Nicknamed “Old and Beautiful”, Ciutadella de Menorca is a port town on the western tip of Menorca, one of Spain's sun-drenched Balearic Islands. It's anchored by an evocative Old Town filled with historic buildings, ancient churches and breezy squares.

Things to do

Placa des Born is Ciutadella’s main square, lined with lofty palm trees and grand 19th-century buildings. It's impossible to miss Palau Torre-Saura, a handsome Neoclassical mansion. The square is also anchored by a towering obelisk that commemorates the townsfolk who lost their lives fighting off the Turks in 1558.

Built in the 1600s, Esglesia dels Socors is one of Spain's prettiest churches. It features a Baroque facade, beautiful tile-patterned floors and colourful artworks by local Menorcan artist Jose R Torrent. You can also peer into Convent de Sant Agusti, a whitewashed cloister filled with art and island memorabilia.

For the best views in town, head up to Bastio des Governador. The enormous stronghold was built in the 14th century and played an important role in protecting Ciutadella from Turkish invaders in 1558. You can clamber up onto the ramparts for sweeping views over the port.

Ciutadella de Menorca is brimming with tapas bars, wine taverns and open-air restaurants. Cas Ferrer de Sa Font is a local favourite, with organic cuisine served in a converted 18th-century blacksmith building. Wash it down with a fantastic wine list featuring local vineyards.

Getting around

Ciutadella de Menorca is easy to navigate on foot, especially if you stick to the Old Town. Local buses depart from the city centre and run to beaches up and down the coast. Menorca International is the island's only airport, around 45 minutes’ drive from Ciutadella de Menorca.