Ibiza Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Ibiza, with information on places to visit, things to do, where to stay, transportation options, and more.


Ibiza, one of the Balearic Islands in Spain, is a world-renowned destination for party-goers, sun-seekers, and beach-lovers alike. However, there’s so much more to this island than just its infamous nightlife scene. From its beautiful coastlines and crystal-clear waters to its cultural landmarks and natural wonders, Ibiza has something to offer every type of traveler. In this comprehensive travel guide to Ibiza, we will cover everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to this stunning island paradise.

Introduction to Ibiza

Ibiza is a picturesque island known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and laid-back, bohemian vibe. Located in the Mediterranean sea, this Spanish island boasts a rich history and culture, with influences from the Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors. Today, Ibiza is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year with its beautiful scenery, vibrant nightlife, and unique social scene.

List of Places to Visit in Ibiza

There are a plethora of places to visit on this stunning Mediterranean island. Whether you’re looking to soak up some sun on the beach, explore Ibiza’s cultural heritage, or hike through the beautiful natural landscape, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit in Ibiza.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dalt Vila: This UNESCO Heritage Site is the old town of Ibiza City and boasts beautifully preserved architecture and walls that are well worth exploring.
  • Necropolis del Puig des Molins: This historic site, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is considered to be the largest and best-preserved ancient cemetery complex of the western Mediterranean.
  • Museu d’Art Contemporani d’Eivissa (Ibiza Museum of Contemporary Art): This museum located in the old town is dedicated to contemporary art and gives visitors a view of the work of artists from the Balearic Islands and elsewhere while also affording stunning views of the city.

Natural Attractions of Ibiza: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cala Salada and Cala Saladeta: Considered to be the most beautiful beaches on the island, these coves have crystal-clear waters and idyllic surroundings. The beaches are surrounded by greenery and are perfect for swimming, snorkeling or just enjoying the ambiance.
  • Es Vedra: This enigmatic rock formation legends say is the end of the sunken city of Atlantis. Visitors enjoy the stunning natural surroundings and marvelous sea views as they watch the sunset, locals believe this is a spiritual and magnetic location.
  • Can Marça Caves: Located in the north of the island, these caves take visitors on an underground tour through the islands rich mineral history and the role it played in past economic development.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ibiza

Ibiza is home to some truly stunning natural scenery, best experienced by taking up walking, cycling or hiking. There are numerous trails that showcase the islands verdant meadows, rolling hills, and beautiful coastal scenery. Here are some of the best trails to hike/bike while in Ibiza:

  • Sa Talaia: This trail is a must for hiking enthusiasts and features a steep climb with impressive views atop Ibiza’s highest mountain.
  • Cala Martina to Punta Arabi: This fairly easy hike winds through various Balearic vegetation while affording extensive views of the coast and sea.
  • Formentera to Ibiza: This route is a popular cycling event with a distance of 52km, it takes bikers through the islands of Formentera and Ibiza while enjoying bucolic landscapes and Mediterranean vistas.

Best Things to Do in Ibiza: Activities and Tours

There is a multitude of activities available on this stunning island paradise, with something to suit every taste. From soaking up the sun on the beach to exploring the abundant nightlife and everything in between, there’s never a dull moment in Ibiza. Here are some of the best things to do in Ibiza.

  • Boat Trips: An ideal way to explore the island from a different vantage point, take a boat trip to one of the numerous small coves and beaches.
  • Scuba Diving: For those with a taste for adventure, there’s no better place to go diving. The clear waters help divers to explore the islands wealth of marine flora and fauna.
  • Nightlife: From classy cocktails in rooftop bars to impromptu beach parties, the island is famous for having a vibrant and lively nightlife scene, take advantage of everything on offer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ibiza

To make the most of your trip to Ibiza, having a comprehensive, week-long itinerary is a must. Here’s a suggested itinerary for spending one week in Ibiza:

Day 1: Arrive in Ibiza, check-in to your hotel or hostel and relax for the day Day 2: Explore Ibiza town and dine in one of the many local establishments Day 3: Take a boat trip around Ibiza’s stunning coastline in the morning and attend a summer beach party in the evening Day 4: Rent a car and visit the Es Vedra rock formation, Cala Salada and Cala Saladeta Day 5: Visit the old town of San Antonio and enjoy one of the amazing sunsets Day 6: Take a hike through the natural reserve of Santa Eulalia or visit the Formentera island and take a cycling tour through the island Day 7: Enjoy your final day in Ibiza at the markets and small coves throughout the island

Food and Drink Scene of Ibiza

The food and drink scene of Ibiza is a true melting pot of flavors, colors and aromas. From seafood to traditional Spanish dishes, energy drinks to refreshing cocktails, the island has something for everyone to indulge in.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bullit de Peix: This delicious seafood stew is cooked using local ingredients and is a must-try while in Ibiza
  • Sobrasada: This spicy sausages traditional to the Balearic Islands is perfect with a glass of wine in one of the local eateries.
  • Flaó: This traditional dessert of Ibiza is made with goat’s cheese and fresh mint, a delightful treat to finish off a meal.

Local Beverages

  • Hierbas Ibicencas: This famous local herb liqueur is made with Aneil’s leaf, thyme, rosemary, lemon, parsley, and mint and is a must-try while in Ibiza.
  • Ibizan Wine: The island offers some local wines that use indigenous grapes and offer wine lovers a deviation from the more traditional wine regions.

Where to Stay in Ibiza: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are numerous accommodation options available in Ibiza, with something to suit every budget and style. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel, a budget-friendly hostel, or a quaint guesthouse, there’s something for everyone.

  • Luxurious: Aguas de Ibiza, Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza, OD Talamanca
  • Mid-Range: Invisa Figueral Resort, Tropicana Ibiza Coast Suites, Hotel Garbi Ibiza & Spa
  • Budget-Friendly: Ryans Ibiza Apartments, Amistat Island Hostel, Orosol Hotel

What to Buy in Ibiza: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ibiza is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from handmade artisanal products to designer fashions, and everything in between. Here are some must-buy items to bring back home:

  • Adlib fashion: This fashion style, exclusively from Ibiza, focuses on bright summer dresses that are perfect for any summer event
  • Carob products: Ibiza is known for its heirloom carob production, and there are numerous products on offer that use the carob as an ingredient
  • Salt Flakes: The beaches of Ibiza offer a wonderful source of salt, and it’s a must-bring-home item, it adds a natural savory essence to dishes.

Local Culture and Customs of Ibiza

The culture and customs of Ibiza are a blend of the island’s rich history and locally grown developments. The phrase ‘Ibiza open mind, welcome to paradise’ speaks to the island’s culture of inclusiveness and open acceptance.

Best Time to Visit Ibiza

Ibiza is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between May and October when the weather is sunny, and rains are minimal. The months of June to September are the busiest, with a significant portion of its visitors arriving to enjoy the impressive nightlife scene.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ibiza

Here are some essential things to keep in mind in Ibiza:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and people
  • Minimize your carbon footprint while on the island
  • Explore the less-populated areas of the Island

Don’t:

  • Overindulge excessively in alcohol and drugs
  • Leave your possessions unattended in crowded areas
  • Be careless with your safety

Safety and Health

Ibiza is a relatively safe destination. Petty crimes, however, are reported during the night-life hours such as pickpockets or theft from cars. Nevertheless, the islands infrastructure offers various safety and medical services to visitors.

Safety in Ibiza

  • Be on alert for pickpockets
  • Do not leave valuables in the car, hotel, or rented lodging
  • Avoid walking/lone travel after dark

Health in Ibiza

Ibiza has excellent health facilities available for tourists and offers both public and private health care facilities. Sunscreen is mandatory and staying hydrated at all times, as summers are hot and may lead to dehydration.

Getting to Ibiza: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Ibiza is straightforward with multiple international airlines serving Ibiza Airport. If you are coming from mainland Spain, you can take a boat or ferry from the bustling port cities of Valencia, Denia, and Alcudia.

Airports Near Ibiza

  • Ibiza Airport

Other Options

  • Ferry service from Valencia, Denia, or Alcudia.

How to Get Around in Ibiza

Ibiza is a relatively small island, making it easy to get around. There are numerous public transport options available, such as buses, taxis, and rental cars, and bicycles. The roads are good, as are the cycle paths, and Ibiza has plenty of sidewalks making it perfect for strolling around.

Where to Go Next from Ibiza: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of beautiful destinations near Ibiza that are worth exploring. Some popular places to visit after leaving Ibiza are:

  • Barcelona: A bustling city due to its well-known culture, nightlife, architecture, and sunny beaches.
  • Valencia: A charming coastal town with bustling markets and the famous City of Arts and Sciences.

Conclusion

Ibiza, with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and unique history, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. With the comprehensive travel guide above, you should be able to plan your perfect trip to this stunning island paradise, and experience everything Ibiza has to offer.