Ciutadella, a port city located on the west coast of Menorca, is a must-visit for keen travellers who enjoy history and culture. Once the capital of Menorca (until replaced by Mahón in the early eighteenth century), the city is renowned for its historic old town and bustling artisan markets. The architecture, food, and customs of Ciutadella bear traces of its past as a melting pot of cultures – from the Carthaginians and Romans to the Spanish and the Moors.
Get to Know Ciutadella
One of Ciutadella’s annual events is the Festival of Saint John, which has roots dating back to the fourteenth century. The celebrations are held at the end of June each year and include processions, horse races, and jousting. The highlight of the festivities is the Jocs des Pla (Games of the Plain), where skilled horse riders race through the cobblestone streets displaying their prowess in challenges like spearing a ring with a lance.
While Ciutadella boasts a wealth of history and culture, its popularity as a holiday destination also stems from its pleasantly balmy weather, the range of stunning beaches, and the delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Its coastal location also means that there’s an abundance of fish markets across the city, making it a paradise for seafood lovers.
Here are the top four historic highlights to check out during your city break in Ciutadella.
1. Es Born Plaza
Once a medieval parade ground, this grand square is the beating heart of Ciutadella, surrounded by phenomenal architecture including the Palau de Torre-Saura, an eighteenth-century Baroque palace, and the Teatro des Born, a nineteenth-century Neoclassical theatre. One of the most prominent buildings in the square is the town hall, which was once a royal palace built in the thirteenth century. Es Born Plaza is the perfect starting point for an exploration of Ciutadella and the architecture that defines this enchanting city.
The buildings surrounding the square are a blend of architectural styles, each telling a different chapter of Ciutadella’s story. At the centre of Es Born Plaza stands the Obelisk, a striking monument built in 1857 to commemorate the townspeople who died trying to defend the city against the Turkish invasion in 1558. As well as being a fantastic spot for sightseeing, on Mondays and Fridays Es Born Plaza transforms into a bustling open-air market selling handmade jewellery, silverware, pottery, and other local crafts. It’s a great place for finding souvenirs for friends and family – after all, who doesn’t love a good bargain?
2. The Cathedral of Menorca
This Roman Catholic church was commissioned in honour of Saint Mary in the late thirteenth century, on the orders of King Alfonso III of Aragon. Built on the site of an ancient Arab mosque, the cathedral was consecrated in 1362 and is a gorgeous example of Catalan Gothic architecture, which is characterised by slender vertical lines, pointed arches, and intricate stonework. The cathedral’s bell tower has been built from the minaret of the mosque and the Neoclassical gateway protects the original entrance.
Inside the cathedral, you can find a nave adorned with soaring ribbed vaults and stained glass windows. There are several chapels, each with unique altarpieces and religious icons, including a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Over the centuries, the cathedral has faced many traumas. It was sacked and pillaged by Ottoman Turks in the sixteenth century, and the ravages of war caused the cathedral to suffer further desecration during the Spanish Civil War. Despite these trials, the cathedral has pride of place in Ciutadella’s old town, and has been restored over the years to help preserve the building’s historical features.
3. Saint Nicholas Castle
Saint Nicholas Castle is a haven for history buffs and those interested in military architecture. This seventeenth-century defence tower was built to keep watch over Ciutadella’s harbour, protecting the city from pirate attacks and enemy invasions. The building has an octagonal layout, designed to help defenders of the city spot approaching ships and scope out potential threats from various directions. Walk the grounds and explore the drawbridge, moat, and turrets that make up the watchtower, before entering through the ornate gate decorated with Baroque-style figures.
Historically, the interior of Saint Nicholas Castle served as a garrison for the soldiers and was used to store food, livestock, and armaments. You can climb the spiral staircase and soak up the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and Cuitadella’s harbour, and don’t forget to check out the short documentary playing inside the fortress. It tells of the important role the military stronghold played in safeguarding the city from invasion, including during the War of the Spanish Succession in the eighteenth century, which saw Menorca become a strategic battleground due to its valuable position in the Mediterranean.
4. Can Saura
This beautifully restored townhouse, now home to a local history museum, offers a window into Ciutadella’s storied past and the cultural heritage of the island of Menorca. Can Saura provides a comprehensive journey through Menorca’s past. Exhibits include artefacts from the Talayotic culture, Roman and Byzantine relics, medieval objects reflecting Moorish and Christian influences, and displays detailing the island’s modern history under Spanish and British rule. Explore the ancient tools, coins, sculptures, weapons, manuscripts, maps, and personal items that together tell the rich story of Menorca’s inhabitants over the centuries.
One of the most popular exhibits at Can Saura, “May the Earth Not Weigh You Down. A History of Death Rituals in Menorca”, focuses on the diverse funerary practices performed on the island throughout history. The exhibition makes a tour from ancient times, through the Moorish period, to the present day, showcasing objects of significant archaeological value, such as those discovered in Ciutadella’s Cova des Càrritx cave. Of particular interest are the remains of the old Moorish necropolis which were found beneath the building, offering a fascinating glimpse into how the burial customs and spiritual beliefs of Menorcans have changed over time.
Where to Stay
Can Araya: This five-star boutique hotel is located on one of the oldest streets in Ciutadella, giving guests easy access to nearby historical landmarks such as the Punta Nati Lighthouse and the Naveta d’Es Tudons. Bedrooms are beautifully decorated with clean, minimalist lines and boho-chic decor, providing a serene retreat after a day of exploring the city. Relax in the hotel’s hammam and enjoy a touch of sophistication with a cocktail by the pool. If you’re feeling peckish, head to the hotel’s restaurant, which offers a menu celebrating Menorcan flavours, accompanied by a selection of local wines.
Faustino Gran Relais & Chateaux: This luxury estate is located on the site of 15-hectares of pine forest and is made up of three palaces from the sixteenth, seventeenth, and eighteenth centuries: Can Faustino, Cal Bisbe, and Can Sebastià. Tuck into authentic Mediterranean cuisine at the onsite buffet, which offers gourmet dishes with locally sourced ingredients, and unwind at the spa with a relaxing sauna treatment. Savour the views of the majestic Ciutadella de Menorca Cathedral from your bedroom and indulge in personalised service that caters to every whim.
S’Hotelet d’es Born: Set in a historic sixteenth-century building, this modern hotel combines contemporary decor with Menorcan influences, and is equipped with amenities like air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can relax in the cosy lounge or on the terrace, and personalised concierge services are available to assist with local recommendations. While dining options include breakfast services, the hotel’s central location also allows easy access to Ciutadella’s main attractions, shops, and restaurants.
How to Get There
Numerous airlines operate direct flights from the UK to Menorca Airport (MAH), including British Airways, Ryanair, Jet2.com, easyJet, and TUI. The cheapest month to fly is in July, with flights starting at just £28. The simplest way to get to your accommodation in Ciutadella is to pre-book an airport transfer with Shuttle Direct, ensuring that you arrive at your destination comfortably and in good time. After you arrive at Menorca Airport, you’ll be greeted by a friendly, professional driver who’ll whisk you to your destination so you can start your holiday in style.
Overview
UK to MAH flight time: 2 hours 25 minutes
MAH to Ciutadella distance: 49 kilometres
Shuttle Direct transfer time: 43 minutes
Types of Transfer
When travelling from Menorca Airport to Ciutadella, various types of transfers are available to suit different travel requirements, priorities, and budgets. Each transfer option offers benefits catering to travellers’ diverse needs.
Taxi: A pre-booked taxi transfer from Menorca Airport to Ciutadella is ideal for those who prioritise convenience and door-to-door service. Because the taxi is pre-booked, you won’t have to wait in line or worry about finding transport upon arrival. As well as bypassing long queues, you’ll enjoy a private ride to your destination without any stops, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey.
Shuttle bus: If you’re looking for a Menorca Airport transfer that’s cost-effective and you don’t mind sharing the ride with other passengers, travelling by shuttle bus could be the option for you. These transfers typically have set schedules and routes, making several stops along the way to drop off passengers at various locations. Although it may take longer to reach your destination, shuttle buses are an economical choice for budget-conscious travellers.
Private transfer: With a private transfer, Menorca Airport to Ciutadella is a simple and straightforward journey. This option ensures that you travel directly to your accommodation without any stops, meaning you’ll get to your destination without delay. Once your flight lands, a driver will meet you at the terminal before escorting you to a private vehicle, allowing you to unwind and enjoy a stress-free start to your holiday.
Minibus transfer: If you’re travelling with a large party, a minibus transfer from Menorca Airport to Ciutadella is an ideal choice. The larger capacity vehicle can accommodate more passengers and luggage, making them ideal for family reunions, corporate trips, or group holidays. Minibuses can be pre-booked, ensuring a hassle-free, coordinated travel experience from pickup to drop-off.
Choosing the Right Transfer
At Shuttle Direct, we understand that every traveller has different priorities when it comes to choosing a transfer service. Some are focused on keeping costs down, while others prioritise convenience. The good news is that we offer options to suit both preferences.
Cost: For those who are cost-conscious, we provide a range of economical transfer options that won’t break the bank. Shared shuttle services such as a shuttle bus are a great way to save money, offering affordable rates while still ensuring you get to your destination safely. By sharing the ride with other travellers, you can significantly reduce your travel expenses. Booking in advance can also secure lower rates, giving you more control over your budget.
Convenience: If convenience is your top priority, we have a variety of transfer options designed to make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. A taxi or a private transfer offers door-to-door service, meaning you won’t have to worry about navigating public transport. With these options, you can enjoy the luxury of a personalised service that operates on your schedule, providing the ultimate travel convenience.
About Shuttle Direct
At Shuttle Direct, we’re proud to be one of the world’s leading airport transfer service providers. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, our services cater to all your transport needs, ensuring a hassle-free journey from the airport to your accommodation, and back again. With a range of transfer options, we guarantee timely and professional service every time. Book with Shuttle Direct today and experience the convenience of our renowned services.
