Blake Walsh

25 Best Things to Do in Ibiza

  • Published 2022/07/29

See also: Where to stay in Ibiza

A Spanish island in the western Mediterranean, Ibiza is famously known for its bustling nightlife, mystical historical sites, and natural scenic beauty.

It’s the third-largest and the most popular of all Balearic Islands and attracts thousands of tourists every year from all over the world, especially in the summer.

While it’s mainly known for its party scene, Ibiza also boasts beautiful beaches, fantastic shopping, and exciting festivals.

With so much to offer its visitors, this world-famous destination promises an unforgettable holiday experience.

The following are the best things to do in Ibiza:

Discover Ibiza’s History and Culture in Dalt Vila

Canons at Dalt Vila

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Translating to “High Town,” Dalt Vila is the oldest and highest part of Ibiza.

This 2,000-year-old walled town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Fortified by 16th-century Renaissance walls, Dalt Villa still holds on to its original medieval look.

The walls were constructed in 1500 to guard the town from the attacks of pirates and the French forces by Charles I.

Among all the seven bastions of the town’s fortifications, the Baluarte de Santa Lucia containing a 1700s-era powder magazine is the most significant.

Entrance to Dalt Vila

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The town’s main entrance has an arch-shaped monumental structure with two models of Roman statues, emblems of Philip II, and a stone engraved with the names of the king and the governor of 1585.

Known as la Puerta del Mar (the Gate of the Sea) or the Portal de ses Taules (the Door of Boards), it leads to a cobweb of beautiful walkways.

Dalt Vila’s streets are lined with medieval restaurants, shops, museums, galleries, and beautiful whitewashed buildings.

It’s also home to attractions like the Old Castle and the Ibiza Museum of Contemporary Art.

Inside the fortress of Dalt Vila

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Be Mesmerized by the Ibiza Cathedral

View of Ibiza Cathedral from a distance

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While wandering through the streets of Dalt Vila, you’ll come across fascinating historic squares like the Plaza de Vila and Plaza de Sa Carrossa until you reach the Ibiza Cathedral at the very top of the town.

Also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Snows, it is the only church or cathedral in Ibiza.

It was built in the 16th century in a Catalan Gothic fashion out of an existing 14th-century structure.

Exterior of Ibiza Cathedral

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After several renovations, the church became a cathedral in the 17th century.

At present, the Ibiza Cathedral has a Gothic exterior, while its interiors are a mix of Gothic and Baroque.

It displays works of art, gothic gold and silver monstrance, and 14th- and 15th- century Gothic paintings.

Once you see the breathtaking view of the ocean and the town’s lower part from this majestic church, you’ll be mesmerized.

Experience Ibiza’s Famous Clubbing Scene

View from inside an Ibiza club

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Ibiza has been a popular clubbing destination in Europe for years.

The island’s clubbing season starts in May and ends in September.

Most of the island’s clubs, including Pacha and Hï Ibiza, are located in Ibiza Town, Playa d’en Bossam, and San Antonio.

Amnesia, known as the birthplace of the Balearic beat (a mixed musical genre introduced by DJ Alfred), is one of the best clubs on this Spanish island.

An all-time favorite among celebrities, Amnesia hosts Elrow, Ibiza’s hottest party.

A dj in a club at Ibiza

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With electronic dance music, a trapeze, and an open-roofed dance floor where tons of glitters and confetti are sprinkled and costumes are given, this Saturday night party goes on every week.

One can party here all night until the sunrise and take back home some incredible photos.

Those who aren’t night persons can opt for daytime clubbing at Bora Bora Ibiza.

Don’t shy away from dancing or chanting along with the upbeat drumming ceremony that occurs every Sunday night at Benirrás Beach.

Interior of a club in Ibiza

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Sunbathe at Talamanca Beach

Daytime view of Talamanca Beach

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Spend a day sunbathing on Talamanca Beach, one of Ibiza’s largest beaches.

It’s a relatively safe and less populated beach where the water is gentle and shallow.

The beach is beautifully covered with snow-white sand on which you can lounge or rest until sunset or after that.

People admiring the sunrise from Talamanca Beach

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Surrounded by pine forest and small hills, it’s the best location for a family visit.

The world-class restaurant Fish Shack, located on Talamanca Beach, is known to serve excellent seafood.

Make Your Way to the Top of Sa Talaia

Sunset view from Sa Talaia

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Sa Talaia, a cliff full of vegetation, is the highest point of Ibiza.

Hike your way up for 2.4 kilometers until you reach the topmost point.

You’ll feel like you’re in heaven while admiring panoramic views of the island and the sea.

Don’t be surprised if you spot a native Balearic cat-like animal in the woods.

Go Scuba Diving, Kayaking, or Boating and Explore Ibiza’s Waters

Jet ski on the waters of Ibiza

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Water sports are an integral part of the Ibiza experience.

Scuba diving is the most exciting thing to do here as it enables the diver to see mind-blowing views of peculiar sea creatures and underwater caves.

You need not worry if you haven’t gone diving before because Ibiza has about 17 diving schools that train first-time divers.

If you aren’t ready for scuba diving, you can rent a kayak or charter a yacht and go from one coast to another.

A scuba diver in Ibiza's underwater

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Taking a boat trip and snorkeling in the middle of the sea is one of the most enchanting ways to enjoy Ibiza’s coastline and underwater reserves.

If you want to sail solo, you can do that, too.

Since most seaside clubs and beach resorts offer water activities like parasailing, jet skis, water skiing, and stand-up paddling, you can compare and choose one or several that tickle your fancy.

Paddling the waters of Ibiza

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Party at Playa d’en Bossa

Aerial view of Playa d’en Bossa

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A famous partying destination, Playa d’en Bossa is the island’s longest beach.

The area is filled with bars, clubs, shops, and restaurants, making it one of Ibiza’s most frequented tourist spots.

Visitors can hire loungers or daybeds to relax during the daytime.

Loungers and beach umbrellas at Playa d'en Bossa

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After dusk, the beach lights up and buzzes with music and dancing.

Many tourists who join in Playa d’en Bossa’s nighttime festivities either hang out here during the day before or book overnight stays in the area.

Apart from being a go-to place for parties, this beach is also great for activities like water skiing and paddle boating.

People playing beach volleyball at Playa d'en Bossa

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Watch the Sunset at Cala Conta

Daytime view of Cala Comte

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To some, this west coast beach is the best of all Ibiza’s beaches, perhaps because of its serene ambiance.

Situated away from the island’s crowded sandy beaches, Cala Conta lets you witness spectacular offshore views of turquoise-colored water around a wedge-shaped island.

Stretching for about 800 meters, Cala Conta boasts a rocky coastline, cliffs, and sandy beaches where one can spend a lazy day.

Gorgeous sunset over Cala Conta

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It’s the perfect place to watch the magical sunset while reclining on a deckchair or enjoying beats by the DJ at Sunset Ashram, Cala Conta’s famous bar.

Evenings here are breezy and calm, making it a nice place to have dinner.

After sunset, you can grab a bite at one of the bars and eateries up on the cliffs.

A restaurant at Cala Conta

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Jump into the Sea from the Cliffs of Cala Tarida

View of the waters from Cala Tarida cliff

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While Ibiza presents several opportunities to go cliff jumping, Cala Tarida is the best place to try this activity.

Climb up the cliffs at either end of the beach and jump into the calm, cool Mediterranean waters.

The gorgeous waters of Cala Tarida

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Go Clubbing in San Antonio

A party in San Antonio

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The second-largest town in Ibiza, San Antonio, is widely reputed to be the “clubbing capital of the universe.”

Situated on the west coast of Ibiza, it is home to the hottest clubs providing a fantastic nightlife experience.

Many people flock to the island just to be a part of San Antonio’s world-famous bars and club scene.

View of the sunset from a bar in San Antonio

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Apart from being a party destination, the town has narrow beaches and crystal clear ocean water.

When you are here, you have to go to Café del Mar to watch the jaw-dropping view of the golden sunset while having cocktails.

San Antonio is also where you’ll find Columbus’ Egg, a sculpture built in honor of Christopher Columbus, who some people believe was born in Ibiza.

Close view of the columbus egg in San Antonio

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Roam around Cala Saladeta and Cala Salada

People at Cala Saladeta

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If you are tired of partying and clubbing, visit the intimate hillside beaches of Cala Saladeta and Cala Salada.

One can while away one’s time by going back and forth from one cove to another.

You can come to Cala Saledeta from San Antonio by car or bus.

Cliff jumping at Cala Salada

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Visitors are encouraged to bring their essentials and snacks, as there are little to no shops and eateries on these beaches.

Cala Salada has a restaurant and is a bit more spacious than Cala Saladeta.

You’ll be amazed by the picturesque scenery these beaches offer, featuring crystallized blue seas and cliffs covered with beautiful pine forests.

Experience the Best of Ibiza’s Shopping Scene

Shoppers at Ibiza

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Ibiza renders a unique shopping experience to all its tourists.

The village square in Santa Gertrudis is occupied by a variety of stores and restaurants where you can go shopping and taste Spanish delicacies.

Sant Joan Craft Market is the best place to shop for souvenirs.

Las Dalias Market, composed of 200 stalls that have been selling Iberian products for nearly 60 years, operates every Saturday in the summer.

Ibiza Town Marina has good boutique shops.

People shopping at Ibiza's hippy market

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The hippy markets, held every week, reflect Ibiza’s Bohemian culture.

Two well-known hippy markets take place in the villages of Es Canar and San Carlos.

Bringing together delicious street food and live performances, the hippy markets held at Sant Joan de Labritja sell locally crafted wood carvings, vegetables, and fruits.

A second-hand hippy market at Cala Llenya offers the best bargaining deals.

Platja de ses Figueretes presents a 300-meter-long sunset market featuring local hippy products and handcrafted decorative pieces by Ibiza’s local artisans.

Crafts for sale at Ibiza's hippy market

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Explore the Secret Cove of Sa Pedrera, also known asAtlantis

Aerial view of the Atlantis Ibiza

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A less-explored cove on the island’s southwest corner, Sa Pedrera is referred to as the Atlantis of Ibiza.

To go to the sea from here, you’ll have to brave the steep and slippery surfaces of the quarry.

Centuries ago, this place was quarried for building the Citadel and the watchtowers of Ibiza.

The rocky Sa Pedrera Atlantis

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Appearing to be a maze of sea pools, rock formations, and caves, it is the local people’s favorite remote spot.

On your way to Atlantis, make a stop at Cala d’Hort, a small yet charming beach.

Rock writings at Sa Pedrera Atlantis

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Participate in Ibiza’s Exciting Festivities

An Ibiza festival

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Though clubbing vigorously dominates Ibiza’s ambiance, it doesn’t stand in the way of other festivities.

For instance, Ibiza holds a three-day Medieval Fair every May to celebrate its medieval history.

The fair features musicals, street theater performances, dance shows, falcon, and handicraft exhibitions.

Meanwhile, the Atzaro Fashion Festival hosts fashion shows, with models walking the runway in locally designed clothes.

Entrance to Ibiza's medieval festival

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There’s also BLOOP Festival, an art festival that’s all about graffiti and street artists championing a social message by decorating the streets with theme-based murals and photographs.

A combination of music and art,

Moreover, WooMoon is a full moon party that celebrates music, theater, art, and food, providing tourists with a unique experience.

Ibiza also holds colorful festivals, including the Spring Flower Festival held in Santa Eulalia on the first Sunday of May.

On the second Sunday of May, the island celebrates the Festa de Nostra Sanyora in Port de Soller, featuring reenactments of the 1661 attack of Turkish pirates.

People at Ibiza during the medieval festival

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Admire Sea Life at the Unique Aquarium Cap Blanc

Entrance to the Aquarium Cap Blanc

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The uniqueness of Aquarium Cap Blanc, located in San Antonio, makes it one of the most special attractions in Ibiza.

Located in an underwater cave where fishermen used to set traps for lobsters, this aquarium is a storehouse of diverse marine species like grouper, rays, and morays.

It is also home to colorful fish like rainbow wrasse, sea sponges, starfish, and shark eggs.

Most of these species are kept in huge water tanks.

As the water here is of good quality, Aquarium Cap Blanc also shelters rescued sea turtles before they are set free again.

All these underwater creatures can be observed from a raised walkway.

Try Ibiza’s Amazing Local Cuisine

Ibiza town restaurants

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Ibiza presents mouth-watering seafood delicacies.

You just have to taste Ibiza’s iconic Sobrasada and Bullit de Peix.

The former is a kind of sausage made with paprika and soft ground pork; the latter is a typical fish stew.

Seafood paella is a special rice dish in which rice soaked in juicy seafood extractions is served with squid, prawns, and shellfish.

A plate of Sobrasada in Ibiza

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Try this out at Tropicana Beach Club.

You can have Spanish paella and tapas at Ibiza’s local food shops.

Kalissol Ibiza, one of the finest restaurants on the island, serves a great variety of best paellas and tapas.

Have homemade Mediterranean food at La Paloma Ibiza, a famous restaurant in the city’s center with spacious seating and beautiful gardens.

Croissant Show delivers delicious breakfast, coffee, and pastries.

A plate of Bullit de Peix in Ibiza

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Explore the Fascinating Cova de Can Marca

Neon lights in Cova de Can Marca

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When in Ibiza, you’ll want to take the time to explore the beautiful Cova de Can Marca.

This stunning attraction has an interesting and perhaps unexpected history, as smugglers once used these natural underwater caves to store illegal goods.

Visitors can join a 40-minute tour of the Cova de Can Marca, which includes a light and music show and a trip to an artificial waterfall.

Rock formations in Cova de Can Marca

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All these elements show how the cave looked during earlier times.

Your visit to the Cova de Can Marca will surely turn out to be one of the most thrilling underwater experiences you’ll have in your life.

Get Pampered at Ibiza’s World-Famous Spas

Exterior of Atzaró Spa Ibiza

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A trip to Ibiza is incomplete without relaxing at one of its world-class holistic spas.

There are about 15 spas on the island.

All of them are either part of complexes or clubs and offer services to both members and visitors.

Being a part of an agritourism complex shaded by citrus and olive groves, the leading Atzaró Spa Ibiza offers treatments like massages, peels, facials, yoga classes, fitness workshops, and much more.

Meanwhile, Pikes Ibiza is a hotel that offers poolside spa treatments.

Take Photos of the Punta d’es Moscarter

Far view of Punta d'es Moscarter

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Fernando Moscardó created the Punta d’es Moscarter in 1974.

The lighthouse was constructed in 1975 and was put into service in November 1978.

The Punta d’es Moscarter was the first lighthouse in Ibiza to use a sealed beam lighting system and was initially electrically powered.

Exterior of Punta d'es Moscarter

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With a 52-meter active focal plane, it is the highest lighthouse in the Balearic Islands.

Taking the cliff-top path from Portinatx to the lighthouse will give you a chance to experience something a little different.

Spend the Night at Ibiza Gran Hotel

Exterior of Ibiza Gran Hotel

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There are various ways to enjoy the experience and services of luxury hospitality, including views, terraces, and private pools.

The five-star Ibiza Gran Hotel has luxurious accommodations with a cozy sitting room where guests can relax and enjoy music or a book.

Guests may have a peaceful breakfast and a beverage while taking in views of the ocean.

Building sign of Ibiza Gran Hotel

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The swimming pool and spa provide guests opportunities to unwind and cool down.

Amid metropolitan surrounds, you will have a delightful experience of absolute tranquility.

Customers’ needs are taken care of by Ibiza Gran Hotel, allowing you to unwind and enjoy every second.

Have a Unique Dining Experience at La Gaia Ibiza Restaurant

Chef Oscar Molina’s La Gaia Ibiza Restaurant offers a refined gourmet menu with an emphasis on island-specific delicacies.

In addition to the 2018 Ibiza-Formentera Gastronomic Award for Best Chef, he received the renowned VI National Gastronomy Awards (FACYRE) in 2004.

At La Gaia Ibiza Restaurant, you will undoubtedly experience a sensual and all-encompassing voyage that transcends cuisine and engages all five senses.

Prepare yourself for a unique experience that showcases Ibiza’s products from the land and the sea.

Visit the Santa Eulària des Riu

The grounds of Santa Eularia des Riu

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The municipality of Santa Eulària des Riu is located on Ibiza’s eastern shore.

With the majority of the resort close behind, there are a ton of stores and restaurants to help make your day a bit more pleasant.

The resort beachfront is almost entirely made up of golden sand beaches.

Promenade at Santa Eularia des Riu

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There is also a charming small promenade that runs back, complete with benches beneath luxuriant fronds of palm trees.

If you feel like a round of golf, Ibiza’s only course is located just near this resort, while San Carlos, a short distance away, hosts the monthly Las Dalias Hippie Market on Saturdays.

People at the beach of Santa Eularia des Riu

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Dine at The Prince Albert

The Prince Albert is a family-run restaurant and pub located next to Es Canar Beach.

It boasts the widest selection of gins in Ibiza and delicious, home-cooked dishes of the highest caliber.

The Prince Albert is the place to go if you want comfort cuisine carefully prepared with high-quality ingredients and a variety of beverages in a pleasant and peaceful setting.

They provide artisan beers, cider, lagers, and much more on tap and in bottles.

Various cocktails, single malt whiskies, flavored vodkas, and other spirits are also available.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Take a Ferry to Formentera

Aerial view of Formentera

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Located to the south of Ibiza, this little island has beaches comparable to the Caribbean beaches of the Mediterranean Sea.

The island’s pristine white beaches, like Playa de Ses Illetes and Calo des Mortare, are surrounded by turquoise sea water.

The ambiance here is entirely different from that of Ibiza.

Sunset over Formentera

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Rent a scooter to explore the island or experience deep sea fishing.

Make your way to the lighthouse at the top of Cap de Barbaria cliff to be awed by a splendid oceanic view.

Cap de Barbaria lighthouse at Formentera

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Get Intrigued by the Mystery of Es Vedrà

Gorgeous sunset at Es Vedra Ibiza

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Associated with many myths and legends, the uninhabited rocky island of Es Vedrà is easily one of the most mystical places on earth.

Frequently visited by falcons, lizards, and amphibians, this island off the southwest coast of Ibiza presents visitors with picturesque sights of wildlife and landscapes.

Some consider it one of the top three magnetic places in the world, while others believe it to be the abode of the Phoenician Fertility Goddess, Tanit.

A structure at Es Vedrà

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Rumors of UFO sightings have also gone around.

Popular beliefs also assert that it is a part of the lost city of Atlantis, and its 1,250-foot-high monolithic limestone slab was used to build the Easter Island, Pyramids, and Stonehenge.

Currently, it is conserved as a natural park.

A signage at Es Vedrà

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Final Thoughts

Ibiza is famed for its nightclubs and legendary party culture, but the island offers much more.

It has developed into a romantic getaway for couples seeking a peaceful escape, families exploring fun-filled vacations, outdoor enthusiasts searching for adventure, and much more.

This list of the best things to do in Ibiza is your practical guide to enjoying your holiday to the fullest.

Take a summer trip to this island right away!

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