Top 5 most beautiful cities in the Balearic Islands to visit2026 ranking

Ibiza balances high-energy superclubs with secluded coves, offering a mix of international DJ sets, quiet whitewashed villages, and bohemian roots. The turquoise water rivals the Caribbean, while the medieval citadel and local seafood anchor the experience in Mediterranean tradition. Expect to spend heavily during the peak season, but the contrast between nightlife and island stillness makes it a unique destination.

As the capital of the Balearic Islands, Palma blends different eras with a surprising ease. You will find a Gothic cathedral facing the sea, medieval alleys that spill into trendy bars, and quiet Mallorcan patios tucked between busy tourist streets. Today, the Santa Catalina neighborhood hosts the best local dining. Skip visiting in July and August if you want to see the city without the crushing crowds.

Tucked into the Serra de Tramuntana mountains on Mallorca, Sóller balances rugged peaks with a coastal escape. You can spend your morning admiring modernist architecture in the town square, then take a quick ride to the Port de Sóller for a swim. It serves as a prime base for hiking the island's lush interior, offering a slower pace than the high-energy resorts found elsewhere in Spain.

Cala d'Or, located on the southeast coast of Mallorca, features whitewashed, Ibiza-style architecture and calm, clear waters. You can swim at coves like Cala Gran and Cala Esmeralda or visit the marina to see yachts and book boat trips. For a change of pace, the nearby Mondragó Natural Park offers protected landscapes that feel like a quieter, more refined alternative to the busy resort towns found elsewhere on the island.

Sant Antoni de Portmany is the second most important town on the island of Ibiza in the Balearic Islands. The expansive bay framing the town earned it the name Portus Magnus during Roman times. Known for idyllic landscapes, sunsets, and fine sandy beaches, it is also a major party hub in Ibiza, featuring iconic institutions like Café del Mar, Eden, Es Paradis with its notorious water parties, and the O Beach Ibiza complex, a daytime beach club centered around an immense pool. Sometimes dubbed Birmingham on sea, Sant Antoni attracts a heavy British presence and has unfortunately dealt with issues tied to hooliganism, such as street violence and trafficking.

The Beaches of Sant Antoni de Portmany

Altogether, eight beaches sit within Sant Antoni and its immediate surroundings. The central beach, or S’Arenal Beach, is bordered by a pedestrian promenade and plenty of amenities. Further south, you will find Es Pouet Beach. To the north, before reaching Des Moro Beach, make a detour through the port of Sant Antoni and stroll down the Passeig de Ses Fonts, a famous avenue lined with illuminated fountains at night. You will pass near the Huevo, a monument erected in 1992 commemorating the discovery of the Americas.

The port borders the old town of Sant Antoni, centered around the chalk-white Sant Antoni Abat Church. For a cultural stop, check out the town's former lighthouse converted into a museum, the Ses Coves Blanques Lighthouse, which houses various exhibitions and a sea observatory. Near Des Moro Beach, you will also find the Aquarium Cap Blanc, tucked right inside a natural sea cave.

The Fabulous Landscapes of Ibiza

Other beaches sit further from Sant Antoni but remain accessible on foot, by car, or by boat. To the south, Cala Bassa is a small turquoise paradise where you can rent Jet Skis. Further north, explore the wilder shores of Cala Gracio and Cala Gracioneta. The coastline gradually gives way to impressive cliffs, particularly between Punta Galera and Cala Salada. Energetic hikers can push on to Cap Nunó, where increasingly sheer cliffs appear to plunge straight into the sea. Another scenic coastal viewpoint sits near Sa Penya Esbarrada.

Just off the bay of Sant Antoni de Portmany, admire the uninhabited islets including Illa Sa Conillera, Illa des Bosc, and Illa s’Espartar.

When to Go

It all depends on what you want to do during your stay in Ibiza! The nightclub season runs from April to October. Spring and late summer bring a quieter atmosphere and more pleasant temperatures.

How to Get There

By plane, you will arrive on the island via Ibiza Airport, which runs regular shuttle buses to Sant Antoni de Portmany. You can also reach Ibiza by ferry from Barcelona, Valencia, or Dénia. Certain ferry routes dock directly in Sant Antoni de Portmany.