Long beloved amongst Europeans and visitors from other parts of the world, Ibiza is poised to welcome the arrival of savvy travellers from the USA who have heard about its magic. This dream is now possible thanks to the increasing number of airlines flying from the US to Spain.
Best of all, you can even fly direct to the Balearic Islands, set in the shimmering aquamarine waters of the Mediterranean.
We're talking fantastic beaches, dazzling landscapes, superb cuisine, and a uniquely international mix of people. It's a top tourism destination that attracts families, couples and – needless to add – young clubbers eager to have the time of their lives on the planet's hottest electronic music scene.
But what is it actually like here, and what do you really need to know before you arrive?
No need to fear, Ibiza Spotlight is here with tips, tricks, general info, and the island’s smoothest, most secure booking platform to ensure your vacation on Ibiza and its spectacular sister island, Formentera, is the trip of a lifetime!
The many facets of Ibiza
Let's start by clearing up the misconception that the island is only about non-stop parties. Don't get me wrong, you can find them going on round-the-clock throughout the week all summer long, but there is just so much more to it than that.
Ibiza has a fascinating multicultural history going back millennia.
You can discover it in the island's many museums exploring its picturesque villages, or by simply strolling through the winding streets of its capital – Ibiza Town – especially the atmospheric old quarter above the port known as Dalt Vila.
Home to many restaurants, bars, and trendy boutiques, it’s unmissable. From the summit where the cathedral is located, you can also marvel at the panoramic views of Formentera. Oh, and by the way, the latter (with some of the finest, white-sand beaches you’ll ever encounter) is quickly and easily reached via ferry (more on boat trips and parties down below).
However, Ibiza's rise to prominence as a top tourist destination really began in the late '50s and '60s, when all manner of creative types, free spirits, and hippies (many of them from the USA) came here to experience its idyllic way of life, tolerant outlook and unique sense of freedom. Since then, it's never looked back.
Ibiza is a truly family-friendly destination
For a vacation spot that is often compared to Las Vegas, Ibiza is considerably more family-friendly.
Every summer, families from all over Europe make their way to the island for a much-needed vacation. Now, Sin City may have its fair share of attractions for children, but just take a look at the plethora of fun activities Ibiza has to offer youngsters.
Dress code? Here? Hardly
Ibiza takes a very open-minded view towards the way people dress. We'd encourage you to wear a shirt when in town, just out of respect, but when it comes to its beaches – some of which are nudist - and clubs, its easy-going dress code is one of its most appealing features.
The island even has its own fashion, adlib, dating all the way back to the early '70s.
While it's almost unheard of to get into major clubs in the States without dressing up to a certain degree, the rules on Ibiza are much more relaxed.
In general, shorts, a t-shirt or vest, and even sandals are perfectly acceptable unless you’re going as a VIP or to one of the high-end establishments like Lío or Club Chinois. The mecca of dance music may abound with beautiful people in the latest fashions, but partying here is and always has been more about the vibe than the clothes you wear.
Getting Around
Ibiza is a small island, so it doesn’t take long to get from one side to the other (it's even easier on tiny Formentera). Its public transport system, which consists of a bus network, is adequate in summer.
In addition, there are taxis - there is a local app called Taxi Click, which is available for both iOS and Android. Ever since late 2023 ride-share service Uber has begun to operate on Ibiza. Initially, it is going to offer two types of service: Uber Comfort and Uber Van, with a capacity of four or six passengers, respectively.
Which is why the best solution is to hire your own transport.
If you're not sure where to explore, you can take one of the many guided tours. As for driving permits, if you have a valid licence from your home state, you can drive on Ibiza and Formentera without the need to get an International Driver's License (IDL).
WHERE TO STAY
Ibiza has a multitude of options for accommodation. For an overview, see our guide to hotels on the White Isle. Ibiza is known for having some of the swankiest five-star hotels in the world. If you are looking for something special, check out our recommendations of luxury hotels. These range from downtown, adult-only ones such as The Standard and long-standing, family-run beachside establishments like Torre Del Mar to rural retreats like Can Pujolet and cutting-edge coastal resorts such as Six Senses Ibiza.
Alternatively, many people opt for renting a villa. Again, Ibiza has some simply breathtaking villas and restored fincas (traditional farmhouses) for hire. See our detailed guide if you wish to stay in a more private setting. But keep in mind that the minimum stay in high season is one week.
Food
From high-end dining in luxury surroundings to enjoying a simple bocadillo (sandwich) with some olives and a glass of wine at a typical local café, Ibiza has you covered when it comes to eating. Just as in the States, tipping (normally around 10 per cent) is encouraged.
Take a look at our restaurant guide to get an overview of the amazing range available.
Now about those parties...
It may come as a surprise, but the electronic music scene in Ibiza isn't comparable to its American counterpart.
While Tech is gaining momentum in the States, the scene in the US is largely dominated by big room, Trap and Reggaeton – mainstream music you might colloquially refer to as "EDM" (electronic dance music). Here in Europe, we tend to call it "main stage" or "commercial".
Some of the hottest parties on Ibiza are ones with music that Americans might not be too familiar with.
For example, "Tech" (Techno or Tech House) is really popular on Ibiza. Don't worry though, there is also plenty of EDM too.
New for 2024, Ushuaïa - Ibiza's largest outdoor club - is opening midweek in May for the first time. Those looking for EDM should gravitate towards Tomorrowland presents Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike on Wednesdays. Or for something as a bit more of a gateway to more underground, Ibiza-focused music, why not try House paradise Defected on Tuesday daytimes?
For a thorough exploration of all the different types of dance music found on Ibiza, give our extensive guide a read.
Don't get me wrong, you'll have an extraordinary time watching Martin Garrix or Swedish House Mafia throw it down at Ushuaïa, but if you really want to see what Ibiza is about, then make your way over to Pacha for Music On, Amnesia for Pyramid or hit Afterlife at Hï Ibiza.
Check out the full party calendar to see for yourselves and, most importantly, where to obtain club tickets easily and securely.
Look beyond the obvious
What do I mean when I say this? I mean, look for the parties you've never heard of, at the venues you don't know, with the DJs you're unfamiliar with.
Parties like Woomoon at restaurant/club Cova Santa are less well known, but they are well worth a shot. Away from internationally-known brands, places such as Akasha and Pikes are well worth checking out.
Naturally, this being an island situated in the Mediterranean, the partying isn't restricted to land. Recent years have seen a boom in the popularity of boat parties.
Make sure you take part in one while you are here as they are a uniquely Ibizan angle on maritime merrymaking!
And the fun doesn't stop there, either. Ibiza's beach clubs have earned their global reputation not only for their stunning settings, high levels of service, awesome music, and superb cuisine; no, they are an integral part of its music scene.
Shopping on Ibiza
Looking for something special to wear or a unique souvenir from Ibiza to show off when you get back home? Our guide has all you need to know. The island's legendary hippy markets are a must-see, too.
Make the effort to meet people
Last but by no means least, the key to this remarkable destination is socialising.
Ibiza has always been known for being an open-hearted melting pot that welcomes people from any background. The island's well-earned reputation for tolerance and receptivity is as valid today as it was 50 years ago.
This inclusivity extends to the LGBTQIA community, which is why Ibiza is one of the world's most gay-friendly destinations, something reflected in the wide range of options available from beaches and bars to hotels and themed events.
On Ibiza, almost everyone speaks English to a greater or lesser degree (though don't let that stop you practising your Spanish with the locals - they'll appreciate the effort), which makes communicating easy.
So, no matter whether you're travelling with family, friends or solo, it's easy to meet people here. You'll find people very open - everyone is here to have a good time - after all.
Now you've got the big picture, don’t forget to check out our active forums for further insider tips and to chat with other vacationers.
Finally, please bear in mind that the water situation on the island is critical: please have a good read of our guide for tips on how to conserve water. And do your best to take care of its spectacular beaches and their surrounding ecosystems, removing any litter when you go.
