The best things to see and do on Menorca, Spain
If you're looking for the perfect summer escape look no further than Menorca, one of Spain's blissful Balearic islands.
Here's our guide to the very best things to do in Menorca, from sparkling beaches to the gourmet scene, active adventures to lazy wanders through rustic towns.
Enjoy!
“That’s the best thing about Menorca”, our guide Luis leans forward earnestly, like he's sharing a secret with us.
“It hasn't been developed like the rest of Spain. Here, experiences are real. Authentic. We live comfortably, making sure we enjoy the good things in life”.
Though we've only spent a few days on the island, we can already tell he's right; our current long and lazy seafood lunch under the warm glow of the midday sun is just further testament to his point.
Menorca, one of Spain’s infamous Balearic Islands, is the type of rare laidback summer destination that's hard to find Europe these days. Quiet, authentic, and outrageously beautiful, with timeworn old towns and sparkling white sand beaches, it feels a long way from the boat hordes of tourists that swarm the rest of the Med during the warm months.
We spent a week exploring the island and even thoroughly contemplated moving back for the rest of the summer, such was the allure of this Mediterranean paradise.
From the historic streets of Ciutadella to the turquoise waters of Cala Mitjana, the islands green centre of Es Grau Nature Reserve, to the exceptional and abundant seafood, Menorca is the perfect place to spend your summer holidays, without the feeling that you're stuck in a zoo.
THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN MENORCA, SPAIN
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ENJOY THE BEST MENORCA BEACHES
Menorca is home to 99 beaches, making it a brilliant destination for those wanting to soak up all the vitamin D which, let's be honest, is everyone.
There are many famous beaches to chose from (read our guide to Menorca’s best beaches here!, including Cala Galdana and Cala Pregonda, however our pick is the gorgeous Cala Macarelleta. Bright wide sands, turquoise water, and surrounding pine trees make it feel as if you’re somewhere slightly more exotic, like New Caledonia or the Caribbean. It’s slightly off the beaten track and therefore relatively devoid of tourists, meaning you’ll have your own slice of sand to enjoy all day long.
Although most beaches, especially in the shoulder seasons, are far quieter than their mainland rivals (looking at you, Greece), in the height of summer you’ll need to head to the beaches early to secure yourself prime position on the sands.
Pro tip: Most beaches on Menorca are a long way from convenience stores, so pack yourself a beach picnic, a lot of water, and sunscreen before you go. Also remember to take your rubbish with you - this island is pristine for a reason.
RELATED | Our guide to Menorca’s best beaches
DAY TOURS AND ACTIVITIES OF MENORCA’S BEACHES
FULL DAY SAILING TRIP
Discover Menorca's best beaches and hidden coves that are only accessible by sea on this Coves and Beaches sailing trip (with an included Paella lunch - drool!). From the better known beaches of Macarelleta and Macarella to quieter, more remote coves with no other person around, this is definitely the best way to explore the white cliffs and unbelievably blue waters of Menorca’s beautiful coastline. Check prices and availability here.
CALA GALDANA VISIT
Sometimes, you just want to flop down on your beach towel and hear the waves lapping at the beach without the hassle of working out how to get there. This tour to Cala Galdana will get you there and away easily, with 5 hours of free time in between. Book your tour here.
CHECK THIS MAP OF MENORCA'S BEST BEACHES
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KAYAK ALONG THE SOUTH-WEST COAST OF MENORCA
With 216km of sparkling Mediterranean coastline, Menorca is a brilliant place to enjoy a day of lazy (or tough!) paddling. In fact, kayaking through the turquoise waters along Menorca’s south-west coast was one of our favourite experiences on the island.
This guided tour commences at the waterfront in Cala Galdana, heading south-east and stopping at various points of interest along the way, including the infamous Cuevas del Drach (Dragons Cave), named after the loud rumbling noise from waves crashing against the cave walls deep inside. It's dark and cramped, but well worth the claustrophobia.
The tour also includes an opportunity to snorkel in a stunning cove, where you can admire the underwater world and ridiculously clear Mediterranean waters.
THE DETAILS
Who | Artiem Audax Cala Galdana
Location | Cala Galdana
Cost | €40 pp
Book | If Cala Galdana doesn’t suit, there’s also a half day Kayak tour departing from Fornell’s Bay.
Check prices and availability here
Pro tip: Although waterproof containers are provided, it’s a good idea to bring a waterproof bag for any electronics. Remember to cover yourself in sunscreen and bring a good pair of sunglasses to protect yourself from the UV rays.
OTHER SEA-BASED TOUR OPTIONS
SNORKELLING VIA SEA SCOOTER
If a day of kayaking isn't really your thing, opt for a day of snorkelling via sea scooter instead!
For those who had no idea what a 'sea scooter' was until reading that line (like Mim), it's basically a motorised underwater propeller that you hold onto, taking all the leg work (literally) out of your snorkelling experience. You'll enjoy the best of these pristine waters, without feeling exhausted 10 minutes in.
BOOK | 1-hour guided tours can be booked here.
JET SKI ADVENTURE TO HIDDEN LOCATIONS
We get it. Sometimes you just want a little bit of adrenaline mixed in with your sightseeing, and who are we to deny you that?! Hit the waves on this jet ski tour, and explore the hidden beaches (aka paradise) of south Menorca. All with a little adrenaline and adventure mixed in!
BOOK | Book your jet ski tour here.
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WALK THE OLD TOWN STREETS OF CIUTADELLA, MENORCA
One of the best things to do in Menorca is to explore the old town of Ciutadella. Ruled by the Moors, Byzantines, British and Spanish, the city’s stunning limestone architecture, complete with palaces, cathedrals, arches, and little squares have been shaped by the towns past.
It's the perfect town to get lost in - we spent hours wandering the colourful laneways off Plaça la Catedral, and stumbled upon the cutest little restaurant below Hotel Tres Sants, which served fresh salads and juice; the perfect escape from the midday sun.
Within the town, we highly recommend visiting:
PLACA NOVA
Plaça Nova is a delightful little square in the north of the city, and is the place to go when you want to be surrounded by trendy cafes, Tapas bars, and boutique shops.
THE DETAILS
Location | Plaça Nova
CATEDRAL DE SANTA MARIA DE CIUTADELLA
Completed in 1382, the Catedral de Santa Maria de Ciutadella has a chequered past, being destroyed, then rebuilt, multiple times. It came into its current neoclassical style after being rebuilt in the early 1800's and is definitely worth a visit.
THE DETAILS
Location | Carrer de Cal Bisbe, Ciutadella
Opening hours | 10:30am - 13:30pm, 16:00pm - 19:00pm, Monday - Saturday
Reviews | See Tripadvisor reviews of the Cathedral here
THE COLOURFUL STREETS OF CARRER DE SANT CRISTOFOL
The streets off the old town of Ciutadella, in particular, the colourful streets of Carrer de Sant Cristofol, are definitely worth a leisurely stroll, especially in the late afternoon glow.
PLACA DES BORN
On the edge of the old town lies Ciutadella's main square of Plaça Des Born, perfectly framed by the neoclassical Palau Torre Saura, and the town hall. Be sure to check out the obelisk in the centre of the square, placed in commemoration of those lost fighting the Turks in 1558. For the best views of the harbour, head up Bastió d'Es Governador, a 14th century defence bastion which still stands today.
THE DETAILS
Location of Plaça des born | Plaça des Born
Location of Bastió d'Es Governador | Bastió d'Es Governador
PORT AREA
Love seafood? Head to the port area and feast on Mediterranean deliciousness. Here, elegant Art Nouveau buildings tower over the harbour, and once you've enjoyed your meal, take the white stairs up to the top to the various viewpoints over the port. You can also catch a ferry to Mallorca from here too.
THE DETAILS
Location | Port de Maó
SES VOLTES
Ses Voltes, the archways leading into Placa la Catedral have been converted into a charming market selling a range of local souvenirs.
THE DETAILS
Location | Carrer de Santa Clara, Ciutadella de Menorca
Opening hours | 7:30am - 9:00pm Monday - Saturday,
8:00am - 7:00pm Sunday
GUIDED TOURS OF CIUTADELLA
FOOD WALKING TOUR AND COOKING CLASS WITH A LOCAL
We've always said that the best way to get to know a city and its culture, is by sampling its food - and never was that truer than in Ciutadella.
Spain is known for its delicious gourmet scene, but sometimes it can be hard to know where to start, particularly if you're seeking an insight into the traditional fare of the specific area you're in.
This foodie walking tour and cooking class with a local Menorcan takes you through hidden streets in Ciutadella, to a local market where you'll find the freshest produce, and finally back to your guide's house, where you'll learn to cook traditional Menorcan food under their watchful eye. What more could you want?!
BOOK | Book the tour here
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ENJOY SUNSET DRINKS AT COVA DEN X‘OROI
It could have been lifted straight from a Bond movie. Built into the caves of the south-coastal resort of Cala en Porte, Cova den X'oroi is one of the most incredible sundowner locations we’ve ever visited.
As the sun goes down over the cliffs, the walls of the surrounding cliffs glow and champagne glasses glitter with golden light as they clink. It’s from this magical viewpoint that you can watch the most vivid sunset, and contemplate the beauty and simplicity of nature.
Make sure you have a Pomada, a local gin mixed with cloudy lemonade - it's basically heaven.
THE DETAILS
What | Cova den Xoroi
Location | Cala en Porte
Cost | €10 pp entry, includes a soft drink
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ENJOY LOCALE FOOD AND WINE AT BODEGA BINIFADET
You could do worse than spend an afternoon and evening enjoying the wines and local cheese at Bodega Binifadet, Menorca's main winery.
Set amongst the vineyards, the rustic winery and restaurant serve wines paired with local tapas, including Binafadet's speciality, goat's cheese marinated in red wine. We can safely say this was one of the best cheese's we've ever tasted.
If you're that way inclined, you can also book a guided tour of the vineyard (free), which will take you through the sustainable production methods employed by the winery.
THE DETAILS
WhaT | Bodega Binifadet
Location | Sant Lluis
Cost | ££
Reviews | Check out Tripadvisor reviews of Bodega Binifadet now
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JUMP ABOARD A MAHÓN PORT CRUISE IN MENORCA
Menorca has a surprising history, with Mahón and it's port of strategic importance during the British rule of the 18th and 19th century.
The Mahón Port Cruise, which leaves from Moll de Ponent in Mahón’s main port area, provides a great overview of the port (it's one of the largest natural harbours in the world), it's historical importance, as well as the surrounding forts, coves, villas and ports.
We recommend sitting atop the boat, where you'll be able to enjoy glorious sunshine and best views. You'll also get the opportunity to explore underwater in the glass-bottomed catamaran, which gives you an insight into the underwater world of Menorca's coast.
THE DETAILS
Who | Yellow Catamaran
Location | Tours depart from Moll de Ponent, Mahón harbour
Price | €12.50 pp if purchased online
Reviews | Check out Tripadvisor reviews of Yellow Catamaran here
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DISCOVER THE GRUESOME HISTORY OF QUARANTINE ISLAND, LAZARETO DE MAHON
Sitting just off the city of Mahon sits Quarantine Island, or el Llatzaret, a sanatorium built in the 18th century where patients could be quarantined during the constant outbreaks of Bubonic plague.
Thick walls surround the island, used to stop patients from escaping, while remains of the prison-like cells where patients were housed and treated still exist. Take a guided tour to hear the intricate and slightly eerie tales of the conditions former patients were subjected to.
The grounds are wonderfully preserved, and while the island might not everyone's cup of tea, a visit here will help you understand the varied history of Menorca.
THE DETAILS
What | Lazareto de Mahon
Location | Llatzeret
Price | €18 pp (June - September)
Reviews | See what other travellers thought of Lazareto de Mahon here
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HIKE OR BIKE THROUGH ES GRAU NATIONAL PARK
Being a UNESCO biosphere reserve is kind of a big deal, and Menorca is one of them.
Fortunately, it has meant the environment is prioritised over socioeconomic development, which has led to the preservation of many areas of the island, including s'Albufera des Grau nature reserve.
Located near the village of Es Grau in the northeast of the island, and covering more the 5,000 hectares of land, water and islands, the nature reserve is home to a huge range of the Island's flora and fauna, and is the perfect place to get out and about.
If you're like us and are into your natural activities, you can hike or cycle on the park's many pathways, or explore the park with an arranged guided tour.
For those avid hikers, the famous Cami de Cavalls hike circles the island, and at 180 km in length, isn’t for the faint-hearted.
THE DETAILS
Location | s'Albufera des Grau nature reserve
Reviews | See what other travellers thought of the reserve here
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TRY THE DELICIOUS QUESO DE MAHON AT SUBAIDA
Cheese.
That got your attention, didn't it?!
Menorca is famous for its cheese (Queso de Mahon), with a history in the cheese making process dating back over 1000 years. Subaida is perhaps the best on the Island; a family run affair (it's been run by the same family for over six generations), and is now one of the largest small-scale producers of Queso de Mahon on Menorca.
Subaida produces Mahón-Menorca D.O.P artisan cheese by natural procedures and respecting the environment, and have four types: tiero, a soft cheese aged for five weeks, semi curado, slightly firmer and aged for three months, curado, even firmer and aged for six months, and añejo, a hard cheese similar to parmesan, which is cave-aged for 18 months.
Each is a taste sensation and can be tried on the guided tour of the estate, which we highly recommend. Guided tours are offered Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m, and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
THE DETAILS
Who | Subaida
Location | Castell, Carrer d'Alaior, Arenal, 07730 Alaior, Mahon
Price | €7 pp - reservation required
Reviews | Discover whether other travellers loved Subaida cheese on Tripadvisor here
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ENJOY 360° PANORAMIC VIEWS FROM MONTE TORO
Standing 354m above sea level is El Toro (Monte Toro), Menorca's highest point. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking, and worth the effort. You'll also be able to see how diverse the landscape of the island really is.
At the peak is a 13th century church and statue of Jesus, as well as a cafe to sneak an ice-cream/beer.
There are a few ways to get to the summit; a hike to the summit takes around two hours from Es Mercadal but can be tiring if hiking in the heat. You can also cycle, which is increasingly popular, or do it the lazy way (like us) and drive.
THE DETAILS
Who | El Toro
Location | Near Es Mercadel, Menorca
Price | Free
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ICE CREAM AND INSTA MOMENTS IN BINIBECA
As if lifted straight from the island of Santorini, the whitewashed houses and cobbled lanes of Binibeca Vell (Binibequer in Spanish) are a dream to wander, ice cream in hand and camera at the ready.
The village may look from ancient times, but Binibeca was built in the 70's by Spanish architect Antonio Sintes Mercadal with the aim of recreating a traditional fishing village. He certainly succeeded.
So visit Binibeca, grab yourself an ice-cream from La Golosa Gelataria and stroll the picturesque laneways - you won't be disappointed.
THE DETAILS
What | Binibeca Vell / Binibequer Vell
Location | Binibequer Vell town
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SAMPLE MENORCA’S BEST SEAFOOD
With its position in the middle of the Mediterranean sea, it's little wonder the seafood on Menorca is so good.
There are literally hundreds of great restaurants on the Island, but our favourite meal was from La Minerva, located on a platform in the port of Mahon.
Here, we enjoyed a ridiculously good cheese platter, delicious vegetarian paella, too many mussels, and a mouthwatering dessert concoction of berries and chocolate.
Another seafood restaurant worth visiting is Cap Roig, perched high on a clifftop overlooking Cala Sa Mesquida. Make sure you grab a seat on the alfresco terrace and watch the sunset as you tuck into their famous lobster stew or calamari.
A few other restaurants we recommend include:
Es Forn de Torre Soli Nou | located in Torre Soli Nou
Trebol | located just outside of Mahon in Cala Corb
S'Espigo | Located in Mahon
THE DETAILS
What | La Minerva
Location | Mahon harbour, Carrer Moll de Llevant, 87, 07701
Opening hours | 10:00am - 12:00am every day
Cost | ££ - £££
Reviews | Check reviews of La Minerva on Tripadvisor now
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ESSENTIAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING MENORCA
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WHERE IS MENORCA, SPAIN?
Stunning Menorca (sometimes known as Minorca) is located in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Spain.
The second largest of the Balearic Islands, Menorca is is steeped in rich history and culture, and is home to around 100,000 people.
Mallorca, Menorca’s largest sister, lies to its west.
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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MENORCA, SPAIN?
We visited Menorca during late May/early June and thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
During this period there was a notable lack of tourists, and the crowds were smaller and more manageable, making the island extremely pleasant. What's more, the prices of food and drinks are cheaper during the shoulder period.
Therefore, we believe visiting the Menorca during the shoulder seasons (April - early June, Sept - Oct) is the best time to holiday.
Visiting during the peak summer months of mid-June to August means you'll have to contend with thousands of visitors to the island, which means busy beaches, roads, restaurants and accommodation.
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HOW TO GET TO MENORCA
If you're coming from Europe, getting to Menorca during peak seasons is rather easy, with daily flights from London via EasyJet. Out of season, flights are irregular and will need to be booked in advance.
Check out SkyScanner now for the best deals!
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WHERE TO STAY IN MENORCA
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We visited Menorca on a press trip, which meant that we stayed at the all-inclusive PortBlue S'Algar San Lluis, in the resort town of s'Algar, south of Mahón.
It was comfortable and pleasant enough, but if you’re like us and wish for a little less all-inclusive and a lot more adventure when on your holidays, we’d recommend opting for a more central location, in either Mahón or Ciutadella.
CIUTADELLA
Ciutadella is our favourite town on the island, and definitely where we’d base ourselves on our next adventure here. The former capital of Menorca, Ciutadella has all the charm and Baroque beauty you could ask for, access to some of the best beaches on Menorca, and is generally just a wonderful place to spend your time.
HOTELS IN CIUTADELLA
Splurge | Infinito Hotel Boutique is an adults-only beach hotel that is, simply put, the dream. Beautifully decorated in boho style in the old town of Ciutadella, with Grande Beach just 1km away.
Value for money | The Cheap & Chic Hotel is, as the name suggests, a great value hotel with super stylish, modern finishes. Just a few metres from the old town cathedral, and surrounded by lively shops, hotels and bars.
Hostel | Any hostel where you can leave your room, walk for a minute or two and be in the ocean has our tick! Hostel Cala Bona-Mar Blava in the middle of Ciutadella is perfect for travellers on a budget looking to make the most of their time here.
Alternatively, search for your perfect hotel stay on Booking.com here
AIRBNBS IN CIUTADELLA
Apartamento dos Dormitorios | With two bedrooms, a pool garden, and a sunny terrace, the Apartamento dos Dormitorios is perfect for groups on a summer getaway. Check prices and availability here.
Alternatively, search for your perfect Airbnb in Ciutadella here.
MAHON
This is Menorca’s capital, and a great place to base yourself if you’re looking to make the most of the local attractions and access some of the many beaches just a short drive away.
HOTELS IN MAHÓN:
Splurge | Jardí de Ses Bruixes Boutique Hotel - this whitewashed, rustic boutique beauty is set in a historic building from the 1800s, with a spa and restaurant onsite and breakfast included each day.
Mid-range | Hotel San Miguel - right in the heart of Mahón, just a short walk from the harbour. Breakfast included.
Alternatively, Hostal Jume is a fun, contemporary hotel in the centre of town with cafe onsite.
Search for more hotels and prices on Booking.com here.
AIRBNBS IN MAHÓN
The Photographer’s Loft | This eclectic, character-filled loft owned by a local photographer is close to all the best that Mahón has to offer. Check prices and availability here
Alternatively, search for your perfect Mahón Airbnb here.
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HOW TO GET AROUND MENORCA
BY CAR
Hiring a car on Menorca is a great way to explore the island, and provide you with the freedom to visit wherever, whenever you'd like. We hired a car for a day and explored the north of Menorca, which was heaps of fun and wonderfully air conditioned.
Fortunately, car hire on the Menorca is quite affordable, starting from €10 per day, with many local operators offering competitive prices, as well as the standard car hire companies. Car hire can be booked for pick up from the airport, or from your hotel.
To check prices and availability, check Rental Cars here
BOOK | Car rental in Menorca
PUBLIC TRANSPORT (BUS)
Public transport in the form of buses run all over the island. We travelled on the local bus many times and found them to be easy to use, clean, and most importantly, air-conditioned. Transportes Menorca runs buses all over the island, however, if you're looking to go from the north to the south, or east to west, you'll need to change buses, potentially multiple times.
THE DETAILS
Who | Transportes Menorca
Price | €1 - €5+ depending on ticket/route. Remember to carry change to purchase tickets
* If you're after more public transport information, visit the My Menorca bus info page here
SCOOTER HIRE
Sometimes, the best way to get around a little island is with the wind in your hair and two wheels under your legs. You can hire a scooter for anywhere between 24 hours and 7 days.
All you have to do then is strap on your helmet (included), plot out your adventure, and explore the best that Menorca has to offer.
Find out more about Menorca Scooter Rental here.
TAXI
Menorca is serviced by a reliable and regulated taxi service, which certainly helps if you've decided to head into town and need a late night ride back to your accommodation.
Fare prices are based on distance, but it's always best to check prices before commencing your journey. Taxi's are generally based at taxi stands known as Paradas de Taxi, so if you can't find one, ask a local who should be able to help.
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MORE THINGS TO DO IN MENORCA | BEST DAY TRIPS
The list of cool things to do in Menorca is basically endless - check out some of our fave day trips and tours below!
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TRAVEL INSURANCE
Whatever you do, don’t travel anywhere in the world without travel insurance.
Even though Menorca is safe, things can go wrong, be it sickness, lost baggage, theft, or an accident.
Travel insurance is your only way of mitigating the issues, so grab a policy before you travel!
BUY | Click here to get the best travel insurance deals with World Nomads
READ | Our ultimate guide to travel insurance
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PLANNING TO VISIT SPAIN SOON?
We have a heap of essential reading before you travel to Spain
MENORCA BEACHES | Our guide to Menorca’s best beaches
MENORCA DREAMIN’ | Why Menorca should be your next summer escape
SANTANDER CITY GUIDE | A complete 48-hour guide to Santander, including where to stay, and what see, eat, and do
SANTANDER | 9 amazing things to do in Santander, Spain
TRAVEL INSURANCE | Don’t leave home without travel insurance (seriously, don’t!). Click here to get the best deals with World Nomads, our trusted travel insurance provider
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Wondering what gear we use to get all of our photos around the world? Click here to view our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
Have you visited Menorca? What were your favourite things to do on Menorca? Let us know in the comments!
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We were hosted by Spain Tourism,Jet2.com, Visit Menorca, and Traverse as part of the #MustSeeMenorca campaign. A big thank you to the team for making our stay memorable. As always, all views are our own.
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