If you’re based in Mallorca and craving a slower, more peaceful island vibe, a Menorca day trip is a fantastic option. Just a short ferry or flight away, Menorca offers turquoise coves, whitewashed towns, and a totally different pace of life.
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As a travel blogger and solo traveller who has explored the Balearics extensively, I’ve done the Mallorca-Menorca hop and can promise: it’s well worth the effort.
Here’s exactly how to make the most of one day in Menorca.
Getting to Menorca from Mallorca 🚗
⛴️ By Ferry: The fastest option is the Alcúdia-Ciutadella ferry (around 1.5 hours). Book with Balearia or Trasmediterránea. It’s best to reserve in advance, especially in summer.
✈️ By Air: Palma-Mahon flights take just 40 minutes, though you’ll need to factor in airport transfers. Book through Skyscanner for best rates.
For a smooth connection, I recommend taking the ferry from Alcúdia to Ciutadella – it lands you right at the heart of Menorca’s west coast sights.
Morning: Ciutadella & First Swim 🏊♀️
Start your day in Ciutadella, Menorca’s former capital. Wander its old town’s narrow lanes, lined with baroque palaces and charming cafés.
Don’t miss Plaça des Born (the architecture is just stunning) and the harbourfront.
Grab a coffee and ensaïmada at Café Balear (it’s basically an institution in Menorca) before heading out to the beaches.
Just a short drive away (consider a rental car or taxi), you’ll find Cala en Turqueta or Cala Macarella – two of Menorca’s most iconic turquoise bays. Perfect for a refreshing morning swim.
Lunch: Seaside Dining 🍤
For lunch, stick near the coves and enjoy seafood at a traditional chiringuito.
Options like Susy’s Bar in Cala Macarella serve simple but delicious paella and fresh fish, with your toes practically in the sand.
Afternoon: Mahón & Coastal Views 🏛️
Head across the island (about 45 minutes by car or bus) to Mahón (Maó), Menorca’s current capital.
Its natural harbour is one of the largest in the world, and you can hop on a one hour boat tour around Mahon harbour for a breezy way to see the fortress and sea caves.
Stroll the historic centre, pop into local shops for cheese and gin (Menorca’s famous Xoriguer gin is a must-try), and admire the views from Mirador del Pont des Castell.
Evening: Sunset at Pont d’en Gil 🌅
Before heading back to Mallorca, make time for Pont d’en Gil, a natural stone arch near Ciutadella that glows spectacularly at sunset.
It’s one of the island’s most photogenic spots – bring your camera!
Return to Ciutadella port for your ferry back to Alcúdia.
👉 Got more time? See my 5 Day Mallorca and Menorca Itinerary for the perfect 5 day Balearic escape.
Practical Tips for a Menorca Day Trip 📝
🚘 Transport: Renting a car in Menorca makes the most of your short time. Check Discover Cars for easy pickup at Ciutadella or Mahón.
🕗 Timing: Take the earliest ferry over and the latest one back – you’ll need every hour!
🌞 Best Season: May to October is ideal. In July–August, book ferries and restaurants well ahead.
👤 Solo Travel: Menorca is extremely safe, quiet, and perfect for wandering at your own pace.
Map of This Day Trip 🗺️
See all the key stops pinned on this custom map.
FAQs: Menorca Day Trip from Mallorca 💡
Quick answers to help you plan with confidence:
Is a day trip from Mallorca to Menorca worth it?
Yes, if you start early, a day trip from Mallorca to Menorca is absolutely worth it. You can take the ferry from Alcúdia to Ciutadella (≈ 1h15–1h45), explore Ciutadella’s old town, swim in a turquoise cove, and even make it to Mahón before returning in the evening.
Which island is better, Menorca or Mallorca?
Each island has a different vibe. If you are still deciding, I wrote a guide comparing Menorca vs Mallorca to help you choose. With this Menorca day trip itinerary (and my 5-day Menorca and Mallorca itinerary), you get to do both!
What’s better: ferry or flight from Mallorca to Menorca?
For a day trip, the ferry is usually better. The Alcúdia-Ciutadella ferry lands you directly on Menorca’s west coast, saving transfer time. Flights (Palma-Mahón) are faster (about 40 minutes) but less practical for fitting in both sides of the island in one day.
How long does the Mallorca–Menorca ferry take?
The Alcúdia to Ciutadella ferry takes between 1h15 and 1h45, depending on the vessel. The Palma to Mahón ferry is less frequent and can take up to 5–6 hours, so it’s not ideal for a day trip.
Do I need to rent a car in Menorca for a day trip?
Yes, renting a car is highly recommended. While 🚌 public buses exist, they’re slower and less frequent. 🚘 With a rental car you can easily visit both coasts, hidden beaches, and make the most of your limited time.
What’s the best time of year for a Menorca day trip? 💡
The best time is May to October. Late spring and early autumn bring warm weather and lighter crowds. July-August is peak season, so book ferries and restaurants well in advance.
Final Thoughts ✨
My first Menorca day trip felt like stepping into a softer, slower version of the Balearics. I loved wandering Ciutadella’s quiet lanes, dipping into turquoise coves, and then ending the day watching the sun drop behind Pont d’en Gil.
It was just enough to get a taste of Menorca’s magic – and left me wanting more!
For solo travellers, it feels safe, unhurried, and like the perfect pause from Mallorca’s busier rhythm.
Related Reading 📚
More Balearic inspiration to pair with your trip:
✨ 5 Day Mallorca and Menorca Itinerary: The Perfect Balearic Escape
☀️ Weekend in Mallorca Itinerary: 2-3 Days of Sunshine & Culture.
🌴 Menorca vs Mallorca: Which Balearic Island Should You Choose?
🏘️ 10 Beautiful Towns in Mallorca You Have to Visit.
🍊 Food of Mallorca: What to Eat and Drink on the Island.
Save this Menorca Day Trip for Later 📌
👉 Looking for practical travel tools? Check out my Travel Resources page.
Tags: Balearic Islands, Europe, Mallorca, Menorca
