Ibiza Beyond the Clubs: 10 Best Things to Do on the White Isle
Dalt Vila, hidden coves, Es Vedrà at sunset, hippy markets, Formentera and the quiet north – the best things to do in Ibiza, beyond the superclubs.
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Ibiza is famous for its superclubs, but there's a very different island beyond them: a UNESCO-listed old town, pine-fringed coves, sleepy villages, hippy markets and sunsets that draw a crowd for all the right reasons.
1. Explore Dalt Vila
Ibiza Town's walled old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander up through Renaissance walls to the cathedral for views over the harbour.
2. Watch the sunset at Es Vedrà
The mysterious rock island of Es Vedrà rises from the sea off the south-west coast. Watch the sunset from the cliffs above Cala d'Hort.
3. Find a hidden cove
Cala Comte, Cala Salada, Cala Benirràs and Cala Mastella are some of the island's most beautiful beaches. Go early in summer.
4. Discover the quiet north
Around Sant Joan and Portinatx, the north is green, hilly and peaceful, with small beaches and country hotels.
5. Browse a hippy market
Las Dalias in Sant Carles and Punta Arabí in Es Canar keep alive the island's 1960s hippy spirit, with crafts, clothes and music.
6. Visit Santa Gertrudis
This tiny inland village has a white church, cafés and art galleries – perfect for a slow morning.
7. Day trip to Formentera
A short ferry ride away, Formentera has some of Europe's most beautiful beaches, such as Ses Illetes, with white sand and turquoise water.
8. Take a boat trip
Hire a boat or join a trip to the coves, many of which are easiest to reach from the sea.
9. Eat like a local
Try bullit de peix (fish stew), sofrit pagès (a hearty meat dish) and flaó (a mint-and-cheese cake). Seafood restaurants on the coves are a highlight.
10. See a big-name DJ – if you want
If you're curious, the island's famous clubs are an experience in their own right. Book tickets in advance in summer.
Getting around
Ibiza Airport is close to Ibiza Town. Buses connect the main towns; a car or scooter is best for the coves. Island-hopping? Compare Majorca's beaches and Menorca.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ibiza good for families?
Yes. Outside the party areas of Sant Antoni and Platja d'en Bossa, Ibiza has calm beaches, quiet villages and family-friendly hotels, especially in the north and east of the island.
How do you get to Formentera?
Fast ferries leave Ibiza Town's port frequently in summer; the crossing takes about 30 minutes.
When is the best time to visit Ibiza?
May, June and September offer warm weather with fewer crowds. Many clubs and some hotels close from late October to April.
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