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Menorca is a stunningly beautiful, small island that sits peacefully in the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. It is one of the four Balearic Islands, located in the western region of the sea and governed by Spain. Whether you are looking for a relaxing experience on the island's secluded beaches or an adventurous car ride, Menorca is a great destination to consider. The driving experience in Menorca is a peaceful combination of cultural discovery and the joy of open roads. Rent a car at the Menorca airport to explore its breathtaking landscapes, beautiful villages, and friendly beaches at your own pace.
Basics of Menorca Driving
● Car hire is popular in Menorca for exploring remote areas and hidden gems.
● It's crucial to know the Spanish driving rules and road signs when driving in Menorca.
● Speed limits vary: 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h outside towns, and 120 km/h on highways.
● Seat belts are mandatory for drivers and passengers.
● In Menorca, you drive on the right-hand side of the road (right-hand traffic, RHT), with the steering wheel on the left side of the vehicle.
● Children under 12 must use car seats in the backseats.
● Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited in Menorca.
● Always use blinkers or indicators for turns and lane changes. Right turns on red lights are not allowed in Spain.
● Be prepared to provide required documents if stopped by law enforcement officials.
● Menorca has two major towns, Mahon and Ciutadella, about 45 minutes apart by car.
● Car rental in Menorca is a convenient option for exploring the island.
Roads in Menorca
As Menorca falls under the category of protected biosphere region, there are limited main roads and highways. However, the roads and streets are impeccably maintained, and all the primary roads link the two largest towns, Mahon and Ciutadella—the biggest of them being ME1.
As you drive to less popular towns in the interior, the roads become narrower until only two cars can fit side by side. You can rent a scooter from your Menorca car hire company to travel through these smaller roads.
Menorca Traffic
The traffic on the island is pretty low. In fact, the population of Menorca is roughly around 1 lac people.
During the tourist season in July and August, there is an increase in road traffic due to international car hires from Menorca airport. The local markets in Mahon also open for sales around this time, which can significantly increase footfall and car rentals.
Car Rental and Parking
Menorca provides ample parking spaces. Nevertheless, if you come across blue painted lines on the walls or street corners, it indicates that the area is a paid parking zone. To avoid penalties, purchase your ticket from the parking toll machine situated at a short distance from the spot.
Do You Rent a Car at Menorca Airport?
For a pleasant driving experience on the Island, rent a car at Menorca airport.
If you plan on using the rented car for the whole duration of your stay, we say rent at the airport. Our drivers will deliver the key and the necessary rental agreements to you. You can return the car at our office in Calan Porter or request a pickup from your location.
Having a car hire at your disposal allows you to easily travel anywhere on the island in less than an hour, unlike relying on public transportation, which can be time-consuming.
However, when it comes to driving in the historic towns of Mahon and Ciutadella, the roads are narrower, and traffic can get congested. Therefore, if you plan on spending a lot of time in these areas, choosing a smaller rental car that can easily navigate the tighter spaces would be wise.
Book your car ahead for peak season on our website or with an agent over the phone. The best time for a peaceful vacation in Menorca is winter when the beaches are empty from November to December.
If you need to rent an automatic car in Menorca, it must be booked in advance. However, manual cars can be booked on the spot at Binicars. For more details on car rental services, read our terms and conditions .
If you're a first-time visitor to the Balearic Islands and planning to rent a car in Menorca, it's important to familiarise yourself with Spain's driving rules. Despite being an autonomous community of Spain, Menorca, as well as the other islands in the Balearics - Mallorca, Ibiza, and Formentera - must follow Spanish rules and regulations.
Many tourists think of car hire from Menorca airport when they visit the Island. Since Menorca is not densely populated, car rental makes more sense. By renting a car, you can cover the remotest areas and villages and visit all the hidden gems you might otherwise miss.
In this blog, we have shared a few useful tips on safe driving in Menorca for new visitors and beginners.
Tip for Driving through Car Rental in Menorca
Driving in Spain is a beautiful and relaxed experience, but the rules vary from other countries and provinces. Being familiar with Spanish road signs, markings, and standard driving rules is essential. For instance, slow down when you see a yield sign and let other cars go first.
Let us explain the basics of car driving in Menorca:
- Speed Limit: The speed limit varies based on urban, non-urban, and highways. The standard speed limit is 50km/h in towns and 90km/h outside the city unless otherwise indicated. On highways, the speed limit is 120km/h. However, the limit drastically reduces to 30km/h in tunnels and 70km/h on bridges.
- Seat Belt: Wearing a seat belt is mandatory for the driver and the passengers.
- LHT vs RHT: In Menorca, as in the rest of Spain, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. This means the car’s steering wheel is on the left side of the vehicle. It is referred to as right-hand traffic (RHT). While this is common in many countries, like Japan, the USA, Mexico, Canada, etc., certain regions like India and the UK follow the left-hand traffic (LHT) norm. So, if you are used to following the LHT norm, it might take a few days to adjust to the RHT norm. Nevertheless, be cautious and stay safe on the road.
- Children in the Car: Children under 12 must be seated in the backseats and use a car seat to ensure safety. If you are travelling with children, you can request a car seat from the car hire at Mahon airport.
- Drinking and Driving: Tourists are not allowed to drink and drive in Menorca, as you cannot do in other Balearic Islands. The legal limit for blood alcohol is pretty low in Spain (about 0.05% blood alcohol concentration). Driving under the influence of alcohol can lead to serious punishments, including for tourists, resulting in heavy fines, license suspension, and even jail.
- Usage of Blinkers: Always use your blinkers or indicators when making turns or changing lanes. It's essential to note that right turns on red lights are prohibited anywhere in Spain, so be sure to use your blinker when turning right. If you have parked at a spot longer than expected, use your blinkers to alert other nearby drivers.
- Police Checks: Although it is rare for law enforcement officials to conduct routine checks on tourists, it is advisable to follow traffic regulations and refrain from excessive speeding. If you happen to be pulled over by the police, it is recommended that you provide the documents given by the Car rental in Menorca and your driver's license.
- Driving Through the Island: Menorca is a charming little island with a low population. Unlike the energetic Ibiza or Mallorca, it appeals to travellers who are looking for a quieter, more authentic Mediterranean experience with stunning natural beauty and delicious cuisine. The two largest towns on the island are Mahon (also known as Mao) and Ciutadella, which are situated at opposite ends. Despite this distance, it only takes about 45 minutes to drive from Mahon to Ciutadella. You can conveniently rent a car at Mahon airport from Binicars.
While manual cars can be booked on the spot at Binicars, if you need to rent an automatic car in Menorca, you must book in advance. For more details on different rental cars, contact our office agents.
We all love long road trips. They are a blast, especially when you're out there with your friends exploring Menorca! Car hire companies are the way to go if you don't have your own wheels.
Menorca has well-connected highway networks that allow travelers to explore it comfortably on their own. ME-1 is the main highway that encircles this Balearic island, providing access to all the towns, beaches, and other tourist spots.
However, since Menorca is an Island, one cannot directly drive from mainland Spain till there. You have two options – board a ferry with your car from Barcelona, Mallorca, or Valencia or take a connecting flight to the capital city, Mahon and rent a car at the airport. Car rental in Menorca is the most common, affordable, and convenient way for a fantastic time on the island.
Nevertheless, as relaxing and refreshing as long drives on the highway can be, you must be more prepared than you think to have a safe and smooth drive to your destination.
Here are some valuable tips for long drives on highways.
Sleep Well for Two Consecutive Nights Before
Long drives can be exhausting. And fatigue is one of the common causes of road accidents. If you are the only person driving, you must have a clear, fresh, and energized mind. To not tire yourself out during the drive, you must sleep at least seven hours for two consecutive nights before the vacation starts. Do not drive after a heavy afternoon meal, as it can make you drowsy.
Get Your Car Checked Before Your Trip
It's essential to take your vehicle to an authorized service center where experienced technicians can carefully inspect every aspect. They'll evaluate tire pressure, wheel alignment, engine performance, AC vents, interior condition, brake functionality, and the steering wheel. With this thorough inspection, you can confidently hit the road and enjoy a worry-free drive.
You can skip this step altogether by booking a car hire in Menorca. Reputable car rental agencies in Menorca, such as Binicars’, thoroughly assess their vehicles before each pickup for the customers' safety. Besides, in accordance with the rules, all rental cars and drivers are covered by third-party liability insurance, providing an extra layer of security.
Follow The Speed Limit
During vacations, we sometimes get carried away by the spirit of it and end up speeding and overtaking on the roads. However, this behavior can lead to severe casualties, especially on highways. Despite the wider roads and lighter traffic typically found on highways, it's crucial to maintain the posted speed limits displayed on roadside signs.
By maintaining the speed limit, not only do you ensure your safety, but you also contribute to the well-being of fellow drivers. It's important not to succumb to the temptation of matching the pace of an over-speeding vehicle ahead of you.
A prudent approach to determining your speed is carefully assessing road and weather conditions. It's wise to refrain from speeding on wet, foggy, or densely packed roads and during nighttime driving. Additionally, maintaining a safe following distance between cars is imperative for a secure and enjoyable journey.
Keep Chatting with Your Passenger-Friend
A friend in the car will help you stay focused and energized during the long drive. Make sure your passenger-friend is actually a friend with whom you can have good conversations. They can also help you with directions, remind you to take it slow or fast whenever needed, and even take the wheels when you feel fatigued.
Take Frequent Breaks and Wear a Seat Belt
If social media reels or memes are any proof, you should know the dangers of not wearing a seatbelt. All passengers in the car should wear seat belts, even if the road is empty and the highway is broad. Accidents come uninvited, and one must be extra careful.
That said, drivers must take a break after two hours of driving at a stretch. Never try to be superhuman and think you can reach your destination in one go. Your leg muscles can cramp up if they don’t stretch. Take breaks at gas stations, local cafés, or even roadside rest areas sponsored by the state, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Spain before continuing to drive.
Keep Your GPS Location On
Always use a GPS tracker when using your car rental in Menorca. A GPS-enabled device has multiple benefits. Aside from helping your friends and family locate you in case of an emergency, GPS offers the most efficient, safest, and shortest routes to your destination, cutting costs and maximizing resources. GPS devices also allow you to detect speed limit violations, learn about delays and roadblocks, and help you create a full report of your travel time and vehicle usage.
Don’t Forget Car Hire Insurance
BiniCars strongly recommends opting for comprehensive car rental insurance, as it offers vital protection against fines and unforeseen costs, particularly for family vacations lasting a week or more.
Booking through an online car and scooter rental broker site allows pre-booking, comparison of coverage and costs, and options for third-party limited liability, collision damage waiver, theft protection, and personal accident cover.
However, while booking via brokers is convenient, they may not assist in roadside emergencies. Direct booking through a car hire company often leads to better prices, clearer communication, and direct access to Menorca's car hire services.
Coverage options encompass Third-Party Liability Insurance, including Loss Damage Waiver and Theft Protection, alongside Personal Accident, Tire, Windshield, and Roadside Protection.
Essential documents are a valid driving license, passport, and national ID card, with the required equipment in the rented car for a hassle-free experience.
Confirm territorial rights and restrictions with the rental company to avoid insurance complications when traveling beyond designated areas.
Long drives with your loved ones in Menorca promise boundless fun and thrilling adventures. However, driving demands unwavering focus, as it can be mentally taxing despite being less physically draining. Adhering to traffic regulations, respecting the guidelines of your chosen car rental agency, and maintaining constant attention on the road is paramount.
Though these tips may appear trivial, neglecting them could potentially lead to significant mishaps. For convenient car hire at Mahon airport, simply explore our website or contact us here for seamless arrangements.
When you think of a holiday in Menorca, the second largest Balearic Island by the western Mediterranean Sea, and decide to rent a car there, you probably don’t think about car rental insurance. However, when hiring a car in the Balearic Islands, it is generally advisable to have insurance coverage as it will definitely make your holiday less worrisome and protect you from emergencies.
When you rent a car in Menorca, the rental company typically includes basic insurance coverage as part of the package. However, it may be uncertain whether this coverage will suffice for your trip, especially in an unfamiliar location. You might be unsure about the available insurance packages, the booking process, and the required documents. In this blog, we will address these concerns and provide comprehensive information about Menorca’s car hire insurance.
Binicars strongly advises booking comprehensive insurance for your car hire in Menorca, as it offers protection against almost every situation that could result in fines or additional expenses. This becomes particularly crucial if you are traveling with your family and planning a vacation lasting a week or more.
Things to Consider When You Rent a Car in Menorca
- Will you book your car online
- What are the documents required to hire a car in Menorca
- Coverage options for rental cars in Menorca
Renting a Car through an Online Portal
An online car and scooter rental broker in Menorca will allow you to book a car in advance and compare different coverages and vehicle types, insurance features, and insurance costs from various car hire companies.
Binicars provide unlimited third-party liability and other types of insurance that cover collision damage waiver (CDW), theft protection, third-party liability insurance, and personal accident cover.
Third-party liability insurance will protect you from any liability caused by death, injury, or property damage beyond your car and scooter rental in Menorca.
Booking through a car rental broker is often the most effective way to secure the best deal. However, it's essential to be aware that car rental brokers may be unable to assist you in roadside emergencies, such as a car breakdown. In such situations, you will need to contact the rental company directly. The long process could be an inconvenience.
Also, remember that when booking through a car rental broker, they typically take a commission from the rental price. To ensure you get the best deal, it's a good idea to cross-check the price on our official website or contact us directly for potential discounts and offers. Like us, many car rental companies often match or offer better prices when you book directly with them. By eliminating the middleman, you can also experience clearer communication and have a direct line to Menorca’s car hire company for any inquiries or special arrangements you may need.
What Kind of Coverage Options Do We Have for Car Hire in Menorca
The common types of insurance coverage options you have for rental cars in Spain and the Balearic Islands include:
Third-Party Liability Insurance (TI), Inclusive of Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) and Theft Protection (TP):
This covers vehicle damage and theft, and property damage that belongs to a third party, including personal possessions.
This also covers third-party injury and accidents, including medical costs.
In addition, the insurance will also cover litigation costs and disbursements.
However, the deductible will depend on the vehicle’s make and model. TI coverage is mandatory and is included in your package.
Personal Accident, Tire, Windshield Protection, and Roadside Protection:
These additional coverages can be added to your package when renting a car through Binicars. With personal accident coverage, you will get monetary compensation in case of medical costs arising from an accident, injury, or death.
Roadside protection will ensure that Binicars bear the costs of any roadside emergencies, such as breakdown, repair, and service costs.
Since windshields and tires are not covered in the Loss Damage Waiver coverage, Tire and Windshield protection could be a useful option.
Documents Needed for Car Hire in Menorca, Spain
These three certificates are essential to provide to rent a car in Menorca. Failure to furnish the documents may result in being denied permission to drive.
- A valid driving license
- Passport
- National ID card
All cars in Menorca must have the following equipment and documents inside the vehicle:
- Valid vehicle insurance certificate
- Vehicle original registration document
- Two warning triangles
- Headlamp beam defectors
- Reflective jackets for anyone who exits the vehicle on the main road.
These documents and equipment on hand will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free car rental experience in Menorca. If the hired car doesn’t include the equipment listed, ask the car rental company to provide them.
What is Not Included in Third-Party Liability Insurance
Once you contact your car hire in Menorca, you must inquire about your rental's territorial rights and restrictions. Understanding these limitations is essential, as traveling outside certain designated areas could potentially invalidate your rental car insurance. Therefore, seek detailed information from the rental company to ensure compliance and avoid complications during your trip.
So, Is Insurance Required for Car Hire in Menorca
Third-party liability insurance is mandatory for car rentals and therefore is included in all our car hire rates, including online booking. CDW, Excess Insurance, and Theft Protection aren’t compulsory. So, you can either skip them or check with your travel and credit card companies, as some major credit cards and travel companies cover these insurance options for their customers.
With our comprehensive protection, you are covered for the most common causes of emergencies, including breakdowns, which makes us a cheap car hire in Menorca. However, there are different ways to save money on car rental if you choose another service provider. For instance, book your rental in advance to have a wide choice of vehicles and get the best discounts and offers. And before returning your vehicle, fill your fuel tank to avoid extra refueling charges.
Hope this helps. Enjoy your time in Menorca!
Our previous blog covered the weather in Menorca from January to May. If you plan to visit this beautiful Spanish Island in those months, check our blog 'Rent a Car at Menorca Airport to Enjoy its Beautiful Weather – Part One.' Read on to learn about the weather in Menorca from June to December.
If you're planning a trip to this Mediterranean Island in the winter months, it's good to know what to expect weather-wise. In January, temperatures during the day usually range from 11 to 15 degrees Celsius, which can go down to around 8 degrees Celsius at night. There might be occasional showers in February, but you can expect about 10 hours of sunshine daily. By March, things start to warm up a bit, with afternoon temperatures reaching around 14 degrees Celsius. April is even nicer, with an average daytime temperature of around 20 degrees Celsius. By May, you can look forward to some truly delightful weather, with temperatures reaching 22 degrees Celsius.
June Weather in Menorca
June offers the best weather conditions for tourists planning a summer holiday in Menorca. With 15 hours of sunshine and minimal rainfall, the temperature hovers around the upper 20s, making it comfortable to enjoy the beach and soak up the sun.
The gentle breeze adds to the relaxing atmosphere, while the occasional quick shower keeps the humidity in check. The evenings are pleasant, with an average temperature of 16 degrees Celsius, allowing for a cozy and romantic night.
June is an excellent month to explore Menorca's quieter, less crowded beaches and enjoy the fantastic weather with car hire Menorca services without being overwhelmed by tourists.
July Weather in Menorca
Are you a water baby? Like water sports like snorkelling, scuba diving, and paddling? You'll love July in Menorca.
July is the driest month in Menorca! And we're talking just 7mm of rainfall. It gets pretty hot as the month goes on, but at least there's a nice sea breeze to cool things down a bit. And speaking of the sea, it's a perfect 24 degrees Celsius for snorkelling and scuba diving adventures. Just make sure you bring plenty of sunscreens because the UV levels are no joke.
At night, it doesn't cool down much, so consider air conditioning if you're sensitive to the heat. But during the day, you can soak up a generous 14 hours of sunshine! And if you're looking for a relaxing day on the beach, or maybe a bit of water activities and excitement with your beau, you can't beat the post-lunch warm breeze.
August Weather in Menorca
Menorca in August is a paradise for those who love basking in the sun. You can enjoy 13 hours of sunshine, with occasional brief showers and refreshing breezes. It's the warmest time of the year, and the sea temperature of 26 degrees is perfect for swimming and other water activities.
You can also go hiking and trekking during the day. Explore Menorca's finest street food and handicrafts at the commercial market in Mahon City. Take advantage of the numerous options for cheap car hire in Menorca to freely explore its many charming villages and towns.
The evenings are also pleasant, ideal for dining on restaurant terraces without a jacket. The showers don't last long, so there's no need to carry umbrellas or raincoats. With an average of only 23mm of rain and light breezes, August offers everything you could ask for!
September Weather in Menorca
If you ask us, we’d say September it is! This month is the best time to visit Menorca! The weather is warm and pleasant, and the temperature is just around 26 degrees Celsius during the day, perfect for strolling, cycling, or hiking.
While there may be the occasional thunderstorm, the refreshing breeze makes it all worthwhile. The nights are perfect for honeymooners and the romantics, and the sea remains warm for all your swimming, snorkelling, and diving adventures. With 12 hours of daylight, you have plenty of time to soak up the sun and achieve that perfect tan.
Remember to be careful of the high UV levels, even with the refreshing weather. It's also worth noting that rainfall increases to around 70mm, so that you might experience a few wet days, but the warmth will soon dry you off. All in all, September in Menorca is a beautiful time to be there and embrace the sunny and lovely vibes.
Binicars also offers scooter rentals in Menorca for you to have a delightful ride with your friends while exploring the island.
October Weather in Menorca
As we approach autumn, the evenings in Menorca start to get a tad bit chilly, but you’ll be fine if you are used to tropical climatic conditions! During the day, the weather is still mild and comfortable, with temperatures hovering around the low 20s. On average, the temperature stays around 23 degrees Celsius.
Although October does bring a higher chance of heavy rain and storms that can last for a day, many tourists still flock to the island to soak up the remaining sunshine. Accommodation and ticket fares are the cheapest now in Menorca. Car hire companies, including us, also run offers on rental packages to attract guests.
Even though the low season is approaching, you can still enjoy warm and pleasant days in October. For a budget-friendly trip, October will be a perfect match.
November and December Weather in Menorca
November is a bit cooler than usual. You can expect daytime temperatures to reach around 18 degrees Celsius, with the evenings dropping to about 12 degrees. It's also pretty rainy this time of year. On the brighter side, if you're a cycling fan, you'll be happy that the sea temperature stays mild at around 20 degrees, so it's still a great time to hit the roads on your bike. Even though most of the resorts and hotels are closed for the season, Ciutadella and Mahon will still be bustling with activity.
As December approaches, the weather shifts into a winter cycle. The average temperature is around 15 degrees Celsius during the day and 12 degrees Celsius at night. The seawater temperature is refreshing at 17 degrees Celsius. You can experience up to 9 hours of sunshine daily, giving you the perfect opportunity to rent a car in Menorca and explore its picturesque landscape.
Which is the Best Company for Car Hire in Menorca
When looking for cheap car hire in Menorca, it's important to compare rental companies and consider a few key factors. Start by choosing a provider located at Mahon airport for convenience. Rates may vary with seasons, so find a company with a fair pricing policy. Binicars is a traveler-friendly option with a range of vehicles. We offer the best value for services offered, excellent return and cancellation policies, good insurance, clear documentation, and online booking.
For more information and better deals, connect with customer care here .