When you think of Ibiza, the first thing that probably comes to mind is its legendary nightlife and vibrant party scene. And it’s true, this Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea is renowned for its world-class clubs and non-stop party atmosphere.
But there is another side to the sunny island of Ibiza that often goes unnoticed – a side rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. In this ultimate Ibiza guide, we’ll explore these two contrasting aspects of the island, sharing what to do in Ibiza and why it’s a destination that caters to all types of visitors.
A brief Ibiza club guide: Where to go for the best nights out
For many visitors looking for things to do in Ibiza, it’s the nightlife that attracts them. For party animals and nightlife enthusiasts, Ibiza offers an unparalleled experience. Clubbers’ guides to Ibiza will tell you the island is home to some of the most famous nightspots in the world, where international DJs spin the latest beats, and the party goes on until sunrise.
Ibiza’s night-time scene is predominantly concentrated in two main areas. Playa d’en Bossa on the east coast, just south of Ibiza Town, has some of the most iconic venues, including the extravagant open-air club, Ushuaïa, and Hï Ibiza- regarded as one of the world’s best clubs by Ibiza nightlife guides.
Meanwhile, in San Antonio on the west coast, you can visit the daytime, open-air clubbing venue, O Beach Ibiza, and the epic clubs of Eden and Es Paradis. While Ibiza Town itself is more about its array of bars and restaurants, it is also home to the world-renowned super-club Pacha.
The summer months, particularly July and August, are when the clubs are in full swing, and the island is buzzing with energy. If you want to dance the night away and immerse yourself in the hedonistic party culture, this is the best time to visit Ibiza.
Be sure to check out Ibiza event guides to learn which of Ibiza’s attractions are hosting the best music acts in town. Dance music and DJ legends Calvin Harris, David Guetta, and Armin van Buuren will all be performing at headline residencies across the island this year; certainly highlights to look out for in Ibiza guides for 2023.
A more serene Ibiza travel guide
Beyond the party scene lies another Ibiza, a place of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here’s our Ibiza holiday guide to the other side of the island…
Soak up the culture in and around Ibiza Town
Ibiza Town (also known as Eivissa in Catalan) is an excellent place to start when exploring the island’s southeast coast. Blending a cosmopolitan vibe with ancient history, it makes for a fascinating visit.
Wandering the streets of Ibiza town, you’ll discover an array of shops, including high-street brands and colourful boutiques, excellent restaurants and bars, art galleries and museums. It is also the location for many cultural events throughout the year.
Ibiza has a rich and diverse heritage, with influences from Phoenician, Roman, Moorish, and Catalan civilizations. Nowhere is this more evident than in Dalt Vila, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed citadel in Ibiza Town and one of Ibiza’s must-visit attractions.
Stepping into its fortified walls is like travelling back in time. Narrow cobbled streets, ancient buildings, impressive castles and breathtaking views of the surrounding sea make this historic quarter a treasure trove of architectural marvels.
There are many other fascinating historical monuments that you can explore while visiting Ibiza. These include the Phoenician Village of Sa Caleta, the 15th-century Madina Yabisa Interpretation Centre and the Punic Sanctuary of Es Culleram, a natural cave used for worship as early as the 5th century BC.
One of the best ways to appreciate Ibiza’s cultural attractions is on a walking tour. There are a variety of routes available for you to explore independently. Alternatively, book an excursion with an Ibiza walking guide to gain unique insights into the island’s history.
The natural beauty of Ibiza
Away from the bustling clubs, Ibiza boasts stunning natural landscapes that are perfect for walking and exploration. The island is dotted with picturesque coves, hidden beaches, and rugged cliffs, offering numerous opportunities for hikers and nature lovers.
As an Ibiza area guide for those seeking out the island’s natural splendour, we’d recommend heading to the island’s southwest coast to discover the tranquil beauty of Es Vedrà. This mystical uninhabited rock rises from the sea to almost 400 metres high, drawing many visitors who stand in awe of its beauty.
If you are seeking panoramic views of the island, consider a hike to Sa Talaia. Following a 2.5km trail from Sant Josep village that takes you to the summit at 475 metres, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding villages and serene coastline.
Es Bol Nou is another incredible location that often tops the list of many Ibiza beach guides. The red clay cliffs that surround the small beach create a beautiful contrast with the dabbled turquoise waters. If you have children, this is a great beach to visit, too, as its shallow pools are just perfect for paddling.
A family guide to Ibiza
It may surprise you that, despite Ibiza being widely known for its party scene, it is also a family-friendly destination with a multitude of activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained.
As well as the island’s gorgeous beaches, often with crystal-clear, calm waters, there are also water parks with slides, pools and attractions for all ages.
If your children have an adventurous spirit, Acrobosc Ibiza is definitely worth a visit. As an adventure park set in the forest, it offers thrilling treetop courses with zip lines, rope bridges, and obstacles suitable for children and adults of different skill levels.
Across the island, you’ll also find several mini golf courses and go-karting tracks. Or why not hire bikes as a family and take to the trails that reveal the island’s most scenic spots?
When is the best time to go to Ibiza?
Choosing the best time to visit Ibiza is vital for making the most of your holiday. While the peak summer months are ideal for partygoers, they can also be crowded and more expensive.
The shoulder seasons of May-June and September-October are perfect for those looking to enjoy a balance of nightlife and cultural exploration. During these months, the weather is still warm, the clubs are open, and the island is less crowded, allowing you to explore the historical sites and enjoy the natural beauty with less hustle and bustle.
In winter, club season is over, and with many tourists gone home, most tourist attractions will close too. However, it is still a good time to enjoy outdoor activities, such as walking or biking, the deserted beaches and milder temperatures.
Taking a cruise to Ibiza
Numerous cruise lines offer Mediterranean itineraries that have a port stop in Ibiza. Most cruise ships will stop on the island’s south side, making Ibiza Town within easy reach and allowing you to discover many of Ibiza’s attractions during the day.
If you are seeking a night out in Ibiza, be sure to check that your cruise ship is docking overnight, as the parties usually get into full swing late on this spectacular Spanish island.
If you have any questions about visiting Ibiza or the cruise lines that offer holidays there, please get in touch with our cruise specialists.
