Nestled along the southeast coast of Menorca, the picturesque port city of Mahn stretches impressively for eight miles, serving as the vibrant heart of the region. This charming destination is complemented by the historic Old Town that dramatically overlooks the harbor from a rocky outcrop. While many travelers often gravitate towards more popular destinations in Spain, Mahn offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and local delights that is truly worth discovering.

The city of Mahn has a rich and tumultuous past that is often overlooked. Over the centuries, it has been a focal point of various conflicts, with a succession of conquering powers including the Moors, Ottomans, and French vying for control of its natural harbor, which is recognized as the second largest in the world. However, it was during the British rule from the early 18th to the early 19th century that Mahn experienced its most significant transformation. The British influence is still palpable today, evident in the numerous military structures that line the waterfront and are scattered across nearby islands.

Exploring the Old Town of Mahn is like stepping into a maze of narrow streets that connect many of the city's key attractions. A must-visit is the Museu de Menorca, which occupies a former monastery and offers a captivating insight into the island's diverse history. Visitors to the museum can admire contemporary sculptures nestled within the serene cloister, followed by a stroll through eight informative galleries. Each gallery is dedicated to a different era, ranging from the prehistoric Talaiotic period to the significant epochs of British governance, illuminating the rich tapestry of history that has shaped Mahn into what it is today.

At the heart of the Old Town lies the lively Plaza de Espaa, which serves as a bustling marketplace known as Mercat sa Plaa. This vibrant space is lined with cafes and food stalls that are housed within the charming cloisters of a former convent. Here, both tourists and locals come together to savor Mahn's famed cheese, renowned for its firm and buttery texture, which is complemented by a rich, slightly salty flavor that deepens with age. Visitors can sample various types of cheese, including semi-curado, curado, and viejo, each aged for two, five, or ten months, respectively. While exploring the plaza, dont miss trying the local delicacy coca bamba, a plain cake often served with rich hot chocolate at the beloved Sucreria Francesa caf. Alternatively, indulge in hearty local dishes like oliaigua, a comforting vegetable soup, or savor sobrasada, a deliciously spicy spreadable sausage at El Trueno, a well-loved tapas bar.

For those with a sweet tooth, Pastelera Sandra is an essential stop. This bakery has been delighting customers with traditional Menorcan pastries and tarts since 1972. Patrons can enjoy a formatjada, a savory pastry stuffed with pork and sobrasada, or treat themselves to fla, a delightful pastry encasing a tangy cheese souffl. Another popular spot is Es Llonguet Forn Artes, known for its commitment to quality and accommodating hoursstaying open from 2 to 4 PM when most businesses shut down. For dinner, Ses Forquilles offers a creative spin on traditional tapas, featuring innovative dishes like fricand, a simmered beef specialty served in a bao bun, or oysters enhanced with wakame and lime. In addition, the Mercat de Peix stands out for delivering the finest pintxos, a Basque-style tapas typically served on slices of baguette.

Menorca also has a storied tradition of shoemaking, having significantly impacted the global shoe industry throughout the 20th century. Today, high-end local brands such as Pons Quintana and Pretty Ballerinas continue to thrive, attracting the attention of celebrities like Kate Moss and Kate Middleton. Both brands have shops located in Mahn, although many visitors prefer the island's classic avarca sandalsflat, peep-toed slingbacks sold at more budget-friendly stores throughout the city. For unique souvenirs, Posidnia offers an exquisite array of earrings, bracelets, and pendants inspired by Menorca's breathtaking natural landscapes.

While the Old Town represents only half of what Mahn has to offer, the city is also home to a stunning waterfront. From the main plazas, winding stairs lead down to the harbor where visitors can discover the Xoriguer distillery. This distillery claims to produce the oldest gin in the Mediterranean, providing complimentary tastings and bookable tours, making it a delightful experience for gin enthusiasts. Additionally, an hour-long boat ride around the harbor is a fantastic way to soak in the stunning coastal scenery. Art lovers should not miss the Hauser & Wirth gallery, located on Illa del Rei, which is an enticing destination for modern art enthusiasts.

Just a short ten-minute drive from the heart of Mahn lies the charming neighborhood of Es Castell, originally established as a British military base. This waterfront area is lined with a variety of fish restaurants and tapas bars, making it an idyllic location for enjoying a leisurely lunch under the sun. Diners can opt for upscale dining at Sa Punta or relish freshly caught fish and seafood at Trbol, both of which offer stunning views of the harbor.

No visit to a Balearic island would be complete without soaking up the sun at the beach. The idyllic sandy stretch located in the village of Es Grau is just a ten-minute drive from Mahn's center. This hidden gem is nestled within the Parc Natural de s'Albufera des Grau, which spans over 19 square miles of serene wetlands and olive groves. To conclude your day, indulge in sunset drinks at Cafe Bar Es Moll, conveniently located right beside the water, providing the perfect end to a day filled with exploration.