The best way to visit Menorca, one of the Balearic islands, is to take a ferry to Ciutadella (south of Menorca) and enjoy a lovely cruise in the Mediterranean!
Ciutadella (or Ciudadela in Spanish), is a town and a municipality on the western end of Menorca, one of the Balearic Islands. It is the largest city of the island and one of the most visited along with Mahon.
Ciutadella is by far the most beautiful town and the most picturesque port of Menorca.The Moorish influence is still visible in its architecture with its medieval streets, the splendid little alleys, the unique districts such as Es Born, the old parade ground of the medieval city located in the centre of the historic quarter, the fortresses, palaces and churches of great value testifying to the importance of the city as a religious centre. Also, this old capital has an important archaeological heritage of great megaliths, such as the "Taulas" (megalith), the Talaiotis and the Nabeta.
Among the most important buildings that face this square, stands out the Town Hall dating back to the old Arab citadel and the Cathedral, also around the centre, built on top of the Great Mosque that existed in Ciutadella during the Arab domination.
In addition to the historical significance of this picturesque town, the visitor will enjoy a stroll around the scenic harbour where he can enjoy a drink, a cold beer or wine, as well as the local cuisine in one of the many wonderful restaurants where the views and atmosphere are truly worth a visit.
If you want to relax and enjoy the tranquility of exceptional natural landscapes, prepare your trip to Ciutadella and book your tickets in advance, as it is a popular destination!
Ferries to Ciutadella
There are ferries to Ciutadella that connect Menorca directly with Barcelona and Alcudia!
- Barcelona - Ciutadella: with almost 16 weekly sailings and sailing times ranging from 4 to 6 hours depending on the ferry company.
Apart from the connection from Barcelona to Ciutadella,there are other connections from Alcudia to Ciutadella and this is the fastest way to travel by ferry from Mallorca to Menorca as there are connections more than 3 times a day and the journey takes just 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Please note that ferry timetables may change depending on the season and for up-to-date information it is advisable to visit our Barcelona to Ciutadella page!
Port of Ciutadella
The port of Ciutadella is one of the 2 ports of Menorca, also being the oldest and smallest, located about 40km from the capital, Mahon. Besides being the arrival and departure point for some ferries, it is also a pleasant place to enjoy the island's atmosphere. The port area is very picturesque with a wonderful selection of restaurants along the harbour with fantastic views that is highly recommended visiting during your stay!
Access is possible by bus with frequent connections from the port to the town and other parts of the island.
Port of Ciutadella to Ciutadella Town
The way to go from the port of Ciutadella to the town of Ciutadella is by a bus , a taxi , hire a car, a scooter, a bicycle or for those more energetic on foot!
Public bus
Although Ciutadella is a small town, it has an impressive bus network and this is true for Menorca in general. The fastest bus ride from Ciutadella port to the old town takes 2 minutes and the slowest bus ride can take up to 30 minutes; departures are from Rotonda Port Son Blanc and are on a daily basis! From Ciutadella, you can catch the bus to beaches in the west and southwest.
On holidays or weekends the schedules may vary so it is better to check for updated information in Ciutadella Buses.
Taxis
Taxis are always the most comfortable and quickest way to get around and organised taxis are easy to find with rates varying depending on the distance. There are private taxi service companies with professional drivers offering 24/7 private hire by the hour, transfers to and from various events in and around the city, transfers to and from the port but also sightseeing and excursions. For more information you may visit Ciutadella Taxis.
Rent a car, scooter or a bicycle
Alternatively, you can rent a car or a scooter to visit the town and the more remote areas of Ciutadella and the surrounding area! Also, for those who admire adventure and have plenty of free time, the option of a bicycle is always appealing!
On foot
For those travellers who are more fit and active, the option to discover the old town on foot is ideal, as the historic area is beautiful with the narrow pedestrianised streets and the harbour area just a stone's throw away, just a 10 minute walk from the main town via steps or streets.
Vacations in Ciutadella
Vacations in Ciutadella will ultimately satisfy every traveler, regardless of their temperament, as in this place you have it all, history, culture, architecture, beaches, shopping, high gastronomy! All very sunny and with a special light!
This lovely town has a wonderful atmosphere with its charming medieval streets and a new experience at every turn with its beautiful harbour, the cathedral in the main part of the town which is worth a visit, with its old interesting architecture, the town hall and the buildings around the square. The town is full of all sorts of bars, cafes & restaurants - for all tastes and especially those on the harbour side which is a brilliant location especially during sunset!
In the heart of the city is the main Placa d'es Born, the old parade ground of the medieval city, surrounded by honeycombed stone mansions and perched above the stone cliff that dominates the harbour. In the middle of the square is an obelisk that dominates the square, a traditional backdrop to the various festivals and social events that take place in the town. On Friday and Saturday mornings there is a regular farmers' market, where clothes and general merchandise are sold.
Also, for those who want to combine a holiday with shopping in the city can find a wide variety of shops , many luxury boutiques and definitely buy a pair of the famous Menorcan sandals! Finally, visitors can visit the virgin beaches, some sandy beaches and other rocky natural beaches.
So, don't miss this experience to visit Ciutadella and feel the amazing atmosphere of this Balearic Islands town that will make you want to visit it again and again!
Things to do in Ciutadella
Here are some tips for things to do in Ciutadella, while meandering through the old town:
- Port de Ciutadella - The old Harbour
- Placa d’Es Born – The main square of Ciutadella
- Palacio Salort - A gracious 19th century mansion
- The Cathedral of Ciutadella de Menorca
- The Bishop's Palace Courtyard in Ciutadella
- Casa Olivar - A Noble House in Ciutadella
- The Cloisters of the Convent de Sant Agustí and Església Dels Socors
- Ses Voltes – The Arcades of the old town in Ciutadella
- Wander the old streets of Ciutadella
- The Mercat de Peix Fish Market in Ciutadella
- Castell de Sant Nicolau in Ciutadella
- Naveta d'Es Tudons- The ancient Talayotic site
- Municipal Museum of Ciutadella
- A visit to Binibeca Town - a maze of narrow, winding streets and whitewashed houses, with architecture reminiscent of both Arab and Mediterranean styles.
- A visit to Camí de Cavalls Trail - traces the entire 185 km of breathtaking Minorcan coastline, linking ancient watchtowers, lighthouses and coves.
- A visit to Mount Toro - the highest point and offers unequalled views of the whole island and, on clear days, Majorca.
Beaches near Ciutadella
Some of the most beautiful beaches near Ciutadella are easily accessible by bus! They are all lovely sandy beaches in rocky coves for swimming and snorkelling, most of them without facilities or development.
Some of the beaches are the following:
- Cala Turqueta
- Cala del Pilar
- Cala Algaierens
- Playa Arenal De Son Saura
- Cala Es Talaier
- Cala des Degollador
- Platja Gran
- Cala'n Blanes
- Cala Macarella
Hotels in Ciutadella
When looking for hotels in Ciutadella the traveler can find many accommodation options from luxury hotels where he can spend his trip relaxing on a picturesque beach and luxury resort rooms , nice 4 star boutique hotels that are within a 10 minute walk from the historic center or low budget 3 star hotels but also hotels ideal for families and for Agroturismo!
The truth is that visitors will find cheaper accommodation in Ciutadella de Menorca in April and October.
Below we provide you with an indicative list of some remarkable hotels:
- Can Faustino - Luxury Hotel in Ciutadella
- Hotel Can Araya
- Hotel Menorca Patricia - Mid Range Hotel in Ciutadella
- Globales Almirante Farragut in Ciudadela
- Aparthotel Ferrer Skyline - 4star resort
- La Quinta Menorca By PortBlue Boutique - 5 star boutique hotel
- Marosi Boutique Hotel
- S'Hotelet d'es Born - Suites & SPA - 5star
Day sailing trips and excursions from Ciutadella
There are some day trips by boat and excursions to the surrounding areas from Ciutadella to nearby very picturesque places that we highly recommend to the traveler to get in touch with pristine beaches , visit hidden gems and admire the natural beauty of the coves of the area! One of the most beautiful excursions is a day trip to Mallorca, the star of the Mediterranean, with its magnificent beaches, and deep blue views!
Apart from the boat trips , of particular interest are the island's capital Mahon and picturesque fishing villages in the nearby area.
Some interesting excursions are the following:
- Ciutadella - Mahon
- Ciutadella - Mallorca ferry trip
