Between beaches, vineyards, ravines and cliffs, Menorca also boasts architectural gems between its towns and villages that have stood the test of time.
In this article, you’ll find Menorca’s most beautiful towns, as well as the island’s most beautiful villages.
In this guide, you’ll find a map to locate you, my advice and my own photos.
Note: it’s more an article about visiting these towns and villages.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Menorca, read this other article.
Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Menorca:
My favorite platform to rent a car in Menorca: DiscoverCars
My favourite sea activity: transparent kayak
My favourite excursion in Menorca: a half-day catamaran trip
My favorite places to stay:
- Cala’n Porter, close to the village of Alaior – my favourite hotel: Osprey Menorca Hotel or view top rated hotels
- Port Mahon, the most convenient for exploring – my favourite hotel: Catalonia Mirador or view top rated hotels
- Cala Galdana, the liveliest – my favourite hotel: Ilunion Menorca Hotel or view top rated hotels
// On this page, no ads, no sponsored content. Just a few affiliate links.
// If you use them, I’ll get a commission at no extra cost to you (read more).
1. Es Castell – Menorca’s best village
Es Castell is a charming little village of British origin, founded in the 18th century, which I absolutely adored, with its colorful buildings, vast squares and narrow streets. What surprised me was that it’s rarely included in Menorca’s classic tourist circuits, yet is very close to the capital.
This village, known for its mills at the entrance, is home to the island’s Military Museum. This is the place where the imprint of the British occupation is most marked, particularly in the architecture. I enjoyed the picturesque character of the buildings and alleyways, combined with the atmosphere of a bustling port town.
Things to see and do in Es Castell
If you decide to visit this village, don’t miss :
- the old traditional windmills at the entrance
- the Minorca Military Museum
- the marina and its artisan market.
- the esplanade and its former military barracks
Practical tips
- Crowds – no crowds outside the summer period
- Tour duration – 1h to 1h30
- Easy to visit – relatively easy
- Hotels – If you’d like to spend the night here, see the top-rated accommodations in Es Castell.
How to get to Es Castell
- East coast of Minorca
- Port Mahon to Es Castell = 15min drive
- Ciutadella to Es Castell = 50min drive
- You’ll need to hire a car to visit Es Castell (or take the local bus, which is less convenient).
- You can also opt for a scooter or private transportation
Parking
Parking at the entrance to the village near the old mill, or in the narrow streets (but more difficult).
Read my article dedicated to the village of Es Castell.
2. Ciutadella – Menorca’s best town
Ciutadella is Menorca’s 2nd largest city after Port Mahon, with a similar population density. It’s also the island’s former capital and still the seat of the Minorcan bishopric. Its Mediterranean atmosphere is both vibrant and soothing, with the soul of its old town, the modernity of its port and the variety of activities and places of interest on offer.
Under Muslim rule in Andalusia from the 9th century to the Middle Ages, Ciutadella was considered the cultural, administrative and political center of Menorca. Its location made it a strategic site for the island’s capital until the 18th century. Its port is also renowned for its modern infrastructure. Finally, Ciutadella is close to many of the island’s places of interest.
Things to see and do in Ciutadella
If you decide to visit this port city, don’t miss :
- the marina
- Santa Maria de Ciutadella Cathedral in the heart of the old town
- the Episcopal Palace of Ciutadella and its magnificent cloister
- the Plaza d’es Born and the city’s markets.
- the Palacio Can Saura Museum with its ethnographic and archaeological collection
- Lithica botanical garden and s’Hostal quarries
Practical tips
- Crowds – during the summer period from June to August
- Duration of visit – 1 to 3 days on site depending on your activities
- Easy to visit – relatively easy
- Hotels – If you’d like to spend the night here, see the top-rated accommodations in Ciutadella.
How to get to Ciutadella
- West coast of Menorca
- Port Mahon to Ciutadella = 50min drive
- You’ll need to hire a car to visit Ciutadella (or take the local bus, which is less convenient).
- You can also opt for a scooter or private transport
- From Mallorca, on a one-day boat trip – see details and availability
- From Barcelona in Spain or from the Port of Alcudia in Mallorca, by ferry to Ciutadella in Menorca with several crossings per day – consult ferry schedules
Parking
The main parking lots in Ciutadella are :
- Parking Plaça Des Born,
- Parking Menorca Blava,
- Carrer de Madrid parking lot near Castell Sant Nicolau.
Read my article dedicated to the town of Ciutadella.
Where to stay in Menorca?
I recommend staying either close to one of the 2 main towns, Ciutadella or Port Mahon, or in one of the charming little villages all over the island. You’ll enjoy good restaurants, typical markets and their picturesque atmosphere. For example, you could opt for:
- Hotel Gran Melia Villa Le Blanc Hotel in Santo Tomas – View photos & availability
- Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port, overlooking the natural harbour of Mahon – View photos & availabilities
- Hotel Smoix Hotel, in the old town of Ciutadella – View photos and availability
3. Port Mahon – capital
Port Mahon has been Menorca’s capital since the 18th century. Today, it is home to over 28,000 inhabitants. Built on a 30-metre-high cliff, you’ll have a breathtaking view of Port Mahon’s natural harbour and the Illa del Rei, which bear witness to the British occupation of the island for over 70 years in the 18th century. Its natural fishing and yachting harbor is the largest in the Mediterranean and, above all, the deepest in the world. This is definitely a district to put on your list when you visit Port Mahon! In the 2nd century BC, its port was already considered a strategic location under the Roman Empire. It was also here that the British army established its naval base under occupation in the 18th century.
Things to see and do in Port Mahon
If you decide to visit the capital of Menorca, don’t miss :
- the marina
- the fish market Mercat des Peix
- the Minorca Museum, which recounts the island’s history
- the Illa del Rei and its former British military hospital
- Santa Maria de Mao Church in the heart of the old town
- the artisanal markets.
Practical tips
- Crowds – during the summer period from June to August
- Duration of visit – 1 to 3 days on site depending on your activities
- Easy to visit – relatively easy
- Hotels – If you would like to spend the night here, see the top-rated accommodations in Port Mahon.
How to get to Port Mahon
- East coast of Minorca
- Port Mahon to Ciutadella = 50min drive
- You’ll need to hire a car to visit Port Mahon (or take the local bus, which is less convenient).
- You can also opt for a scooter or private transport
- From Mallorca, on a one-day boat trip that includes the capital – see details and availability
- From Barcelona in Spain or from the Port of Alcudia in Mallorca, by ferry to Ciutadella in Menorca with several crossings a day, then by car to Port Mahon – see ferry schedules.
Parking
The main parking lots in Port Mahon are :
- Parking de la Explanada,
- Freginal’s parking,
- Port of Mahon’s parking,
- Parking Sa Sínia des Cuc.
Read my article dedicated to the town of Port Mahon.
4. Alaior – in the heart of the island’s vineyards
The adorable little village of Alaior was founded in the early 14th century, just after the conquest of Menorca by Alfonso III of Aragon, King of Aragon, King of Valencia and Count of Barcelona. Today, this Menorcan municipality has a population of almost 10,000, which is quite large for an island locality (1 third of the respective populations of Port Mahon and Ciutadella). Did you know that this is also where the University of the Balearic Islands in Menorca has been located since 1998? This is one of the villages I’ve loved most in Menorca, not least for its authenticity, with the Church of Santa Eulalia and the Civil War tunnels. Or for its proximity to famous places like the caves on the south coast and the prehistoric Talayotic village of Torre d’en Galmès. It is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Menorca.
Things to see and do in Alaior
If you decide to visit this inland village, don’t miss :
- the Convent of Saint Diego
- the bunkers of the Spanish Civil War
- the prehistoric village of Torre d’en Galmès
- Santa Eulalia Church
- the artisanal market in Alaior
- Cala’n Porter beach
- agrotourism sites (or former fincas) and surrounding vineyards
Practical tips
- Crowds – during the summer period from June to August
- Length of visit – 1h30 to 2h or 1 half day
- Easy to visit – relatively easy, village located on a sloping hill
- Hotels – If you’d like to spend the night here, see the top-rated accommodations in Alaior.
How to get to Alaior
- Center East inland
- Port Mahon to Alaior = 20min drive
- Ciutadella to Alaior = 35min drive
- Rent a car to visit Alaior at your leisure
- From the Port Mahon bus station, bus line 1 takes you to the village of Alaior in 20 minutes (take change).
- You can also opt for a scooter or private transport
Parking
The main parking lots in Alaior are :
- outdoor parking at the entrance to the village near the line 1 bus stop, with terminals for electric vehicles,
- free parking in the narrow streets of Alaior village
Read my article dedicated to the village of Alaior.
5. Fornells – fishing village
The adorable little fishing village of Fornells boasts a charming traditional marina and a bay over 3 km long! It’s also the only place in Menorca where you can try the island’s specialty: lobster stew. I really enjoyed the peaceful, friendly atmosphere of this seaside town. Its exceptional bay is part of Menorca’s marine reserve, where the local flora and fauna are protected. Menorca’s north coast is an ideal place to enjoy water sports. Did you know that this area is part of the Menorca Marine Reserve, protected since 1999 to preserve the Menorcan coastline? It is divided into 3 protected zones: the 1st, where it is forbidden to fish or extract marine flora and fauna. In the 2nd, only professional fishermen are authorized to fish. And finally, the 3rd zone allows more flexible fishing conditions, but remains regulated.
Things to see and do in Fornells
If you decide to visit this coastal village in the north of Menorca, don’t miss :
- the marina
- the bay of Fornells and its nautical activities such as diving or Sailing
- Saint-Antoine Church
- the typical markets.
- Fornells defensive tower
- the creek Cala Fornells
Practical tips
- Crowds – during the summer period from June to August
- Tour duration – 1h30 or 1 half-day
- Easy to visit – relatively easy
- Hotels – If you’d like to spend the night here, see the top-rated accommodations in Fornells.
How to get to Fornells
- North coast of Menorca
- Port Mahon to Fornells = 30min drive
- Ciutadella to Fornells = 35min drive
- Rent a car to visit Fornells at your leisure
- From the Port Mahon bus station, bus line 41 takes you to the village of Fornells. From Ciutadella, take line 1 to Es Mercadal, then bus 72 to Fornells (take change).
- You can also opt for a scooter, private transport or a excursion which includes Fornells
Parking
The main parking lots in Fornells are :
- outdoor parking near the town cemetery on Carrer de la Verge del Carme
- free parking in the narrow streets of Fornells village
Read my article dedicated to the village of Fornells.
Need to rent a car in Menorca?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Don’t choose a car too large, since some roads are very narrow
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
6. Es Mercadal
Before climbing Menorca’s highest point, I stopped off at Es Mercadal, just a 10-minute drive from Monte Toro and a 45-minute walk.
Es Mercadal is a pretty, picturesque village of white houses founded in the 14th century. You can stroll between the stalls of local artisans at the pretty markets (some of the best in Menorca) which flourish here all year round, not just in summer. Winter market, flea market, spring market or night-time craft market… You’re bound to find what you’re looking for!
Es Mercadal also boasts typical narrow streets with charming restaurants and hotels, as well as the farmland that surrounds the town.
Things to see and do in Es Mercadal
If you decide to visit this picturesque village, don’t miss :
- the narrow streets of Charmes and its traditional whitewashed houses
- a typical meal based on local products at the Jeni Hotel & Restaurant.
- the Monte Toro and its sanctuary
- the artisanal markets.
- Sant Marti Church
- the village of Fornells only 15min by car
Practical tips
- Crowds – during the summer period from June to August
- Tour duration – 1 hour or 1 half-day if you climb to the top of Monte Toro
- Easy to visit – relatively easy, flat village
- Hotels – If you want to spend the night here, see the best rated accommodations in Es Mercadal.
How to get to Es Mercadal
- Inland center of the island
- Port Mahon to Es Mercadal = 35min drive
- Ciutadella to Es Mercadal = 35min drive
- Rent a car for a more leisurely visit to Es Mercadal
- From the Port Mahon or Ciutadella bus stations, bus line 1 takes you to the village of Es Mercadal, (take change).
- You can also opt for a scooter or private transport
Parking
The main parking lots in Es Mercadal are :
- free parking on Carrer de la Tramuntana
- public parking lot on Carrer de la Verge de Toro
- free parking on Via Ronda de Ses Costes
- parking available in the narrow streets of Es Mercadal village (check for parking meters)
7. Ferreries
Ferreries is a small, picturesque village on Menorca, built in the 14th century and holding an important historical and industrial position on the island. What I liked about this Menorcan village :
- the lively, musical atmosphere of its alleyways,
- day and night craft markets,
- its friendly, authentic atmosphere,
- its typical preserved buildings, mainly yellow and white.
Things to see and do in Ferreries
If you decide to visit this inland village, don’t miss :
- the narrow streets of Charmes and its traditional whitewashed houses
- Minorca Geology Centre
- Sant Bartomeu Church
- delicious tapas at the Hotel Restaurant Loar Ferreries
- the artisanal markets.
- Santa Agueda Castle
- the famous cove and beach of Cala Galdana
Practical tips
- Crowds – during the summer period from June to August
- Length of visit – 1 hour or 1 half day
- Easy to visit – relatively easy, flat village
- Hotels – If you’d like to spend the night here, see the top-rated accommodations in Ferreries.
How to get to Ferreries
- Inland center of the island
- Port Mahon to Ferreries = 45min drive
- Ciutadella to Ferreries = 20min drive
- Rent a car for a more leisurely visit to Es Mercadal
- From the Port Mahon bus station or Ciutadella, bus line 1 takes you to the village of Ferreries (take change).
- You can also opt for a scooter or private transport
Parking
The main parking lots in Ferreries are :
- parking lot at the entrance to the village on the Me-20 road
- parking available in Ferreries village lanes (check for parking meters)
I don’t drink coffee 
But I also like other drinks and sweets!
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8. Binibeca
Binibeca (or Binibequer Vell) is more an unusual little village than a massive tourist resort. Famous for its Mediterranean-style architecture, white thatched houses and picturesque atmosphere, the village was designed in the 1970s to recreate the traditional look of local fishing villages. I loved Binibeca’s traditional style, its narrow, winding streets and white facades.
Binibeca beach is one of Menorca’s best beaches with its fine sand, turquoise water and docked catamarans and sailboats. It is located in the south-east of the island, close to the picturesque village of Binibèquer Vell.
This is a child-friendly beach, with shallow waters. The area is perfect for snorkeling and discovering Menorca’s marine flora and fauna.
Things to see and do in Binibeca
If you decide to visit this coastal village in the south of Menorca, don’t miss :
- Mediterranean-style houses with thatched roofs
- the turquoise beach of Binibeca
- Cala Torret cove
- the tour in transparent kayak
- the snorkeling with cave tours
- the cave of Bufador de Binibequer
Practical tips
- Crowds – during the summer period from June to August
- Length of visit – 1 hour or 1 half day
- Easy to visit – relatively easy, flat village
- Hotels – If you want to spend the night here, see the best rated accommodations in Binibeca.
How to get to Binibeca
- Southeast coast of the island
- Port Mahon to Binibeca = 25min drive
- Ciutadella to Binibeca = 1h drive
- Rent a car for a more leisurely visit to Binibeca
- From the Port Mahon bus station, bus route 93 takes you to the village of Binibeca (take change).
- Binibeca can also be visited by boat
- You can also opt for a scooter or private transport
Parking
The main parking lots in Binibeca are :
- parking Cala Binibequer near Carrer de S’Amfos Blau,
- free parking further west of the beach on Carrer de Sancora,
- parking lot on Carrer des Timo with a few shady spots,
- parking available in Binibeca’s alleyways (check for parking meters)
Read my article on Binibeca. (coming soon)
My favourite activity in Menorca
I highly recommend the Binibeca: guided transparent kayak tour.
In just 2 hours, you’ll experience an unforgettable moment: a glimpse of the turquoise waters without diving, in the magical coves, caves and beach of Binibeca.
9. Port Addaia
Just a 20-minute drive from Fornells, I stopped off at Port Addaia to see its wind-protected cove, where numerous nautical activities are organized. At the marina, facing the moored boats and the sails stowed inside the masts, take the time to sit down at one of its restaurants to enjoy fresh fish by the water. It’s an ideal place to enjoy the calm and serenity of Menorca’s northern coves while savoring the day’s catch.
Things to see and do in Port Addaia
If you decide to visit this fishing village in the north of Menorca, don’t miss :
- the marina
- restaurants of fresh fish and shellfish
- Cala Addaia cove
- water activities
- the S Albufera d’Es Grau Natural Park
Practical tips
- Crowds – during the summer period from June to August
- Length of visit – 1 hour or 1 half day
- Easy to visit – relatively easy, village on a slope
- Hotels – If you’d like to spend the night here, see the top-rated accommodations in Port Addaia.
How to get to Port Addaia
- North coast of the island
- Port Mahon to Port Addaia = 15min drive
- Ciutadella to Port Addaia = 45min drive
- Rent a car for a more leisurely visit to Binibeca
- From the Port Mahon bus station, bus route 41 takes you to the village of Port Addaia, (take change).
- You can also opt for a scooter or private transport
Parking
Parking is available in the lanes of Port Addaia (check for parking meters), but to my knowledge there are no other parking lots in the village.
10. Sa Mesquida
On the northeastern tip of Menorca, Sa Mesquida is a small fishing village whose beach has been the scene of historic moments of conquest. Little known, the cove and beach are not always crowded. The turquoise water makes you want to dive into the waves! From the sand, you can enjoy views of the village and the Torre de Sa Mesquida defensive tower.
On Sa Mesquida beach, access to the famous Cami de Cavalls is easy enough for hiking and discovering Menorcan nature. Some boat cruises make a stop here if you prefer to discover it by sea.
The area is surrounded by lush greenery and large rocks. You can even go for a walk.
Things to see and do in Sa Mesquida
If you decide to visit this fishing village in the north of Menorca, don’t miss :
- the narrow streets of this fishing village
- the beach of Sa Mesquida
- Sa Mesquida’s rock-cut bunker
- the Torre de Sa Mesquida defensive tower, a British legacy dating from 1799
- the boat cruises
- access to the Cami de Cavalls for hiking
Practical tips
- Crowds – during the summer period from June to August
- Length of visit – 1 hour or 1 half day
- Easy to get to – relatively easy, slightly sloping village and wide beach
- Hotels – If you would like to spend the night here, see the best rated accommodations in Sa Mesquida.
How to get to Sa Mesquida
- North-east coast of the island
- Port Mahon to Sa Mesquida = 15min drive
- Ciutadella to Sa Mesquida = 50min drive
- Rent a car for a more relaxing visit to Sa Mesquida
- You can also opt for a scooter or private transport
- If you like cruises, you can go by boat.
Parking
To my knowledge, there’s only one parking lot in Sa Mesquida, near the beach at Cala Sa Mesquida. Parking is possible in the village alleyways, but it’s very tricky because the streets are narrow and residential, so spaces are quickly taken up.
Minorca’s most beautiful towns and villages – Map
Map
Here is a map showing the location of my 10 favourite towns and villages:
Need to rent a car in Menorca?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Don’t choose a car too large, since some roads are very narrow
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
11. to 15. Best towns in Menorca near the beach
In this article, I’ve focused on the best villages and towns to visit in Menorca.
But by “best towns”, you may be thinking of the urbanizations closest to the beach on the island. In that case, my top 5 are:
11. Cala’n Porter
Cala’n Porter is one of Menorca’s most important seaside resorts. It is attached to the municipality of the village of Alaior. It’s a place that can be quite busy, as you’ll find a multitude of water sports activities, some quiet spots, access to several nature spots, an exceptional setting with clear turquoise water in the middle of cliffs that open up like 2 gigantic doors. The local people were also very welcoming, as is often the case in Menorca.
The advantages of staying here are :
- undeniably easy access to a magnificent beach (one of the most beautiful in Menorca, in my opinion),
- a wide choice of accommodation without large hotel complexes,
- easy access to the main road for exploring the island,
- a variety of water sports such as kayaking and paddle-boarding to explore the coves of the southern coast of Menorca,
- a disco bar in a cave on a 30m cliff (yes, you read that right!),
- and proximity to famous sites such as the Torre d’en Galmès archaeological site and the unique Mirador del Mediteraneo sea view from the cliffs.
- see the top-rated accommodations in Cala’n Porter.
12. Santo Tomas or Sant Tomas
Santo Tomas is an urbanized area on Menorca’s south coast, surrounded by hills and forests.
It is divided into 3 main beaches:
- Sant Tomas Beach – more of a seaside resort, with a beautiful stretch of sand and restaurants
- Sant Adeodate beach – small beach facing residential villas
- Binigaus Beach (west) – tranquil, clear turquoise water
The advantages are: a wide choice of accommodation to suit all tastes, but an authenticity and calm preserved because the tourist side of a seaside resort with big hotel complexes is not felt. I really loved the tall trees lined up like a hedge of honor as I drove up the road to Santo Tomas, giving the place an already intimate feel.
See the top-rated accommodations in Santo Tomas.
13. Cala en Bosc or Cala’n Bosch
Cala’n Bosc is part of the municipality of Ciutadella, in the west of Menorca.
Despite its touristy side, the beauty of this place has left a lasting impression on me, with its fine white sand, turquoise water and view of the horizon.
The advantages are a wide choice of accommodation, easy access to the beach, volleyball courts and the possibility of renting deckchairs and parasols, and easy access to the main road for exploring the island. It’s a famous spot on Menorca, and can be very busy in high season (July and August in particular).
See the top-rated accommodations in Cala’n Bosch.
14. Sa Caleta
Sa Caleta is located on the west side of the island. Numerous boats and sailboats dock in the cove, and as I walked along the rocks, I discovered a tiny, secluded beach a quarter of an hour’s walk from Cala Blanca. From Sa Caleta, I could see Mallorca’s coastline on the horizon in daylight and even between the sublime shades of sunset later in the afternoon.
Sa Caleta is located less than 15min by car from Ciutadella, where you can rent deckchairs on site.
It’s also a great spot for snorkeling, as the water is transparent and calm. You may be lucky enough to spot schools of fish, especially near the rocks!
See the top-rated accommodations in Sa Caleta.
15. Cala Galdana
Cala Galdana is one of Menorca’s largest seaside resorts. In the south-east of the island, it is attached to the municipality of the village of Ferreries. Situated very close to Cala Mitjana, another of Menorca’s must-see beaches and coves, a 20-25min forest walk takes you there from the beach. Cala Galdana is known for :
- its extensive sandy beach and turquoise waters,
- its cove where beautiful boats dock, offering a panorama worthy of a painting,
- restaurants and lively nightlife,
- beautiful hotels and accommodation to suit all tastes.
This long sandy beach bordered by cliffs was a beautiful canvas to admire in the morning or at sunset. The famous beach of Cala Macarella can also be reached from Cala Galdana in just a few minutes’ walk.
See the top-rated accommodations in Cala Galdana.
Plan your trip to Menorca:
Best-of:
- 35 best things to do in Menorca
- Menorca’s most beautiful landscapes
- Menorca’s most beautiful villages and towns
- Best beaches in Menorca
- Menorca hidden gems
- Best museums in Menorca
- Best caves
- Best calas
- Markets in Menorca
- Best restaurants
Useful tips:
- Where to stay in Menorca
- Best luxury hotels in Menorca
- Best family hotels in Menorca
- Best boutique hotels
- Tips for driving in Menorca
- Renting a car in Menorca
- My itineraries in Menorca – coming soon
- Road trip in Menorca – coming soon
Towns:
- Port Mahon: Things to do – Best hotels
- Ciutadella: Things to do – Best hotels
All my advice in this article was put into words with the help of Myriam.
