Why Menorca?

Compared with Mallorca, Menorca is:

• Quieter and less crowded
• Easier to drive around (about 50 minutes from east to west)
• Famous for crystal-clear beaches and family-friendly coves
• A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with excellent preserved nature

Day 1 – West Coast & Historic Menorca

Morning: Ferry to Ciutadella

If you're travelling from Alcúdia, the fast ferry takes about 1–1¼ hours, making it perfect for a weekend.

1. Ciutadella Old Town

Why visit?

• Beautiful medieval streets
• Small harbour
• Ice cream shops
• Safe pedestrian streets for children
• Cathedral and old palaces

Spend around 2–3 hours wandering.

Lunch

Eat near the harbour.

Expect:

• €15–20 per adult
• €10–12 per child

Family total:
€60–75

2. Naveta des Tudons

Only a few minutes outside Ciutadella.

Why it's worth visiting:

• Europe's oldest prehistoric stone burial monument
• Around 3,000 years old
• Kids usually enjoy the unusual "upside-down boat" shape.

Visit time:
30–45 minutes.

3. Cala Macarella (or nearby family beach)

One of Menorca's most famous beaches.

Why?

• Turquoise water
• Soft sand
• Excellent for swimming
• Great for children

Spend the afternoon relaxing.

Evening

Return to your hotel.

Dinner:
€60–80 for the family.

Day 2 – Centre & East Menorca

1. Monte Toro

Highest point on the island.

Why visit?

• Spectacular panoramic views over the whole island
• Small monastery
• Very easy drive
• Excellent family photos

30–45 minutes.

2. Binibèquer Vell

A charming whitewashed fishing-style village.

Why?

• Looks like a Greek island
• Tiny streets kids love exploring
• Great family photos

Lunch

Seafood or tapas.

Budget:
€60–75

3. Mahón

Capital of Menorca.

Why?

• One of the world's largest natural harbours
• Pleasant waterfront
• Ice cream
• Shopping
• Historic centre

If time allows, take a short harbour boat trip.

Optional stop

Cova d'en Xoroi

Normally known as an evening venue, but daytime visits are family-friendly and offer spectacular cliff-top sea views.

Value-for-money accommodation

For a family of five, consider apartment-style accommodation around:

• Ciutadella
• Cala en Blanes
• Cala en Bosch

These areas offer:

• Kitchen facilities
• Pools
• Free parking
• Easy beach access

Typical June prices:

• Apartment (2 nights): €180–300
• Good 3★ family hotel: €220–350

Estimated costs

Item                                                                                                                                             Approximate cost Return ferry (2 adults + 3 children + car)                                                                               €220–320

Fuel in Menorca                                                                                                                          €20–30 Accommodation (2 nights)                                                                                                        €200–300                Food (2 days)                                                                                                                                 €180–240                  Ice creams/snacks                                                                                                                         €30                          Harbour boat (optional)                                                                                                                €40–60

Estimated total                                                                                                                               €650–920

The ferry price varies significantly depending on the date, operator, and how early you book. Fast ferries from Alcúdia to Ciutadella are the quickest option, with crossings of around an hour, and vehicle fares are available.

Is it worth taking your car?

Yes—especially with three children.

Advantages:

• No car rental costs (which can easily exceed €80–120/day in summer)
• Freedom to visit beaches and viewpoints
• Easier with beach gear and luggage
• Less waiting for buses in the heat

My recommended itinerary

If I were planning the most enjoyable two-day family trip, I'd do:

Day 1

• Morning ferry
• Ciutadella
• Lunch
• Naveta des Tudons
• Cala Macarella
• Overnight near Ciutadella

Day 2

• Monte Toro
• Binibèquer Vell
• Mahón
• Afternoon ferry back to Mallorca

This route gives you a mix of Menorca's history, beaches, viewpoints, and picturesque villages without spending too much time driving, making it well suited for children.