorca. The horseshoe-shaped bay is lined with a long stretch of soft golden sand that gently slopes into crystal clear, calm turquoise waters – perfect area to stay in Menorca for families with small children.
📍 Central Location: While feeling like a secluded oasis, Cala Galdana is conveniently located just a 30-minute drive from the Menorca airport and Menorca’s major towns of Ciutadella and Mahon.
🌴 Natural Beauty: The cove is framed by majestic pine-clad cliffs that provide plenty of shady areas for respite from the Mediterranean sun. A picturesque river flows through the trees and across the sand into the sea.
🍽️ Dining & Amenities: The Resort has all the amenities you need for a relaxing beach holiday. There are numerous restaurants, cafes and bars lining the promenade, offering everything from tapas to fresh seafood. You’ll also find supermarkets, shops, water sports rentals and more.
🚶 Scenic Walks: The area is a hiker’s paradise, with trails winding through the pine forests to other picturesque bays like Cala Macarella and Macarelleta. The Camí de Cavalls coastal path also passes through here.
With its idyllic setting, excellent facilities and accessibility, it’s no wonder Cala Galdana is considered one of the top beach resorts in Menorca for sun-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Recommended resorts:
💎 Luxury hotels:
- Comitas Floramar – Overlooking the picturesque Cala Galdana Bay, Comitas Floramar offers comfortable apartments with sea or garden views, ideal for couples or small families.
- Meliá Cala Galdana – Located in the picturesque Cala Galdana bay, Meliá Cala Galdana boasts spacious rooms with sea views, multiple dining options, and family-friendly amenities including a children’s club and playground.
- Minura Cala Galdana & Apartamentos d'Aljandar – Minura offers comfortable apartments with fully equipped kitchens and spacious living areas, perfect for families or groups and just a short walking distance of the beach.
🏨 Medium price range:
- Ilunion Menorca – This accessible hotel features facilities such as a gym, sauna, and a buffet restaurant serving a variety of local and international dishes.
- ARTIEM Audax - Adults Only – An adult-only hotel offering stylish rooms with furnished balconies and stunning Mediterranean views.
- Es Cucó – This family-run hotel provides cozy rooms with balconies or terraces, a swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers, and a restaurant serving authentic Menorcan cuisine.
4. Ciutadella: The Great Place to Stay in Menorca without a Car
🎭 Cultural Events: Festes de Sant Joan – Experience the excitement of Festes de Sant Joan, Ciutadella’s annual festival celebrating the town’s patron saint. Join in the lively festivities featuring traditional horse parades, folk music performances, street parties, and fireworks displays, as the entire community comes together to honor their heritage and cultural identity of West Menorca.
📌 Getting Around: The best area in Menorca to explore on foot without a car is Ciutadella.While other resort areas like Cala’n Porter or Son Bou have lovely beaches on the island, they are more spread out, making a car more necessary to get around fully. Ciutadella stands out as the most pedestrian-friendly destination on the island according to the provided information.
👀 Must-See Attractions: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Plaza des Born, Ciutadella’s main square and social hub. Take a leisurely stroll around the plaza, admire the elegant facades of surrounding buildings, and relax at one of the outdoor cafes or restaurants while soaking in the lively ambiance of this historic gathering place.
🌃 Nightlife: Space Menorca, situated in the bustling center of Ciutadella, illuminates the balmy summer nights with its illuminated terraces, casting a vibrant purple hue. As a part of the esteemed Space Ibiza franchise, renowned as one of the premier clubs globally, Space Menorca ensures an exhilarating and unforgettable nightlife experience, if you want to stay on the saturated side of Ciutadella.
Best accommodations:
💎 Expensive hotels:
- Faustino Gran Relais & Chateaux – Overlooking the historic port and one of the best hotels of Ciutadella offers luxurious accommodations with breathtaking sea views and elegant decor.
- Can Araya – Situated in the countryside near Ciutadella, Can Araya is a rustic retreat offering cozy rooms in a traditional Menorcan farmhouse setting.
- Hotel Rural Morvedra Nou – Hotel provides charming accommodations in a restored 17th-century farmhouse.
🏨 Medium price range:
- Nao Catedral Boutique Hotel – Boutique Hotel offers stylish rooms with modern amenities and views of the cathedral or the charming streets.
- Gran Sagitario – A family-friendly seafront resort located on Cala Santandria beach, just a short drive from Ciutadella.
- Valentin Star Menorca - Adults Only – Hotel offers adults-only accommodations with spacious rooms, a large outdoor pool, and a variety of leisure facilities including tennis courts and a fitness center.
💸 Budget hotels:
- Hotel Geminis – Centrally located in Ciutadella’s historic quarter, Hotel Geminis offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and easy access to the city’s attractions, including the Cathedral of Menorca and the bustling port area.
- Grupoandria El Claustre de Ciutadella - HOSPEDERIA – A unique accommodation option set within a former 17th-century convent cloister in Ciutadella’s historic center.
- HoMe Hotel Menorca – This contemporary 4-star hotel provides bright, stylish rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, and amenities like a fitness center and restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.
5. Alaior: A Quintessential Menorcan Experience
🏰 Historic Old Town: Wander through the enchanting streets of Alaior’s historic old town, where ancient stone buildings and charming alleyways transport you back in time and you can see here a traditional Menorca. Explore hidden squares, admire traditional architecture, and soak up the rich history and culture of this picturesque Menorcan town.
🌳 Natural Landscapes: Ascend to the summit of Monte Toro, the highest point on the island of Menorca, for breathtaking panoramic views of Alaior and beyond. Marvel at the stunning vistas of rolling hills, verdant countryside, and sparkling coastline, and discover the iconic sanctuary and statue of the Virgin Mary that crowns the peak.
🐟 Gastronomic Delights: Indulge in the flavors of Menorcan cuisine at Alaior’s local restaurants and taverns, where you can savor traditional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Sample authentic specialties such as caldereta de langosta (lobster stew), sobrasada (cured sausage), and pastissets (sweet pastries), and experience the unique culinary heritage of the island.
👝 Craft Markets: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Alaior’s craft markets, where local artisans showcase their handmade goods and traditional crafts. Browse stalls filled with pottery, jewelry, leather goods, and other souvenirs, and take home a piece of Menorca’s artisanal heritage as a memento of your visit.
Best accommodations:
💎 Expensive hotels:
- Amagatay Menorca – Tucked away in the countryside near Alaior, Amagatay Menorca offers eco-friendly accommodations in charming wooden cabins surrounded by nature.
- Menorca Experimental – Set amidst lush gardens and vineyards, Menorca Experimental is a luxury boutique hotel offering stylish accommodations in a renovated farmhouse.
- Encant de Alaior Boutique Hotel – This intimate 12-room boutique property is housed in a lovingly restored 18th-century manor house right in the center of Alaior.
🏨 Medium price range:
- Hotel Amano Maison Carrée – This intimate 12-room boutique hotel is housed in a lovingly restored 19th-century manor house right in the center of Alaior’s old town in Menorca.
- Agroturismo Santa Mariana – This rustic-chic agriturismo is set in a beautifully restored 18th-century finca (estate) surrounded by gardens and farmland just outside Alaior.
- ROMANDRE – A serene rural retreat occupying a renovated traditional Menorcan house amid fields and vineyards.
FAQs about Menorca
What is the best part of Menorca to stay in?
The best part of Menorca to stay in depends on your preferences. Mahón offers a lively atmosphere with cultural attractions, while Ciutadella boasts charming historic streets and beautiful beaches.
Which side of Menorca has the best beaches?
The southern coast of Menorca is renowned for its stunning beaches with turquoise waters and white sands, making it the best side of the island for beach lovers.
Can you walk around Menorca?
Yes, you can walk around the island, especially in towns and coastal areas where pedestrian-friendly paths and promenades offer scenic routes for exploring the island’s beauty on foot. However, for longer distances or reaching more remote areas, transportation options like buses, bicycles, or rental cars may be necessary.
Where is the best place to stay in Menorca for couples?
For couples seeking a romantic getaway, Ciutadella is an excellent choice with its charming historic streets, picturesque harbor, and intimate atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls and candlelit dinners by the sea.
Is south or north Menorca better?
Choosing between the north and south of Menorca depends on preferences. The north offers rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and tranquility, while the south boasts more developed tourist infrastructure, bustling resorts, and a livelier atmosphere.
