Things to do in Menorca

Mahon Harbour, Binibeca and Xoroi Cave tour

You'll discover Menorca by land and sea, and inside out, on this full day tour. Activities include a Mahon harbour boat trip and visits to the whitewashed Binibeca and Xoroi Cave. Nicola, one of our expert local guides, says "legend has it that the Xoroi cave was once the refuge of a man named Xoroi, who was shipwrecked during a storm and found shelter in the cave. The lore continues with tales of him falling in love with a local girl, leading to a romantic yet tragic story that adds an air of mystique to this stunning location."The fun kicks off with a boat trip around Mahon harbour. At five kilometres long, it's one of the world's largest natural harbours. It's fringed by historic buildings, fortifications and dotted with islands. Back on dry land, there's a tour of Mahon town followed by some free time. Nicola adds "reminders of the century-long British rule are still visible to this day – you can see sash and bow windows, door latches and handles just as you would in the UK." Then, discover the sugar-cube village of Binibeca and its whitewashed homes.Just a little further east along the coast, you'll find the Cova d'en Xoroi, a bar uniquely set within a cave on a cliff face. Here, you can sip on a refreshing drink while soaking in the breathtaking sea views from what is undoubtedly Menorca's coolest bar.

Mahon Harbour Boat Tour with Mahon Market and Gin Distillery

What better way to spend a few hours than discovering and savouring the delights of Mahon, Menorca's history-steeped capital? On this morning tour, you'll enjoy a harbour boat trip, have free time to explore the old town on market day and visit a historic distillery. Nicola, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘If you scratch beneath the surface, you'll find the British influence in many older buildings such as sash windows, panelled doors, lunettes and more. A uniquely Menorquin touch is the ruby-red paint on these houses.'First up is a glass-bottom boat trip in Mahon harbour – the second largest in the world. Glide between fortified islets and admire the opulent villas lining the waterfront on either side. Some date from the 18th century, when Menorca was a British colony. Next, it's on to the old Xoriguer gin distillery. Menorca's favourite tipple has been made here, using the same recipe, since 1736 – yet another symbol of the island's British heritage.There's also free time to wander around Mahon under your own steam, admiring its Georgian town houses, baroque churches, palm-lined squares and narrow, cobbled streets. Head to the centrally located Plaza del Carme, where there's a market of vendors hawking everything from cured meats to fresh fruit under the cloisters of a 17th-century convent. The local square-shaped cheese is highly regarded throughout Spain.

Ciutadella walking tour with shopping, El Toro visit and Casa Olivar

If you want to get a feel for Menorca's past, this trip to the island's former capital is ideal. Ciutadella's cobbled lanes, churches and palaces make it a joy to explore by foot. Helen, one of our guides, says "I've lived in Ciutadella for over 30 years and know every single corner, every secret." You'll conclude the tour with some free time to discover more under your own steam or shop for souvenirs.We kick off with a guided tour. There's palm-shaded Plaça d'es Born, considered one of Spain's most beautiful squares. Plus, there are the lavish palaces tucked down the surrounding alleys. You'll visit one of these aristocratic mansions, the 17th-century Casa Olivar, which is stacked with antiques and tapestries, and boasts lavish ceiling frescoes. "The old town is a maze of narrow, winding streets fringed by honey-coloured buildings bathed in sunlight, while the tiny fishing port is pretty as a picture," says Helen.You'll then have a couple of hours to wander around at your own pace. Have a poke around a huge variety of shops in the centre, including places to grab souvenirs, trinkets, clothes and more. It's also market day, offering even more local produce, textiles and leather goods. Don't miss out on picking out some abarcas for yourself – you'll see most of the locals donning these typical Menorquin sandals. Or, use your time to visit a museum or two, head to one of the atmospheric harbour cafés or check out the baroque cathedral. Before the end of your tour, you'll head to Monte Toro, the highest point on the island, for a chance to take in the sea views and take some pics.

Menorca tour with Fornells, Binissues and Son Martorellet's horses

Fishing villages, country estates, local products and world-class views. The rural heart of Menorca is a joy to explore. This tour ticks all the boxes, with visits to Fornells, Binissues, El Toro and more. Along the way, you'll get to sample some of the island's renowned cheeses. Nicola, one of our expert local guides, says "Binissues is one of my favourite spots. You step back in time here, see cheesemaking, admire the old manor house with original furniture and enjoy the best views of the Menorcan countryside."Your rural Menorca adventure kicks off with a trip to the stately manor of Binissues. See how the island's trademark mahonés cheese is made – and taste it along with other local delicacies – and wander the manicured gardens or say hello to the host of farm animals. Inside, there's a large collection of insects, which the kids will love. From here, you'll head to the postcard-worthy north coast village of Fornells, stopping by Playas Fornells along the way. Wander through Fornells' maze of whitewashed alleys that meander down to the harbour. Lined with palm trees and traditional llaüt fishing boats, it's a picture of perfection. At some point during the tour, you'll visit a sandal factory to see how Menorcan avarca sandals are made from scratch, too. Finally, you'll have the best seats in the house at Son Martorellet, a renowned horse stables. Watch as horses from the island's endemic Menorquin breed are trained by local trainers and riders.

Trip to Menorca's summer night markets

Mercadal market on a summer evening is the essence of Menorca. Laidback and rustic, you'll find all sorts of local crafts on sale and the aroma of local delicatessen wafting through the air. We'll pick you up and take you right to the heart of the island for this immersive outing.

La Mola Fortress Mahon Ticket

La Mola Fortress is the most impressive military installation in Mahon. Built in the 19th century over the ruins of earlier British efforts, it's a joy to explore, offering a mix of historical sights and coastal views. After a quick video introduction, you'll be free to check out the ramparts, underground galleries, powder magazines and lookout points.

Casa Olivar

See how Spanish aristocracy once lived with a visit to Casa Olivar. Built by one of Menorca's richest families, this 17th-century palace in Ciutadella is undoubtedly one of the grandest buildings on the island. Stacked with antiques, tapestries, frescoes, and more, it's like peeking into the past.

Torralba d'en Salort Ticket

Torralba d'en Salort is one of Menorca's biggest and best preserved megalithic monuments. Step back in time at this 3,000-year-old archaeological site, which is famed for huge Stonehenge-like rocks known as taulas. Marvel at this incredible piece of ancient architecture and learn all about the fascinating Talaiotic civilization that built it.

Three-hour snorkel safari

Set sail from Cala Torret to swim and snorkel off Isla de l'Aire. Full of rocky outcrops, rugged coves, and caves only accessible from the sea, the marine reserve that surrounds the island is a prime place for fish-spotting. And between bouts of exploring, you can soak up some sunshine as you cruise off Menorca's scenic southeast coast.

Lloc de Menorca Animal Park Ticket

A journey around the globe but not quite as you know it. Lloc de Menorca animal park takes you across the continents to see endemic animals from Menorca and further afield. It's a fun-filled day out for all the family, where you'll come face-to-face with everything from monkeys and ostriches to lemurs.Set in sweet flower-filled gardens, Lloc de Menorca animal park features farm animals and all kinds of exotic creatures. Follow the paths around ponds and wind your way from exhibit to exhibit, without knowing what you'll come across next. Get up close to kangaroos, watch cheeky monkeys playing in the treetops and sit back as giant tortoises, porcupines and peacocks pass you by.It's worth pausing to watch the lemurs and there's also a reptile house where you'll see slippery snakes. Spot birds in the aviary and round everything off at the children's adventure splash park. There are also native farm animals such as the red cow and Menorcan horse.

Pachira Boat Tours from Fornells

Sun, sea and a sampling of local produces – these boat trips from Fornells tick all the boxes. Choose either the morning or sunset cruise. Traditional gin tipple in hand, cruise by all the coves, caves and beaches of Menorca's north coast.On the morning cruise, you'll enjoy plenty of time to swim, snorkel, paddle board, top up your tan and try typical treats such as Mahon cheese and sobrassada sausage. Take in views of cliffs, crags and caves, including the famed English Cave, as you sip on a pomada – a refreshing lemon cocktail made with locally produced Xoriguer gin.And aboard the afternoon cruise, alongside swim stops, you'll be able to sip on your pomada as you watch the sky turn a kaleidoscope of colours while the sound of music drifts through the breeze. A great way to round off the day.

Scuba Plus Boat Tour & Snorkel

Menorca has a huge variety of underwater wildlife, and snorkelling here reveals the rich marine ecosystem. Meet at Scuba Plus Diving Centre for a boat tour with a chance to pop on your mask for a snorkeling adventure. Suitable for all ages, this afternoon excursion offers the opportunity to explore the clear, blue waters of Menorca's west coast. Snorkeling equipment is provided.