Not sure if you should stay in a hotel in the north or south of Menorca? Having trouble finding accommodation that fits your budget? Do you want to avoid tourist traps or are you looking for something amazing in the countryside?
In this guide, we've shared everything you need to know about where to stay in Menorca - from no Airbnbs and tourist tax to tourist towns and high season rip-offs - as well as a list of the best places to stay on the island depending on what you're looking for.
Plus, you'll find our personal selection of the best accommodation in each location to suit your travel style and budget, so finding the right base and location is a pleasure rather than a chore.
Let's get started!
Information on hotels and accommodation in Menorca
Choose your accommodation in Menorca carefully
The most important thing, especially if you don't rent a car, is to choose your base carefully.
Believe us, Menorca may seem small, but once you're there, the urge to drive across the island in 40 minutes, two days in a row to the beach diminishes (a good and bad thing).
Where you stay will determine much of what you can do, see and enjoy on the island, and it is likely that most of your exploring will be in the surrounding area, unless you have a car or take public transport.
Some parts of the island are certainly more suitable for families and holidaymakers than others, while more independent-minded travellers, hikers or those hiring a car will be better suited to other places.
If you're staying in the south-east of Menorca, for example, you're not really going to focus on the many things to do in the north-west.
So it's essential to think about what's important to you on this holiday and how many excursions you want to do.
Do you want to be :
1. Right next to a white sandy beach?
2. Close to culture, gourmet restaurants?
3. Close to transport for many day trips?
4. In the countryside? On the coast? Inland? On a specific stretch of the Camí de Cavalls?
5. A family-friendly place with good facilities?
6. As far away as possible from the package holiday resorts?
7. In an amazing hotel or Airbnb anywhere?
8. Have a private or shared pool? In a resort or private residence?
9. Close to many of your favourite activities in Menorca?
We have the answer throughout the article.
The problem with Airbnb in Menorca
Menorca has some of the strictest rules in Europe when it comes to tourist accommodation, with licensing requirements for flat rentals, limits on the number of days per year a property can be rented, the number of properties an owner can list, and the overall "stock" of rooms/rentals available.
These regulations limit the type of properties that can be rented out for short stays and the areas where licences to rent out a property are granted.
They are primarily aimed at ensuring sustainable growth, avoiding over-tourism and maintaining a healthy balance with local communities - all good things.
These rules, in place since 2016, mean that there are not as many Airbnbs-type properties as you might expect on the island compared to other European destinations. The rules of supply and demand also mean that the availability of those you can find is diminished, while prices are on average higher than on the Spanish mainland.
This unfortunately means that some independent travellers who do not wish to stay in the defined tourist centres may be disappointed with the accommodation they can find in Menorca.
However, this does not mean that you cannot find and rent legal Airbnbs in Menorca. There are a few that are wonderful!
Defined tourist hubs
As of 2018, the local government only allows new developments and rental licenses in about 50 defined areas on the coast - those that are already effectively 'tourist hubs'.
They are not granted in the main towns and villages, nor in rural areas.
This is a clear indication that as a visitor, your options should really focus on these places (for convenience rather than anything else); it's also why you'll find such a distinctive concentration of option availability in certain areas and nothing nearby.
The problem is that some of the 50 destinations don't really fit your travel style and not all are equal.
If you choose purely on a budget, all accommodation platforms will see you gravitate towards these places. If you have a rental car in Menorca, or a great value flat, or are just happy to be somewhere that isn't your home, then this may not be a problem for you and a beautiful beach may be just a short walk away.
However - and we know we may sound like snobs saying this - our job as experienced travel bloggers is to share our honest opinion to help you travel better and have the best experience possible - and the truth is that some of these places in particular are best avoided.
These places can be identified fairly quickly once you get there - usually from the atmosphere and architecture, but more directly by the signs indicating what is there.
But don't worry, they're not all mediocre!
Prices in high season
Is accommodation expensive in Menorca? Yes, and it can be very expensive depending on when you travel.
Prices are highest for bookings made between mid-July and mid-September.
The south-east is generally more expensive than the south-west, with a consistent price difference; however, this is for good reason, given what is there and its atmosphere in comparison.
The less touristy north may be more expensive due to its exclusivity in certain pockets, but it also has some very cheap parts that we recommend you avoid.
If you're concerned about your budget, you'll get much more for your money by visiting before July or from mid-September onwards - just wiggle around on the booking sites to see when the discounts start.
It's always possible to find bargains, but you'll need to dig a little deeper, get lucky or travel out of season.
Understanding Menorca's tourist tax
The Balearic government also introduced the Menorca tourist tax in 2016. This applies to all guests in accommodation, and is determined on the basis of a fixed price per person per night.
It is charged on a sliding scale, depending on the type of property you stay in, i.e. you pay more in a 5-star hotel than in a small guest house or Airbnb.
For example, the amount charged decreases by 50% from the ninth day of a long stay in a single property.
Children under 16 are not charged or included.
If in doubt, simply check if this tax is extra before finalising your booking, especially if you are on a strict budget or planning a longer stay in a single property.
The big, massive villas
One last point before moving on to the best areas to stay and accommodation choices!
Alongside the lack of small flat rentals in some tourist areas, some travellers without an unlimited budget may find that a beachfront hotel may be a more affordable and attractive option than a flat or villa.
This is due to the plethora of large holiday villas in tourist areas. Sleeping 6-12 people, their abundance is good news for a large family or group of friends looking for affordable or luxurious options, but they will be unsuitable, cavernous and far too expensive for couples or small families who cannot split the cost six ways.
Unfortunately, and certainly under the influence of Airbnb rules, there are not many small villas or houses that fill this void.
As a result, hotels are becoming the most likely option for couples, which may not be the way you usually travel or choose to live in a place.
If Menorca wants to geographically delineate places for tourists and places for locals, but also encourage longer, sustainable stays, then there must be a happier middle ground for certain types of travellers; otherwise, they won't come.
So what to do?
The cheapest option is to stay in hotels in the more touristy areas of the coast or cities. This saves you a little on accommodation, nice facilities and location (if you're in holiday mode), but you can also drive away to explore and discover more of Menorca by hiring a car, scooter or taking the bus.
Where to stay in Menorca?
A quick note on how we have structured this section to make your life easier. The aim of writing this article is to save you time and ensure that you find the base and accommodation that suits your travel style and budget.
Starting with the south-eastern corner of Menorca and working our way around the island clockwise, we have shared a brief overview of each destination and the pros and cons of being based there.
Within each of these, you will then find our selection of the best accommodation for different travel styles and budgets.
In compiling this list for you, the key selection criteria has been the facilities, connections and extremely positive customer reviews that are thoroughly researched.
Finally, if you wish to have a car for the duration of your holiday or to make excursions from your base, the easiest and cheapest way is to collect it from the airport.
Southeast of Menorca
Punta Prima
Punta Prima has a very holiday and tourist orientated atmosphere, especially for families looking for a safe place to swim, a pleasant and accessible sandy beach, good value accommodation (as well as luxury villas) and various facilities. There is a popular water park and a large Jet2 resort within a 10-minute walk, which is a pull or push factor, depending on what you are looking for.
Pros and Cons
+ Does not feel like a commercial resort
+ Several good or very good restaurants
+ Bus connection to Mahón (25 minutes) for day trips and the airport
- No nightlife options
- Quality of accommodation is generally lower (but still adequate).
Hotels Punta Prima
Insotel Punta Prima Prestige Suites & Spa | The first 5* hotel in the seaside town, just 350 metres from the beach. The rooms are large, modern and of high quality (they also have a small kitchenette). There are three restaurants on site and many sports activities are offered.
Note that the same company also offers a family hotel, which is also 5 star.
Occidental Menorca| An excellent family-friendly hotel with five large outdoor pools and a water park. Rooms are modern, clean and well appointed (if a little too cheap). Excellent location in Punta Prima.
Punta Prima Apartment
Bimbolla Apartments | This is a cheap and cheerful apartment complex. The small flats are very basic and lack love, but they have all the necessary facilities, decent sized terraces/balconies, a nice pool area and breakfast included. If you're on a budget, we highly recommend you check them out.
Apartamentos Punta Prima Beach | Another great value option, especially if you prefer smaller resorts. The flats are large, bright and tastefully furnished. If you can afford it, we recommend that you opt for one of the sea view flats for an ocean view!
Villas Punta Prima
Voramar Waterfront Punta Prima | If the interior design is a little dated, the location of this three-bedroom property is more than compensated for by its waterfront location!
Caseta de sa Palmera | With a nautical theme throughout, the real highlight is the outdoor area which allows you to take a few steps from the sun lounger to the sea. Magical!
Villa Molly | Reasonably priced for a large four bed house on two floors, this modern, bright and spacious property offers plenty of space and a large private pool.
Binebeca
A pretty whitewashed village that stretches along the coast. It is ideal for villa rental and for those looking to avoid a resort, whilst still benefiting from all that is close by.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Walking distance to excellent beach, swimming and sunbathing areas
+ Amenities and restaurants
+ Bus connection to Mahón (20 minutes) for day trips and airport
- Limited number of hotels
- The village is very popular with day trippers
Binebeca Hotels
Menorca Binibeca by Pierre & Vacance Premium | As the only hotel in Binibeca, we felt the need to cover this option. That said, after reading pages of reviews, we personally do not recommend staying here due to the negative experiences of many guests.
Barceló Nura | A very chic hotel half an hour walk from Binibeca. This is a fantastic option if you are a couple looking for a memorable experience or if budget is not an issue.
Binebeca Apartments
Apartamentos HLG Binivell Park | Many of the original homes designed by Antonio Sintes have been converted into an apartment complex known as Binivell Park. They offer a variety of one and two bed flats, as well as small studios.
Note that the decor is a little dated and they have kitchenettes rather than kitchens, but they are still a surprisingly cheap option. Perhaps for a few nights, rather than a week.
You can also book a stay in a private flat within the original Binibeca Vell. These flats are of much better quality, but as there are only a handful available, it is imperative to book them early, especially in high season.
Our choices are as follows:
Maravilloso apto | A very stylish three bedroom flat with excellent reviews and a view from the balcony.
Apartamento Binibeca Nou | One of several small flats in the same complex, this small two-bedroom is clean and modern but a little bland. However, it is very reasonably priced, well located, has a communal pool and excellent reviews.
Binebeca Villas
There are so many villas to rent in Binibeca that it's honestly quite difficult to narrow down the options!
Note that we have ruled out all properties with a communal pool as we imagine that for most people a villa with a private pool is essential.
Bini Blau | Decorated in a rustic style, it has an excellent kitchen, lots of comforts, a pool, a fantastic sunset roof terrace, and is just seconds from the sea.
Binifa-Best | If you are looking for a contemporary property with exquisite design, plenty of space and fabulous outdoor living, you must check out this four bedroom property! Simply breathtaking.
Ty Bihan | This three-bedroom villa in Binibeca Vell is really good value for money (one of the cheapest we've found in the area), but has many great features including superb design, lots of outdoor space and large bedrooms.
Another great value villa - this time in Cala Torret - is Brisa Marina.
Read also: Binibeca Menorca, top 8 must-do activities
Southern Menorca
Son Bou
The town attached to Menorca's longest stretch of sandy beach of the same name.
The 4 km beach is perfect for lazy days, and becomes quite rustic and secluded as you go along, while the town has many amenities.
However, it lacks soul and the quality of the restaurants is poor, making self-catering preferable.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ There is always a place on the beach, even in high season
+ On a particularly beautiful section of the Camí de Cavalls
+ Numerous accommodation options in hotels and private homes
+ Bus connection to Ciutadella and Mahón
+ Unlike many places, there is an abundance of small flats for couples
- Relatively isolated from other places of interest
- It is best to have a rental car or scooter
- A seaside resort atmosphere in places
Son Bou Hotels
Royal Son Bou Family Club | As the name suggests, if family fun (and your children's while you relax by the pool) is a priority, this 4* hotel is an excellent choice. There are great facilities and comfortable rooms.
You can also opt for the Arenas de Son Bou or the Valentin Son Bou (avoid if you are a young couple or don't like package holidays).
Son Bou Villas
If a three-bedroom villa with a private pool is exactly what you're looking for, take a look at Villa Horizonte, Exclusive Son Bou Villa and Villa Amoura.
Villa Sunset | A huge and beautiful five bedroom villa, it's perfect for large groups or families.
Villa Deluxe and Villa Galerna are also great options if you need five bedrooms.
Santo Tomas
If not for its location, we wouldn't recommend Santo Tomas to independent travellers.
A popular resort for all-inclusive hotels (it seems to be a hub for Jet2 and TUI), many people who stay in this area are quite content to enjoy a week in a beautiful hotel in a beautiful setting with direct access to a beautiful beach - but accept that the vast majority of their meals are taken at their hotel and that they can't explore many other parts of the island.
For independent travellers, however, its location in the middle of the south coast means that Santo Tomas is ideal for those who want to combine walking, great beach days in peaceful surroundings, and perhaps have a car to venture out further.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Walking distance to several excellent beaches
+ Access point to a beautiful coastal walking trail (Cami de Cavalls and Coastal Path)
+ Bus connection to Ciutadella and Mahón
- The overall experience will depend heavily on where you stay
- There are more high-rise hotels than elsewhere on the island
- Few options other than eating in the hotel, leading to a very resort-like experience unless you are happy to feed yourself
Santo Tomas Hotels
Hotel 55 Santo Tomas | A relatively new and modern four-star hotel with great facilities and spacious, contemporary rooms (some suites include a private pool!). It also has a large swimming pool, a spa and two on-site restaurants.
Hotel Santo Tomas | Another 4* option, this hotel is a little older than the previous one, but it still has excellent facilities, direct access to the beach, large comfortable rooms and guests rave about the spa and fitness room.
Want to avoid children on your trip? This is the hotel for adults only!
Santo Tomas Apartments / Aparthotels
Mestral & Llebeig | A small three-star apartment complex with several pools and gardens, which is well suited to families with young children. The rooms are clean and comfortable (if a little basic), but a good value option in high season.
Santo Tomas Con Vistas | This two-bedroom flat is a bit 'shabby chic' than, but with a balcony with sea views, good cooking, a few metres from the beach and excellent reviews, it's worth a visit.
Villas Santo Tomas
Villa Noelia | Colourful four bed villa with colourful but tasteful decoration, comfortable furniture, good kitchen, outdoor space and large pool - perfect for a family! Just 350 metres from the beach.
Villa Paraiso 14D | Superb three-bedroom villa on two levels with magnificent water views from several balconies. The pool area is particularly beautiful. The budget is considerably higher, but well worth it!
Cala Galdana
If there is one place in the south of Menorca that has something to offer all travel styles, it is Cala Galdana. Although it is a package holiday destination, its location between two of the island's most beautiful pristine beaches, the number of boat and kayak hire companies, and the fact that there are accommodation options to suit all budgets, make it an ideal base for first-time visitors to Menorca who want to both explore and relax.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Access point to Cala Macarelleta and Cala Mitjana
+ Many water sports activities (kayaks, motor boats) start from here
+ Cala Galdana beach is very family friendly
+ Good options for adult only hotels with a bit more lifestyle
- Many restaurant options but poor quality
- In high season the crowds can be uncomfortable
Cala Galdana Hotels
Artiem Audax | We have nothing but excellent things to say about this chain (Artiem) focused on sustainability. This 4* hotel is modern, waterfront, adults-only and focused on fitness, wellness and outdoor activities - perfect for a young, active couple.
Meliá Cala Galdana | The most luxurious hotel in Cala Galdana. Super modern and beachfront, the facilities are first class (spa, infinity pool, yoga and pilates classes, excellent Italian restaurant) and while some of the rooms are a little smaller, they are all of good quality and have great views.
Flats / Apart-hotels Cala Galdana
Hotel Cala Galdana & Apartamentos d'Aljandar | Although they offer independent rooms, it is the flats in this complex that particularly appeal to us. Clearly recently refurbished, they are clean and contemporary and very well priced for the standard.
Comitas Floramar | This is a good alternative to the above, with equally modern flats and good amenities.
Ilunion Menorca | Another very good aparthotel in Cala Galdana, this time with a focus on sustainability. The flats are simple but modern, well furnished and a good size - they are also very good value for money, even in the very high season. They are located a 10-minute walk from the beach.
Other good value options include: Apartamentos Cala Galdana.
Villas Cala Galdana
Miramar K | This excellent three-bedroom, split-level property is comfortably furnished and has a private pool. Its location above the main centre of Cala Galdana offers incredible views - and a quiet place to enjoy them!
Chalet con Piscina Privada | This three-bedroom house is a little more expensive, but just look at the photos to see why! Large, well furnished and full of comfort, it has a beautiful garden with a large private pool.
Villa Bella Vista | Looking for a property for a large group? Consider this excellent four bedroom villa. Comfortably furnished, its best feature is its large private pool with views of Cala Galdana below.
Cala En Bosc
One important thing to note is that your money goes much further in Cala en Bosc than elsewhere in Menorca, with a super luxurious hotel here costing about the same as a standard hotel in the south east.
This may be a good option if you want to visit Menorca, but primarily want to relax, enjoy the hotel pool and only do one or two day trips.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Cala En Bosc has a beautiful white sandy beach where you can enjoy swimming
+ Good amenities
+ Good connections to Ciutadella
- Restaurants suitable for tourists rather than focusing on good local food
- Far from the airport by bus or taxi (65 €+)
Hotels Cala En Bosc
Lago Resort Menorca | As you'd expect from a 5* establishment, this adults-only hotel is absolutely beautiful! The rooms are spacious (some with private pools) and well designed, and the communal areas and facilities are excellent.
Two other 4* adults-only hotels are the Valentin Star Menorca and La Quinta Menorca by PortBlue Boutique.
Flats Cala En Bosc
Menorcamar | Although the flats are a little basic, they are clean and modern, and as adults-only accommodation, they are a great alternative for those who don't want to be around children but don't want to stay in a hotel either.
Grupotel Aldea Cala'n Bosch | Modern and tastefully decorated (lots of light and muted tones), these flats are really charming. The apartment-hotel itself offers private access to the beach and two swimming pools.
Carema Beach Menorca is another great choice of flats, or if you can get one of the newly redecorated flats, we also recommend MarSenses Paradise Club Hotel.
Villas Cala En Bosc
Perez Garden Villa | Very modern, this four bedroom villa is light, bright and spacious and has a fantastic outdoor area with private pool.
Villa Estrella | The reviews are really excellent. The house itself is light, bright and comfortable, and the various outdoor areas - including the large pool - are much appreciated.
West Menorca
Ciutadella
If you're craving restaurants and culture after being on the beach for so long, you may decide to stay in Ciutadella for a few nights.
Although staying in a town is not what you automatically think of for Menorca, it makes day trips to many of Menorca's best beaches easier with public transport, allows access to more stylish and elegant accommodation, and offers more excitement and atmosphere in local haunts at night.
For some couples, this may be a better choice for your base or a few nights than on the west coast.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Fast and efficient bus links to many beaches and activities in Menorca
+ Excellent restaurants, more culture, life and local atmosphere than on the coast
+ Best value for money and higher quality accommodation
+ The only place in Menorca with real nightlife
+ Starting point for boat trips and boat hire without a licence
- It is a town without a beach / it may not feel like a holiday
- Far from the airport, by bus or taxi at over €65
Ciutadella Hotels and Guest Houses
Faustino Gran Relais & Chateaux | If money is no object, this superb boutique hotel should be at the top of your list! Housed in a 17th-century castle in the centre of the historic district, it offers a variety of luxurious suites and elegant rooms, all with exquisite décor. It also has an indoor and outdoor swimming pool and gardens.
For a similar price, you can also consider the Ca S'Arader Turismo de Interior or La Cayena Hotel Boutique - Solo Adultos.
Sodium Boutique Hotel | An excellent choice for those who appreciate contemporary design. The real highlight of this excellent hotel is that every room has a good sized private balcony or terrace.
Port Antic Ciutadella | Located in the historic centre, this is a collection of rooms in a traditional townhouse, all decorated in a contemporary style. Quiet and great value, but note that there are no staff on site, all entry/check-in codes are done online.
HoMe Menorca | Operating in a similar way to Port Antic, HoMe has larger rooms, better communal space (including an outdoor area) and a cool style, as well as a simple breakfast. Excellent location.
Hotel Nou Sant Antoni | Remarkably cheap for such a beautiful hotel, Hotel Nou Sant Antoni reminds us a bit of the accommodation you can find in Puglia. The public areas are charming and guests are full of praise for the breakfast.
Ciutadella Apartments
Designer Loft Ciutadella | This is the most expensive Airbnb on the list, but this funky one-bedroom loft is definitely worth mentioning - especially for its large plant-filled terrace. Note that the loft is in a boutique hotel and is adults-only.
Ubicación privilegiada en Ciutadella | Simple, modern and large one-bedroom flat, ideal for a couple. Good value for money, the real highlight is the huge terrace overlooking the historic centre - a great place to watch the sunset!
Village houses
Menorca Sa Font | A beautiful three bedroom townhouse that has recently been renovated to a high standard. Bright and light, with clean lines and contemporary decoration. Located in the historic centre, it also has a beautiful private outdoor space.
Casa Menorquina Centro Ciutadella | This five-bedroom central townhouse is remarkably affordable. It is spread over several floors and is traditional and welcoming in its design. Includes a small private outdoor space.
North Menorca
Cala Morell
If there's one place that goes a little unnoticed, but ticks a lot of boxes, it's Cala Morell.
If you're looking for a secluded spot with great hiking access, stylish accommodation and great swimming, sunbathing and snorkelling, don't hesitate to consider it.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Doesn't feel like a resort or tourist centre
+ On the water's edge
+ Great walks nearby
- Very limited dining options (although there is one of the most popular restaurants on the island)
- You definitely need a car if you stay here
- No sandy beach
Flats Cala Morell
Casa Rockmorell | As a studio apartment it won't suit everyone, but we personally think this little flat is super charming. It has a really comfortable but contemporary aesthetic and also has an outdoor terrace. Ideal for Cami hikers as it is just a few metres from the path.
Villas Cala Morell
Villa Sombre La Playa | There are no two ways about it - this four bedroom villa is absolutely stunning! Elegant and modern in design, it has been fitted out to a very high standard. The highlight, however, is the outdoor space - a fantastic pool, terrace and summer dining area, all with sea views. There is even a private path leading directly to the beach.
Villa en Bosque | If you prefer your rentals to look a little more homely than a contemporary blank canvas, take a look at this rustic three-bedroom villa surrounded by forest.
Fornells
As mentioned, many of the places to stay on Menorca's coast are modest resorts, with architecture and ambience to match; Fornells is one of the few glorious exceptions.
This small, photogenic port town is popular with day-trippers who come to sample the famous lobster caldera, but by settling here you can also enjoy a slice of Menorcan life.
The more attentive among you will notice that there is a seaside resort called Platges de Fornells on the western side of the peninsula. However, as the advantage of being so far north-east is that you can stay in a traditional Menorcan town, we do not recommend it as a base. It is also more of a tourist centre than its namesake.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Very pretty
+ Many excellent restaurants
+ Excellent swimming and water sports facilities, and all boat trips to the northern beaches leave from here
- Requires your own hire car (bus link to Mahón but most day trips require a change)
- Accommodation can be quite expensive
Fornells Apartments
Mevamar | A bright and shiny new three bed flat in the centre of Fornells. Good sized rooms, well equipped kitchen and a large terrace with views of the harbour.
Menorquina Ground Floor Apartment | This clean, comfortable and well-furnished two-bedroom flat is remarkably cheap (one of the cheapest places to stay in Fornells), but still highly rated with good reviews. Excellent location and small balcony.
Villas Fornells
Villa La Plaza, with its three bedrooms, is worth a look!
Note that there are a number of flat rentals and small villas located in Ses Salinas, a few kilometres south of Fornells.
But we don't recommend it because of the relatively long walking distance to and from the town, which makes evening meals more of a hassle than they need to be.
East of Menorca
Mahón
As with Ciutadella, the capital Mahón may not be your first choice when looking for a place to stay in Menorca. However, as the central transport hub for the south east and the cultural centre of the island, there is actually plenty to do for those who don't want to be at the beach every day or who prefer local life.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Fantastic boutique hotels
+ Lots of great restaurants, dining experiences and things to do
+ Fantastic links to the south east and the whole of Menorca
- It is a town without a beach
Hotels and guesthouses Mahón
ARTIEM Capri | A few minutes from the bus station, it's a 10 minute walk to the centre and port, but its positives more than make up for it. Excellent breakfast, large modern rooms, rooftop pool and gym and - a big plus - between 2pm and 6am they have a self-service restaurant with unlimited food and drink. The price is also very reasonable.
Cristine Bedfor | There are several excellent 5* boutique hotels in Mahon, but Christine Bedfor really stood out. The true definition of boutique, the rooms are exquisitely decorated, each with a different but complementary aesthetic. The furnishings are uniquely beautiful and the communal areas are simply stunning. There is also an outdoor area with a pool.
The other two 5* properties of note are Casa Ládico (adults only) and Jardí de Ses Bruixes Boutique Hotel.
Hotel Hevresac Singular & Small | Another property with a focus on sustainability, we love the contemporary design of the Hevresac Hotel. If you like clean lines, artful living and modern aesthetics, check out this hotel.
Can Alberti | If it's not clear yet, there is an abundance of really beautiful boutique accommodation in Mahon - Can Alberti can very well be added to this list! The rooms are both traditional and contemporary. The beautiful garden and communal areas are a real bonus.
Hostal Jume | Perfect for independent travellers, or those who want a more economical place to stay. This modern and stylish hostel has no dorms but great communal areas, a good breakfast included in most rates and an excellent location.
Mahón Apartments
Casa Carlota | This modern, minimalist loft/studio is very well located in the centre of Mahon, and has a large terrace perfect for sunbathing. Would be perfect for a couple!
Townhouses Mahón
Sant Roc | This traditional four-bedroom townhouse is typically Spanish, but with a high quality contemporary touch (honestly, it's beautiful). Centrally located, it also has a courtyard and a roof terrace, which would suit a large family or group of friends.
Es Castell
Although it is located to the east of Mahón, the pretty and historic port town of Es Castell offers a different experience to that of the capital. It is home to a number of excellent waterside restaurants and two luxurious adults-only hotels. It would suit foodies and couples who don't want to be on the beach every day.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Excellent restaurants and relaxed late night drinks
+ Night market in summer
+ Fast connections to Mahón and the airport
+ Ideal location for large groups who want a large villa close to the capital
- No beach and swimming holes are within walking distance
- To access the rest of the island you will need to take a connection in Mahón or Sant LLuís
Es Castell Hotels
Barceló Hamilton Menorca | This modern 4* adults-only hotel is truly luxurious, has excellent facilities (including a panoramic roof terrace) and is within walking distance of Es Castell's best restaurants.
ARTIEM Carlos | Although the rooms can be considered a little basic, this 4-star adults-only hotel has excellent facilities, water views, a great sustainable ethos and would be perfect for a young couple.
Pardela Menorca | If you prefer smaller properties with a little more charm, this beautiful hotel could be your cup of tea. It offers comfortable and elegant rooms with a nod to the nautical world, as well as a terrace with beautiful views.
Read also: Mahon Menorca, the 25 must-see tours and activities
Menorca Centre
Alaior
As well as the local life and the pretty streets, this town is becoming a cultural centre on the island. The fact that there is a rescue centre full of adorable donkeys nearby is not a bad thing either!
A great option for independent travellers who don't want to stay on the coast.
Pros and Cons
+ Good restaurants and local life
+ Not a resort by any means
+ Excellent transport links and car hire
+ A number of amazing traditional townhouses to stay in
+ Rescue animals to visit nearby!
- Staying inland will not be ideal for many (i.e. there are no beaches nearby)
- Very limited hotel options
Alaior Hotels
Hotel Petit Encant de Alaior | The only hotel in Alaior, this minimal but modern accommodation is full of light, with good sized rooms and an excellent location. Perfect for a couple planning to get out and about!
Alaior Villas
Sa Close | There are so many excellent and beautiful accommodation options in Alaior, and this newly restored country property is no exception! With only one bedroom (a real rarity in Menorca), it's perfect for a couple looking for a quiet getaway, but who don't want to sacrifice style and design. It also has a small pool. Note that it is located a few kilometres from Alaior and you will need a car.
Es Mercadel
The home of the Ensaimada and one of the island's most famous restaurants, the whitewashed Es Mercadal is located roughly at the crossroads of Menorca. So, although it's far from a beach, it's easy to get to either coast with public transport or your own hire car.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Good restaurants and local life
+ It is not a seaside resort by any means
+ Excellent transport links and car hire
- Inland stay will not be ideal for many (i.e. there are no beaches nearby)
- Very limited number of hotels and accommodation
Es Mercadel Hotels
Hotel M - 27 | A contemporary beauty - full of wonderful little design elements - in the historic centre of Es Mercadal. We would definitely stay here! Great reviews, and guests speak very highly of the owners.
Hotel Es Mercadal | Comfortable, clean and welcoming rooms in a typical 19th century Menorcan house. Excellent reviews and good breakfast. Very good value for money.
Also read
Visiting Menorca, 21 things you need to know before you go
FAQ hotel Menorca
What is the best area to stay in Menorca?
Binibeca is one of the best places to stay in Menorca.
As mentioned above, this area is framed by beaches and rocky coves to the west and east. It is an area of rental villas owned by the locals and willingly rented to discerning tourists. It offers a quality holiday in a truly unspoilt and peaceful environment.
Where to stay in Menorca, in the north or south?
In Menorca's southern beaches there are generally more buildings and more tourists because the beaches are generally more accessible and more popular.
In the northern beaches there are fewer people and less construction. It's a fairly pristine coastline and it's harder to get to the beaches, but it's more peaceful.