A wonderful city break location, or ideal as a base to explore the local beaches and coastline, Ciutadella will draw you in with its understated grandeur and culture. In this guide, we’ve included everything you’ll need to know before your trip, including the best things to do, restaurant recommendations, day trip ideas, transport tips and the best local beaches. Here are the best things to do in Ciutadella.
What are the best things to do in Ciutadella?
Get lost in the beautiful streets of the old town
The first thing we’d recommend doing when you arrive at the Ciutadella is to just have a walk around and explore the old town. Take in the pastel coloured streets and get your bearings, as you’ll have plenty of time to tick off the big ‘must-dos’ later.
You’ll be wowed by the beautiful vistas and white-washed buildings, as one of the prettiest places in Menorca. The historical center is small, so you don’t have to worry about going too far.
Keep in mind everything here shuts for a couple of hours after lunch, so shops and restaurants will be closed from around 2pm-5pm.
Head to the port
Home to million dollar yachts as well as smaller fishing boats, the marina in Ciutadella also hosts some of Menorca’s best restaurants. Visit Restaurant S’Amarador or Café Balear for some of the best seafood you’ll ever have – but make a reservation if you want to avoid the queue.
The port of Ciutadella is the best place to enjoy nightlife in the area. Don’t expect anything crazy – you won’t find Ibiza style clubs here, but instead a lovely selection of tapas and live music bars.
The port is also where you can hire a boat to explore the island, or just come here to enjoy the scenic views. You’ll arrive here if you’re coming by boat from Majorca or Barcelona.
Watch the sunset at Pont D’en Gil
This magical rock formation resembles a natural bridge that crosses over the sea, leaving a gap for boats in it’s center. It’s really close to the Ciutadella town center, and is most beautiful at sunset.
There is a car park 5 minutes away so it can be easily reached. This is a well known spot and it does become really busy – people bring drinks and snacks, take photos and enjoy the atmosphere, so don’t expect a quiet and romantic spot here.
Shop at the local markets
Ciutadella’s local markets are the beating heart of the city, and the Mercat Municipal De Ciutadella is no exception. In this little square, you can find butchers, fishmongers, and the local community gathering. The freshest produce is sold here: Iberian cured meats, cheeses, seafood, meat and vegetables.
During the morning, visitors shop for cooking ingredients or grab coffee or lunch in one of the surrounding cafes. In the evening, this is a top spot to go and eat local seafood, pastries and ice cream.
Where: The market is in Plaça de la Llibertat
Opening times: 7:30 am – 1:30pm, and 5pm – 8pm.
Spend the day at a beach
Although Ciutadella itself doesn’t have any beaches, it’s close to some of the best in Menorca. The best way to explore these is by rental car, as you’re only a 30 minute drive away from the island’s most beautiful beaches.
Alternatively, the public best network from Ciutadella to the beaches runs well, with regular departure times and a clear route to the coast.
The best beaches near to Ciutadella include Cala Santandria, Cala Blanca, Cala Son Xoriguer, Cala Morell, and Cala en Bosc. These are a mix of tourist beaches and the rugged coasts for which Menorca is famous.
Visit Ciutadella Cathedral
One of the best preserved Catalan Gothic buildings on the island, this 14th century cathedral is a must visit and one of the best things to do in Ciutadella.
It’s built on top of an old mosque and is beautiful, complete with stained glass windows and decorative elements. The building is wrapped in history, having been attacked and partially destroyed several times over the 700 years its been standing.
Opening times: Monday – Saturday, 10am-2:30pm
Entry Fees: Tickets are combined with entry to Claustre de l’antic Convent de sant Agusti. They are €6.60 per adult.
Go on a boat around the island
One of the most popular things to do in the city is to head out for a day on the water. You’ll get a chance to swim and snorkel, with options for different budgets.
You can join a group tour, book a private tour or even hire a self drive boat for a day.
Where should I eat and drink in Ciutadella?
Ciutadella is also known for its delicious local cuisine and traditional dishes. One of the must-try dishes is the lobster stew, a hearty dish made with local seafood and vegetables. Another local specialty is sobrasada, a cured sausage made with paprika and served with bread. For those who love to shop and cook, the Mercat de Sant Francesc is a lively market that sells fresh produce and local specialties. The city also has a vibrant bar and restaurant scene, where visitors can enjoy local wines, cocktails, and tapas.
- Sa Bona Birra – A microbrewery with delicious bar snacks and traditional Spanish dishes
- Avinguda de Jaume I el Conqueridor, 112, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- Nipa Menorca – Fresh sushi and Japanese food
- Carrer de Vila Juaneda Industrial, 11, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- Pez Limón – An elevated tapas restaurant
- Carrer de Sant Joan Baptista, 8, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- Margot Locanda – Traditional tapas
- Carrer de Nostra Senyora dels Dolors, 8, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- Nopales Menorca – Traditional Mexican food
- Carrer de Sant Sebastià, 2, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- Nibs Healthy Bar – Healthy brunch restaurant
- Plaça d’Artrutx, 7, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- Pinzell – Traditional regional classics
- Plaça dels Pins, 4, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca, Illes Balears, Spain
Where should I stay in Ciutadella?
There are plenty of beautiful hotels to choose from. Here are some of the best options for location and experience:
Best things to do in Ciutadella FAQs
How do I get to Ciutadella?
You can reach the city easily from Menorca Airport by renting a car or booking a transfer. It takes about 40 minutes on the roads.
You could also get a ferry from Mallorca or Barcelona.
How do I get around Ciutadella?
The bus network around Ciutadella is excellent, with regular buses around the city as well as nearby beach towns and holiday resorts. It’s the best place to stay if you’re wanting to visit beaches on the south west coast, but note that some services will only run during tourist season in May – October.
Where can I park in Ciutadella?
If you’re hiring a car, you’ll have to park in a designated car park and then walk from their to your accommodation. Most streets are too narrow for cars, and therefore very few hotels have parking.
All car parks in Ciutadella are completely free no matter how long you stay.
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