Dreaming of a quick island escape? Menorca is the perfect weekend getaway to the sea and tapas, just a short flight from Geneva.
How to Get There
In high season, you can fly directly from Geneva to Mahon, Menorca’s capital, with Swiss or EasyJet. In just 1.5 hours, you’ll leave the hustle behind and land on this beautiful island.
Things to Do
Since you only have a weekend, I’d suggest exploring one city (preferably on Saturday, as most places will be closed on Sunday) and one beach.
Explore Old Town
Visit the Cloisters of Carmen – This historic building, once home to the Carmelite Order until its confiscation in 1835, now hosts a produce market on the ground floor and cultural facilities on the top floor.
Walk by Mahon Port
Mahon is home to the world’s second-largest harbor, right after Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. It’s a bustling hub of island life.
Discover Beaches (Calas)
We visited Arenal d’en Castell beach, located near the Palladium Hotel. It’s a small bay with warm water and sandy shores—what more could you want? Due to storms before our trip, I missed visiting Cala Macarella, which is supposedly better because it’s two beaches in one, and Cala Mitjana.
Keep in mind: the more secluded and off-the-beaten-path the beach, the more likely it is to be nudist-friendly.
Where to Stay
Hotel Catalonia Mirador Des Port
Hotel Catalonia Mirador Des Port: Perfectly located near the port and old town of Mahon. This recently renovated hotel offers beautiful sea views, a private pool, and a cozy boho atmosphere. The friendly staff surprised us with a room upgrade, letting us wake up to one of the most incredible sunrises!
DID YOU KNOW?
Did you know Menorca is the first place in Spain to see the sunrise each day?
Over on the eastern side near Mahon, the sunrises are amazing, while the western side near Ciutadella is all about those gorgeous sunsets. It’s like getting the best of both worlds!
Palladium Hotel Menorca
Palladium Hotel Menorca: This all-inclusive beachfront hotel is a great option for families or anyone looking for a worry-free getaway. The buffet exceeded my expectations with a fantastic selection of local delicacies and international flavors. The hotel offers daily activities and a beautiful pool with tanning areas for both families and adults only. A quick walk downhill takes you to the beach—not private, but still perfect for relaxing vibes!
Where to Eat
Breakfast
La Rosquilla: Start your morning with a delicious Spanish tortilla, fresh avocado toasts, and refreshing juice mixes. Open even on Sundays, La Rosquilla offers a cozy breakfast experience with friendly service that truly cares.
Fritha Churreria: Satisfy your sweet tooth with some porras or churros.
Forn del St. Cristo: Try an authentic ensaimada pastry at an ancient bakery that’s been perfecting its recipe since 1910.
Lunch
Fish Market Mahon (Mercat del Peix): To be honest, I’d skip it. While it’s lively and authentic, it might be better suited for just a drink. There are plenty of other spots where you can enjoy lunch without having to worry about flies hovering around the food you pick at the stalls.
Arena Beach Club Restaurant: Located by Arenal d’en Castell beach, this spot serves a superb black ink fideuà loaded with seafood. I also enjoyed a Frapelatte as my dessert—a sweet, coffee-flavored slushie perfect for cooling down on a summer day.
Apero
La Barra: Stop here for apero and views, sampling local wines like Binifadet Menorca and cava Pupitre Brut Nature. The vibe is casual yet chic—perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
Dinner
Restaurante Mirador Des Port: If you dine at Hotel Catalonia Mirador Des Port, don’t miss their delicious local dishes (the pulpo a la gallega was so tender, yum!) and international options with a unique twist, all served with stunning harbor views.
If not, choose any restaurant along the port—the atmosphere is lively at night along the harbor in Mahon.
What to Buy
Menorcan Avarcas: Stop by the small atelier “S’Abarca” down by the port for a handcrafted pair of sandals—a perfect way to bring home a piece of Menorca’s heritage! You can request a custom pair or buy one off the shelf—I bought a pair for 32 euros with materials I chose and was asked to collect them the same day before 11 pm.
Gin Xoriguer: Buy a bottle at the original Xoriguer Distillery. If you’re adventurous, try the Pomada.
Must-Try
Mahon cheese: Make sure you try local cheese—a distinctive orange-rind cheese that when matured (añejo), has a spicy kick similar to Parmesan.
Sobrasada: You can’t leave Menorca without trying sobrasada, a meat spread often enjoyed on toast. The best one is made from black pork, although it’s originally Mallorcan.
Pomada: a slushie drink made of local gin and lemonade.
If you don’t have time to buy delicacies and souvenirs in town, the airport has plenty of options, including sliced jamón ibérico (~ €32) and a bottle of Pomada (~€7). The airport is not big but has lots of restaurants, shops, and a good-sized duty-free.
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Whether it’s enjoying the sun or savoring local bites, Menorca will leave you longing for just one more day. Are you ready to pack your bags? Menorca awaits!
You might also enjoy reading: One Day in Mahon
