How to get to Mahon

Picturesque Mahon, located on the eastern coast of the island of Menorca, welcomes travellers with one of the largest natural harbours in the world and unique architecture that has absorbed British influence. This cosy city in Spain serves as the main gateway to the island, offering tourists the chance to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a peaceful Mediterranean holiday immediately upon arrival.

You can reach Mahon in various ways: most guests arrive by plane at the local airport, although ferry crossings are also popular for those travelling by car or wishing to enjoy a sea voyage.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the island is to fly into Menorca Airport (MAH), which serves about 4 million passengers annually and connects the city with numerous European destinations. The air hub is located just a few kilometres from the centre, making arrival as comfortable as possible.

If there are no direct flights, an excellent alternative is to fly via neighbouring Palma (PMI), located approximately 142 km away. Menorca Airport is well integrated into the region's transport system, ensuring tourists have easy access to the resort.

There is no railway service directly in the city of Mahon or anywhere on the island of Menorca, so reaching here exclusively by train is not possible. The island geography makes this mode of transport irrelevant for direct routes from mainland Spain.

The nearest developed railway network is located in the city of Palma on the neighbouring island; however, to continue the journey to Mahon, travellers will still need to use a plane or maritime transport.

Since Mahon is located on an island, direct bus service from the mainland without the use of ferries is impossible. Tourists usually arrive at the port or airport and then transfer to local buses that run between the island's towns and beaches.

Within the region, the bus network is quite well developed, allowing for comfortable and budget-friendly travel to the island's capital from other settlements. The schedule usually depends on the season, becoming more frequent during the summer months.

Travelling by car to Mahon is an exciting adventure that inevitably includes a ferry crossing if you are driving from neighbouring islands. For example, the route from the city of Palma will take about 6.3 hours and cover a distance of approximately 205 km, combining driving with a sea voyage.

Having a vehicle gives you the freedom to explore the hidden corners of Menorca immediately after disembarking at the port. For those who do not plan to bring their own car, taxi services are available in the city to quickly take you to your hotel or local attractions.

When planning a trip to Mahon, it is worth considering the island specifics and the measured pace of life of the locals to ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is mild Mediterranean. In summer, bring light clothing made of natural fabrics and comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones. In the evening, a breeze may blow from the sea, so a light jacket or cardigan is useful.
2. Transport: The historic centre is best explored on foot. For trips around the island and to remote beaches (calas), renting a car or scooter is the ideal option.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but keeping some cash for small purchases at markets or for tips is always helpful.
4. Health and Safety: The city is safe for tourists and families, but standard precautions are advisable. Pharmacies are marked with a green cross; be sure to use sunscreen even in cloudy weather.
5. Communication: The official languages are Spanish and Catalan. In tourist areas, staff speak English well, but learning a few phrases in Spanish will be appreciated by the locals.
6. Local Etiquette: Take note of the siesta time (usually from 14:00 to 17:00), when many shops close. Dinner here is late — restaurants fill up with people after 21:00.
7. What to Avoid: Do not try to visit all the beaches in one day — the roads can be narrow and winding. Also, avoid noisy behaviour in residential areas during siesta hours.
8. Additional Tip: Be sure to try the local gin and 'Mahon' cheese — these are the gastronomic trademarks of the city, which also make for excellent souvenirs.

By following these simple recommendations, you will be able to enjoy the authentic atmosphere of Menorca and avoid minor inconveniences during your journey.