A taste of former elegant times with fine old spanish palaces, moorish influences, a wonderful old centre and a charming little harbour. Ciutadella was the original capital of the island lying at the western edge of the island looking out to its bigger
neighbour Mallorca. A superb contrast to the beach and holiday resort. Great atmosphere and shopping and a place to wander the pedestrianised old city and its many narrow streets with hidden shops and Cafe treats. Also competes with Mahon for the
title of the best music bars and venues on the island. The scene for the spectacular Sant Joan festival in June, when stunning native black horses parade through the streets and the brave try to "touch the horses' heart" as it rears in front
of them.
Has grown into a delightful place for young and old to get close to an expanding range of native and more exotic ( smaller ) animals in very pleasant surroundings. Features several walk through landscaped enclosures where animals roam
free and small children can see easily. Enough to entertain children and adult animal lovers alike.
Getting there : by Bus ,Taxi ,Car - see our detailed guide
Es Mercadal is a small traditional town in the centre of the island, with old city whitewashed houses lining pretty narrow streets. Lying at the base to Monte Toro, Menorca's highest 'mountain' (357 m). On top there are viewing areas and
a small pleasant cafeteria with small outside terrace. From up here there are excellent views of the whole island - upto the bay at Fornells ,the northern coast and the rolling hills of the island's centre.
Menorca Tips
Es Mercadal is also a Gastronomy and Restaurant oasis, with a range from simple to fine dining but the quality in every price range is very good. "Centre Artesanal de Menorca" is located here too and is the crafts center of Menorca
showcasing traditional and comtemporary crafts.
Es Mercadal street markets
Spring market: from April to June: every Thursday, in the central street "Carrer Nou" de Mercadal (from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
Summer market: from July to October: every Thursday, craft night market in the streets of the center of Mercadal (from 7 to 10:30 p.m.)
From July to October: every Saturday, agri-food night market in the streets of the center of Mercadal (from 7 to 10:30 p.m.)
Has a charming old town set on a hill for wandering early mornings or late evenings when the extreme heat of the summer sun has gone. The "third" capital of the island and a cultural centre. The old town is very pretty
and makes a great change to the beach, with some delightful Cafes, Bars and Restaurants. A few several clothes and shoe boutiques offering original items not chain store repetition. Childrens playground on the pretty town square
(next to ice cream cafes!). Alaior has a weekly market plus an evening market (weds june-sept ) with Artisan goods,jewellery , other handicrafts and small boutiques.
Menorca Tips
There is a late night bus to return from Alaior's summer night market. Alaior is home to the Pons Quintana shoe factory shop. A
brand relatively unknown in the UK because most of its high quality leather shoes are exported to France and Germany. The shop offers reduced prices on beautiful high quality shoes and leather goods.