Minorca in winter: a good idea?
Absolutely! Here’s my guide to help you decide and plan your trip:
- Menorca’s winter sun, temperature and weather,
- Reasons to visit Menorca between December and March,
- Tips and things to do in Menorca in winter,
- Christmas and New Year in Minorca
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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Is Menorca a winter destination? Short answers
What can you expect when you visit Menorca in winter?
Menorca has a lot to offer all year round. It’s a true Balearic gem, still wild and unspoilt in places.
As for winter, you can expect the following:
- The days are long
the shortest day of the year still has 9 hours of sunshine (sunrise around 8am and sunset around 5:30pm). - It’s a temperate, sunny climate with little rain.
- The winter sun is warm – It’s not hot like summer, but it’s mild. Especially when the sun is out. Daytime temperatures between 14°C and 20°C
- Sea temperature around 15°C
- Beautiful beaches, a little less crowded than in summer (except at Christmas and Easter)
- Cooler temperatures make for great hiking
- Almost everything remains open during winter, especially in the 2 major cities of Ciutadella and Port Mahon.
So, is Menorca a good winter destination?
Absolutely.
If you’re looking to escape the winter chill, enjoy warmer weather and breathtaking scenery, traveling to Menorca is a great idea.
You’ll be able to enjoy longer days, pleasant temperatures and plenty of activities.
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
5 reasons to visit Menorca in winter
1. Climate
Menorca offers a temperate, Mediterranean climate in winter, ideal for escaping the cold.
Temperatures are close to spring – around 14 to 21°C during the day.
There’s a little rain, but it doesn’t last long.
2. The tours and activities don’t stop
As a year-round destination, you can enjoy most tours and activities in winter too.
Boat tours, diving, wine tasting, guided tours…
See all activities in Menorca
3. Fewer people (more or less)
Minorca is popular, especially during the summer (high season).
In winter, it’s still popular (it’s a year-round destination), but you can more easily find quieter spots. The atmosphere is more authentic and tranquil.
However, the Christmas and Easter vacations are also quite busy!
4. The island’s cultural and historical heritage
Menorca has a rich historical, architectural and cultural heritage, with museums, archaeological sites, prehistoric Talayotic villages and beautiful buildings that have preserved the imprint of the island’s different occupations over the centuries.
You’ll avoid the crowds and be able to visit these usually touristy spots in complete tranquillity.
5. A wilder nature
Menorca is a relatively unspoilt island in the Balearic archipelago. Did you know that it has been classified as a Biosphere Reserve by the UNESCO since 1993? In winter, the tramontana wind caresses the pine groves, wild olive trees, holm oaks and rocky outcrops. You’ll enjoy exceptional natural panoramas from the Monte Toro for example, or on the Cami de Cavalls.
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!
Minorca in winter – Sun, heat, weather
Is it warm in Menorca in winter?
In winter, temperatures to be expected are :
- around 14 to 18°C during the day (temperatures can rise to 21°C)
- 9 to 15°C overnight.
This makes it one of the most pleasant places in Europe in winter.
Winter sun in Menorca – how much sun can you expect?
With its temperate Mediterranean climate, nothing is guaranteed.
But due to the island’s geography, most days offer beautiful blue skies.
It can rain, but the rate of precipitation is not as high compared to the rest of Europe. All you have to do is wait a little. Days are rarely entirely rainy or gray.
Menorca has 300 days of sunshine a year, so there’s plenty of time to enjoy the sun!
In winter, you have :
- at least 9 hours of daylight,
- 7 to 9 hours of sunshine on winter days out of these 9 hours.
Is it possible to sunbathe in Menorca in winter?
Absolutely.
As written above, in December, January and February, daytime temperatures at beach level are around 14 to 18°C, rising to as much as 21°C.
When the sun is out, temperatures can rise, especially if you’re out in nature or by the beach.
Always remember to wear sunglasses and sun cream!
See my selection of Menorca’s most beautiful beaches.
I don’t drink coffee 
But I also like other drinks and sweets!
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Visiting Menorca during the winter months – Tips
All my usual advice about Menorca also applies to winter.
But here are a few special tips to keep in mind.
Best moment
There’s no better month. Just avoid the European school vacations of Christmas and Easter to avoid the crowds.
Getting around Menorca in winter
In winter as in summer, I think renting a car is the best way to explore the island.
It gives you the freedom to go and see the most beautiful sights and stop whenever you want.
There are buses, but the frequency is not ideal.
Nothing special to think about for driving in winter. The same applies as in summer.
The roads are in excellent condition.
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!
How long can I stay?
It all depends on what you want to do.
To visit the main part of the island and relax on the beach, allow a week; to explore the whole island, allow 10 days to 2 weeks.
But if you just want to enjoy the winter sun, 5 days to a week will recharge your batteries for the rest of the winter.
Where to stay in winter?
The whole island enjoys the same climate. So there’s no better place to stay in winter. It all depends on the type of town and accommodation you prefer, and your criteria.
Just be aware that swimming pools are not always heated…
The island’s 2 main towns are :
- Port Mahon to the east – see my hotel selection
- Ciutadella to the west – see my hotel selection
The best-known seaside resorts are :
- Cala Galdana – see top rated accommodations
- Cala’n Porter – see top rated accommodations
- Cala’n Bosch – see top rated accommodations
See my article on the best places to stay in Menorca
Winter activities in Menorca
What’s there to do in Menorca in winter?
Nearly the same things as in summer. Read my full article on the 35 best ideas of things to do.
Here are some of the top activities.
Enjoy the beaches
Of course, when visiting Menorca, one of the best things to do is enjoy the beaches. Menorca offers fantastic options all around the island.
You can, for example, easily reach the famous Cala’n Porter beach to the south (pictured above). Here, you won’t have to fight for a spot on the sand.
The location is impressive, with these 2 cliffs opening up like a gigantic gateway to the sea.
Young and old alike can enjoy the shallow, clear water.
See my list of Menorca’s most beautiful beaches.
Hiking
The Balearic Islands are famous for their many trails and passages in the mountains, forests or near the sea. In Menorca, you’ll have several options for hiking: the S’Albufera d’Es Grau Nature Park, the Algendar Canyon and Ravine or Monte Toro, the island’s highest peak and its surroundings.
Most of the trails are signposted, and the Cami de Cavalls circular hiking trail takes you all the way around the island.
Read my article on Menorca’s most beautiful landscapes.
Birdwatching
I love taking the time to admire the local flora and fauna. In Menorca, you can come across over 200 different species of birds. It’s a protected paradise for migratory birds and birdwatchers alike! If you’re lucky, you may even spot pink flamingos, red-legged partridges, corn quail, proyer sparrows and starlings.
Immerse yourself in Menorca’s rich culture
If I tell you Menorca, do you have any idea that this unspoilt Balearic island has many museums? As well as beaches and natural wonders, you’ll be well served if you love art and history in all their forms.
Whether you’re passionate about contemporary art, crafts, architecture, religious and military history or painting, the island has a multitude of museums to visit. I enjoyed the diversity of styles, locations and collectables to contemplate, which allowed me to discover Menorca’s history in a different way, such as the Menorca Military Museum located in the village of Es Castell. A visit to Menorca’s 7 museums will give you a better understanding of the rich history and culture of this Mediterranean jewel!
Find out more about the best museums in Menorca.
Minorca, an open-air archaeological museum
In Menorca, you can visit several archaeological sites even in winter, as access remains open for most. For example, the Naveta d’Es Tudons is Europe’s oldest prehistoric monument just a 15min drive from Ciutadella.
If you’re interested in prehistoric talayotic villages, organized around tower-like constructions called talayots, I recommend you visit the Torre d’En Galmès attached to the municipality of the village of Alaior. Here you can enjoy a wonderful hike and marvel at these thousand-year-old ruins!
Admire the sunset at Punta Nati lighthouse
Are you looking for an almost deserted place with the feel of the end of the world and a few goats wandering around? Yes, there is such a place, even if it’s not completely deserted. It’s the famous Punta Nati lighthouse, offering an exceptional view of the sea and the cliffs. In the middle of these great arid plains, with little vegetation around me as far as the eye could see, I was transported into another dimension of calm and serenity. I went there to admire the sunset and was not disappointed. The site is also home to old bunkers dating back to the Spanish Civil War, as well as a cross erected by the town of Ciutadella in tribute to the victims.
Explore the Cami de Cavalls on foot, by bike or on horseback
The Cami de Cavalls (or GR 223 trail) is a famous hiking trail that crosses the entire island of Menorca. Whether on foot, mountain bike or horseback, several stages (such as Cala Turqueta or Santo Tomas beach) allow you to discover the island’s varied landscapes, fauna, flora and biodiversity, gastronomy and local know-how.
The ancient Cami de Cavalls trail, which means “horse path” in Catalan, lets you explore this mythical Mediterranean gem. You can even see old bunkers dating back to the Civil War and houses of refuge for fishermen. Remember to bring good shoes, a hat, comfortable clothes, snacks and water! Discover the Cami de Cavalls in a different way on a horseback ride discovering the coves or on a horseback riding at Cala Fustam.
Feast on local products from Menorca
The range of restaurants on offer in Menorca is extensive, reflecting the authenticity and charm of this Balearic island. Fresh ingredients, a talented kitchen team, a focus on local culture and a restaurant atmosphere conducive to a pleasurable dining experience are all essential ingredients when it comes to finding good restaurants, especially as Menorca’s terroir is rich: wines with character, charcuterie, cheeses, gin, fish and shellfish, craft beers… I’m sure you’ll enjoy yourself in one of the island’s best restaurants.
If you’re looking for a different way to discover Menorca’s culinary delights, here are a few suggestions:
- Gin tasting at the Port Mahon distillery – see program and availability
- Visit to a family winery with wine tasting in Ciutadella – see program and availability
- Minorquin cheese making and tasting on the farm – see program and availability
Take in a show at Mao’s Main Theatre
Did you know that Port Mahon’s Théâtre Principal is the oldest opera house in Spain? It was designed in 1829 by Italian architect Giovanni Palagi. The building is quite original in that it is shaped like a horseshoe, a reference to the central place of horses on the island of Menorca. With a capacity of around 1,000 people, it’s a relatively modern building despite its age. It is a pivotal venue for the cultural life of Port Mahon, where shows, concerts and other instructive activities are organized.
Find out more on the theater’s official website here.
Contemplating the stars
Whether you’re passionate about astronomy or simply curious, this activity in northwest Menorca is for you! You’ll benefit from an introductory session providing essential information to help you understand and appreciate subtle celestial objects. Star clusters, nebulae and galaxies will no longer hold any secrets for you!
On the program: exploring the use of celestial planispheres and understanding how the universe works, the planets, the moon, the star cycles, their magnitudes, the constellations and their histories, as well as any other questions you may have about them.
A naked-eye observation section is also planned during the activity. State-of-the-art astronomical telescopes and binoculars will be at your disposal.
The activity is guided by a local guide in Spanish only, and departs from the Polaris Menorca Observatory.
To take advantage, remember to book your place as soon as possible!
And much more…
There’s plenty to see and do in Menorca.
Discover the 35 best things to see in Menorca (in this article) or my selection of hidden gems (in this article).
Christmas in Minorca
How is Christmas spent in Menorca?
Menorca is a popular Christmas destination, but not as popular as the other Balearic islands.
But you’ll still find festivities, decorations, delicious culinary specialities…
For example, you’ll find a Christmas market in Alaior.
You’ll find that Menorca also has a number of traditions in December, including swimming across the port of Mahon, the New Year’s Eve run in the village of Sant Lluis on Boxing Day, and surfing, as the wind and waves allow.
What are the official vacation dates around Christmas?
In Menorca, you can enjoy :
- December 8: celebration of the Immaculate Conception (Immaculada Concepcion)
- December 25: Christmas (Navidad)
- December 26: Sant Esteban celebrations (in Catalonia and the Balearic Islands)
- January 1: New Year
- January 6: Epiphany (Three Kings)
- January 17: Sant Antoni celebration
On these days, many shops are closed.
Is it warm in Menorca this Christmas?
The weather is not warm, but it’s nice. You can wear a t-shirt during the day with a little cardigan.
You just need to bring a sweater for the evening.
There’s an average of 9 hours of sunshine out of the 10 hours of daylight, and little rain.
Christmas decorations
Because of the mild climate, you’ll find a few traditional fir trees and artificial trees.
They’re traditionally decorated with baubles, Christmas lights, snowflakes, bows, wreaths, and more.
The Christmas atmosphere is very much alive.
You’ll hear Christmas music, and the most famous Christmas market is in Port Mahon on Carrer de Ses Moreres.
If you go for a walk, you’ll also see many nativity scenes.
Christmas events – Epiphany
Christmas Day is, of course, a day of gathering.
However, Christmas festivities last until January 6, the day of the Epiphany.
The big celebration on the island is King’s Day, January 6, when children receive their gifts.
This festival refers to the day when the three kings visited Jesus, bringing gifts.
On the 5th, the Kings make an appearance in all the island’s towns, riding camels for the Kings’ Parade.
January events – Sant Antoni
Every year, on January 17, Sant Antoni is celebrated in the Balearic Islands in honor of Saint Anthony, patron saint of domestic animals. On this occasion, huge bonfires, symbolizing purification and the victory of good over evil, light up the island’s main streets and village squares. Costumed locals parade and dance to mark the occasion. In Menorca, the celebration also commemorates the Catalan reconquest of the island in 1287 by Alfonso III. It’s a popular festivity not to be missed if you visit Menorca in mid-January.
Culinary specialities
Of course, no tradition is complete without food specialties like Menorca’s famous Christmas soup: the season’s typical brou minorquin.
Most hotels will serve a Christmas meal typical of different European countries.
Most restaurants will also serve classic dishes: fish, tapas…
New Year’s Eve in Minorca
New Year’s Eve in Minorca
Menorca celebrates New Year’s Eve just like anywhere else in the world.
A special feature is that Spaniards eat twelve grapes at midnight, one with each ring of the bell, to ensure prosperity and good luck in the coming year.
Nearly every restaurant on the island offers a special meal on New Year’s Eve, which ends at midnight.
The best places to party
Although Menorca is known for being quieter than its neighbor Mallorca, you’ll find parties in all the major resorts, some villages and the capital :
- Port Mahon,
- Ciutadella,
- Alaior,
- Cala’n Porter,
- Es Mercadal,
- 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.
