MileHacker Logo
Practical Information

Practical Information

Spain

Mobile Connectivity

Spain’s main mobile providers are Movistar, Orange, and Vodafone. Purchase a prepaid SIM card at official stores or phone shops. Passport registration is typical.

Stay Connected

  • Local prepaid SIM card options are available.
  • ESIM options are available for immediate connectivity upon arrival, for example from Airalo.
  • Plans typically offer data, calls, and texts for €10-€30 per month.

Internet Access

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, guesthouses, and apartments, often free for guests. Connection quality can vary.

Access Points

  • Most hotels and accommodation offer free Wi-Fi.
  • Many cafes, bars, and restaurants in Ciutadella offer free Wi-Fi for customers.
  • Limited public Wi-Fi hotspots are available in some city centers.

Postal Services

Correos is the national postal service. Post offices (Oficina de Correos) are available in Ciutadella.

Send Mail

  • You can buy stamps (sellos) at the post office.
  • Send postcards to friends and family.
  • Mail letters from designated post boxes.

Language & Communication

Catalan (specifically the Menorquí dialect) and Spanish (Castilian) are the official languages. Both are widely spoken. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Bridge the Gap

  • Learning a few basic phrases will enrich interactions.
  • Use a translation app (e.g., Google Translate, DeepL) on your phone.
  • Download offline language packs for Spanish and Catalan before your trip.

Phrases Spanish

Basic Greetings

  • Hello: Hola (OH-la)
  • Goodbye: Adiós (ah-dee-OHS)
  • Please: Por favor (por fah-VOR)
  • Thank you: Gracias (GRAH-see-ahs)

Useful Questions

  • Do you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés? (AH-blah een-GLEHS?)
  • I don't understand: No entiendo (NOH en-TYEN-doh)
  • How much?: ¿Cuánto es? (KWAN-toh es?)
  • The bill, please: La cuenta, por favor (lah KWEHN-tah, por fah-VOR)

Connectivity Tip

For seamless internet, consider an eSIM from Airalo or a portable device from Solis Wi-Fi.

Business Hours & Schedules

Typical operating hours in Ciutadella can vary from expectations.

Retail Hours

Generally open from 9:30 AM - 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM - 8:00 PM (Monday-Saturday). Many smaller shops close for "siesta" in the afternoon.

Dining Times

Lunch service typically runs from 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM. Dinner service begins later, from 8:30 PM - 11:00 PM (or later in summer). Kitchens often close between these hours.

Museum & Attraction Hours

Typically open 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Many are closed on Mondays and often for siesta. Check specific hours for individual attractions.

Banking & ATMs

Banks generally operate Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM.

Access to Funds

  • Bank branches open during daytime business hours.
  • ATMs are widely available and accessible 24/7.
  • Often found near bank branches or in central areas.

Seasonal Variations

Many tourist-oriented businesses (restaurants, hotels, shops, tour operators) close completely during the low season (November-April) or operate on very limited schedules.

Plan Ahead

  • Plan your visit accordingly if traveling during these months.
  • Expect fewer options for tourist services outside peak season.
  • Always check specific opening hours for individual establishments.

Public Holidays

National Holidays

  • New Year's Day (Jan 1)
  • Epiphany (Jan 6)
  • Labour Day (May 1)

Additional Public Holidays

  • Assumption Day (Aug 15)
  • Spain's National Day (Oct 12)
  • Sant Joan (June 23-24) – Local Ciutadella Holiday

Flight Disruption Compensation

If your flight is delayed or cancelled, Compensair may assist with compensation claims.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Observe local customs for a respectful visit.

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common in formal settings or when meeting someone for the first time. Two kisses on the cheek are customary between women, or between a man and a woman who are friends or acquaintances. Men usually shake hands.

Basic Greetings

  • Use "Buenos días" (good morning), "Buenas tardes" (good afternoon/evening).
  • "Buenas noches" (good night) is also common.
  • "Hola" is a versatile, informal greeting for all occasions.

Dress Code

Generally casual attire is accepted in most settings.

What to Wear

  • For religious sites, modest attire (shoulders and knees covered) is respectful.
  • Swimwear is suitable only for the beach or pool.
  • Avoid walking around towns or entering establishments in swimwear.

Dining & Tipping

Late meal times are common (lunch 1:30 PM+, dinner 8:30 PM+). Sharing dishes (tapas, raciones) among the table is typical. Bread and sometimes olives are often brought to the table and charged for.

Local Practices

  • Embrace the later dining schedule.
  • Enjoy sharing various dishes.
  • Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated for good service.

Photography Etiquette

It is generally acceptable to photograph public spaces and landmarks.

Guidelines

  • Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children.
  • Be discreet and respectful in religious sites.
  • Some museums may prohibit flash photography or have specific rules.

Sensitive Topics

Avoid Discussing

  • Politics (especially Catalan independence).
  • The Civil War.
  • Bullfighting.

Cultural Respect

  • Respect local customs and traditions during festivals, especially Sant Joan.
  • Show interest in the local way of life.
  • Be mindful of noise levels, especially late at night in residential areas.

Inclusivity

Gender & Inclusivity

  • Spain is generally very progressive and accepting.
  • Menorca is considered safe and welcoming for LGBTQ+ travelers.
  • Public displays of affection are generally accepted.

Community Welcome

  • A safe and welcoming travel destination.
  • Locals are generally friendly and open.
  • Respect for diverse lifestyles is common.

Learn the Language

A few basic phrases transform your journey and demonstrate respect. Consider Rosetta Stone for language learning.

Accessibility Information

For travelers with mobility challenges, Menorca continuously improves infrastructure.

Infrastructure Overview

Menorca is gradually improving accessibility. Ciutadella’s old town features narrow, uneven cobblestone streets and some steep inclines.

Mobility Considerations

  • Old town navigation can be challenging for wheelchairs.
  • Modern areas generally have smoother pavements and better infrastructure.
  • Improvements for accessibility are ongoing across the island.

Accessible Transport

Newer public buses often feature ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs. Major ferry operators usually have accessible facilities for passengers.

Getting Around

  • Accessible public buses are increasingly available.
  • Major ferry services accommodate passengers with mobility needs.
  • Some beaches are "accessible beaches" with adapted services and wooden walkways.

Visual & Hearing Impairments

Limited specialized services are widely available for these specific needs.

Services

  • It is advisable to travel with a companion.
  • Inquire directly with service providers (e.g., museums, tour operators).
  • Ask about specific accommodations tailored to your needs.

Resources for Access

Consult local tourist information offices directly for up-to-date and specific details.

Information Sources

  • Search for "Menorca accessible tourism" online.
  • Look for updated resources on official tourism websites.
  • Organizations like ONCE (Organización Nacional de Ciegos Españoles) may provide information for visually impaired travelers in Spain.

Airport Lounge Access

For comfortable travel, Priority Pass offers airport lounge access.