Ciutadella

Ciutadella is one of two major cities on the island of Menorca. The original capital city, it retains much of the medieval, gothic architecture constructed prior to the capital's move to the other city on the island, Maó, and is popular with those looking to see an authentic Spanish, Mediterranean town on their visit to Menorca.

Understand
Ciutadella (officially known as Ciutadella de Menorca) is the smaller of the two cities on Menorca. The Romans, Vandals and the Byzantine Empire at one point laid claim to it, and developed the settlement. As a result, it was the original capital city, and lost this status to Mahón during the island's time as a British dependency in the early 18th century. Despite no longer being the capital of the island, it did remain the religious capital as the Bishop refused to move during the British occupation, and stayed in the Cathedral Basilica of Ciutadella de Menorca.

By bus
Buses are available from every town and most resorts across the Island. There are three major bus companies on the island, but only two run into Ciutadella. Buses are relatively frequent, clean, and timely: drivers are friendly, and the island has no major traffic problems aside from occasional business on the main road. The remoteness of the various towns and cities on the island means that the buses are an efficient way to get around, and there is often few stops between your destination and your start point. The two bus companies that operate into Ciutadella are: It is worth checking these websites for the timetables and stop locations for these companies. Bus stops across the island are yellow, with a red top, and are easily distinguishable. Every resort has several. If approaching from Maó, then there are two options from the Bus Station there. Both are operated by TMSA and cost €5.10 per passenger. The 01 stops in some of the major towns between Maó and Ciutadella, and so takes an hour to make the journey. This is an idyllic bus route that enables a glimpse of some true Mediterranean towns (Alaior and Es Mercadal). The 14 is an express service, that takes 45 minutes: it stays on the ME-1, and provides a more direct journey.
 * Transportes Menorca (TMSA), who run buses throughout the island. Their buses leave from Placa de Menorca in Ciutadella.
 * Torres run buses from Ciutadella to locations and resorts on the west coast. Their buses leave from the main plaza (Placa des Pins) in Ciutadella.

By car
Menorca's road system is fairly basic and so is easy to understand. From anywhere in the island, follow signs for the ME-1, the main road connecting the two cities. From the ME-1, head west, following signs for Ciutadella. This is the only major road across the island, and so can be very busy at times. Once arriving in Ciutadella, there is widely available on street parking, but this is typically taken by locals. There are several large areas to park your car, and these are inexpensive:

By foot
The city is very walkable and nearly everywhere is accessible by foot. Walking maps are available from most car parking areas, and street maps are prominently displayed on signage in areas of public interest. Ciutadella is a tourist town, too - it's easy to ask a local if you get lost; most can speak a reasonable degree of English as well as the native Spanish.

By bike
The city, being almost completely flat and with wide avenues, is easily navigated by bike. Its straightforward street layout and parks are easy to navigate, but the 'old town' immediately surrounding the Cathedral might be more difficult to explore by bike, as its streets are smaller and If you arrive by Ferry from mainland Spain, you can bring yours with you for a small fee, or there are bicycle rental stores throughout the city.



By bus
The city is so small you might not need to use buses. But if you're looking to explore further afield, and investigate some of the magnificent beaches or heritage surrounding the city, Buses are one of the easiest ways to get around. If you're looking to explore around Ciutadella, then you'll primarily be using buses operated by Torres: Their buses depart from, and are prompt, regular and clean, with friendly drivers that are happy to help. Introducing yourself and your destination in the local Catalan language will get a smile, but most understand mainstream Spanish and English.
 * Route 60: This route takes a circular path around the outskirts of the city. It enables a great view of authentic Mediterranean life, and also stops by the medical centre, if that is needed.
 * Route 61: This route heads out to Cala en Blaines and Los Delfines. There are some great beaches here (see #Do) as well as a Waterpark. A popular British tourist resort.
 * Route 62: This bus route heads to a gorgeous bay with high cliffs. It's out of the way and so is quiet, and is a great place to explore.

Do

 * Horseback riding along the Cami de Cavalls: From the city it is interesting to hire one of these relaxing group horseback rides along some part of the "Cami de Cavalls" or Camino de Caballos, an old road that surrounds the entire island.
 * Bathing on Algaiarens beach: This nearby beach is one of the most beautiful on the island.

Festivals

 * Summer Music Festival: Every year this excellent Festival de Música d'Estiu is held in Ciutadella.
 * Processó des Tres Tocs. On January 17th every year: procession in memory of the capture of the city by King Alfonso III.
 * Festes de Sant Joan. Known throughout Spain equestrian games on St. John's Day (June 24th).

Buy

 * Fish and meat market, at the Plaça de la Llibertat. Here you can get different types of the local specialty, the Menorcan queso (cheese).