10 best places to visit in Ibiza

One of the most famous of the Balearic Islands is Ibiza. Although the size of the island is relatively small, it is full of attractions and things to do. Ibiza is widely known for its unprecedented nightlife, but there is also plenty to experience during the day. From the history of Ibiza town to the sandy beaches of Cala Llenya, Ibiza is an island that deserves a visit.

10Cala Llenya

Cala Llenya If you're hoping to find a slightly quieter beach in Ibiza, then Cala Llenya might fit the bill. The beach is just 10 minutes from San Carlos, and it's on the smaller side. That also means fewer people. Instead of offering walking access to dozens of nightclubs, Cala Llenya is surrounded by lush green pine trees. Beach volleyball is popular on this beach and many families gravitate towards the more relaxed atmosphere of the area. If you're around on a Sunday, take a look at the weekly markets of Cala Llenya just before going to the beach.

9Playa d'en Bossa

Playa d'en Bossa It's no secret that many of the people who go to Ibiza come for the splendid seaside resorts. Perhaps there's no better place to visit Ibiza than Playa d'en Bossa. This coastal resort spot is incredibly attractive to those who want an all-inclusive holiday right on the beach. It's also the longest beach on the island, which means you'll have no trouble laying down a towel or a sun lounger right on the sand. If you're coming to Ibiza for the nightlife, then Playa d'en Bossa is ideal. There are plenty of bars and nightclubs in the area, some of them right on the sand.

8Santa Eulalia del Rio

Santa Eulalia del Rio Santa Eulalia del Rio is one of the main tourist resorts of Ibiza and lies on the eastern coast of the island. It's only a short drive from Ibiza's main airport, and it's the spot for those who want culture and cuisine as well as beaches and landscapes. One of the main draws of Santa Eulalia del Rio is the long promenade that runs along the coast. Lined with palms, the promenade lets you walk close to the water and admire the beach views for kilometres. Shopping and dining options take precedence over nightlife in this coastal destination.

7Cala Llonga

Cala Llonga The resort of Cala Llonga boasts a wide white-sand beach, views over a splendid bay and even pine-covered hills to frame the landscape. This is perhaps the most family-friendly place to visit Ibiza, which means you'll find many families with small children in the area. The main beach also offers a playground and a miniature playground to keep the children entertained during the holiday. Cala Llonga is also just 10 minutes from Ibiza town, which means you can easily get away from the beach and explore the historic attractions at any time.

6Sant Josep de sa Talaia

Sant Josep de sa Talaia If you're eager to see a different side of Ibiza, then be sure to go to Sant Josep de sa Talaia. In the south-west of the island, Sant Josep de sa Talaia is where you can find some of the most scenic destinations in Ibiza. The Salines Natural Park and the Vendranell Nature Reserve are two of the most obvious examples, though you'll also be near extinct volcanoes and splendid beaches. At Cala Comte, you can relax on a sandy coast, or go to one of the area's local breweries. This is definitely the nature lover's favourite place on the island.

5Sant Antoni de Portmany

Sant Antoni de Portmany

Sant Antoni de Portmany, also known simply as San Antonio, is the second largest destination in Ibiza. It's recognised worldwide as one of the best destinations for Ibiza's nightlife, and there's no shortage of places to dance and drink until the early hours of the morning. Start the evening at the Sunset Strip, where several cafés and bars offer spectacular sunset views. Then head to the West End, where most of the nightlife spots are concentrated. If you're not out too late at night, you can enjoy days on the beach or stroll along the scenic promenade called Passeig de ses Fonts.

4Es Vedra

Es Vedra

One of the most intriguing destinations in Ibiza is the island of Es Vedra. Located just off the coast of Cala d'Hort, on the west coast, Es Vedra is completely uninhabited. However, it is steeped in mystery and tradition. Legends link Es Vedra to Tanit, the Phoenician moon goddess. The island was also the spot where the notorious sirens tried to lure Ulysses from his ship in Homer's Odyssey. Es Vedra is said to be incredibly magnetic, second only to the North Pole and the Bermuda Triangle. Boat trips take you to see Es Vedra up close, as well as offering splendid views of the surrounding landscape.

3Portinatx

On the northernmost coast of the island is Portinatx, a resort with three spectacular beaches. The largest is the sandy S'Arenal Gros, and the other two private and less crowded options are S'Arenal Petit and Playa Porto. All three boast lifeguards, vendors and sun loungers. While you can simply relax and unwind on the beach, Portinatx is very popular with snorkelling and diving enthusiasts thanks to its clear waters. It's a fantastic place for families, and the ideal spot to start long walks along the coast. Best of all, most of the hotels in the area are just a short walk from at least one of the three main beaches.

2Es Canar

Es Canar is a seaside resort on the eastern side of the island. It's best known for its hippy market, but it has much more than that to offer. Es Canar consists of pine forests and sandy coasts, which means great contrasts and exceptional landscapes. It's also a dream destination for outdoor recreation enthusiasts, because there are unlimited opportunities for things like windsurfing and paragliding. Of course, you won't want to miss the famous hippy market. Held every Wednesday, the market is an ideal place to buy local crafts and all kinds of souvenirs.

1Ibiza Town

#1 of the best things to see in Ibiza The port town known as Ibiza Town is the largest and prettiest destination on the island. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Ibiza boasts a fortified fortress and cobbled streets. The locals call the town Eivissa. Ibiza Town is divided into sections: Dalt Vila and Eixample. Perched above the water, Dalt Vila, or Old Town, is the historic area full of world-class restaurants and a great selection of bars. Below, you'll find Eixample, or Extension, where you can find most of the more recent buildings. During your visit, be sure to check out the Cathedral called Our Lady of the Snows, which offers perhaps the best views of the whole town.