Spend a night in a charming, intimate vacation home? Or forget yourself in a luxurious setting in the heart of picturesque alleyways? Stay in a boutique hotel surrounded by art books, souvenirs, collectables and antiques? The capital of Menorca, Port Mahon is, in my opinion, the place to stay if you’re visiting the island. Did you know that its port is not only the largest in the Mediterranean, but also the deepest in the world? In addition to its architectural, historical, industrial and cultural heritage, Port Mahon is also a lively town with great restaurants. All the more reason to stop off for at least a day during your trip!
In this article, I share with you:
- My advice to you when choosing accommodation in Port Mahon,
- a map to help you find your way around the neighborhoods,
- my selection, based on my research and experience, of the 7 best hotels in Port Mahon,
- and lots more to help you plan your stay!
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Port Mahon hotels: my opinion
In a nutshell
What I found particularly pleasant about Port Mahon was its strategic location in the capital, just a 15-minute drive from the airport. I had easy access to the main arterial road from the town, as well as to many of the island’s attractions.
In terms of accommodation options, Port Mahon has a good range of hotels, from vacation homes and apartments to boutique hotels and luxury establishments. Some of these accommodations have been carefully renovated to blend harmoniously with the town’s historic architecture, adding to its authentic charm. The accommodation also blends in perfectly with the surroundings, especially the hotel complexes designed in harmony with the city’s charm.
Other advantages include, of course:
- the proximity of sandy beaches such as Sa Mesquida and Cala Llonga,
- the multitude of restaurants offering traditional Menorcan and Mediterranean cuisine,
- picturesque villages,
- easy access to Port Mahon’s old town, natural harbor, historic sites and narrow streets.
Where is Port Mahon on the island of Menorca?
Port Mahon is the island’s capital on the east coast, a 15-minute drive from the airport. It has a population of over 28,000.
Where to stay in Port Mahon: best hotels and neighborhoods
If you don’t want to read the whole article with all the best places to stay in Port Mahon, here are my simple answers in this 1st part.In the rest of the article, I detail the specifics of each hotel and the numbering for easy reference.
Please note that my choices have guided this selection. Port Mahon offers a multitude of superb locations to suit all tastes!
Where to sleep in Port Mahon – Map
Mahon’s capital is laid out a little like Ciutadella, built on a cliff with its port below. However, it is larger and more urbanized than Ciutadella. The main districts are:
- the natural fishing and yachting harbor,
- the historic heart,
- the other side of Mahon S’Altra Banda.
Where to stay in Port Mahon to swim and enjoy the beaches?
On the east coast, Port Mahon boasts fine sandy beaches and coves close to the town.Some of the best resorts and beaches on this side of the island are, in my opinion:
- Cala Sa Mesquida 10min drive from Port Mahon: superb beach overlooking its coastal defence tower – View top rated accommodations
- Es Castell: charming picturesque coastal village 15min drive from the capital – View top rated accommodation
- Cala de Sant Esteve: deep, transparent water where you’ll spot marine life with your snorkel – View top-rated accommodations
- S’Algar near Sant Lluis: peaceful seaside resort close to the airport – View top-rated accommodations
Where to go in Port Mahon to see the archaeological sites, talayots and caves?
One of Menorca’s special features is its open-air museum of archaeological ruins, talayotic sites and caves on land and in the sea. Port Mahon’s location is bordered by prehistoric sites, which also makes it an attractive place to stay:
- the talayotic village de Talati de Dalt, archaeological site near Mahon – See the best-rated accommodations nearby
- the Talayotic village of Trepuco, with an area of over 5000m2 – See top-rated nearby accommodation.
- the Torello talayot, the largest funerary monument in Menorca – See top-rated nearby accommodation.
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!
Most beautiful villages near Port Mahon
Staying in Port Mahon also means easy access to the pretty, picturesque inland and seaside villages on this side of the island:
- Es Castell: pretty red and white village overlooking Port Mahon and Illa del Rei – View top-rated accommodations
- Binibeca: white village and turquoise waters –View top-rated accommodations
- Alaior: small village founded in the early 14th century- See top-rated accommodations
- Port d’Addaia: fishing village with natural cove around the port – View top-rated accommodations
- Sa Mesquida: peaceful village with the same name as the beach – View top-rated accommodations
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.
Tips on choosing your hotel in Port Mahon
You can also choose where to stay in Port Mahon according to your hotel preferences.That’s why I’ve put together a list of the city’s best hotels and resorts.
About the selection:
I created this guide completely independently. None of the hotels have paid to be included. The suggestions are my own selection, based on my experience and research. But to be transparent, I’d like to inform you that, of course, I haven’t stayed in all the hotels listed. Find out more about where to stay in Menorca in my article here.
What to look for when choosing accommodation in Port Mahon – Advice
- The ease of parking as there are many small lanes in Port Mahon where you won’t be able to park. If there is no dedicated parking at your accommodation, check the reviews and ask for details when you book. Parking can be tricky with people passing through during the day or evening. Remember to check parking times, as parking is free during certain periods.
- The distance to the beach if you want to swim at any time. If you want easy access to the sea, consider whether the beach is close to your accommodation. Those around Port Mahon are generally easy to reach by car.
- Check the reviews to know if there’s a lot of foot traffic in the area chosen – if daily life is busy, you can easily have a noisy establishment nearby. Note, too, that some hotels offer soundproof accommodation.
Where to sleep in Port Mahon: best family hotels
- Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port, overlooking Mahon’s natural harbour – see photos and book
- Can Alberti Hotel, in an 18th-century townhouse in Port Mahon – see photos and book
- Hotel Seth Port Mahon, 4 stars in a residential area – see photos and availability
You can also check out my article on the best hotels for families to stay in Menorca where you might just find what you’re looking for!
Best luxury hotels in Port Mahon
- Sindic Hotel, 2 outdoor pools in the capital – see photos and availability
- Barcelo Nura Hotel, luxury in the village of Sant Lluis (20min) – see photos and book
- Hotel Jardi de Ses Bruixes, 5 stars in the heart of Port Mahon – see photos and availability
To provide you with as much practical advice on the subject as possible and give you an overview, I’ve written an article dedicated to the best luxury hotels in Menorca.
Best hotels near Port Mahon harbour
- Hotel El Consul Maho, 4-star establishment – see photos and availability
- Casa Iria, vacation home for more privacy – see photos and availability
- Can Alberti Hotel, in an 18th-century townhouse – see photos and book
- Sindic Hotel Adults Only, 2 outdoor pools in the capital – see photos and availability
Best hotels near Port Mahon airport
- Turismo Rural Biniati des Pi – agritourism estate – see photos and availability
- Agroturismo Binissafullet Vell – country hotel – see photos and availability
- Llucmaçanes Gran Agroturismo – views of the countryside and La Gaeità church – see photos and availability
- Agroturismo Matxani Gran – charming hotel on large grounds – see photos and availability
1. Hotel Jardi de Ses Bruixes (5 stars) – Port Mahon
Why stay at the Hotel Jardi de Ses Bruixes in Port Mahon?
Choosing the Hotel Jardi de Ses Bruixes means opting for a stay in the heart of the capital Port Mahon, in a quiet alleyway. Push open the door of this luxury establishment with its discreet façade. The blue of its pretty shutters and the bicycle outside caught my eye. I liked the combination of modernity and rusticity, reinforced by the period furniture and fireplace inside. This boutique hotel is housed in a former manor house dating back to the early 19th century.
The setting is truly romantic if you’re looking for a peaceful, prime location in the middle of the city. The atmosphere is almost magical and enchanting. The hotel’s name confirms this: in Menorca, ” bruixes ” means bunches of dandelions that you blow on while making a wish, a dream that flies into the air.
Its courtyard garden, the heart and lungs of the hotel, houses a charming restaurant where beautiful fruit trees stand between the wooden tables. It’s a place with a lot of character that I particularly liked in the Menorcan capital!
What I liked best
- Rustic yet modern furniture
- Canvas paintings bring color and dynamism to common rooms
- Spa and wellness center with relaxation area
- Hammam and Jacuzzi
- Private parking nearby (quite rare in big cities)
- A coffee machine in every room
Swimming pool and beach
- No swimming pool
- Spa and wellness center
- The nearest beaches are a 15-minute drive away: Cala Sa Mesquida and Cala Llonga.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: historic heart of Port Mahon
- Facilities for children: no facilities, no cot
- Other amenities: wellness center, spa
- Adults-only: no
- All-inclusive available: no, breakfast only
- Parking: no // pay and public parking possible in surrounding streets, but difficult
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
2. Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port (4 stars) – Port Mahon
Why stay at the Hotel Catalonia Mirador Des Port in Port Mahon?
Beyond the exceptional view of the natural harbor and the town of Port Mahon, I was immediately seduced by the hotel’s soft, marine atmosphere. In shades of ocean blue, white and beige, you’ll feel transported to a world of serenity and tranquility. The decor is sober and sophisticated, with soft colors and a few eye-catching objects that give the place a soul, such as decorative wall plates and several representations of marine animals and shells.
The whale also caught my eye, as it is represented in several areas of the hotel. Did you know that this imposing and majestic cetacean is a symbol of peace, wisdom and longevity? That’s what you’ll find if you stay at this establishment: accommodation in a tranquil setting close to the bustling historic center of the Menorcan capital. Note also that the restaurant is open in the evening, so the view is even more beautiful at night, and the dishes are just as tasty.
I have fond memories of it: attentive and helpful staff, delicious full breakfast overlooking the harbor, a cozy bed and a balcony overlooking the pool and the old town in the background. What more could you ask for?
What I liked best
- A fine choice of decorative objects
- An emphasis on natural materials such as wood and straw
- Spa and wellness center
- Coffee machine, bottled water and in-room minibar stocked with local produce
- All-day food-truck and cocktail bar by the pool
- Garden tanning beds in a quiet outdoor relaxation area
Swimming pool and beach
- A swimming pool in the garden with sun loungers in the immediate vicinity and sunbeds on the platform
- A children’s pool
- The nearest beaches are less than 15 minutes away by car: Cala Sa Mesquida and Cala Llonga.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: between the historic heart of Port Mahon and the port district
- Facilities for children: special pool, play area with slide and spring-loaded games, cot
- Other amenities: fitness room, wellness center, spa, meeting room
- Adults-only: no
- All-inclusive available: breakfast only
- Parking: paid, private underground
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
3. Hotel Hevresac Singular & Small (4 stars) – Port Mahon
Why stay at the Hotel Hevresac Singular & Small in Port Mahon?
To my great delight, I stayed at this charming establishment in the heart of Port Mahon. As a fan of boutique hotels, I particularly appreciate their warm atmosphere and personalized welcome. My hosts showed a keen sense of service, taking care of every detail of my stay, from arrival to departure. They made me feel very welcome, providing me with guidance and advice on how to explore the town, its surroundings and nearby beaches.
Colors, shapes, decorative objects, art books, board games… This effervescence from the moment I entered the hotel plunged me into a friendly atmosphere, where I felt like I was sharing the intimacy of this special place. Located in an alleyway in the old town, the authenticity of this boutique hotel is undoubtedly one of its major assets. The well-balanced breakfast prepared with love in the morning in the downstairs dining room, the list of places to discover in the area, the wooden toys, the art books, the chessboard, the paintings and old posters… So many details that make this establishment, in my opinion, an essential place to stay in Menorca to combine luxury, support for local development and intimacy.
The luxury touches I loved
- The refined decor is dotted with childhood souvenirs, art books and posters.
- Collectibles and period objects installed in the hotel
- Personalized service and attention throughout your stay
- Homemade breakfast buffet with fresh, balanced local produce
Swimming pool and beach
- No hotel swimming pool
- The nearest beaches are a 15-minute drive away: Cala Sa Mesquida and Cala Llonga.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: historic heart of Port Mahon
- Facilities for children: cot
- Other equipment: /
- Adults-only: no
- All-inclusive available: breakfast only
- Parking: no // pay and public parking possible in surrounding streets, but difficult
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
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.
4. Hotel Hostal Jume Urban Rooms (3 stars)
Why stay at the Hostal Jume Urban Rooms in Port Mahon?
In the historic heart of Port Mahon, you’ll love spending a night in this charming guesthouse. Just a 10-minute walk from the Santa María de Mao Church and the Plaza de la Conquesta, (re)discover the meaning of conviviality at Hostal Jume! Stay in the capital on a budget, with modern, high-quality facilities – that’s the promise of this charming establishment. Another plus: the establishment provides you with a parking space, so you don’t have to worry about that when you’re on vacation.
What I liked best
- ideal location in the heart of the city
- bright, simple decor
- private parking
- elevator (not always available in old town accommodations)
- the hotel’s many services: laundry, tour operator
Swimming pool and beach
- No swimming pool
- The nearest beaches are a 15-minute drive away: Cala Sa Mesquida and Cala Llonga.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: old town
- Facilities for children: family rooms, cot
- Other facilities: laundry, tour operator.
- Adults-only: no
- All-inclusive available: no, breakfast only
- Parking: yes, private on site
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
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5. Can Alberti Hotel (4 stars)
Why stay at the Hotel Can Alberti in Port Mahon?
Would you like to sleep in a completely restored 18th century townhouse? Hotel Can Alberti offers an authentic luxury experience, part of Port Mahon’s historic heritage.
The pastel colors of the decor and the original beams still visible will transport you into a world of calm and serenity, plus the rooms are quite large. An advantage, especially when staying in the old town. As you stroll through the narrow streets near the port, you won’t want to miss the light-salmon facade and period moldings.
Walk through the building to the courtyard garden terrace, where breakfast is served and deckchairs invite you to relax. You can also drop by the hotel spa for a moment of peace and quiet.
Note also that the soundproofing in the rooms is a real plus in a busy neighborhood!
What I liked best
- The elegant architecture of this period building
- Ideal location in the historic heart near the port
- Refined pastel decor
- The intimate garden terrace
- The spa
Swimming pool and beach
- No swimming pool
- The nearest beaches are a 15-minute drive away: Cala Sa Mesquida and Cala Llonga.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: port de Mahon
- Facilities for children: family rooms, cot, high chair
- Other amenities: car rental, massage, yoga, spa, airport shuttle
- Adults-only: no
- All-inclusive available: breakfast only
- Parking: public on street
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
6. El Consul Mao Hotel Boutique (4 stars)
Why stay at the Hotel Boutique El Consul Mao in Port Mahon?
A charming little hotel in the old town of Port Mahon, I liked its proximity to the Teatre Principal de Maó municipal theater. I liked the combination of natural materials and the emphasis on nature, whether through the arrangement of plants in the rooms or the wallpaper depicting Menorca’s verdant forest. The atmosphere is relaxing and bright, and the rooms are soundproofed to ensure a cocoon of tranquility.
The Hotel El Consul Mao is also committed to a concrete eco-responsible approach that also appealed to me: using less plastic, favoring organic and local products, whether in the kitchen or in the hygiene kits provided in the rooms, reusing rainwater…
Finally, conviviality is the watchword of this establishment: access to its open kitchen, a place for living, meeting, exchanging and sharing, is the perfect illustration!
What I liked best
- its ideal location in the picturesque alleyway leading up to the main theater
- lifestyle design and decoration with soothing colors and a forest metaphor
- the open kitchen, a central convivial space where the life of the establishment is mainly organized
- private parking lot for easy parking
- soundproofed rooms
- breakfast options: classic continental, vegetarian and gluten-free
Swimming pool and beach
- No swimming pool
- The nearest beaches are a 15-minute drive away: Cala Sa Mesquida and Cala Llonga.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: port de Mahon
- Children’s facilities: board games, puzzles, cot
- Other amenities: car rental, soundproofed rooms
- Adults-only: no
- All-inclusive available: breakfast only
- Parking: private with charge
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
7. Casa Iria (3 stars)
Why stay at Casa Iria in Port Mahon?
Sleeping in a typical Menorcan house with a roof terrace, right in the heart of the capital, is undoubtedly an immersive holiday experience not to be missed! If you prefer the intimacy of a vacation home to hotel accommodation, Casa Iria is for you. With its 2 bedrooms and bathrooms, whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple or a family, you’ll have plenty of space. The accommodation is child-friendly with a safety gate.
Take advantage of its rooftop terrace and its location in a quiet alleyway in Port Mahon, yet close to the main places of interest. So, after enjoying your coffee or tea on the roof, you can set off to explore the wonders of the city. The Church of Santa Maria de Mao is less than a 5-minute walk away, the Port of Mahon a little further down the road, and the Menorca Museum just a 2-minute walk away!
What I liked best
- typical architecture of a Menorcan house
- the roof terrace
- the ideal location in an alley in the historic heart of the city
- the intimate, cosy ambience of a vacation home
Swimming pool and beach
- No swimming pool
- The nearest beaches are a 15-minute drive away: Cala Sa Mesquida and Cala Llonga.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: historic heart of Port Mahon
- Facilities for children: child safety gate, board games, puzzles, cot.
- Other facilities: roof terrace, excursion agency
- Adults-only: no
- All-inclusive available: no, no breakfast
- Parking: free or chargeable depending on opening hours and public parking in surrounding streets
- See photos, prices, availability – and book!
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!
Frequently asked questions
Where to eat in Port Mahon
In my opinion, a true travel experience also includes exploring the local cuisine. So a visit to Menorca would not be complete without sampling its local delicacies and enjoying a meal in one of its traditional restaurants. Omitting this step would be almost like going to Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower!
In Menorca’s capital, I loved all these places to eat (all family-friendly, by the way):
- Restaurant Arjau in Port Mahon: combining bistronomy and seafood right on the harbor,
- Mercat de Peix fish market in Port Mahon: seafood delights and fresh market produce,
- Mercat de proximitat Sa Plaça market: tastings of local produce in a festive atmosphere,
- Glacier Ambrosia in Port Mahon: authentic Italian ice cream in the heart of the capital.
Where to eat in Menorca
Apart from Port Mahon, the island also boasts a number of other fine restaurants, all of which I was delighted to try out, and all of which are family-friendly:
- Restaurant at the Hotel Menorca Experimental near Alaior: between finesse and explosion of flavors,
- Restaurant at the Hotel Barcelo Nura in Biniancolla: buffet restaurant in elegant 5-star surroundings
- Restaurant Sa Lluna in Cala Galdana: enjoy tapas, pizzas or typical dishes by the pool,
- Restaurant at the Hotel Rural Saint Ignasi in Ciutadella: between elegance and authenticity,
- Restaurant Margot Locanda in Ciutadella: Mediterranean cuisine and tapas,
- Café Catedral Menorca in Ciutadella: tea room and canteen in the old town,
- restaurant at the Hotel Loar Ferreries: Minorcan terroir and conviviality on the menu.
Coming soon, my article on the best restaurants to eat in Menorca.
How to get to Menorca
To get to Menorca, you’ll need to take either a plane or a boat. If you go by plane, you’ll arrive at Mahon-Minorca International Airport (MAH), the only airport on the island. A total of 35 airlines serve 70 cities worldwide from Menorca airport.
If you prefer to take the boat, it’s possible to sail from Barcelona in Spain or from the Port of Alcudia on Mallorca to Ciutadella on Menorca, with several crossings a day. Don’t hesitate to consult ferry schedules.
If you’re already in Mallorca, you can also opt for a day in Menorca by boat – see program and availability.
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.