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Menorca encapsulates the best of the Mediterranean in island form, with aquamarine seas, crescent bays, sky-skimming mountains, pine woodlands, whitewashed villages, and cobblestoned ports. But the island is also an important historical hub. Its prehistoric Talayotic sites are UNESCO listed, and you can explore the biggest and best-preserved of these at Torralba.

For an insight into Menorcan history and culture, you can take a private tour of the island, explore the medieval streets of Ciutadella, or hop in a 4x4 and access some off-the-beaten-track highlights of the island’s green interior. In the middle lies Monte Toro, the highest point in Menorca, which is revered locally as a spiritual sanctuary and sees pilgrims tackling the steep ascent to attend mass here every Sunday.

I love that Menorca’s natural beauty is matched by its historical richness. It has well-signposted trails for exploring the island on foot or by bike, and it’s a fascinating place if you’re interested in discovering the past while surrounding yourself in raw beauty.

Things to see & do in Menorca

Ciutadella, Menorca’s old capital

On the western coast of Menorca, Ciutadella is known for its historical architecture, fishing harbor, and rich cultural heritage. You can explore the Bastió de Sa Font (the remains of the old city walls), now a historical museum space, or visit the Museu Municipal de Ciutadella, housed in a former convent and showcasing cultural exhibits.

Ciutadella Cathedral is Gothic-style with a Baroque altar and stained glass windows while Castell de Sant Nicolau is a 17th-century watchtower overlooking the harbor. For us, though, wandering the narrow streets, pausing for a drink in the Plaça des Born, or dining on the harbor’s waterside are the main highlights here.

Easy clifftop hiking

Menorca is a haven for walking enthusiasts and has trails to suit every level of experience. One of our preferred gentler routes starts from Punta Nati Lighthouse on the northwest coast of the island, and you can trek it in the company of an expert guide. You’ll enjoy sweeping views out across the Mediterranean as you stroll along the cliffs of Son Salomónd and up the steep slope of Turó de Bajolí, before reaching the natural bridge of Pot d’en Gil. Finishing this route in the evening adds the shifting pinks and oranges of dusk to the coastline.

Historical hiking trail

If you’re a confident hiker, this trail will lead you to some of the most significant historical sites on the island. Led by your guide, you begin at Torre d’en Galmés, the oldest settlement in Europe. You’ll continue past the tomb of Dolmen de Ses Roques Llises and several prehistoric cave dwellings, before visiting the ruins of an early Christian Basilica. The hike ends at Son Bou, with a refreshing swim in the crystal waters of the Mediterranean.

4x4 tour of the hidden hinterland

Hopping into a 4x4 gives you access to areas of the island that you can’t reach by other modes of transport. Your guide will take you through private farms to secluded prehistoric sites and traditional, rural Menorcan villages.

This route will give you an insight into authentic bucolic life on the island, far removed from the bustling coastal towns. The tour includes a visit to a local cheese producer, where you can learn about the island’s cheesemaking heritage and sample some of their produce. If you take this tour in the evening, it ends at a secluded sunset viewpoint far away from the crowds.

Guided tour of Menorca’s highlights

You can choose to have a private guide as well as a private driver for this trip around some of Menorca’s star attractions. Your trip includes the whitewashed waterfront village of Fornells on the north of the island, Monte Toro — the highest point on Menorca, with its 360-degree view — and Torralba, the biggest and best-preserved prehistoric site. The tour is shaped around your interests, and your guide will bring every site to life by sharing their profound knowledge of the historical and cultural significance of each one.

Best time to visit

With its Mediterranean climate, Menorca enjoys mild winters and hot, dry summers. Its hotels are open from May through October. We recommend visiting in early summer (May and June) or autumn (September and October), to avoid the high-season crowds and make the most of the pleasant temperatures.