Best Time to Visit
May to October
Currency
Euro (€)
Language
Spanish, Catalan
Timezone
CET (UTC+1)
Discover Ibiza
Ibiza is far more than its legendary nightlife reputation suggests. Beyond the thumping basslines of Pacha and Amnesia lies a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Dalt Vila, where cobblestone streets wind through 16th-century fortifications offering panoramic Mediterranean views. The island's soul is split between hedonistic beach clubs like Ushuaïa and the tranquil bohemian spirit preserved at Las Dalias Hippy Market, where artisans have sold their wares since the 1970s.
What truly defines Ibiza is its magical duality. You can watch the sun melt into the sea during the iconic sunset ritual at Café del Mar in San Antonio, then escape to the mystical rock island of Es Vedrà, shrouded in local legend. From the crystalline waters of Cala Salada to the pine-fringed shores of Cala Comte, the White Isle offers over 50 beaches, each with its own character, proving Ibiza caters equally to sunrise ravers and sunset contemplators.
Why Visit Ibiza?
World-Class Nightlife & Music Culture: Experience iconic superclubs like Pacha (founded 1973), DC-10's legendary Circoloco parties, and Ushuaïa's open-air daytime events featuring top-tier DJs. The island's electronic music heritage is unmatched.
Stunning Natural Beauty & Beaches: Discover diverse coastal landscapes from the white sands and turquoise waters of Cala Bassa to the dramatic cliffs of Cala d'Hort facing Es Vedrà. The protected coves of Cala Xarraca offer exceptional snorkeling.
UNESCO Heritage & History: Explore Dalt Vila's Renaissance walls, cathedral, and archaeological museum revealing 2,600 years of history from Phoenician settlements to Moorish rule and Catalan conquest.
Bohemian Spirit & Hippie Markets: Immerse yourself in the island's alternative culture at Las Dalias (operating since 1954) and Punta Arabí Hippy Market, where handmade crafts, live music, and colorful fashion create a unique vibe.
Magical Sunsets & Coastal Views: Participate in the daily sunset ritual along San Antonio's Sunset Strip at spots like Café del Mar or Mambo, or seek quieter vantage points at Torre des Savinar watchtower.
Culinary Diversity: Savor fresh seafood at beachside chiringuitos like El Bigotes, authentic Ibizan stews in rural fincas, and innovative cuisine at Michelin-starred restaurants like Es Tragón.
Ibiza is Known For
Ready to explore Ibiza?
Ibiza Neighborhoods
Eivissa (Ibiza Town)
The historic capital and cultural heart of the island, divided between the fortified Dalt Vila (Upper Town) and the vibrant port area below. This is where ancient history meets modern luxury shopping and dining.
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San Antonio
Famous for its Sunset Strip and energetic nightlife scene centered around West End. Recently revitalized with a beautiful waterfront promenade, it offers both party vibes and family-friendly beaches.
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Santa Eulària des Riu
A more relaxed resort town with the island's only river, offering sophisticated dining, upscale hotels, and calmer beaches. Known as the 'gastronomic capital' of Ibiza.
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San José (Sant Josep)
A picturesque inland village surrounded by countryside, leading to the island's most spectacular southwestern beaches. Offers authentic Ibizan atmosphere away from the crowds.
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •For the best beach experience, arrive before 11 AM during peak season (July-August) to secure a good spot at popular calas like Comte or Bassa.
- •Rent a car or scooter to discover hidden coves - public buses don't reach many of the best beaches, and taxis are expensive.
- •Visit the hippy markets on their correct days: Las Dalias (Saturday), Punta Arabí (Wednesday), and Es Canar (Friday).
- •Book club tickets online in advance through official websites to avoid huge queues and often get discounted entry.
- •Eat like a local: have lunch at a beach chiringuito (like El Chiringuito or Cala Bonita) and dinner late (9:30 PM onwards) at a traditional restaurant in the countryside.
- •Bring comfortable shoes for Dalt Vila - the cobblestone streets are steep and uneven but absolutely worth exploring thoroughly.
- •For sunset, skip the crowded San Antonio strip and head to Torre des Savinar or Cala d'Hort for breathtaking views of Es Vedrà.
- •If clubbing, pace yourself - parties often start late (after midnight) and continue until sunrise. Many clubs have daytime events too.
- •Learn a few Catalan phrases - while Spanish works everywhere, 'Bon dia' (good day) and 'Gràcies' (thank you) are appreciated.
- •Visit in May, June, or September for perfect weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices while most clubs and restaurants are still open.
Ibiza Food Scene
Ibizan cuisine is a delicious blend of traditional peasant food, fresh Mediterranean seafood, and innovative international influences. The island's gastronomy reflects its history with Catalan, Moorish, and Phoenician touches, emphasizing local produce like figs, almonds, and fresh fish.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional Ibizan
- • Can Pilot (for sofrit pagès)
- • Es Boldadó (seafood bullit)
- • Restaurante Ca n'Alfredo (Port d'es Torrent)
These rural fincas often require reservations and serve large portions meant for sharing.
Beachside Chiringuitos
- • El Bigotes (Cala Mastella)
- • El Chiringuito (Es Cavallet)
- • Cala Bonita (Cala Bonita)
Arrive early for lunch (1 PM) as many don't take reservations and fill quickly. Cash is often preferred.
Fine Dining
- • Es Tragón (Michelin star)
- • La Gaia by Óscar Molina
- • Heart Ibiza (Ferrán Adrià collaboration)
Book weeks in advance for peak season. Many offer tasting menus showcasing creative Mediterranean cuisine.
Tapas & Bars
- • Bar 1805 (Ibiza Town)
- • Can Terra (Santa Gertrudis)
- • Bar San Juan (San Antonio)
Order a variety of small plates to share. Try local wines like Can Rich or Ibizkus.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Ibiza
Spring
April to June brings warm, sunny days with average temperatures of 18-25°C. The island blooms with wildflowers, and the sea becomes swimmable by late May.
Pros:
- + Perfect hiking weather
- + Fewer crowds
- + Lower accommodation prices
- + Hippy markets reopen
Cons:
- - Some clubs/restaurants may not open until May
- - Sea can be chilly early season
- - Occasional rain showers
Summer
July and August are peak season with hot, dry weather averaging 28-30°C. The island is vibrant with all venues open, but extremely crowded.
Pros:
- + All clubs and events operating
- + Warmest sea temperatures
- + Full social atmosphere
- + Long daylight hours
Cons:
- - Highest prices everywhere
- - Overcrowded beaches and roads
- - Intense heat midday
- - Minimum stay requirements at hotels
Autumn
September and October offer golden light, warm seas, and pleasant temperatures of 22-27°C. The famous closing parties happen in early October.
Pros:
- + Ideal beach weather without crowds
- + Closing parties season
- + Sea is warm from summer heat
- + Good deals on accommodation
Cons:
- - Some venues start closing in October
- - Unpredictable weather late October
- - Reduced ferry services to Formentera
Winter
November to March is quiet with temperatures of 12-17°C. Most tourist facilities are closed, revealing the island's authentic local life.
Pros:
- + Absolute tranquility
- + Lowest prices
- + Authentic local experience
- + Great for hiking and nature
Cons:
- - 90% of clubs/beach clubs closed
- - Many restaurants and hotels closed
- - Cool for swimming
- - Limited flight connections
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Day Trips from Ibiza
Formentera
30-60 min by ferry from Ibiza Town
A pristine paradise with some of Europe's most spectacular beaches featuring white sand and turquoise waters. The smaller sister island offers a more relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.
Es Vedrà
20 min drive + boat tour from Cala d'Hort
The mystical limestone rock island off Ibiza's southwest coast, shrouded in legends of sirens, UFOs, and magnetic forces. Best appreciated from coastal viewpoints or by boat.
Santa Gertrudis & Northern Ibiza
20-40 min drive from Ibiza Town
Explore the island's artistic inland heart with boutique shopping, gourmet cafes, and surrounding countryside featuring almond groves and traditional fincas.
Ibiza Budget Guide
Ibiza has a reputation for being expensive, but can accommodate various budgets. Costs skyrocket in peak season (July-August), while shoulder seasons offer better value. Nightlife and beach clubs are major expense factors.
Budget
€60-100 per day for hostels, supermarket meals, public transport, and free beaches
per day
Mid-Range
€150-300 per day for 3-star hotels, restaurant meals, some taxis, and occasional club entries
per day
Luxury
€500+ per day for 5-star hotels, fine dining, VIP club tables, yacht rentals, and private transfers
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Book accommodation 3-6 months in advance for best prices
- •Eat main meal at lunch for 'menú del día' deals (€12-20)
- •Buy club tickets online in advance for discounts
- •Use public buses between major towns (€2-4 per journey)
- •Stay in apartments with kitchens to save on food costs
Ibiza Hidden Gems
Atlantis (Sa Pedrera)
An abandoned quarry near Cala d'Hort with stone carvings, pools, and a hippy-made stone labyrinth.
Completely unofficial attraction with stunning ocean views and fascinating alternative history, requiring a short hike to find.
Cala Xarraca
A secluded northern cove with clear waters, rocky outcrops perfect for jumping, and natural mud baths.
Less crowded than famous southern beaches, offers excellent snorkeling and the unique experience of therapeutic clay mud.
Bar Anita (San Carlos)
A historic village bar founded in the 1930s, serving as the original hippy meeting point and post office.
Frozen in time with its original decor, it's a living museum of Ibiza's bohemian history where you can still post letters from the bar.
Torre des Molar
A 16th-century defense tower on Ibiza's northern tip with dramatic cliff views and no tourist facilities.
One of the island's most spectacular sunset spots completely off the tourist trail, accessible via a rough track.
Pou des Lleó
A natural rock formation creating a seawater pool on the rocky coast between Cala Mastella and Cala Llenya.
Magical swimming spot known mostly to locals, with crystal-clear water perfect for a tranquil dip away from beach crowds.
Ibiza Culture & Customs
Ibiza's culture is a unique blend of traditional Catalan heritage and the international bohemian spirit that arrived in the 1960s. The island maintains strong local traditions, particularly in rural areas, while embracing its status as a global party destination. Family, food, and festes (festivals) remain central to local life.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Greet shopkeepers when entering small stores
- •Dress appropriately when visiting churches (cover shoulders)
- •Tip 5-10% in restaurants if service was good
- •Respect siesta time (2-5 PM) in residential areas
- •Don't take photos of people at hippy markets without asking
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Ibiza
Is Ibiza only for partying?
Not at all. While famous for nightlife, Ibiza offers UNESCO heritage sites in Dalt Vila, over 50 beautiful beaches, excellent hiking trails, bohemian markets, and gourmet dining. Many visitors come specifically for the tranquil north and cultural attractions.
What's the best way to get around Ibiza?
Renting a car or scooter is highly recommended to access remote beaches and explore freely. Public buses connect major towns but not all beaches. Taxis are available but expensive, especially at night. Many visitors use a combination based on their needs.
How expensive are the clubs?
Club entry ranges from €30-70 depending on the event and DJ, with drinks inside costing €15-25. VIP tables start around €300. Save money by buying tickets online in advance, attending daytime events, or enjoying the free sunset parties at beach clubs.
Can I visit Ibiza with children?
Yes, especially in family-friendly areas like Santa Eulària, Portinatx, and San Antonio Bay. Many beaches have gentle waters, and attractions like Aguamar Waterpark, horse riding, and boat trips cater to families. Avoid club-centric areas and visit outside peak party months.
Do I need to speak Spanish or Catalan?
English is widely spoken in tourist areas, restaurants, and clubs. Learning basic Spanish or Catalan phrases is appreciated but not essential. In rural areas and local markets, some Spanish knowledge is helpful.
What should I pack for Ibiza?
Bring swimwear, comfortable walking shoes for Dalt Vila, evening outfits for clubs (smart casual to glamorous), sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Most clubs have dress codes - check websites in advance.
Is Formentera worth a day trip?
Absolutely. Formentera's beaches like Ses Illetes are among Europe's most beautiful. The island offers a completely different, relaxed vibe. Take an early ferry, rent a bike or scooter, and explore the pristine coastline and salt flats.
When do clubs open and close for the season?
Most major clubs open in late May/early June and close with famous 'closing parties' in early October. The peak season is July-August. Some like Pacha have winter events. Always check specific club calendars as dates vary annually.
Ibiza Itineraries
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