Balearic Islands
Discover crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and vibrant nightlife in the Balearic Islands.
Where the stays are
Best luxury & boutique hotels in Balearic Islands
Introducing Balearic Islands
The Balearics offer four takes on seaside life: Mallorca’s mountains and hidden coves; Menorca’s untouched nature and ancient sites; Ibiza’s nightlife and festivals; and Formentera’s white-sand beaches and clear waters. Each island has its pace, yet all share Mediterranean light.
See hotelsYour travel notes
The Balearic Islands use the euro (€). Notes range from €5 to €500; credit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants on the main islands, but beach kiosks and small villages may require cash.
Don’t miss ensaïmada (sugar-powdered pastry), sobrasada (spreadable sausage), arròs brut (spiced rice dish), and ultra-fresh seafood. Pair everything with a glass of hierbas or a serving of Mallorcan ensalada.
To get around the Balearic Islands, rely on ferries that frequently connect Palma de Mallorca with Ibiza, Formentera, and Menorca, with more departures during high season. Once ashore, renting a car is the ideal way to explore secluded beaches and inland villages, offering maximum flexibility. On each island, buses serve the main tourist and coastal routes, and taxis are readily available for quicker, more punctual transfers.
Tipping isn’t mandatory but appreciated: leave around 5–10% in restaurants if service isn’t included, €1–2 for bar servers, and round up taxi fares.
June–July–August are perfect for the sea and nightlife but also the busiest. May and September offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and lower rates. In spring (April–May), the countryside blooms, and you can enjoy hiking routes without extreme heat.
Tips for travel in Balearic Islands
How do the main Balearic Islands differ from each other?
Mallorca offers a coastal-mountain mix (Serra de Tramuntana), Menorca is more intimate with pristine beaches and prehistoric sites, Ibiza is synonymous with international nightlife and hidden coves, while Formentera guarantees a laid-back atmosphere and unspoiled landscapes.
What’s the best way to travel between the islands?
Ferries run regularly from Palma de Mallorca to Ibiza and Formentera; Menorca is reachable by ferry from Palma and Barcelona. Within each island, renting a car provides maximum freedom, while buses and taxis cover main routes.
What unique outdoor activities can I do in the Balearic Islands?
Snorkel and dive in Cabrera’s marine reserves, kayak along Mallorca’s cliff-lined coast, hike in Menorca’s S’Albufera Natural Park, and take boat trips to Formentera’s semi-secluded beaches.
What authentic experiences should I not miss in the Balearics?
Watch the sunset at Ses Illetes beach in Formentera, taste sobrasada and ensaïmada at a traditional Mallorcan bakery, join the Sant Joan festivities in Ciutadella of Menorca, and dance until dawn at one of Ibiza’s iconic clubs.