Ibiza may not be the biggest of Spain’s Balearic islands, but it's definitely the most famous. The energetic clubbing scene and easy Mediterranean climate have been drawing visitors for decades, earning it primo status as Europe’s party capital. Sant Antoni de Portmany is a main center of nightlife—its west end filled with bars, terraces, and revelers. The town of Ibiza is about more than just partying, thought, and offers a well-rounded cultural experience and riveting architecture, including the fortress area and cobbled streets of Dalt Vila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Yachts, speedboats, and sailboats are all part of the Ibiza experience; and they're the best way to visit the many caves and bays on the coastline. The rock formation Es Vedrà, off the west coast, is especially worth a visit; book a snorkeling tour for an up-close look and to learn the many legends surrounding the site. Also worth a boat trip (even better on a private, luxury catamaran) is the neighboring island of Formentera towards the south, with unspoiled beaches and crystal-clear water. For an amped-up time on the water, try scuba diving or parasailing; or for or a more-relaxed encounter with nature, head to a laid-back area such as Sant Josep de sa Talaia and the surrounding countryside. Ses Salines National Park and the nature reserve of es Vedrà are some of the most tranquil places in the area: a welcome respite from the intense party life that has become synonymous with the island.
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Nicknamed the “White Isle,” the Balearic isle of Ibiza is celebrated for its shimmering beaches, rugged countryside, whitewashed Ibiza Old Town (Dalt Vila), and partying. Every year, around 7 million tourists arrive for these attractions, with most also timing their visits to savor its other renowned offering of long, hot summers.
...MoreWhere do you start? Choose from Ibiza’s blissful beaches, try snorkeling or kayaking; or flit around Ibiza Town’s or San Antonio’s shops and cafés. Nightfall brings lots of alternatives to nightclubbing: kick back over dinner at a waterfront restaurant, join locals for shots of local hierbas liqueur, or enjoy a sunset cruise.
...MoreFor picture-perfect scenery, it’s hard to beat Ibiza’s smaller neighbor, Formentera. Set sail from Ibiza Town to experience this peaceful paradise, which boasts baby-blue waters and spectacular white-sand Ses Illetes beach. Other Ibiza beauty spots include the inland village of Santa Gertrudis, where boho cafes and eateries encircle an oh-so-pretty square.
...MoreIbiza offers countless daytime activities, from tanning on the sands to browsing Ibiza Town’s chi-chi boutiques, bars, and galleries. To delve deeper, explore cathedral-crowned Ibiza Old Town (Dalt Vila), cross the countryside by 4WD, hike through peaceful forests and villages, or absorb the sea air and scenery on a catamaran trip.
...MoreIt depends on what you want from your Ibiza vacation. For a bit of everything—great beaches, culture, food, partying, and beautiful Ibiza Old Town (Dalt Vila)—Ibiza Town wins. Clubbers and beach fans, meanwhile, should consider Figueretas or Playa d’en Bossa; while families and peace-seekers might prefer Es Cana or Portinatx.
...MoreDon’t miss a walk around Ibiza Old Town (Dalt Vila); a walled UNESCO-listed gem of flagstoned lanes, mansions, museums, shops, and cafés. Enter via the grand Portal de Ses Taules gateway, and work your way up to graceful Ibiza Cathedral to admire its art and panoramic views down over the town.
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