Shopping
Shopping in Ciutadella is all about diversity. Whether at the twice weekly market or browsing the unique and individual little shops and boutiques tucked in and around the old quarter. Locally produced goods, especially the Menorcan 'abarcas' and costume jewellery are the best buys and local tradespeople offer a diverse range of these items. The streets around the old city walls are transformed into craft markets in the summer evenings, where local artisans sell their goods and these markets are often accompanied by street entertainment that adds to the atmosphere.
One of the busiest points in Ciutadella in the 'Mercat de Peix' fish market in the Placa de la Libertat that sells a huge variety of locally caught fish and sea food in a charming building decorated with green and white tiles. It originally dates back to 1895 and although it has been remodelled various times, it is one of the regions few remaining examples of 19th century cast iron architecture. Fresh, locally produced meat, cheese and sausages can be bought from stands in the vaulted areas around the fish market as well as fruit and vegetables grown in the island's orchards and market gardens.
Dining out
Ciutadella is home to hundreds of restaurants and eateries, so much so that diners are spoilt for choice! Waterside restaurants on the harbour serve typical Menorcan dishes in a beautiful yet informal setting. In the main town, restaurants serve everything from authentic Menorcan cuisine to modern fine dining and small family run bars serving homemade tapas are still found dotted around.
The coast
Although there is a small urban beach near the centre, Ciutadella is within easy driving distance of some of Menorca's most stunning virgin beaches including Cala Macarella on the south coast which has incredibly clear waters. Cala en Turqueta, Son Saura and many other picture-perfect coves can also be found along the south coast, all famous for their crystalline water and white sandy beaches fringed by pine woods.
Tasteful tourist resorts, such as Son Xoriguer, offering a whole range of amenities and water sports are also nearby. Boat trips run out of the Cala en Bosch marina regularly during the summer months and offer a great way of exploring the largely unspoilt south coast.
Historic attractions
Once the island's capital, Ciutadella is known for its charming medieval streets, noble avenues and gothic palaces. The old quarter with the Cathedral at its centre is a labyrinth of narrow streets occasionally opening out on to tiny squares lined with bars and stylish boutiques.
The main square, Placa des Born, is framed by handsome buildings and humming with atmosphere. The obelisk at its centre was raised to commemorate the townsfold who died trying to ward off the Turks during the Ottoman invasion of the Balearic Islands in 1558.
A couple of the city's noble homes are open to the public, including the splendid Palau Salort where you can find the room of mirrors whose walls are adorned with Louis XVI mirrors.
