15 of the best things to do in Menorca

1. Walk the Cami de Cavalls footpath

One of the best ways to see Menorca’s coast is to take the Cami de Cavalls (Horse’s Path).

The trail winds around the island for more than 186km (115 miles), taking in idyllic coves, dunes, cliffs, lighthouses, watchtowers, wetlands and farmlands.

Pick up the path from one of the beaches and explore at your leisure.

2. Swim in the clear waters at Cala Galdana

Cala Galdana is up there as one of Menorca’s best beaches but its popularity doesn’t detract from its charms.

Flanked by pine-clad cliffs on two sides, the shallow, crystal-clear water on this horseshoe-shaped bay makes it a favourite with families and couples alike.

Let your feet sink into the soft sand or take a trip on a pedalo. There are also plenty of beach bars, cafés and supermarkets for drinks or snacks.

3. Wander through nature in the S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park

Wandering through forests and fields at this national park is one of the best things to do on Menorca’s northeast coast.

The wetlands are a birdwatcher’s paradise with everything from flamingos and ospreys to swallows, cormorants and eagles.

You’re also on the edge of the lovely Es Grau beach. Pick up a map from the Centro de Interpretación Rodríguez Femenias visitor centre and plan your route to make the most of your time.

4. Get a bird’s eye view of the island at Monte Toro

Views don’t come much better than the ones from this mountain top. At 358m (1,175ft) above sea level, it’s the highest point in Menorca and you can see huge swathes of the island, its coast and even a glimmer of Majorca far on the skyline.

As well as the views, you can visit the mountaintop church, café and souvenir shop. Hiring a car is the best way to get there.

5. Explore the island’s history in Mahón

Scattered with fantastic museums and art galleries, exploring island capital Mahón is one of the best activities in Menorca for history buffs.

The Menorca Museum houses over 200,000 archaeological and artistic artefacts that showcases the island’s history from the prehistoric period up until present day, while the Menorca Military Museum, situated in 18th-century barracks, is a must-visit to learn more about the island’s military background.

You’ll find history comes elegantly wrapped at Ca n’Oliver, a 19th-century mansion complete with grand, sweeping staircases, elaborate murals and ornate ceilings. There are permanent collections of 19th-century engravings detailing the history of the island as well as high-tech temporary shows with projections and audio visual displays. The views from the upper floors and roof are almost worth the trip alone.

6. Go underground at Fort La Mola

With its labyrinth of underground mine tunnels and loophole galleries, plus spectacular panoramic sea views, this 19th-century fortress protecting Mahón’s harbour makes for a great day out with the kids.

The sprawling complex centres around the stone Fortress of Isabel II, named for the Spanish queen who ordered its construction. In addition, you can see the Queen’s Gate and the Princess Tower, plus explore the military prison and gunpowder store.

General admission is €8 for adults and €4 for children aged 6-11 (under 5s go free).

7. Make time for a tipple at Bodegas Binifadet Winery

They’ve been making wine around these parts since the Romans and Phoenicians were here, so it’s safe to say Menorcans know a thing or two about a tipple.

At Binifadet, Menorca’s best-known winery, you can take a tour round the vineyards and find out about the wine-making process. You also get to sample the wines and there’s a lovely restaurant in the vineyards if you want to stay for lunch or dinner after your visit.

Tours are a steal at €16 for one hour and are provided in both Spanish and English.

8. Visit Ciutadella, Menorca's second city

This city on Menorca’s west coast lives up to its nickname. All cobbled streets and medieval architecture, Vella i Bella (which translates to ‘Old and Beautiful’) combines a labyrinthine old town with a pretty harbour that’s perfect for an evening stroll.

Make time to visit the charming Municipal Market. It’s mostly butchers and fishmongers in the arches of this green-and-white chequered building, but it’s a brilliant taste of local life and there are cafés nearby if you get peckish. Open Tuesday to Saturday.

9. Kayak to Menorca’s hidden coves

Almost half of the island’s loveliest coves are only accessible by water so kayaking is a great way to see some of them. From bijoux bays with caves and rockpools to gorgeous spots to sunbathe and swim, you’ll see a whole other side to the island.

You can rent by the hour or by the day and there are plenty of companies to choose from. Menorca en Kayak has a variety of options and will also give you maps and tips on where to go. Double kayak rental starts from €22 (£18.30) for an hour.

10. Hear your own echo in the Cova des Coloms caves

If you thought caves were somewhere you need to stoop or crouch down, you haven’t been to Cova des Coloms. These extraordinary caves have been called Menorca’s second cathedral thanks to the staggering height of their stalagmites and stalactites.

Children will love hearing their own echoes in these vast caverns, making it one of the best things to do in Menorca for families. To get there you can walk or cycle on the Cami de Cavalls from the beach at Binigaus or it’s about half an hour’s walk from Es Migjorn Grau.

11. Enjoy sundowners and sunsets at Cova d’en Xoroi

With terraces carved into the cliffs and breathtaking views, it’s not hard to see why a night out at Cova d’en Xoroi is one of Menorca’s most iconic things to do.

At night, this bar and nightclub brings a party vibe with live music shows on the mini amphitheatre-like stage, but it’s also open during the day if you want to come with children.

12. Step back in time at Menorca's prehistoric sites

Over a thousand prehistoric sites are scattered across Menorca, remnants of a civilisation unique to the eastern Balearics.

Follow the inland Me-1 road and prepare to detour to see these impressively well-preserved megalithic structures – think Stonehenge in the Med.

While you can’t access all these UNESCO-listed sites, some of the most remarkable include the settlement at Torralba d'en Salort and the Naveta d’es Tudons chamber tomb.

13. Spot wildlife on a scuba diving trip

Scuba divers love Menorca for its abundant sea life, scuttled ships and fascinating underwater caves that feel made for exploring. Marine life for your checklist should include schools of barracuda, giant grouper, octopus and even stingrays.

There are dive centres right across the island with trips that cater for all levels, and you can get a PADI certification if you want to dedicate a few days to getting beneath the waves.

14. Tuck into rustic Menorcan fare at Can Bernat

Can Bernat is one of those unpretentious, family-friendly places that you hope you’ll chance upon or that some friendly local will tell you about.

In the midst of the countryside, about 15 minutes’ drive south of the beach at Son Bou, there are two lovely terraces and the food is fantastic.

Grills are a speciality at Can Bernat – for example, steaks, lamb, pork and rabbit – but there are also tons of seafood, pasta dishes and vegan options.

15. Amble around Binibeca’s charming alleyways

With whitewashed houses and cobbled lanes, visitors to Binibeca, in the southeast of the island, are instantly charmed.

Its unique look comes from Spanish architect, Antonio Sintes, who designed the town in the 1970s to resemble a traditional Mediterranean fishing village. But you’d never guess its origins from the old-style wooden balconies and warren of narrow lanes.

Unsurprisingly, it’s a great place for photos and to enjoy some peace and quiet. There’s a handful of shops, restaurants and bars, and a pretty sandy beach.