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Arriving by Air

Arriving by Air

Spain

Flight Information

Menorca Airport MAH

The closest and only commercial airport serving Menorca. Its location streamlines travel to the island's various towns.

Airport Details

  • Location: Near the island’s capital, Mahón, approximately 45 kilometers east of Ciutadella.
  • Seasonal flights: Numerous airlines offer direct flights from major European cities, mainly May-October.
  • Year-round flights: Fewer routes, often connecting via mainland Spain.

Airline & Route Overview

Numerous airlines connect Menorca to Europe.

Connections

  • Airlines: Ryanair, EasyJet, Jet2, TUI, British Airways, Vueling, and Iberia Express.
  • Typical Routes: Direct flights are abundant from major European hubs like London, Manchester, Dublin, Paris, Berlin, Rome, Amsterdam, and Milan during summer.
  • Global Hubs: Most international travelers connect via major European gateway cities like Barcelona-El Prat (BCN), Madrid-Barajas (MAD), London Heathrow (LHR), or Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG).

Peak Season Travel

Flight frequency and prices are significantly higher during the high season (July-August). Booking in advance is recommended.

Shoulder Season Value

Shoulder season (May-June, September-October) offers more moderate prices and good availability, providing a balance of conditions and cost.

Low Season Limitations

Low season (November-April) sees a drastic reduction in flights, often requiring connections and potentially longer layovers.

Getting to Ciutadella from MAH

Public Bus Option

  • Public bus service (Line 14) connects the airport to Mahón bus station.
  • From Mahón, take Line 1 to Ciutadella bus station.
  • The total journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, making it an economical option.
  • Menorca Airport offers duty-free shops, clothing stores, restaurants, cafes, ATMs, and a tourist information office.

Direct Transport

  • Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. The journey to Ciutadella takes approximately 45-50 minutes and costs around €60-€75.
  • Pre-booked Private Transfer services offer door-to-door convenience, which can be cost-effective for groups or families.
  • Car Rental: Desks for major rental companies (e.g., Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise) and local providers are in arrivals. Booking a car in advance is highly recommended.
  • Demand for rental cars can exceed supply during peak season.

Menorca Airport Amenities

Shopping

The airport provides duty-free shops, clothing, and accessory stores for your last-minute needs or souvenirs.

Food & Drink

Passengers can find various restaurants and cafes within the airport, catering to different tastes and schedules.

Essentials

ATMs for cash withdrawals, Wi-Fi access, and a tourist information office are available for passenger convenience.

On-Island Movement

Bus Network

Menorca has a comprehensive public bus network operated mainly by Torres Alegre, S.A. (TMSA) for intercity routes and some beach connections. It offers an economical way to travel.

Bus Travel Overview

  • The main route is Line 1, connecting Mahón and Ciutadella frequently throughout the day.
  • Other seasonal lines connect Ciutadella to popular beaches and resort areas.
  • Tickets are purchased directly from the bus driver when boarding; cash payment is preferred.

Self-Driving

Renting a car in Menorca offers flexibility for exploring the island at your own pace.

Driving Essentials

  • License: A valid EU/EEA driving license is sufficient. Non-EU/EEA citizens need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their national driving license.
  • Age: Minimum age for car rental is typically 21 years, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25, with surcharges for under 25.
  • Insurance: Basic third-party liability insurance is mandatory and included with rentals. Comprehensive coverage is recommended for peace of mind.

Roads & Safety

The road infrastructure is generally good and well-maintained. The main road (ME-1) connects Mahón and Ciutadella. Smaller, often winding roads lead to beaches and rural areas.

Road Conditions

  • Roads can be narrow and winding, especially those leading to secluded coves.
  • Parking can be a significant challenge in Ciutadella's old town, which is largely pedestrianized, and at popular beaches during summer.
  • Observe speed limits and watch for cyclists and pedestrians, especially on rural roads.

Scooter & Bike

Motorcycles and scooters are popular for exploring the island’s smaller roads and coves. Bicycles offer another active way to see the scenery.

Alternative Wheels

  • Scooter rentals require specific motorcycle license categories (A1, A2, A) or a car license held for a certain period for scooters up to 125cc. Helmets are mandatory.
  • Several independent shops in Ciutadella offer daily or weekly bicycle rentals, including mountain bikes suitable for sections of the Camí de Cavalls.
  • Always wear a helmet when riding scooters or bicycles for safety.

Important Road Notes

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
  • Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited.
  • Watch for cyclists and pedestrians, especially on rural roads.
  • Roads to the most popular southern beaches often become one-way during peak season to manage traffic.
  • Some popular beaches require shuttle buses from designated outer parking lots in peak season.

Sea Connections

Ferry Services

Ferries provide a popular alternative for reaching Ciutadella, especially from other Balearic Islands or mainland Spain. The port serves as a access point.

Ferry Lines & Routes

  • Ciutadella has a natural, deep-water ferry port, Port de Ciutadella.
  • Major operators include Baleària, GNV, and Trasmediterránea.
  • Routes include Mallorca (Alcúdia) to Ciutadella (frequent, fast ferry: 1-1.5 hours) and overnight services from Barcelona (8-9 hours) and Valencia (9-10 hours).

Port Accessibility

The Port de Ciutadella is conveniently located at the foot of the old town, within walking distance of many hotels and attractions. This location simplifies arrival and departure.

Port Transfers

  • The port is within walking distance of many hotels and attractions.
  • Taxis are available directly at the port for onward travel.
  • The main bus station is a short walk from the port area, connecting to other parts of Ciutadella and the island.

Island Hopping

Frequent, fast ferry connections to Mallorca make island hopping a convenient option from Ciutadella's port.

Overnight Travel

Overnight ferry services from Barcelona and Valencia offer a relaxed way to travel from mainland Spain.

Cruise Ship Note

Menorca’s main cruise port is located in Mahón, not Ciutadella. Cruise passengers disembarking in Mahón typically visit Ciutadella via organized coach excursions.

Departing from Ciutadella

Departure Procedures

Planning your departure from Ciutadella is as important as planning your arrival. Smooth processes help conclude your trip positively.

Timing & Check-in

  • Menorca Airport (MAH): For international flights, arrive 2-3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours is sufficient.
  • Ciutadella Ferry Port: If traveling with a vehicle, arrive at least 1 hour before departure. For foot passengers, 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • Allow extra time during peak season (July-August) due to increased passenger volumes for check-in and security.

Airport & Port Facilities

Menorca Airport (MAH) and Ciutadella Ferry Port offer various facilities for departing passengers. These services attempt to make your departure comfortable.

Amenities for Departure

  • Menorca Airport (MAH) offers check-in desks, security screening, cafes, restaurants, duty-free shopping, and a VIP lounge.
  • The VIP lounge at MAH provides a comfortable waiting area before your flight.
  • The Ciutadella ferry port has basic waiting areas and ticket offices for passenger convenience.

Departure Notes

Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing travelers from Menorca, whether leaving by air or sea.

Customs

For arrivals from within the Schengen Area, immigration procedures are minimal. For arrivals from outside the Schengen Area, procedures are similar to airport arrivals, involving passport control.

Documentation

Keep boarding passes and ferry tickets readily available for inspection during departure procedures. This helps streamline your exit.

Farewell Ciutadella

A well-organized departure makes for a pleasant conclusion to your Menorca visit.