Travel
Menorca: The Spanish Island You Should Know
You’ve in all probability heard of Mallorca. However have you ever heard of Menorca, its little sister, which is not any much less lovely? After I looked for details about this place in a sure group, the solutions I bought had been that I had a spelling error.
Associated learn: Top Mallorca Attractions & Activities
I admit that till I moved to Spain, I didn’t know in regards to the existence of this place.
And the way fortunate we had been to satisfy!
An exquisite trip on an island that’s not notably huge, however filled with superb seashores, tiny cities with picturesque alleys, and an environment of everlasting freedom—is it best for you?
Need to see all the pieces in photos? Bounce to the spotlight on Instagram.
Right here’s an outline:
Menorca is a part of the archipelago of the Balearic Islands, which additionally contains vibrant Ibiza, elegant Mallorca, and tiny Formentera. Along with the 4 major islands, there are others within the Mediterranean Sea, solely about 80–90 km from the Iberian Peninsula.
The official languages are Spanish and Catalan.
As of 2025, about 100,000 folks reside on the island, which is roughly a tenth of the inhabitants of Mallorca.
Arrival to Menorca
There may be no direct flights relying on the place you’re coming from. I all the time check Expedia for the most recent choices, so be happy to do the identical!
Nonetheless, there are flights with a brief connection to all kinds of factors in Europe.
From Barcelona, there’s a flight that takes about half an hour or a ferry that can take you and your automobile by sea in about eight hours.
When to Go to?
We had been there in early–mid-April. The climate was great: not too sizzling, not too chilly. Simply nice.
As for swimming within the sea, nicely, the courageous ones amongst us swam, regardless of how chilly it was. The swimming season formally begins on Could 1st and lasts till October thirty first.
You probably have time, I’d advocate visiting in June, when the water is heat sufficient and the island will not be but flooded with vacationers from northern Europe.
A buddy advised me that she got here with a buddy on a bike in August and there have been seashores the place they’d no place to park.
Associated learn: The Best Beaches in Barcelona (Including the Nude & Gay Beaches)
Automotive Rental in Menorca
To get round comfortably on the island, though it’s not very giant, I extremely advocate renting a automobile.
There are a number of car rental corporations that function at Mahón Airport, plus these that aren’t situated on the airport however will come to ship the automobile to you there upon touchdown.
I’ve had good experiences with PAAPM, which is price testing.
Public transportation is out there—use the under map or Google Maps.
The place To Keep In Menorca?
Like in Mallorca, discovering a lodge room for a pair + two kids may be no straightforward job. Fortunately, we had been touring with my dad and mom, so we cut up into a pair + one in every room.
The lodge I stayed in is that this one:
Resort Gran Sagitario
Small, comfy, and offers truthful worth for the value.
The meals was not thrilling, however that was our impression of the meals on the island generally. What was handy was the indoor pool, which we frequented for a couple of days.
The factor I appreciated most was the cove, a two-minute stroll from the lodge—small and so picturesque. It was my view for my morning run.
The town, which I actually appreciated, Ciutadella, is a few seven-minute drive away. So, all the pieces is shut sufficient, however not crowded.
Different Nice Locations To Keep In Menorca
As regular, I’ve lists from the US to the UK of all of the locations I wish to keep.
Listed below are among the ones I picked that weren’t out there on the time and that I might have cherished to remain at in Menorca.
Alcaufar Vell Resort Rural & Restaurant
The place that I used to be most disenchanted wasn’t out there for us. Precisely my style—rustic with a restaurant. That’s all you want, I believe.
Ses Sucreres Small & Gradual Resort
I’ve a particular fondness for sluggish locations, and once they are available in an previous Nineteenth-century constructing it’s an actual deal with. Easy rooms however with a contact of stylish and a neighborhood breakfast.
Resort Hevresac Singular & Small
A 4-star lodge and 250m from the capital, it’s small, delightfully adorned, and nice worth for cash. It has a really excessive ranking on the totally different reserving plattforms.
Carema Backyard Village
A 3-star lodge we handed by and it simply seemed actually beautiful. The world can be lovely and quiet.
Barceló Nura
A 5-star lodge, very near Splash Water Park, with an out of doors pool, indoor pool, and spa. It’s nice for households.
The Cami de Cavalls, a coastal path that encircles Menorca, permits energetic hikers to discover the island’s rugged shoreline and secluded spots. For water-sports fanatics, there are many alternatives for kayaking, browsing, and snorkeling.
The Capital Metropolis, Mahón
Properly, Mahón didn’t go away any important impression on me. Aside from a cute promenade and a distillery that we’ll speak about quickly, I don’t assume it’s a must-see on a vacation in Menorca.
Perhaps I missed one thing, however I actually didn’t discover something thrilling right here.
The Distillery Xoringeur Gin Distillery
The distillery has been right here because the seventeenth century (!), when it was based by the Xoringeur household, whose origins are in Italy. Since then, conventional methods have been used, handed down from era to era.
However wait—gin is British. How did it get right here?
Menorca was beneath British rule (in no way shocking that they had been on the lookout for some sunny island and didn’t wish to give it again). Sailors from the Royal Navy introduced the artwork of manufacturing to the island.
To today, as talked about, the distillery proudly continues this custom, utilizing solely the best elements and conventional copper stills.
Take a guided tour right here and see all the normal instruments that had been used again then. On the finish of the tour, you possibly can style all kinds of gin flavors, from the basic London Derry to particular variations fermented with native crops.
Presently, greater than half 1,000,000 bottles are produced right here per 12 months, that are bought not solely in Spain but in addition in america, France, Italy, Japan, Australia, Mexico, and New Zealand.
We got here right here spontaneously and there was no guided tour out there on the time. We walked across the place independently, tasted the several types of gin, and purchased a couple of bottles to take residence. 😋
To guide a guided tour, go to their website.
Deal with: Moll de Ponent, 91, 07701 Maó, Illes Balears
In case you do go to, hop to the opposite facet of the street; possibly you’ll be fortunate and a fishing boat will dock and you’ll observe the ocean catch.
The Cardamom Menorca Indian Restaurant
Meals that all the time makes the human coronary heart completely happy, particularly vegetarians.
I extremely advocate this restaurant, which satisfied even my mom and younger son who usually are not actually into Indian meals.
Deal with: Moll de Llevant, 267, 07701 Maó, Illes Balears
Ciutadella
Ciutadella was as soon as the capital and dates again to the thirteenth century. It has an previous city with a powerful cathedral and alleys lined with boutique outlets and eating places.
At this time it’s a port metropolis and an necessary business middle for the whole island.
Of the seashores, Cala Macarella and Cala Turqueta are two gems with turquoise waters and high quality white sand.
Café Central
A heavenly cafe, and one thing I’ve not seen anyplace else. It has the ambiance of a monastery with Jesus on the wall.
The tea was poured with a picket stick that jogged my memory of a matcha home in Tokyo.
The dishes had been particular and delightful. The thick meaty cookie we ate was bursting with peanuts and taste. Comfortable and a bit crispy on the perimeters.
Don’t miss this place!
Deal with: Carrer de Ca’l Bisbe, 1, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca, Illes Balears
Gelateria Deliri DeLaCrem
We all know DeLaCrem ice cream from Barcelona and couldn’t be happier to search out out that they’ve a Menorcan department. Similar excessive commonplace, similar wonderful service.
It’s among the finest I’ve had lately. Really, in my life.
Nibs Wholesome Bar
It is a great spot for lunch and is vegetarian-friendly. It’s in a primary location—in a phenomenal central sq..
Deal with: Plaça d’Artrutx, 7, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca, Illes Balears
Self-Crusing From Ciutadella
This was considered one of our most memorable experiences from our trip. No license is required—you possibly can hire a small motorboat for self-sail.
In April, we had a tough time discovering a spot to hire it to us, although, because it was earlier than the season. Nonetheless, we didn’t surrender and located the final man who miraculously had a ship out there for us.
Once we arrived, completely happy and cheerful, with chilly drinks we purchased on the best way, hats, swimsuits, and sunscreen in case the solar broke out, it turned out that the engine was damaged.
“I’ll be again in half an hour with a brand new boat.” Properly, nicely. So it was clear that it wasn’t half an hour. And by chance so. As a result of we had time to take a look at the close by heavenly cafe (there’s no different definition).
After an hour and a half, the man returned with a brand new boat in tow. It even managed to start out. And so, we set off into the center of the ocean, completely happy and cheerful nonetheless.
Wind in our hair, the roar of the struggling engine, the bounces on the waves, the intoxicating views. The 11-year-old in our group rapidly mastered the steering and was completely happy to be the captain for 4 hours, whereas we rested and drank chilly drinks.
What a pleasure. I might enterprise to say that it doesn’t actually matter the place you sail, you’ll positively discover lovely seashores—loads of them. We had been completely happy to succeed in locations we already knew from earlier than.
A few of us whose lineage is rooted in Japanese Europe had been excited to leap into the water when there have been grey clouds and it was 16 levels outdoors. An particularly worthwhile expertise.
Concentrate:
- Don’t go too removed from the coast.
- The ferries go away from Ciutadella (and in addition from Mahón). They’re extraordinarily giant and make excessive waves.
Really helpful Seashores in Menorca
Cala en Brut
Virtually the first seaside we visited. How lovely it’s!
Very straightforward to get to, however there are a couple of steps to go down. Clear, crystal water. There isn’t any actual entry to the seaside, simply concrete with steps to the water.
Cala Mitjana/Mitjaneta
If there’s a spot I’d like to remain, it’s right here. A bit of paradise, my pricey. A seaside definitely worth the kilometer stroll to get to.
Park within the lot and begin strolling alongside the trail. After fifteen minutes (or much less, in case you don’t have kids 😊) you’re there.
A sizzling tip: Proceed alongside the trail to Cala Mitjaneta, the tiny bay farther on. It can take you some time to get there, not as a result of the street is lengthy, however as a result of each step is a chance for one more mesmerizing picture.
There are not any seaside companies right here, so carry all the pieces you want with you.
Merely a dream of a spot.
North of the Island: Fornells and the Space
Probably the most lovely cities price a go to is Fornells on the northern finish of the island. It has a small port, a couple of eating places and cafes and a few small, picturesque streets.
In between are white homes with inexperienced shutters. It’s merely beautiful to wander round right here.
From there, drive to the seaside of Fornells: Platges de Fornells, park your automobile there, and stroll to Cala Tirant. The view right here is just beautiful.
Whenever you get drained, drive to the Cape Cavalleria Lighthouse. Whenever you go away the automobile park, you’ll see a kiosk. Purchase one thing chilly to drink, some ice cream, and stroll across the lighthouse space.
Associated learn: A Week in Spain: From Madrid to Barcelona
South of the Island
Binibeca
The major city right here is Binibeca, and it’s tremendous cute. It’s price hopping onto the Bufador de Binibequer seaside and strolling there for some time.
Cala en Porter
A phenomenal view of a small however spectacular bay—Mirador Cala en Porter.
Simply park your automobile and stroll 10 meters till you see this lovely seaside, then proceed all the way down to the sand.
Cova d’en Xoroi
A spot we didn’t get to, sadly, as a result of we arrived with drained kids and much more so dad and mom, simply because it was closing within the afternoon.
I’m additionally undecided how appropriate the place is for youngsters. It’s a music bar-club. Anyway, have a look at the images on Google Maps and also you’ll see what a cool little nook it’s. It’s a bit harking back to Rosh HaNikra.
There’s a charge to enter right here—see the place’s web site. In case you go, tag me on Instagram and inform me the way it was.
Associated learn: The Best Beach Bars in Barcelona
Visiting a Dairy
So not solely does Manorca dabble in conventional gin, it’s pleased with its cheese, too, referred to as—you guessed it—Mahón cheese.
This dairy, which is true within the middle of the island, makes the cheeses on website. You’ll be able to take a guided tour or order a tasting platter with snacks. We toured independently (how did we miss all of the guided excursions?) and sat all the way down to eat.
I admit, there are higher cheeses than this, principally in northern Spain. For cheese followers, I like to recommend you no less than strive it, although.
Within the air-conditioned manufacturing facility retailer, you too can buy different delicacies.
Deal with: Carretera Alaior a Arenal d’en Castell s/n, 07740, Balearic Islands
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
Travel
How the federal government shutdown impacts journey – ABC Information – Breaking Information, Newest Information and Movies
Celebrities1 year agoBen Shephard’s relationship ‘settlement’ with spouse Annie as he points her warning
Entertainment3 years agoAny person Get Snowboarder Brin Alexander an Invite to the Pure Choice Tour
Celebrities1 year agoBeloved Gogglebox couple reveal ‘axe’ from Channel 4 sequence
Travel3 years agoBelize on a finances – Lonely Planet
Travel3 years ago8 of the very best locations to go to within the Bahamas
Celebrities2 years agoDemi Moore & Her Daughters Might Be Quadruplets at Oscars After-Social gathering
Travel3 years agoThe 8 finest international locations for digital nomads and distant working
Recepies2 years agoTake heed to The Nation on-line with Jamie Mackay: Zanda McDonald winners and hard occasions for sheep and beef