The island of Menorca, declared a Biosphere Reserve, is a paradise destination… turquoise beaches, lighthouses, sunsets, prehistoric remains, charming villages. In addition to nature, this Mediterranean island has a very important cultural side, together with unique monuments.

Here is a list of the 5 essential places to see in Minorca:

THE CITADEL OF MENORCA

It used to be the island’s capital and now it’s a town with a lot of  charm and historical character. Here you’ll find several iconic buildings such as the Menorca Cathedral, which is the most important Gothic construction on the island; Plaza Es Born, the city’s most iconic site; Castillo de San Nicolás, Menorca’s most modern and elegant tower; and, finally, the Citadel’s Municipal Museum, where you can bask in Menorcan history. We suggest finishing the tour at the Citadel’s harbor, an iconic and lively location with plenty of places to relax and eat.

MAHÓN

It’s the capital of the island and a city of great historical interest. The City Hall is located In the heart of Mahón, at Plaza de la Constitución, with its iconic eighteenth-century clock. Then there’s the Church of Santa María and its nineteenth-century organ with four keyboards and 3120 pipes. Portal de San Roque (Bastió de San Roc) is also well worth a visit to see the remains of the main gate of the wall that used to encircle the city. Mahón Port is the most important port in Menorca and one of the largest in the world (5 kilometers long). It is teeming with bars and restaurants where you can savor the delights of Menorcan food. At the entrance to the port lies Mola Fort, the most important work of military engineering in Menorca.

BEACHES

You don’t have to go to the Caribbean to swim in incredibly turquoise-blue waters, as Menorca boasts countless beaches and coves straight out of your dreams. The most famous are Playa Son Bou, the largest on the island; Cala Mitjana, an untouched cove in the heart of Menorca; Cala Morell, perfect for snorkeling and diving; and Cala Turqueta, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Surrounded by cliffs and pine forests, Cala Macarella and Macarelleta are also the most popular locations on the island, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit them and spend an unforgettable beach day.

D’EN XOROI CAVE

This cave is located on a cliff on the southern coast of the island, in the Cala en Porter development. It is one of the most visited attractions in Menorca. It was carved into the caves of a cliff wall facing the sea. A series of stairs and walkways connect several rooms and terraces with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Arrive at dusk and enjoy a stunning sunset while having a drink.

MENORCA’S LIGHTHOUSES

There are 5 major lighthouses on the island, and they’re all well worth a visit. Built in the mid-19th century, Artrutx lighthouse stands out for its colors (typical blue and white stripes) and is an excellent spot for a drink on windless days. Punta Nati lighthouse and Cavallería lighthouse are known for their cliffs and breathtaking summer sunsets. They are also great if you want to see the stars at night. Favàritx lighthouse offers a different, more rugged scenery, as it is surrounded by cliffs, black rocks, and a rough sea. If you’re interested in sailing, there’s a maritime signals exhibition inside. Illa de l’Aire lighthouse is on an island, so it’s not accessible by land. You can see it from Punta Prima beach or take the boat to the island, spend the day there, and enjoy one of the best snorkeling spots in Menorca.