Mahon is not your average Menorca destination – while most resorts centre around their beaches, the island’s colourful capital is a bustling metropolis of shops, museums and beautiful Georgian architecture. Foodies will love it here, and the lively nightlife is the island’s best. On the surface a holiday in Mahon can feel more like a city break, but there are several beaches not far from the city including Sa Mesquida, Es Grau and Punta Prima.
Mahon is the hub of Menorca; it’s rare to come here without spending at least one day in the capital. Shopping is one of the main draws – there are lots of malls and independent boutiques, but most people come for the local markets selling everything from jewellery to pottery to local foods. Mahon’s other main attraction is the Xoriguer gin distillery, where you can sample local Menorcan gin.
Menorca was once owned by Britain, and this is obvious in Mahon’s Georgian architecture. The old town is the best place to admire the 18th century buildings and smart squares, as well as the remnants of the city walls. Don’t miss the beautiful Santa Maria gothic church or the old fortress, and to learn more about the island’s past you can visit the Museo de Menorca.
Mahon is a foodie heaven, specialising in delicious tapas dishes sold at the local restaurants by the harbour. Pair your meal with a bottle of Spanish red in one of the city’s wine bars, and if you fancy making a night of it you’re in the right place. Menorca has a low-key nightlife compared to the other Balearic Islands but Mahon has plenty of bars and clubs to keep the evenings interesting.
2 hrs
(from London)
Euro
Spanish
€3
Around €17
GMT +1