Ibiza Island Guide: Hotels, Flights, and Top Things to Do

Ibiza, the third largest Balearic island after Mallorca and Menorca, covers an area of 572 square kilometres and is home to around 150,000 people. 

While Spanish and Catalan are the main languages spoken, the island is a global tourist hotspot, attracting over 3 million visitors annually. 

Known for its iconic beaches and world-famous party scene, with DJ legends such as David Guetta and the 'Queen of Funk' Chaka Khan, Ibiza offers so much more. 

You might even bump into celebrities such as Kate Moss or Jade Jagger as you stroll through its vibrant streets. Beyond the nightlife, Ibiza's historic heart, Dalt Vila (Eivissa), is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into its rich past.

In this guide, you'll find:

 Recommendations for the best places to eat, proven places to stay with useful tips, off-the-beaten-path spots for stunning views, the best places to take once-in-a-lifetime Ibiza photos - and much more.

If you're looking for the perfect place to stay in Ibiza, the island offers a wide range of hotels to suit all tastes, whether you're here for vibrant nightlife, luxurious relaxation or a mixture of the two. 

From tranquil beachfront hideaways to hotels just steps away from iconic attractions, here are some of the best options that combine comfort, style and convenience:

• Luxury hotel: Located in the chic Talamanca area, Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay is a luxurious retreat with rooms ranging from €400 to €800 per night. Just a short drive from Ibiza Town and UNESCO-listed Dalt Vila, the hotel is renowned for its tranquil beachfront.

• Mid-range hotel: For those looking for a hotel that embraces Ibiza's world-famous party scene, the Ushuaia Ibiza Beach Hotel in Playa d'en Bossa is an iconic choice. With rates ranging from €250 to €600 per night, this hotel is located right on the beach, just steps away from the vibrant clubs of Ibiza Town. 

• Budget-friendly option: Hostal Juanita offers great value for money without sacrificing comfort. Located in Ibiza Town, this charming guesthouse charges between €80 and €150 per night. Its central location allows easy access to Dalt Vila and the marina, perfect for exploring the city's history and restaurants. 

Ibiza enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters, making it a great destination almost all year round. 

The best time to visit is from May to October, when the island is at its sunniest and liveliest. Temperatures during this time range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities. However, July and August can be quite busy, so if you prefer a more relaxed experience, late May or early September are ideal months.

For more detailed information, please refer to the table above from AEMET (The Spanish National Meteorological Agency), which provides more accurate weather data for Ibiza. 

The winter months (December to February) are much calmer, with temperatures averaging between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F). 

☝️Handy tips prior visiting the island:

• Compared to mainland Spain, Ibiza tends to be slightly warmer in winter due to its island climate, but as anywhere, be prepared for the occasional rain shower in the low season.

• Before visiting, pack plenty of sunscreen for the hot summer days and don't forget a light jacket for the cooler evenings, especially if you're visiting out of season. Ibiza may have a reputation for never-ending parties, but it's also got plenty of sunny charm!

And remember: Ibiza's weather is like its parties - sometimes it gets hot, but the sunsets are always worth it! 🌞

Booking a flight to Ibiza is relatively straightforward, with many direct flights from major European cities, especially during the peak summer season. Flight prices vary depending on the time of year and departure city: 

During the summer, return flights from European hubs such as London, Paris or Berlin typically cost between €100 and €300. 

In the low season (November-March), prices can drop significantly, sometimes as low as €40 to €100 for a return flight.
Flight times to Ibiza depend on where you are flying from. 

Flight duration: 

• Europe: From most European capitals it takes around 2 to 3 hours to reach the island. 
• Spain: Flights from mainland Spain, such as Barcelona or Madrid, are even quicker - around 1 hour.
• USA: If you are travelling from the United States, there are no direct flights to Ibiza. However, most travellers connect through major European hubs such as Madrid, Barcelona or London, making the total travel time around 10 to 14 hours, depending on layovers.

☝️Handy tips prior booking your Ibiza flight:

• It's a good idea to book early, especially if you're visiting in July or August, when flights can fill up quickly.

• For the best deals, consider flying mid-week and always check baggage policies, as many low-cost airlines offer tempting prices but charge extra for luggage.

• Ibiza's airport (IBZ) is just a 20-minute drive from the main attractions and Ibiza Town, so you'll be on the beach or exploring the island in no time!

Ibiza Airport (IBZ) is the island's main airport, located just 7 kilometres (about 4 miles) southwest of Ibiza Town, making transfers to the city centre quick and convenient. 

Here are the main transfer options, with notes on average prices and reliability:

• Taxis: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal and are a quick and comfortable way to reach the city centre in approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The fare is usually between €20-€25, depending on traffic and time of day.

• Buses: The L10 bus is a budget option that connects the airport with Ibiza Town. Buses run approximately every 20-30 minutes during the summer season and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes. A single ticket costs around €3.50, making it a great value for single travellers or those on a budget.

• Shuttles: Many hotels and resorts offer private shuttle services that can be pre-booked for a smooth transfer. These shuttles can be shared or private, with prices varying depending on visitor's accommodation and preferences.

There are no trains on the island, so taxis, buses and shuttles are your best options for quick and efficient transfers. 

Ibiza, like mainland Spain, follows Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1 during standard time and UTC+2 during summer time (from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October). 

This means that Ibiza is usually one hour ahead of the UK and in the same time zone as much of mainland Europe. 

If you're travelling from the US or other far-flung regions, be sure to set your watches to match the island's relaxed rhythm!

And remember, Ibiza is the land of endless parties, so the real question isn't "What time is it in Ibiza?", but rather "Is it time to start the party or keep it going?". 🕺🌞

Ibiza is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife and rich history. 

From the clear waters of Cala Comte to the mesmerising sunset views of Es Vedrà, the island's natural beauty captivates visitors at every turn.

Next, I'll be revealing some of the island's well-known (and not-so-well-known) eateries to savour the island's authentic flavours, exciting (and unexpected) activities and top things to do for a unique Ibiza experience off the beaten track.

Located in the charming village of San Lorenzo, La Paloma is a short drive from the island's picturesque northern beaches. With prices ranging from €25 to €45 per person, it's renowned for its farm-to-table Mediterranean cuisine using fresh, organic ingredients. After a morning exploring the countryside, it's the perfect place to enjoy a meal in their beautiful garden.

For a more upmarket experience, Lío Ibiza in Ibiza Town is just a stone's throw from the iconic Dalt Vila. This luxurious restaurant, priced from €100 to €200, offers an unforgettable night out with its dinner and show experience.

If you're in the mood for something a little more relaxed, head to Can Pujol in San Antonio. Just minutes from the famous sunset spot of Café del Mar, this beachside restaurant serves authentic Ibizan seafood.

And if you're feeling adventurous, why not take the ferry to Formentera and try the island's famous caldereta de langosta, a rich lobster stew? It's the perfect excuse to explore beyond Ibiza and taste something really special.

If you're a nature lover, hike to Es Vedrà, the island's famous rock formation with a mystical reputation and breathtaking sunset views. 

For something more active, Cala Comte has some of the clearest waters in Ibiza, perfect for swimming, snorkelling or even hiring a kayak.

Of course, Ibiza is also famous for its world-class music scene, so catching a DJ set in one of the island's legendary clubs, such as Pacha or Ushuaïa, is a must for anyone who enjoys nightlife.

Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure or a bit of shopping, Ibiza's activities offer something to make every day on the island special.

Why not start your day with a yoga session at one of the island's tranquil retreats, where you can relax and reconnect with nature?

If you love exploring the sea, a boat trip around the island or ferry to nearby Formentera is an unforgettable experience. You can swim in hidden coves and snorkel in crystal clear waters.

For something off the beaten track, visit the Las Dalias Market, where you can browse through local crafts, art and bohemian fashion.

Living just 1 hour and 15 minutes away by plane, Ibiza is likely to be our choice for a unique Christmas celebration this year. 

With its mix of beautiful beaches, rich history, world-class music scene and countless activities, the island offers an experience that is hard to resist, whatever the season. 

Whether we're enjoying a peaceful winter stroll on the beach or exploring the charm of Ibiza Town, this year's holiday could be a little different - and a lot more memorable - under the island's sunny skies.