Things to do in Ibiza

It might be famous for its vibrant nightlife and party atmosphere, but this Balearic Island is so much more than that. Away from the nightlife hotspot of San Antonio, you’ll find world-class beaches, historic monuments, hippy markets and a UNESCO-protected old town. Sleepy whitewashed villages in the quiet and rural interior earned Ibiza its nickname of the ‘White Isle’. While nothing will beat the magic of seeing one of Ibiza’s sunsets from one of its award-winning beaches or from the deck of a catamaran cruise.

Top six things to do in Ibiza

1. Ibizan sunset cruise

Ibiza sunsets are the stuff of legend and what better way to watch the sky drop below the horizon than on a boat. Admire the sky as it becomes awash with rich colours of oranges, reds, pinks and purples as you sip on a cocktail. From a laidback catamaran cruise to a full-on party vibe, you’ll find several sunset boat trips on offer. As the sun sets in the west, the majority of cruises go along Ibiza’s western coastline, but there are plenty of great cruises sailing from the north, too.

2. Browse for trinkets at the hippy markets

The famous hippy markets are one of the island’s top attractions. Strongly rooted in the Ibizan artistic movement from the 60s, they are scattered all over the island. These markets offer so much more than souvenirs, with bargains to be had on artisan products, colourful clothes, handmade accessories, pottery, leather items and more. Punta Arabi, held on Wednesdays, is one of the longest running markets and has about 500 stalls. While Las Dalias, held on Saturdays and Sundays, is probably the best known and on top of the usual offering, you’ll also find street performers, live music, food and drink.

3. Sail over to Formentera

It’s so exotic that Formentera could easily be in the Caribbean. Instead, it’s only half an hour by ferry from Ibiza town, and with no airport and just a few roads between its key points, this little island is all about the beach. A pure get-away-from-it-all escape, you’ll fall in love with the soft white sands bathed by azure crystalline waters. Located within the Natural Park of Ses Salines, Ses Illetes beach is the most famous. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for snorkelling or diving and are flanked by protected dune areas. Despite Formentera’s secluded charm, you’ll also find hotels, beach bars, restaurants and even the La Mola flea market on the island.

4. Explore the Cova de Can Marça

Located in the north of Ibiza, in a sheltered bay overlooking the Port de Sant Miquel, Can Marça is an impressive cave that’s over 100,000 years old. It was historically used by smugglers to store contraband, which they hoisted up from the sea. You can still see marks on the walls that they used to indicate the entry and exit. Visitors to Can Marça can explore the complex system of stalagmites and stalactites on a guided 40-minute tour, which culminates in a light and music show.

5. Stroll around Dalt Vila

The capital of the island takes in the walled old town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the shopping districts and the port and marinas. By day, it’s all about shopping, boating and sightseeing through the cobbled streets and alleys. By night, you can expect alfresco wining and dining, high-end bars and live entertainment. Highlights of Dalt Vila include the gateway of Portal de Ses Taules – the main entrance to the old town, and the 14th century cathedral which sits atop the old town and offers panoramic views over the city, the harbour and the coast.

6. Spend the day at the beach

Ibiza boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From white sandy bays with lively beach bars to isolated unspoilt coves and hippy havens, there’s a beach for every mood. Platjes de Comte, three sandbanks separated by rocky outcrops, is one of the most popular in the south and is home to the famed Sunset Ashram bar. In the north, you’ll find Benirrás, known for its spectacular sunsets and hippy spirit. Ses Salines, located in a nature reserve and named after the salt lakes nearby, is another must-visit. The contrasting colours of the white sands, dunes and blue waters backed by a green pine forest is Ibiza down to T.