What to see in Minorca in 5 days
There’s so much to see in Minorca in five days—just the right amount of time to explore the island from north to south and from east to west without having to worry about time. Famous for its enchanting beaches and coves, this Balearic island also boasts fascinating historic heritage, towns and villages full of charm, delicious gastronomy and, of course, idyllic natural settings and astonishing seafloors.
A walk through the romantic streets of Ciutadella, a gastronomic break to the capital to sample the popular Mahón cheese, a visit to the island’s many markets… The options for things to do in Minorca in five days are endless, but this itinerary will help you plan your stay properly. Take note!
Itinerary day 1
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Museu de Menorca
If you are interested in gaining a deeper insight into the island’s history, the Museum of Minorca is an essential visit. The very appearance of this Baroque-style former Franciscan monastery gives an indication of the richness of the heritage it contains. You can visit the museum free of charge, or pay for a guided tour.
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Es Molí de Foc Restaurant
This restaurant, located in a former windmill, has a very pleasant terrace. The speciality here is rice dishes, and the establishment is ideal for couples, friends or family groups alike.
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Mahón
Minorca’s capital has much to offer. The home of Mahón cheese, its charms are by no means limited to gastronomy. The bastion of Sant Roc, the Town Hall, the city’s historic quarter, the beaches... It won’t be difficult to find a restaurant or terrace where you can enjoy good food along with attractive views.
5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Boat trip
One great activity to include in your Minorca holiday is a boat trip. Many of the excursions that ply the routes around the main coves of the south depart from Cala Galdana, and the trips include bathing, water activities and even aperitifs and drinks on board!
8:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Binibeca
Its narrow streets and whitewashed houses have made this fishing village one of Minorca’s most visited places. After strolling through its maze of streets, nothing beats settling down to enjoy dinner overlooking the sea at one of the bars or terraces.
10:00 PM - 11:00 PM
El Faro Restaurant
One of the best views in Binibeca is the picturesque scene afforded by the terrace of this charming restaurant specialising in Mediterranean cuisine and rice dishes (including black rice, rice with seafood, rice with lobster, etc.).
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
La Mola
La Mola stands proudly at the entrance to the port of Mahón, a strategic placement for one of the largest European fortresses constructed during the nineteenth century. Its historic interest makes it worth visiting, but the setting and the views it affords of the northern and eastern coasts are also most attractive.
Itinerary day 2
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Naveta des Tudons
Whether or not you’re a lover of history, if you’re in Minorca you should not miss a visit to its archaeological sites. Like an open-air museum, the island has a wide network of prehistoric monuments such as the Naveta des Tudons megalithic tomb, a type of burial chamber unique to this island.
2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Passió Mediterrànea Restaurant
In the port of Mahón, Passió Mediterrànea, a restaurant specialising in contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, serves outstanding, fresh, enjoyable dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Not to mention the excellent service.
4:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Barceló Hamilton Menorca Spa
Discover Minorca’s first-rate wellness offer and treat yourself to an afternoon of complete relaxation. You will emerge feeling like new after your chosen massage, wrap or beauty treatment.
9:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Es Forat Restaurant
To end the day at Ciutadella harbour is a real treat. Considered one of the loveliest in the Mediterranean, it offers a particularly agreeable ambience. If you would like to enjoy the area’s fine seafood, it is hard to beat the terrace of Es Forat, at the foot of the walls.
Itinerary day 3
9:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Kayaking in Minorca
Exploring the Minorcan coastline by kayak will give you the opportunity to discover hidden coves and unique corners of the island. Many kayaking expeditions depart from the bay of Fornells, heading through the North Minorca Marine Reserve, also providing the option of going diving.
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Torre de Fornells
Built in the nineteenth century, this is one of the defensive towers from the time of the British occupation. From the tower at Fornells, two other defence towers can also be seen. The chapel of Nuestra Señora de Lourdes, a small shrine carved into the rock, is another attraction.
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Es Crancs Restaurant
Fornells is one of the best places to enjoy one of the island’s most popular traditional dishes: lobster stew. Book a table at Es Crancs, a family-run restaurant that never disappoints. It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s worth every penny.
4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Cavalleria Lighthouse
In the northernmost part of Minorca stands the Cavalleria lighthouse. It is 15 metres high, and looks out over the Mediterranean from one of the most beautiful and imposing cliffs on the island. The lighthouse is open to the public between May and October.
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Cala Pregonda
This idyllic spot in the north of the island is not easy to access, but it is well worth the effort to gaze upon its scenery: reddish sand and crystal-clear waters—almost like something from Mars. Watching the sun set from Cala Pregonda with the sound of the waves in the background makes a perfect end to the day.
8:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Mount Toro
The highest mountain on Minorca rises to 358 metres above sea level. You can get to the summit of Mount Toro by car, on foot, or by cycling, and once there, admire the panoramic view of a fair proportion of the coastline. On your return, don’t miss a visit to Es Mercadal, a delightful inland town and the point of departure for the hiking trail.
10:30 PM - 11:30 PM
Es Bruc Bou Restaurant
Es Bruc Bou will impress you with its offering of contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. You can choose meat or fish, confident in the knowledge that what arrives at your table will be locally sourced and of first-class quality.
Itinerary day 4
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Castell de Santa Àgueda Castle
Little remains of what was once one of the defensive fortresses built by the Moors during the period of the Córdoba Caliphate. However, the castle of Santa Àgueda is a visit not to be missed, particularly for the spectacular views it offers of Mount Toro, the Cavalleria lighthouse, and a good stretch of the northern coast.
12.00 - 13.30
Pedreres de s’Hostal quarries
As you follow the road towards Ciutadella, you will come across the Pedreres de s’Hostal. Gardens, labyrinths and recesses carved into the landscape are among the elements that bring life to these quarries. This is a fascinating place to visit in the heart of the Minorcan countryside.
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
S’Amarador Restaurant
Located on Ciutadella’s harbour, this restaurant specialising in seafood rice dishes and shellfish and lobster stews, has become a benchmark thanks to the quality of its cooking and its terrace with views of the port.
4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Cala Turqueta
To travel to Minorca is to be seduced by the charms of turquoise waters such as those of Cala Turqueta, one of the finest coves on the island. The pine forests edging the beach and the low, limestone cliffs make this cove the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Cala Macarella
A short distance from Cala Turqueta, Cala Macarella is another essential stop-off on any trip to Minorca. There’s a beach bar where you can recover your energy or have a bite to eat as the afternoon turns to evening and, if you practise nudism, just 10 minutes you’ll find the nudist cove known as Macarelleta, smaller but still very pleasant.
9:30 PM - 11:30 PM
La Palette Restaurant
La Palette is a good choice if you need to replenish your energy before ending the day. La Palette offers an Italian-Mediterranean menu, and the views from its terrace are, quite simply, breathtaking.
11:30 PM - 1:00 AM
Cova d´en Xoroi
After spending an afternoon recovering your energy on the beach, there’s nothing like going out partying in Minorca. Cova d’en Xoroi is a natural cave which—in addition to its astounding views—is considered one of the most atmospheric spots to enjoy Minorcan nightlife.
Itinerary day 5
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Minorca zoo
Suitable for children and adults alike, Minorca zoo is another place you can include in your itinerary. Here you will find everything from native species to exotic specimens. You can also enjoy a snack within the zoo complex.
3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Son Bou
Located in the south of the island, the Son Bou tourist resort has something for everyone. Relax on its spacious beach, or take a tour of the Prat de Son Bou nature reserve. Finally, go for a stroll around the ruins of the basilica of the same name and then recharge your batteries in one of the many restaurants and bars.
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Cala Galdana
With its shops, kiosks and beach bars, Cala Galdana offers a family atmosphere, but with all the facilities required for an afternoon at the beach. Pedaloes, boat hire, sun loungers... and as night falls, you’ll have no difficulty finding a restaurant or terrace where you can enjoy typical Minorcan food.
8:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Firac Street Market
In Ciutadella harbour, you have a chance to enjoy the more Bohemian side of the island. There you will find the Firac street market, a series of stalls selling craft items, which you can purchase as a souvenir of your visit to this place.
10:30 PM - 11:30 PM
Rels Restaurant
Not far from the street market is this restaurant offering modern Mediterranean cuisine, gourmet skewered snacks and local artisan beer. The whole experience gets even more enjoyable if you book a table on its pleasant interior courtyard.