The first settlers in Ibiza where the Carthaginians that were drawn to its shores, and in the ensuing years the Moors, the Romans and even pilfering pirates all took turns to stake their claim on this magnificent island in the Med.
Ibiza is more than just an island—it’s a lifestyle, a feeling, and for many, an annual pilgrimage. Known for its iconic beach clubs, legendary nightlife, and UNESCO-protected old town, this Mediterranean gem attracts travelers from all over the world. But what truly sets the island apart—and what every great Ibiza guide should highlight—is its ability to offer both high-energy entertainment and total, sun-soaked serenity.
Any complete Ibiza guide must touch on its history. Originally settled by the Phoenicians over 2,500 years ago, Ibiza has been shaped by Romans, Moors, and Catalans. This mix of cultural influences is reflected in the island’s architecture, cuisine, and laid-back pace of life. The old town of Dalt Vila is a stunning reminder of Ibiza’s layered past.
Haute Retreats prepared a useful Ibiza guide.
Casa Chic | 4 BR | Ibiza Villas | Haute Retreats
Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are the sweet spots. The weather is warm, the sea is swimmable, and the crowds are lighter. Peak summer (July–August) is ideal for nightlife lovers but requires advance planning. Every smart Ibiza guide will advise booking early in high season.
Ibiza is well connected via Ibiza Airport (IBZ) with direct flights from major cities in Europe. Ferries from mainland Spain (Barcelona, Valencia, Dénia) offer scenic routes and are a favorite inclusion in any Ibiza travel guide for those who want a slower arrival.
Or flight by private jet
Related Ibiza: 6 Top Restaurants for Best Sunsets
Ibiza Town: Culture, shopping, and Dalt Vila
San Antonio: Budget-friendly with nightlife and beaches
Santa Eulalia: Family-focused and tranquil
San José and the North: Ideal for luxury villas and retreats
Each neighborhood offers a different vibe, which a helpful Ibiza guide should break down clearly to match travelers’ preferences.
No Ibiza guide is complete without a beach roundup.
Cala Comte: Sunset views and clear water
Cala d’Hort: Views of mystical Es Vedrà
Cala Bassa: Family-friendly with beach club options
Cala Salada: Perfect for nature lovers
Visit Dalt Vila, the ancient walled city with cobbled streets and panoramic views. The Puig des Molins necropolis, various whitewashed churches, and rural villages like Sant Agustí provide a glimpse into Ibiza’s soul.
A core section in every Ibiza guide:
Pacha, Ushuaïa, Amnesia: For dance music lovers
Café del Mar, Sunset Ashram: For chilled sundowners
Las Dalias, Akasha, and beach bars across the island offer alternative vibes
BOOK NOW Villa Sa Carroca
Villa Sa Carroca by Ibiza Villas
Paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and jet skiing are all available across Ibiza’s beaches. Watersport hubs like Cala Tarida and Playa d’en Bossa are great starting points.
This Ibiza guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Es Amunts, Ibiza’s protected northern range, and the coastal hikes near Punta Galera and Cala Llenya. Spring and autumn are the best times for nature walks and photography.
Playa d’en Bossa knows how to party, the hedonist capital of Ibiza. With all the action condensed along one stretch of road, you’ll never be too far from the fiesta. You’ll find all ages here – it’s far from just for people under the age of 25.
Best for: young families, budget, nature, retreat
The south-west coast of Ibiza has some of the most beautiful sandy coves on the island. Cala Tarida and Cala Vadella are two of the most family-friendly, tucked away from the crowded resorts. They are easily accessible and ideal for those happy to relax with a drink in hand during the day and a romantic meal in the evening.
Don’t miss out on:
Bullit de peix (fish stew)
Sofrit pagès (meat and potato dish)
Flaó (mint cheesecake)
Local liqueur Hierbas Ibicencas is often served after dinner.
From La Paloma Café in the countryside to Casa Maca and Sa Punta near Ibiza Town, the food scene ranges from rustic to refined. Good Ibiza guides also highlight beach clubs like El Chiringuito and Experimental Beach for oceanside dining.
Renting a car is the most flexible option and highly recommended by this Ibiza guide if you’re staying in more remote parts. Taxis and public buses are also available but limited at night. For eco-conscious travelers, electric scooters and e-bikes are growing in popularity.
Use Google Maps offline
Book rental cars early in high season
Ask locals for hidden shortcuts and lesser-known beaches
Knowing how to get around enhances the value of any Ibiza guide.
Related Party Like You Never Have Before: Exploring the Vibrant Ibiza Nightlife
Its bohemian signature style
Sublimotion, the most expensive restaurant in Ibiza, located within the Hard Rock Hotel, Playa d’en Bossa. A gourmet extravaganza that costs $2,100 per person, a meal here is the product of the combined genius of five Michelin-awarded chefs who’ve garnered a collective eight heavenly stars. Twelve diners immerse themselves in a sensory experience that is simply out of this culinary world.
One of the island’s most famous restaurants, with a menu that simply begs to be devoured. By day, dine on the salt-kissed sun loungers sandwiched by sand dunes on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on the other. By night, head indoors to see the venue transformed by moonlight, candles, and unashamed romanticism. The seared tuna and the Black Angus fillet mignon cooked on the bespoke wood-fired grill are mouth-watering must-tries.
Contact: 00 34 971 395355; elchiringuitoibiza.com
Right in the centre of Santa Gertrudis, also considered a great spot for culinary experience in Ibiza, Finca La Plaza is located a stone’s throw from the old church and the bustling main square. But stepping through its gates is akin to discovering your own secret garden. Ambient music plays, bulbs are strung between palm trees, and an air of Balearic magic hangs in the air. The menu is great too, and full of interesting flavour combinations. Both the fresh burrata with babaganoush and anchovies and the octopus with kumquat confit work particularly well.
Contact: 00 34 971 197 370; fincalaplaza.com
Within the grounds of Seven Pines Resort Ibiza, The View is unbeatable, built on a clifftop near Cala Codolar, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the distinctive outline of the rock formation of Es Vedra beyond, here you can enjoy stunning sunsets when the sky glows ablaze. Wine, service and ambience are all exceptional, and the modern Asian menu is inspired — the smoke-infused fish cooked on the Japanese Robata grill is especially memorable.
Contact: 00 34 971 195 200; https://7pines-ibiza.com/en/dining/the-view
Es Boldado
Here you can taste traditional dishes like paella, bullit de peix, the quintessential local stew made with fish and served with rice. It’s a no-nonsense sort of place that boasts one of the best views on the island, overlooking the magical rock of Es Vedra and the Mediterranean Sea below. Open for lunch and dinner, it’s especially popular at sunset, when diners get to accompany dishes with a kaleidoscopic sky and follow it with a shot of local hierbas.
Contact:00 34 626 49 45 37; restauranteesboldadoibiza.es
With a lively beach-club ambience, Blue Marlin remains the famed five-star option. It’s the place to see and be seen, where the high spirits match the high heels—strictly for those who like their sashimi and champagne served with a selfie.
If you are looking for the best of the best in boots and sneakers Emonk Ibiza is the place for you. With their statement fringe boots, one of kind sandals and boho bags this shop can’t be missed. Their shoes come with a price tag but will last you for years. All shoes are handmade and no two pairs are the same. Located in the heart of Ibiza Town at Calle de Sa Creu núm 6. If you just can’t wait to check out their website. They send worldwide.
If you’re hunting for high-end fashion, check out Mayurka Ibiza. Having been on the scene for more than 30 years it’s safe to say they know what they’re doing here, making it top of the list for any fashionista. There are two stores on the island, one on the Avinguda Ignasi Wallis and one on the Passeig Vara de Rey. Some of the most popular brands Mayurka Ibiza offers include Philip Lim, 7 For all Mankind, Balenciaga, Isabel Marant, Kenzo, Maison Scotch, Marc Jacobs, Marni, Michael Kors, Missoni, Moncler, Mou, Paul Smith and Zadig & Voltaire – to name but a few!
Situated in a matt black warehouse in Ibiza’s art district, with its beautifully-curated collection of chic clothing fresh off the catwalks, Antonioli feels like stepping into a futuristic gallery. Among the rails you’ll find Marcelo Burlon t-shirts, Givenchy sliders, Jimmy Choo stilettos, Fendi clutches and even a couture children’s range. There’s lots of black, interesting cuts, gorgeous textiles and some hefty price tags to match.
reVOLVER is known for its stock of interesting young designers alongside famous brands such as Alexander McQueen, Maison Martin Margiela, Vivienne Westwood, Victoria Beckham, Phillip Lim and Alexander Wang. There’s plenty of cutting edge gear here to satisfy both sexes, and the expertly curated collections of accessories, including Comme des Garcons scents and wallets, jewellery by Nash and sunglasses by Mykita, are arguably the best range available in Ibiza Town.
The Cathedral of Ibiza or Cathedral of the Virgen de las Nieves is one of the things that you have to see in Ibiza and you can’t miss it. This cathedral is located in Dalt Vila, historical center of the city of Ibiza declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco. The religious building was built in the 13th century on the old Yebisah mosque. Without a doubt, an essential cultural visit.
On the beach of San Antonio, you can spend the day sunbathing or practicing some activities such as water skiing and banana boat or enjoying its bars and restaurants. Its clear waters and fine golden sand ensure a great day at the beach. But also, from this beach you can reach five coves with their own atmosphere and personality. Ferries depart every hour to nearby coves such as Cala Conta or Cala Bassa.
Only two kilometers away from the city of Ibiza is the small town of Talamanca. You can spend a great day sunbathing on its beach with clear and calm waters and golden fine sand. You will also find a wide range of bars and restaurants on the beach where you can take a break from the sun. And at night, in Talamanca you will find the great discos Pachá and Lio. Without a doubt, one of the localities what to see in Ibiza.
Yes! Ibiza is increasingly popular with families. Towns like Santa Eulalia, Cala Llonga, and inland farm stays offer peace, safety, and activities for kids.
Lightweight clothing and beachwear
Swimwear and sun protection
A light jacket for evenings
Smart casual outfits for upscale restaurants
Be respectful of local traditions in rural areas. Dress modestly when visiting churches, and always greet locals with a smile and a “Hola.” Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
If you want to know what to see in Ibiza, you have to visit Punta D’es Moscater. Near Sant Joan de Labritja are the cliffs presided by the lighthouse of Punta Moscater from where you can admire the immensity of the Mediterranean Sea. The sights offered by this landscape are incredible and you can’t miss enjoying this moment of relaxation.
Luxury, delivered to your inbox monthly.