What to Do in Menorca, Spain

Editor's Note: This story was originally published in 2019 and was last updated in July 2023.

Most travelers have already heard of Ibiza and Mallorca — two popular island destinations located off the coast of Spain in the Mediterranean Sea. But it’s time to put the spotlight on Menorca, the lesser-known (and less crowded) of the three Balearic Islands.

Menorca, located just 55 minutes from Barcelona by plane, was designated a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1993 and is a hot spot for food, wine and sunshine for those in the know. Additionally, its beaches have been praised by magazines such as Reader’s Digest and Conde Nast Traveler.

If clients are looking for the perfect respite from their jam-packed European vacation, consider this rejuvenating itinerary to Menorca.

Day 1: Menorca Experimental, Mahon and More

Check into Menorca Experimental, a countryside retreat. Located about 20 minutes from Menorca’s capital city of Mahon, this 49-room hotel resides in a 19th-century building that once was a finca, and has since been transformed into a stylish, earthy getaway. Splurge on one of the nine villas with individual pools, or enjoy a residence with a private garden or rooftop terrace. The property can arrange horseback riding, yoga and meditation classes, boat trips and more.

Walk around the picturesque streets of Mahon, passing the Church of Santa Maria and stopping by the city’s beautiful sheltered harbor. If in need of an afternoon snack, the adorably rustic Pipet & Co cafe serves everything from fresh juices and salads to heartier burgers, bowls and a wonderful homemade sangria.

Take a drive to Cova D'en Xoroi, located in Cala en Porter, to enjoy a cocktail (or two) as the sun sets over the Mediterranean Sea. To say Cova D’En Xoroi is just a bar would be a gross understatement given its premiere location carved inside a cave that overlooks the water. Order Menorca’s signature cocktail: the Pomada, which consists of gin, lemonade, ice and a slice of lemon. Stick around long enough, and this spot transforms into a club with live music.

As hunger begins to strike, look no further than one of the island’s most classic restaurants, Ses Forquilles. The eatery offers traditional Menorcan cuisine in an understated setting that makes guests feel like locals. For a taste of Catalan, order the coca de vidre, a regional specialty that consists of a sweet, crispy bread lathered in olive oil, salt and tomato.

Day 2: Beach Hopping and Ciutadella

With no time to waste, hit the road early for a 30-minute drive from Menorca Experimental to Cala Galdana, a popular beach located on Menorca’s breathtaking south coast. From here, clients can pick up their own private boat — no license required — or post up for a relaxing beach day.

If renting a boat for the day (which can be arranged by Menorca Experimental), clients have the freedom to visit more than 10 of the island’s most beautiful beaches, including Cala Macarelleta and Cala Mitjaneta, at their own pace in a single afternoon. Expect turquoise waters, gorgeous white cliffs and hidden coves only accessible by boat.  

After an exciting day in the water, clients can opt for a 25-minute drive to Ciutadella, Menorca’s oldest city and original capital. Similar to Mahon, the city offers a winding maze of streets, full of delicious patisseries and chic shops. Many coffee shops offer ensaimadas, a pastry from Mallorca traditionally made with saim, or pork lard. For a little retail therapy, stop by Nagore or any of the local shoe stores to purchase a pair of leather sandals, a specialty of Menorca.

Finish your epic day with a sunset dinner at Cafe Balear, located on Ciutadella’s harbor. Cafe Balear serves seafood, exclusively — most of which comes from its own boat, the Rosa Santa Primera. Don’t skip the paella, which is full of flavor and a little intimidating (the dish takes up the majority of the table and serves a minimum of two or three people).

Day 3: Binibeca and a Winery Finale

Take the 15-minute drive from Mahon to Binibeca Vell. This town of white-washed houses was built and designed in the 1970s to resemble a traditional Mediterranean fishing village. The intricate maze of streets (or alleys, really) are a treat to wander through and will yield some envious photos. A morning visit is recommended as this town is best experienced with minimal crowds and noise, emphasizing the simplicity and serenity of the environment.

Before making the journey home, sneak in a couple more hours of beach time. Head to the small and secluded Cala Binidali, which is in close proximity to Binibeca Vell. Though perhaps less popular than other beaches on the island, Cala Binidali offers clear water for a final dip in the Mediterranean Sea and, more importantly, is easily accessible thanks to the parking lot located at the beach’s entrance.

For a final meal in Menorca, dine at Bodegas Binifadet. This gorgeous winery, located a short drive from the airport, is a family-owned property that dates back to the 1970s. They offer tours, tastings and a refreshing menu that complements their selection of wines. Some standouts were the Binifadet Rose and the sparkling rose. Dishes of note include salmon marinated in Xoriguer gin with tzatziki sauce and the miso-olive roasted eggplant with goat cheese and pomegranate. It’s impossible to go wrong here, especially while dining on the outdoor patio with views of the vineyard.