Discover the charming village of Alaior, a true gem ofMinorca that amazed me. Did you know that it’s the 3rd largest municipality on the island? Old convent, craft market, bunkers, charming alleyways, archaeological site, hikes… Prepare to be transported as I was in this picturesque village in the Minorcan lands.
In this article, here’s my complete guide to planning your visit to Alaior: access, what to do, practical tips and my own photos!
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
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// If you use them, I’ll get a commission at no extra cost to you (read more).
Visiting the village of Alaior: map + essential information
You’ll find all my practical advice at the end, but for a quick answer, here are the essentials:
- A fairly touristy village, I’d advise you to come during the week to enjoy the narrow streets more easily.
- Village located on a sloping hill and fairly easy ground (wear comfortable shoes).
- Allow around 1h30to 2h to tour the village (depending on the visits you plan to make there). But half a day seems more appropriate to enjoy it.
- Access to the village is free but some of the activities listed below are chargeable.
- If you’re not coming by car, you’ll need to take a bus from Port Mahon (about 20min). It runs regularly every day, with rearranged timetables during the traditional festivities.
- Paid outdoor parking at the entrance to the village near the bus stop, with terminals for electric vehicles.
- You can also opt for private transport on arrival in Menorca – see details
- If you can, I recommend a one-night stay for a timeless agritourism experience in the heart of Alaior’s vineyards! At the Hotel Menorca Experimental, for example – see photos and availability
And now, let’s enter this magnificent Minorcan village, one of the most beautiful on the island (see my list – coming soon) and discover the must-sees…
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
1. Stroll through the narrow streets of the village of Alaior
Alaior is one of Menorca’s oldest villages. As you stroll through its charming alleyways, you’ll feel the authenticity and strong history emanating from these typical houses. You’ll notice that the colorful buildings are not very tall and stand out against the blue Balearic sky. Take time to admire the moldings and wall paintings, the wrought-iron railings and benches, which add a touch of refinement. The people of Alaior are attached to the hospitable atmosphere of their village, adorning the walls with pretty flower pots and succulents.
2. Shop at one of the island’s typical markets
The markets in Menorca, also known as ” mercat ” in Catalan or ” mercado / mercadillo ” in Spanish, are must-sees to fully experience the local charm. In fact, they’re among the best ideas for things to do in Menorca. Some are open all year round, others add to the summer atmosphere to sweeten summer evenings!
Just 15 minutes by car and 20 minutes by bus from Port Mahon, Alaior boasts a charming night-time craft market on Wednesdays from June to September. Come and meet local and island artisans from 7pm to 11pm during the summer in the historic village center. Enjoy the magic of the Alaior Christmas market throughout December.
3. Reflecting at Santa Eulalia church
Built on the ruins of an ancient church dating back to the early 14th century, the parish church of Santa Eulalia was erected in the 17th century. It’s one of the island’s largest temples, with 6 side chapels surrounding the nave. Sadly, the organ, paintings and altar were destroyed during the Spanish Civil War, when the church was temporarily used as a refuge by the island’s inhabitants. The building has since been restored. Have you noticed the details of its carved portal, which underline its Baroque architectural style? The panoramic view from the roof of the church is exceptional!
Visits are possible from June to September.
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!
4. Visit the prehistoric village of Torre d’En Galmès
Do you love hiking and ruins? Set off to discover the prehistoric talayotic village of Torre d’En Galmès in Menorca, accessible about 15min by car and 1h15 by foot from the village of Alaior. This is one of the most important archaeological sites in this Balearic gem. You can also continue your hike to the beach of Cala’n Porter, about 2h walk away.
5. Sample local culinary specialities
The Minorcan terroir boasts some fine (and good) produce that you can easily find or sample in the typical restaurants in picturesque villages such as Alaior, or in markets such as Menorca gin (PGI) or hand-crafted Xoriguer gin, artichoke dishes, Mahón-Menorca raw-milk cheese, Sobresada or soubressade (a famous Balearic delicatessen), Menorcan wines and Menorcan craft beer.
6. Sunbathing on Cala’n Porter beach
Cala’n Porter is one of Menorca’s most important seaside resorts, attached to the municipality of the village of Alaior. I was carried away by the scenery: transparent water, fine sand, cliffs, all with few morning crowds. And best of all, you can easily get there without planning a hike. A real advantage on Menorca! It’s one of the most beautiful coves and one of the most beautiful beaches on the island in my eyes.
Cala’n Porter is well-known but not overcrowded with tourists all day long. You’ll find :
- a multitude of water sports activities – see photos and availabilities
- boat excursions – see photos and availability
- your scuba diving experience – see photos and availability
But also some quiet spots, access to several nature spots, the famous cave Cova d’En Xoroi, an exceptional setting with clear turquoise water in the middle of cliffs that open like 2 gigantic doors.
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.
7. Entering the bunkers of the Spanish Civil War
A visit to the Church of Santa Eulalia d’Alaior in summer also gives you the chance to immerse yourself in the air-raid shelters used during the Spanish Civil War from 1936 to 1939. Allow around 2 hours for your visit, and be aware that the site is not accessible to people with reduced mobility, as there are numerous spiral staircases. Children are welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult. The on-site reception team speaks several languages: German, Spanish and English.
8. Wonder at Cales Coves
This pretty cove, just a 15-minute drive from Cala’n Porter, is surrounded by cliffs into which several caves have been carved. The clarity of the water will leave you speechless! The cove is also accessible by boat.
9. Visit the Convent of Saint Diego
The Convent of Saint Diego in Alaior was founded in 1629. Franciscan monks settled in this church and its stone cloister, where you’ll be dazzled by the shaft of light emanating from this sacred place in the village. On this not-to-be-missed visit to Alaior, you’ll learn that in the course of the 19th century, the convent was converted into a military barracks and then into housing. In the early 1990s, it was declared a Site of Cultural Interest, and continues to contribute to the village’s artistic and cultural heritage.
10. Agrotourism
Looking for an idyllic setting for your vacation? Menorca is the ideal place, as the island is still wild and unspoilt in places. Being as close to nature as possible, in a chic, country atmosphere, are also options that I’ve really appreciated in Menorca because of the diversity and centrality of its flora and fauna. One of the common practices on this Balearic island is agrotourism, which allows you to be in contact with green spaces in the countryside, calm and far from the hustle and bustle of towns and seaside resorts.
The Hotel Menorca Experimental near Alaior is one of my favorite places to do agrotourism in Menorca. This former finca (or farming estate) has been renovated: it combines sustainability, respect for the environment and top-of-the-range service. You can even talk to local agricultural professionals.
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What to do in the village of Alaior: other ideas
Fun in the children’s park at the entrance to the village
Close to the schools and sports area, just 2 steps from the bus stop that takes you to the Port Mahon bus station, there’s a play area perfectly equipped for your children. Menorca is a family-friendly destination with numerous play areas for different age groups. Take a break among the tall trees and shady palm trees while your little ones enjoy themselves. Access is free of charge.
Hiking
Menorca is also a natural destination, still unspoilt and wild in places. If you’re a keen hiker or walker, this island is the ideal playground for you, whatever the time of year!
Its green hills, large parks, archaeological sites and ravines are home to unique flora and fauna. Near Alaior, go on an adventure, take the trails towards the Torre d’En Galmès towards Cala’n Porter and fill your lungs with fresh air!
Celebrating Minorca’s patron saint festivals
Menorca’s Fiestas Patronales take place every year throughout the summer, from June to September, all over the island. In the charming village of Alaior, the Sant Llorenç festivities take place on fixed dates, usually around August 12 and 13. Riders and horses become the real stars of Menorca during these traditional festivities. Whether you’re a horse enthusiast or just curious, you’re sure to be carried away by the island’s rich culture, with its mix of emotion and tradition! Enjoy these typical Menorcan festivities at Cala’n Porter (about 20min from Alaior by car) for 3 days around mid-September each year.
Find all the dates of Menorca’s patron saint festivals on the Tourist Office website here.
Explore Monte Toro and its sanctuary
At a height of almost 360m, the Monte Toro is Menorca’s highest point. If you drive up to it from the Es Mercadal village road (about 10min), you’ll be able to admire some stunning scenery. The 360-degree panoramic views over the whole island are quite magical from above!
You’ll also discover restaurants near the Monte Toro sanctuary behind the huge statue of Jesus Christ that sits atop the mount. It’s the perfect place to admire the beauty of Menorcan nature with the whole family. The sanctuary can also be visited free of charge.
Practical tips and map
Is a visit to Alaior worthwhile?
Absolutely. 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 a locality on the island (1 third of the respective populations of Port Mahon and Ciutadella). Did you know that since 1998, it has also been home to the University of the Balearic Islands in Menorca? It’s 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.
In my opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Menorca.
Where is the village of Alaior?
- Center East inland
- Port Mahon to Alaior = 20min drive
- Ciutadella to Alaior = 35min drive
- Here’s a map to help you find your way:
How to get there
By car
This is the easiest and most flexible option for you, leaving you free to explore the island as you please. The road is not difficult. See the next section on parking. You can rent a car and get there via the main Me-1 road or opt for private transport to Menorca.
By bus
From the Port Mahon bus station, bus line 1 takes you to the village of Alaior in 20min. Remember to bring change for the ticket, which costs €1.25 per person (no credit card payment). More information on timetables here.
By scooter
You can also rent scooters in Menorca here for greater freedom of movement. Take the main Me-1 road from Port Mahon or Ciutadella to reach Alaior.
Guided excursions
You can find excursions that take you to different corners and include Alaior :
- Jeep safari tour of Menorca – see program and availability
- Day trip to Menorca – see program and availability
Where to park in Alaior
To find a parking space easily, we recommend that you come early enough.There’s an outdoor parking lot just outside the village near the line 1 bus stop, which is really very convenient with electric vehicle terminals.
You can also park directly in the village of Alaior, free of charge. Be aware, however, that the streets are narrow and parking can be difficult. Some streets in the heart of the village are pedestrianized.
Best time to visit
The village can be visited all year round and at any time of day.To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays in autumn and winter or fairly early in the morning…Avoid visiting in the middle of the day in summer. The frustration of not being able to move through the narrow streets is not tempting, and the heat can be stifling.
How long and how difficult
This village is not very large, even though it is the 3rd largest municipality in Menorca. Allow 2 hours to explore it, but I recommend a half-day to visit the convent, the church, the bunkers, the artistic sites specific to the village of Alaior, take time to stroll through the authentic alleyways, and enjoy a good meal in one of the restaurants in a historic atmosphere.
Beware, the village is sometimes very steep and the alleyways are narrow.
However, the ground is well maintained, so there are no particular technical difficulties, even if some places of tourist interest are not accessible to people with reduced mobility. Find out more on the official Alaior Tourist Office website here.
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.
