How to Get from Mallorca to Menorca

The Balearic Islands of Mallorca and Menorca sit next to each other in the Balearic Sea, just off the coast of the cities of Barcelona and Valencia. The distance between the two islands is approximately 42 miles (69 km) and the quickest way to get from one to the other is by plane.
 
Taking one of the several daily ferries from Mallorca’s coastal town of Alcudia to Ciutadella, located on the western side of Menorca, would be the second fastest option. There are regular departures between the two cities, with travel times ranging from an hour and 15 minutes to just under two hours.
 
The slowest mode of travel would be to take the ferry from Mallorca’s capital city, Palma, to Menorca’s capital, Maó (also known as Mahón.) The trip takes approximately six hours, and the ferry does not run every day.
 
When visiting Mallorca, this five-day tour takes you to historic sites such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma and the Royal Palace of La Almundaina, as well as a sailing tour of the island. You could also consider this 12-day tour, which combines the city of Barcelona with visits to both Mallorca and Menorca. Enjoy a self-guided tour of Barcelona and a wine tour in Montserrat, horseback riding in Menorca, and a visit to Mallorca’s Traumuntana Mountains.

By Plane

Duration: 40 minutes
 
It’s an easy 40-minute flight between the cities of Palma and Maó, with several daily departures taking you from one island to the other. The Palma airport is located about 7 miles (12 km) from the city center, a quick taxi ride that takes about 20 minutes.

Upon your arrival at the Menorca airport in Maó, you can take another taxi into the city, which is only 3 miles (5 km) from the airport. You’ll then have the option of staying in Maó and checking out some of the sights there, or continuing your journey and exploring other parts of the island. Maó is home to the Mola Fortress, which was built in 1875 under the commission of Queen Elizabeth II, as well as the Menorca Zoological park, which is located just outside the city and has both exotic animals and those native to the area.

By Ferry from Alcudia

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes - 1 hour 45 minutes
 
The popular resort town of Alcudia is located on the northeast end of Mallorca, about 36 miles (59 km) from the capital city of Palma. Alcudia’s ferry terminal provides daily service from there to the town of Ciutadella, located on the western coast of Menorca.

Travel time is dependent on boat speed, seasons and weather, and takes anywhere from an hour and 15 minutes to almost two hours. You can book the ferry online or at the terminal, although booking in advance is usually recommended. Most of the ferries allow both foot passengers and travelers with cars, and have food for purchase on board.
 

By Ferry from Palma

Duration: 5 - 6 hours
 
If you’re staying in Palma and really want to ferry over to Maó, you can do so via a weekly ferry that runs between the two ports. There is only one departure time and the ferry does not run every day, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

The port of Palma is just under three miles (4.6 km) from the city center, which is about a 10-minute drive. The ferry takes both foot passengers and those with cars, and does offer food for purchase.