Ibiza is well known for its party island reputation but as well as being home to numerous clubs, bars and a lively nightlife, it also boasts beautiful scenery and areas practically untouched by tourism. The third largest Balearic Island in the archipelago reaches its busiest in the summer months but winter time is also popular among families looking to take a break.
History: since its settlement in 684 BC, Ibiza has changed hands many times and its original name, Ibossim, comes from the words for ‘dance’ and ‘music’, proving that Ibiza’s connection to the music and dance scene stems from many years ago. It was once a massive trading port in the Mediterranean and has changed hands from the Greeks to the Romans and spent a period under Moorish Islamic rule but was reclaimed for Christendom in 1235. Ibiza is now a major holiday destination along with its neighbours, Majorca and Minorca.
Sightseeing: the beaches in Ibiza are the main attractions of the island, from busy beaches with music bars like San Antonio to quiet coves and bays that are little visited. Playa d’en Bossa is particularly pretty and Cala de sa Galera has good views of Puig Niuno as its backdrop. The World Heritage protected old fortified part of Ibiza Town, D’Alt Vila, is another highlight with its narrow streets and ancient architecture while natural attractions include Can Marçà caves and the island rock of Es Vedra.
Shopping: where there are tourists there is shopping, and Ibiza is no exception. Local handicrafts and jewellery can be purchased from street sellers and craft shops located on the streets of the main towns. Shopping at night in the old part of Ibiza Town is popular among tourists while the weekly hippy markets at Es Canar and San Carlos draw crowds.
Eating and drinking: there is no shortage of places to eat and drink in Ibiza, with much of the island dedicated to partying. Saint Antonio has many restaurants to choose from, with the most popular often located on the beach. Café del Mar is the most famous bar on Ibiza with many flocking here every evening to see the world-famous sunsets. Bars must close at 06:00 according to local laws and Amnesia, Space, Pacha and Privilege are the most popular nightclubs.
Where to stay: Ibiza offers a range of accommodation choices including top quality hotels suitable for couples and children and cheap flats and rooms in the heart of the action. All new hotels built on the island must now be five-star in a bid by the administration to draw more of an international clientele but plenty of cheaper alternatives exist. San Antonio has the bulk of the accommodation but is best left to party-goers in the summer months while villas and rural hotels appeal to those looking to unwind away from the nightclubs.
Getting there: Ibiza Airport is the most used entry point into the island and flights arrive here daily, primarily from mainland Spain, Italy, the UK and Germany. There are numerous taxis and shuttles transporting visitors from the airport to their hotels while buses are a more rustic and cheaper way to get around. Ferries also come in from Barcelona and a few other Spanish locations. Motorbikes can be hired to get around the island once visitors have arrived.
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