4 Days in Menorca, Spain: The Ultimate Itinerary + Where to Stay & Eat
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You are often told that there is something different about Menorca from its Balearic neighbours. While Mallorca and Ibiza often take the spotlight, Menorca has quietly preserved its slower pace, natural beauty and deep respect for its environment. It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where 42% of the island is protected land. In Menorca, expect agritourism, boutique hotels, bird-filled wetlands and the most beautiful beaches - some that still feel untouched.
I planned this trip with tips from my Spanish friends and recommendations from where I stayed: Agriturismo Son Vives in Ferreries, a family-run countryside retreat set on a hillside with panoramic views. Choosing an agritourism stay felt right here - Menorca is all about slowing down, eating well, and connecting with nature.
The waters are impossibly blue and green, the people warm and welcoming, but the island is bigger than you might think. To truly explore, you’ll need a car.
Here’s how I spent 4 days in Menorca, with ideas on where to stay, what to eat and how to soak up its natural and cultural charm.
Table of Contents:
Where is Menorca Spain on the Map?
Menorca vs Mallorca vs Ibiza: Which Balearic Island is the Nicest?
What is the Best Month to Visit Menorca?
Best Things to Do and See in Menorca: 4-Day Itinerary
Where to Eat in Menorca: Best Restaurants & Local Food
Where is Menorca Spain on the Map?
Menorca is part of Spain’s Balearic Islands, floating in the Mediterranean just north-east of Mallorca. Despite being smaller than Mallorca, it is not a tiny island - driving across takes about an hour, so you’ll want to plan your base strategically.
We stayed in Ferreries, which I think is the perfect base. Everyone had said their favourite was the north part of the island. West and South West are home to some of the nicest beaches, so if you want a beach-bum holiday and a stay there, you can. But Ferreries feels exclusive - you get to see the nature and countryside but the proximity to everywhere is close! Plus, phenomenal food, great views, and amazing stays.
Fact: Ferreries has traditionally been a craft town, known for shoemaking and leatherwork. Today, its local markets and slower inland life make it feel more authentic than the coastal resorts.
Menorca vs Mallorca vs Ibiza: Which Balearic Island is the Nicest?
Each island has its character: Mallorca for variety and how big it is, Ibiza for nightlife and that energy, and Menorca for peace. If you prefer nature trails, sandy coves, agritourism stays, and a more authentic, local feel - Menorca is where you’ll fall in love. It is often described as the most sustainable of the Balearics, precisely because of its slower pace and dedication to preserving its environment.
Unlike Ibiza or Mallorca, where tourism development has been intense, Menorca’s biosphere status (awarded in 1993) limits construction. This is why you’ll notice far fewer high-rises and much more preserved countryside.
What is the Best Month to Visit Menorca
Menorca shines in late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October). These months bring warm weather without the crowds, perfect for hiking or exploring the Cami de Cavalls, the historic trail circling the island.
Summer (July–August) is hot and busy, while April offers mild weather with blooming landscapes. If you are keen on wildlife, autumn is particularly special as Menorca sits on a major migratory route — with more than 200 bird species passing through.
We were told by the owners of Agritourism Son Vives — many internationals come during the spring/early summer or autumn season. Spanish visitors, due to their national holidays, typically come around July and August (at least according to their guest mix!).
What time does the sun set in Menorca?
It depends on the month, but here are some general guidelines:
June: between 20:50 and 21:20
July: between 20:50 and 21:10
August: between 20:30 and 20:55
September: between 19:40 and 20:10
Sunsets are part of the island’s slow magic - locals and travellers alike often gather at lighthouses or coves to watch the sky melt into the sea.
Best Things to Do and See in Menorca: 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – South Coast Coves & Ciutadella
Start at Cala en Porter and follow the Cami de Cavalls trail along the cliffs, discovering sea caves like Cueva de la Luz and the ancient necropolis at Calescoves, where Bronze Age caves are carved into the cliffs. You can also just spend the whole day in Cala en Porter - the most stunning beach! When I was there, it was very cloudy on the day but it was still so beautiful. I can only imagine what it’s like on a full sunny day!
Spend the evening wandering the cobblestone streets of Ciutadella, once the island’s capital, with its elegant squares and lively atmosphere. Don’t miss Pont d’en Gil, a natural rock arch that perfectly frames the sunset.
Day 2 – Fornells & Northern Wilds
Head to Fornells, a fishing village famous for its lobster stew. King Juan Carlos of Spain was a regular here in the 1980s, and the dish is now synonymous with the town.
Spend the afternoon at Cala Cavalleria or Cala Pregonda, two of the island’s most striking beaches with reddish sands and wild landscapes. Cala Pregonda in particular has a cinematic quality — its unique red-gold sand has even been used in advertising campaigns.
End at Favaritx Lighthouse or Punta Nati for sunset — both dramatic, wind-swept spots that capture Menorca’s raw beauty.
Day 3 – Western Beaches & Sunset at Cova d’en Xoroi
Spend the day beach-hopping: Cala Mitjana, Cala Turqueta, and Cala Santandria. Each offers crystal-clear water and fine sands, ideal for swimming or simply slowing down with a book.
Finish at Cova d’en Xoroi, a bar built into the cliffs, for cocktails and panoramic sunset views. Legend has it that the cave was once home to an outlaw who lived hidden with his lover — today, it’s one of the most atmospheric sunset spots on the island.
Day 4 – Slow Day at Son Bou & Nature Reserves
Relax at Son Bou, the island’s longest beach, where sand dunes meet calm waters. Definitely bring food, snacks and water with you.
You can either stay here the whole day or, in the afternoon, head to S’Albufera d’es Grau Natural Park, the heart of Menorca’s Biosphere Reserve, with trails through olive groves, wetlands and lagoons. Birdwatchers can spot osprey, red kite and herons.
Did you know? Menorca sits right on a migratory path across the Mediterranean, making it one of Europe’s most important birdwatching destinations.
Where to Eat in Menorca: Best Restaurants & Local Food
Menorca is as much about food as it is about beaches. Look for seasonal produce, fresh seafood, and farm-to-table dining. Some favourites include:
Es Cranc, Fornells – Famous for lobster stew.
Aquarium, Ciutadella – Waterfront dining with a focus on seafood.
Rías Baixas, Ferreries – Traditional Galician dishes in the heart of the island.
Ivette Beach Club – Chic spot for sunset cocktails by the sea.
Vermell, Menorca – A modern restaurant with a focus on local ingredients.
Nonna Bazaar, Menorca – A mix of global flavours and Menorcan flair.
Agritourism stays also often serve their own farm produce, giving you a true taste of the island’s land and traditions. Menorca also has a small but growing wine scene — look for Binifadet Winery, which produces local wines you can taste alongside tapas in a beautiful vineyard setting.
Where to Stay in Menorca: Boutique & Luxury Hotels
If you want a central base, Ferreries is ideal. It is just 15–25 minutes from most places and offers a quieter, countryside perspective.
I stayed at Agritourism Son Vives, a family-run hotel set on a hillside. From here, you can see the rolling farmland stretch to the sea. Locals recommended a hike up Monte Toro for the best views, but honestly, the same sweeping panoramas were right outside my window.
For luxury seekers, Menorca has a growing collection of boutique eco-hotels and reimagined fincas (farmhouses) that blend comfort with sustainability. Many use solar energy, serve local produce, and support the island’s agritourism economy.
Here’s an interview I had with the owner - Francisca Fullana! You’ll learn more about the boutique stay, their story, what guests love and more!
How to Get Around Menorca
While buses exist, they are infrequent, and the island is bigger than it seems. The best way to explore is by renting a car. Roads are easy to drive (mostly flat, although they can get narrow), and having your own vehicle allows you to discover hidden beaches, family-run wineries, and small inland towns at your own pace.
Boat trips are also popular — spending a day on the water lets you access secluded coves only reachable by sea.
Final Thoughts: Is Menorca Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. In fact, I would recommend staying at least 5 days if you can. Four felt rushed and it’s a bigger island than I thought! I will definitely go back and there’s much to explore! For one of the days, you can swap for a full boat day - you can’t miss the iconic beaches!
We visited Binibeca, a whitewashed fishing village often recommended, but I personally felt it was less essential unless you go for sunset at Bambu. What you should not miss are the beaches - among the most beautiful in the Mediterranean - and the agritourism experiences, whether that’s staying on a working farm, tasting Menorcan wines, or hiking through olive groves.
Menorca is for those who love nature, beaches, authenticity and slower travel. Its biosphere status is not just a label; it shapes the way the island is built, lived and shared with visitors.