Not Just by Car: How to Get Around Menorca
Most tourists arriving in Menorca think the only way to get around the island is by car, but this is not the only option.
Despite its small size, there is a fairly acceptable public transport network to get around Menorca, connecting the island’s towns, and where it doesn’t reach, there are always alternatives to explore it from end to end.
Want to know more? We’ll tell you how to get around Menorca in 7 options!
Option 1: Rent a Car
Let’s first have a look at the most popular and convenient option to get around the island: renting a car.
Why Rent a Car?
Renting a car in Menorca is the best option to explore every inch of this Balearic island if you plan to stay for a few days and want the freedom to move around and go on excursions without worrying about schedules and transfers.
Also, as Menorca is a very touristy island, renting a car is very easy. It will allow you to travel at your own pace between small towns, coves, archaeological sites, and other attractions for which Menorca is world-renowned.
In short, a rental car lets you plan when and where you want, as there are no more than 45 minutes by car between places on the island. Plus, you can enjoy the landscape during the trip and stop wherever you like to watch the beautiful sunset over the Mediterranean. When choosing a car, consider that if you stay 4 days in Menorca, you may want to minimize travel times.
We recommend checking out the conditions offered by local car rental companies, as some are very advantageous.
When to Rent a Car in Menorca?
During summer, the high season, there is great demand for rental cars in Menorca, so they are often in short supply and prices can be a bit high. To avoid missing out on this transport option, we advise booking as early as possible.
For renting a car in Menorca during the rest of the year, you can try renting one upon arrival, although in both seasons, it will always be cheaper to book in advance.
If you decide to rent a car to explore the island, we advise you to always take out full insurance, as the roads to some coves and beaches can be a bit tricky, and parking lots can be quite tight.
Option 2: Rent a Motorbike
If you’re wondering how to get around Menorca without a car, you can also rent a motorbike to move around the island. The main difference between renting a motorbike or a car will be the number of passengers and the amount of luggage you have.
Although most travelers usually opt to rent a car to get around the island, if you want to know more, don’t miss this post about renting motorbikes in Menorca and its pros and cons.
Have you decided to rent a scooter in Menorca?
Discover Menorca by Scooter, your trusted local agency
Some Car and Motorbike Rental Companies in Menorca:
Option 3: Rent a Bike
Another existing option for getting around Menorca is by bicycle. There are several bike rental shops and repair workshops in Ciutadella, Mahón, and the main tourist destinations.
The island is relatively small to explore by bike, but its geography can be challenging in some areas with many hills, valleys, and ravines.
Therefore, unless you are a specialized cyclist, it is not the most advisable option for getting around Menorca, especially between May and October due to the difficult terrain and increased traffic.
Even so, if you feel like renting a bike to discover the island by pedaling, you should know that there are 6 main routes to go from one end of the island to the other:
- Ciutadella-Ferreries (16.5 km; 1 hour)
- Ferreries-Es Mercadal (15.5 km; 1 hour)
- Es Mercadal-Alaior (7.7 km; 30 minutes)
- Alaior-Mahón (12 km; 45 minutes)
- Mahón-Es Castell (4 km; 10 minutes)
- Es Castell – Sant Lluis (6km; 15 minutes)
Some Bike Rental Companies in Menorca
Option 4: Public Transport
When you arrive in Menorca, you will see that it is possible to get around the island in different ways depending on your preferences or budget.
Due to the independence and speed it offers, renting a car or a motorbike is the best way to explore the island. But if that’s not possible or you want to opt for low-cost alternatives, public transport is a good option for all travelers.
How to Get Around by Bus in Menorca
It’s the most economical way to travel around the island. Menorca has a network of buses with regular lines that connect the airport, all the towns, and the main beaches of Minorca. However, it doesn’t reach the more remote coves or some of the quieter spots on the island, so travelers must adapt to its routes and schedules.
If you want to know how to get around by bus in Menorca, the first thing you should know is that the Consell Insular manages public transport and grants concessions to three private companies: Transportes Menorca, Autofornells, and Torres.
For more information, we advise reading the post about public transport in Menorca, where you will find detailed data about the Menorcan bus network, how it works, its lines, and ticket prices.
Option 5: Taxi
Another option available to get around the island is by taxi.
It’s not the cheapest alternative for getting around Menorca, but in a moment of need, it’s a more comfortable option than the bus, as taxis operate 24/7 on the island.
However, it’s not a means of transport you should consider for your regular trips because its services are expensive. Renting a car or using the bus is more economical.
Taxi rates in Menorca are regulated by law and vary depending on factors like nighttime or weekend rates, airport fees, radio call service, or if the trip takes place on a holiday.
The main company providing this service is the Asociación Menorquina Radio Taxi. For example, a trip from Menorca Airport to Ciutadella costs around 65 euros, and from Menorca Airport to Mahón, it’s about 25 euros.
Regarding getting around Menorca by taxi, you should know that taxis can be insufficient during the high season (July and August). Keep this in mind when planning your vacation.
Option 6: Private Transfer
When considering how to get around Menorca during a trip, another option we recommend is private transfers between the airport and your hotel if you’re traveling in a group and looking for maximum comfort and a personalized service.
The main advantage of private transfers over public transport or shared options is that it’s the most comfortable and fastest since you won’t have to share the vehicle with other travelers or wait for anyone. In return, the price is usually a bit higher, but it’s worth it.
Additionally, the driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals area when you land, so you won’t have to wander around the airport with luggage, looking for a quick way to get to your destination with all the stress that entails.
The private transfer service for getting around Menorca operates 24/7 all year round.
Option 7: Getting Around the Coves of Menorca by Boat
To discover the best-kept secrets of this beautiful Mediterranean island, namely its hidden and rugged coves, a unique and essential experience is taking a boat trip during your vacation.
Seeing the island from a boat in the middle of the sea, listening to the sound of the waves, and even taking a dip in its turquoise waters is wonderful.
If you’ve always wondered how to get around the coves in Menorca, we recommend renting a boat or taking a cruise excursion to visit its most famous coves (some of which are inaccessible by car) and making a stop at a beach to enjoy the beautiful views, sun, and sea.
Would you like to join a fun adventure to explore the island’s coast, waters, and depths by boat? In this article about boat trips in Menorca, you will find several ideas for spending a relaxing and fun day on a cruise to get around the coves in Menorca. These excursions are perfect to do alone, with family, or with friends!