The most beautiful villages in Menorca to see

Which are the most beautiful villages in Menorca to see? Here is our top 8 of the most beautiful places to visit if you come to Menorca. Considered the most unspoilt and peaceful of the Balearic Islands, you'll be surprised by Menorca and its pretty towns steeped in history! Ideal if you want to combine relaxation, nature and cultural visits during your holiday in Spain ! 

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Mahón, the capital of Menorca 

If you're staying on the island, Mahón is one of the must-visit destinations for its architecture, history and cultural life. For information, it is located on the east coast of the island. Mahón has an airport nearby, as well as the largest natural harbour in the Mediterranean, bearing witness to its rich past. Don't miss a stroll along the harbour or lunch in one of its many restaurants on the lively promenade.

It's a perfect place to enjoy local gastronomy, notably the famous mayonnaise! Indeed, for the record, mahonnaise, related to aioli sauce, dates back to 1756 when the Duke of Richelieu walked into an inn in the capital for a meal and took the recipe home, where it was much appreciated in France. He called it Mahonnaise in honour of the town. 

The history of this village is palpable on every street corner: historic buildings with elegant façades tell of centuries of Spanish, British and French influences. You can also admire the beautiful Georgian townhouses, as well as sumptuous Baroque palaces with Modernist influences, offering a rich and varied urban landscape.

In the old town, you'll be charmed by its narrow lanes and winding staircases. It is home to charming shops and old churches such as Santa Maria church as well as the Ayuntamiento de Mahón . Also go and see the Portal de San Roque, dating from the 14th century, a relic of the capital's old walls. You'll love its cosmopolitan atmosphere and historical richness! No wonder this town is part of our guide "the most beautiful villages in Menorca". 

What to see and do in Mahón? 

Here is a suggestion of things not to miss in the capital:

• Stroll around the port of Mahón, one of the largest natural harbours in the world.
• Visit the Fortaleza de La Mola, an imposing fortress at the entrance to the harbour.
• Discover the Santa Maria church and its historic organ.
• Visit and wander around the historic centre of Mahón
• Enjoy a panoramic view of the city and its harbour from the Mirador de la Penya.
• Taste local specialities in the markets (the fish market) and the town's taverns
• Explore the Museum of Menorca for an overview of the island's history and culture
• Attend a performance at the Teatro Principal de Mahón, dating from 1829, one of the oldest opera houses in Spain.

Where to sleep in Mahón? The most beautiful hotels

• ARTIEM Capri,  Hotel Mahón Menorca located 750 metres from the port. Rated 9.2 on Booking, Fabulous 
• Hotel Hevresac Singular & Small, located 500 metres from the port of Mahón. Rated 9.6 on Booking, Exceptional
• Jardí de Ses Bruixes Boutique Hotel, located in the historic centre of Mahón. Rated 9.1 on Booking, Fabulous

The best restaurants in Mahón  

• Restaurante Clandestino (rated 4.7 on Google): "a delight from start to finish, facing the harbour!"
• Restaurante Mirador des Port (rated 4.8 on Google): "delicious and inventive cuisine"
• El Muelle Asador (rated 4.5 on Google): "Delicious restaurant with revisited tapas, fish and grills"

The beautiful Ciutadella de Menorca 

Ciutadella, the former capital of Menorca, is a dynamic town steeped in history with remarkable architecture. 

The heart of Ciutadella is full of historic buildings with Baroque details, reflecting the different periods of rule over the island. Note that the town and its surroundings are home to important prehistoric remains, such as talayots and navetas, witnesses to the island's rich history since Antiquity. 

It is also the birthplace of many Menorcan traditions, including the famous Sant Joan festivities, which attract visitors from all over the world every year. You'll find a unique glimpse of local customs through its sublime museums, festivals and crafts.

The centre of Ciutadella is a maze of narrow lanes lined with shops under pretty arcades. You'll see its Plaça de s'Esplanada, the Palacio Olivar, and many cafés and small restaurants. Below, you'll find 3 good places to eat on the spot, if you feel like it. 

Not to be missed on your walk, the port of Ciutadella. A lively spot, with its quays lined with restaurants and bars where you can taste local specialities while enjoying the view of the traditional fishing boats and modern yachts. It's really the ideal spot to sip a cocktail and feel the Mediterranean atmosphere.

What to see and do in Ciutadella? 

Here is a suggestion of things not to miss in the town: 

• Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria de Ciutadella
• Stroll through the old centre (Bari Vell) and shop in its pretty boutiques
• See the Plaça des Born with its obelisk and its night market in high season. 
• Admire the sunset at the port of Ciutadella
• Explore the Castell de Sant Nicolau
• Walk around the Plaça des Born and look at the historic buildings
• Discover the archaeological remains around the town (Lithica labyrinth)
• Admire the sunset at the port of Ciutadella and taste local Menorcan specialities
• Take part in the traditional festivities, notably the Festa de Sant Joan if you are there in June

Where to sleep in Ciutadella? The most beautiful hotels

• Hotel Artemisia, a hotel in the historic centre of Ciutadella. Rated 9.5 Exceptional on Booking. 
• Gran Sagitario in Ciutadella, 100 metres from the beach. Rated 9.1 Fabulous on Booking
• Seth Port Ciutadella with breakfast included, 200 metres from the beach. Rated 9.1 Fabulous on Booking

The best restaurants in Ciutadella

• S'Arangi (rated 4.7 on Google): "cuisine with good local produce, excellent!"
• Restaurante Es Tast de na Silvia (rated 4.6 on Google): "Excellent! Everything is perfect, the welcome, the service, the dishes…"
• Curniola 35 (rated 4.5 on Google): "small restaurant in size but big in cuisine!"

Es Castell, one of the most beautiful villages in Menorca

Located only a few kilometres from Mahón, don't miss exploring this pretty little port town. We especially love its atmosphere with its fishing harbour and historic monuments recalling the English presence of the time. You'll see the famous Torre d'en Penjat or the Castell San Felipe. Among the other monuments to see in Es Castell, there is the Nostra Senyora del Roser church, as well as the Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Rosario, probably the most beautiful, but located outside Es Castell.

Note that several coves are nearby, such as Cala Pedrera, Cala de Sant Esteve or Cala Corb (the closest). 

What to see and do in Es Castell? 

Here is a suggestion of things not to miss in the town: 

• Visit Fort Marlborough, built by the British in the 1720s, a testimony to the island's military history
• Stroll around the port of Cales Fonts, picturesque with its shops and restaurants
• Admire the view of the entrance to Mahón harbour from Es Castell
• Discover the Plaza Esplanada, the centre of local life and a market venue
• Explore the Museo Militar de Menorca to learn more about Menorca's military history
• Wander through the colourful, charming streets of the town
• Attend the festa de Sant Jaume, if you are there in July, to experience local traditions
• Taste Menorcan cuisine in one of the many restaurants of Es Castell

Where to sleep in Es Castell? The most beautiful hotels

• Hotel del Almirante, a charming hotel in Es Castell. Rated 8.7 Superb on Booking.
• STARBAL, a pretty guesthouse with a pool in Es Castell. Rated 8.4 Very Good on Booking.

The best restaurants in Es Castell

• Restaurante S'Ancora d'Es Castell (rated 4.7 on Google): "typical and delicious restaurant above the port"
• Restaurante Sa Punta Menorca (rated 4.7 on Google): "Exceptional dishes in an incredible setting"
• Tarambana Cales Fonts (rated 4.8 on Google): "excellent from the welcome to the dishes and the setting!"

Binibeca Vell, a magnificent white village in Menorca 

Among the most beautiful villages in Menorca to visit, there is this picturesque coastal village 8 km south of the capital. We especially love its charm, its little lanes and its fishermen's quarter, the ideal spot for a lovely holiday photo.

Also called Binibèquer Vell or the white village of Menorca, it is a must-do during your stay on the island. 

What to see and do in Binibeca Vell? 

Here is a suggestion of things not to miss in the town: 

• Explore the whitewashed lanes of the fishing village of Binibeca Vell, designed to look like a traditional village
• Take photos of the picturesque scenery with its charming houses and narrow lanes
• Relax on Binibeca beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and fine sand, or go for a swim at Cala Torrent (nearby beach)
• Visit the craft market to find unique souvenirs and local crafts
• Taste fresh seafood dishes in restaurants with sea views (see best places below)
• Enjoy a moment of tranquillity by the water, perfect for reading or meditation, and go for a walk on the cliff along the Pierre et Vacances.

Where to sleep in Binibeca Vell? The most beautiful hotels

• Vela Llatina - Binibeca Vell, a magnificent villa. Rated 8.7 Superb on Booking.
• Comitas Isla del Aire, a superb aparthotel nearby. Rated 8.7 Superb on Booking.

The best restaurants in Binibeca Vell

• Bambu Menorca (rated 4.3 on Google): "exceptional restaurant with a breathtaking view and divine dishes"
• Los Buscaneros (also rated 4.3 on Google): "incredible view, everything is good, the waiters are top"
• Cocoon Food and Fun (rated 4.9 on Google): "best discovery in tapas and wine bars, far from tourist traps".

Fornells, a pretty little fishing village in the north of Menorca

Located in the north of the island, Fornells is also one of the most beautiful villages in Menorca with about 1,000 inhabitants. Its main activity: spiny lobster fishing. In our three good addresses, you can taste this typical dish: the caldereta de langosta (spiny lobster stew).

You can walk around the centre and see the 17th-century church, called Sant Antoni de Fornells and the Torre de Fornells. Also stroll along its bay (more than 3 km long). A chance to capture these moments at the little port with its rowing boats and fishing boats, renowned as one of the prettiest ports in Menorca. From the Bay of Fornells, you can see the island of Ses Sargantanes.

Want to cool off? Here are two superb beaches near Fornells: Cala Pregonda and Platja de Cavalleria. 

What to see and do in Fornells? 

Here is a suggestion of things not to miss in the town: 

• For a fun day, sail in the Bay of Fornells on a catamaran excursion, diving or snorkelling. See the best deals on water activities 
• Taste the famous "Caldereta de Langosta" in one of the seafront restaurants (see our good addresses below)
• Explore the fishing village with its white houses and little narrow streets
• Go kayaking or paddleboarding to discover the hidden coves around Fornells
• Visit the Torre de Fornells, a former defence tower with a breathtaking view
• Enjoy the surrounding beaches such as Cala Tirant for a day of relaxation in the sun or go hiking on the GR223 Camí de Cavalls.

Where to sleep in Fornells? The most beautiful hotels

• Comitas Tramontana Park, a superb aparthotel in Fornells. Rated 8.6 Superb on Booking.
• Carema Club Resort and its slides, ideal for families. Rated 8.3 Very Good on Booking
• Hostal Port Fornells, a magnificent guesthouse in Fornells. Rated 8.6 Superb on Booking

The best restaurants in Fornells

• Restaurante La Guapa (rated 4.6 on Google): "excellent restaurant for both fish and meat"
• Restaurante Sa Proa (also rated 4.6 on Google): "a very good address with refined and delicate cuisine"
• Can Tanu (rated 4.6 on Google): "Very good restaurant, warm welcome and very good quality food". 

Es Mercadal, in the heart of the Menorcan countryside

Among the most beautiful villages in Menorca, Es Mercadal is one of them! Founded in 1301, this small town of fewer than 5,000 inhabitants is nestled at the foot of Monte Toro (the highest peak in Menorca at 358 metres, only 5 minutes away by car).

We especially love its authenticity and its strategic central position, between the capital and beautiful Ciutadella. A strategic stop not to be missed if you want to visit the island. With a postcard image, this little village is appreciated for its whitewashed houses, its charming lanes and of course: its pretty windmill! 

Among the local dishes to try, if you like delving into culinary specialities, there is the perol (pork served with potatoes, tomatoes, onion or oven-baked skate) or the oliaigua (tomato soup).

What to see and do in Es Mercadal? 

Here is a suggestion of things not to miss in the town: 

• Climb to the summit of Monte Toro for lovely photos, the highest point in Menorca known for its viewpoint 
• Taste local cuisine in the traditional restaurants of the town centre (see our 3 good addresses below)
• Visit the Centre Artesanal de Menorca to discover local crafts
• Explore the lanes and traditional architecture of the village
• Take part in local festivities if your visit coincides with the traditional celebrations
• Hike in the surrounding area to enjoy the natural landscapes
• Discover the local produce shops to bring back souvenirs
• Visit the historic windmills dotting the surrounding countryside

Where to sleep in Es Mercadal? The most beautiful hotels

• Hotel Jeni & Restaurant, a pretty hotel in Es Mercadal. Rated 8.5 Very Good on Booking.
• Apartamento en Arenal Castell, an apartment rated 8.0 Very Good on Booking. 

The best restaurants in Es Mercadal

• Restaurante Es Molí d'Es Racó (rated 4.4 on Google): "excellent value for money, hearty and generous dishes"
• Restaurante Ca N'Olga (rated 4.6 on Google): "Excellent cuisine, singular place with lots of charm"
• Poca Soltes (rated 4.8 on Google)  : "Exceptional, gourmet tapas, warm atmosphere"

Among the most beautiful villages in Menorca, Alaior

Discover this town of fewer than 10,000 inhabitants in the centre-east of the island, about 12 km from the capital. Founded in 130, Alaior is best known for its cheeses, but also for the manufacture of the island's traditional shoes. Typical Menorcan espadrille-like shoes called avarques or menorquinas!

You'll appreciate its historic centre and little lanes. As you walk, you can't miss the church of Santa Eulàlia, the village's patron saint, built between 1630 and 1690. When you visit, you can go up to the roof and admire its stunning view over Alaior and the surrounding countryside.

Near the church, there is a surprising air-raid shelter made of tunnels. This shelter dates back to the Spanish Civil War! And finally, to complete your visit of the village, don't miss the LÔAC, Alaior Art Contemporani, a sublime contemporary art museum.

What to see and do in Alaior?

Here is a suggestion of things not to miss in the village: 

• Visit the charming old town of Alaior, with its church, its air-raid shelter and its whitewashed houses.
• Discover the town's monuments: the convent of San Diego (Pati de sa Lluna), the Gràcia chapel or the Can Salort palace. 
• Walk in the nearby S'Albufera des Grau natural park to observe rich wildlife and plants.
• Explore the Talaiotic archaeological sites around Alaior, testimonies of the island's ancient culture.
• Taste the famous Mahón cheese produced locally, at one of the farms or cheese dairies in the area. Best activity deal
• Visit the Centre d'Artesania de Menorca to discover local crafts and perhaps bring back a unique souvenir.
• Enjoy the beautiful beaches nearby, such as Son Bou only 8 km from the village, for a day of relaxation in the sun or to cool off.

Where to sleep in Alaior? The most beautiful hotels

• ROMANDRE, a charming hotel in Alaior. Rated 9.0 Fabulous on Booking.
• HG Jardín de Menorca, 6 km from Alaior, in Son Bou to be exact. Rated 8.1 Very Good on Booking.  
• Royal Son Bou Family Club, 6 km from Alaior, also in Son Bou. Rated 9.0 Fabulous on Booking and 9.5 for its location.  

The best restaurants in Alaior

• Restaurante Es Festuc (rated 4.5 on Google): "Excellent little restaurant with tasty dishes"
• Vitaca Menorca (rated 4.6 on Google): "Very good value for money, excellent cuisine"
• Chauvoncourt (rated 4.5 on Google): "Lovely discovery, the dishes are homemade".

Sant Lluís and its windmill

To finish this overview of our guide "the most beautiful villages in Menorca", we present this charming village located south of Mahón: Sant Lluís. Its name is said to have been chosen in homage to Louis XV after it was built by the French. 

As you walk through the village, you'll see its neoclassical church with its pretty bell tower, the Sant Lluís church. Don't miss visiting one of the village's last windmills (there were three) : the Molí de Dalt, now a museum.  

What to see and do in Sant Lluís? 

Here is a suggestion of things not to miss in the village: 

• Visit the Binissuès Ethnological Museum to learn more about traditional Menorcan life
• Taste the local gin at the Xoriguer distillery and discover the distillation process
• Explore nearby beaches such as Punta Prima or Binibeca Nou for a day by the sea and enjoy the clear waters of Menorca
• Discover the nearby wine estate: Bodegas Binifadet  
• Taste local specialities among our good addresses (below)
• Visit the Sant Lluís church for its architecture and history
• Go for a bike ride in the surrounding countryside to admire the Menorcan landscape.

Where to sleep in Sant Lluís? The most beautiful hotels

• Agroturismo Binissafullet Vell, a charming agritourism with a pool. Rated 9.4 Fabulous on Booking.
• Villa con piscina privada y AC, a sublime villa in Sant Lluís. Rated 10 Exceptional on Booking.  
• Comitas Isla del Aire, in Punta Prima, less than 5 km from the village. Rated 8.7 Superb on Booking.  

The best restaurants in Sant Lluís

• Restaurante Grill La Venta (rated 4.5 on Google): "very good produce, good cuisine"
• Restaurante Pan y Vini (rated 4.7 on Google): French restaurant nearby, "countryside atmosphere, refined and exquisite cuisine".
• Sa Pedrera des Pujol (rated 4.5 on Google): "excellent meal, very pleasant surroundings".

If you're planning to stay a few days on the island, don't hesitate to take a look at our article Visiting Menorca in 5 days.

Our article "The most beautiful villages in Menorca" ends here. We hope all this information will help you plan your stay in the Balearic Islands. All that's left is to wish you a great trip and plenty of good vibes in Spain 😎