Balearic Islands, Spain Guide

Know Before You Go...®

The Balearic Islands, a stunning archipelago in the Mediterranean, are a paradise of turquoise waters, golden beaches, and vibrant culture. Comprising Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera, each island offers unique experiences, from Mallorca’s historic sites and dramatic landscapes to Menorca’s tranquil charm. Ibiza is renowned for its lively nightlife, while Formentera captivates with pristine, unspoiled beauty. Visitors can enjoy water sports, explore charming villages, or indulge in local cuisine featuring fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavors. With a blend of relaxation, adventure, and rich traditions, the Balearic Islands promise an unforgettable escape for all types of travelers.

Why Balearic Islands, Spain?

  • Mallorca is home to the stunning Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Ibiza is famous worldwide for its vibrant nightlife and electronic music scene.
  • Menorca boasts more beaches than Mallorca and Ibiza combined.
  • Formentera is known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere.

Balearic Islands, Spain Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
55° F
° F
February
57° F
° F
March
49° F
° F
April
63° F
° F
May
70° F
° F
June
77° F
° F
July
82° F
° F
August
82° F
° F
September
79° F
° F
October
72° F
° F
November
63° F
° F
December
57° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
1.9 inches
February
1.6 inches
March
1.6 inches
April
1.8 inches
May
1.4 inches
June
0.8 inches
July
0.4 inches
August
1 inches
September
2.2 inches
October
3.4 inches
November
2.4 inches
December
2.3 inches

History

The Balearic Islands, located in the Mediterranean, have a rich and diverse history shaped by their strategic location. Evidence of human settlement dates back to prehistoric times, with the Talayotic culture leaving behind mysterious stone monuments. The islands were later settled by the Phoenicians, who established trade routes and ports, followed by the Carthaginians, who used the Balearics as a key military and commercial base.

In 123 BC, the islands were annexed by the Romans, bringing infrastructure, agriculture, and prosperity. After the fall of the Roman Empire, they faced invasions by Vandals and Byzantines before becoming part of the Islamic caliphate in the 8th century. Under Moorish rule, the Balearics flourished, developing trade networks and introducing advanced agricultural practices.

The islands were reconquered by Christian forces in the 13th century, with King James I of Aragon leading the conquest of Mallorca. Over the centuries, they became an important part of the Kingdom of Aragon and later unified Spain.

In the modern era, the Balearics transformed into a popular tourist destination, celebrated for their natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere. Today, they blend ancient traditions with modern appeal, making them a unique and captivating travel destination.

Transportation on Balearic Islands, Spain

Getting to Balearic Islands, Spain and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for the duration of the stay.
  • Most nationalities can enter Spain visa-free for up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
  • Proof of onward or return travel may be required.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Spain; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Driving Side: Right.
  • Roads: Well-maintained with scenic coastal and mountain routes.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, and 120 km/h (75 mph) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be cautious on narrow roads and in tourist-heavy areas. Parking can be limited, especially near beaches and in popular towns like Palma, Ibiza Town, or Ciutadella.

Local Transportation

The Balearic Islands offer a range of transportation options for visitors. Public buses operate on all major islands, connecting towns, beaches, and tourist sites. Ferries link the islands to each other and mainland Spain, with frequent services between Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available, while car and scooter rentals provide flexibility for exploring. In Ibiza and Formentera, bicycles are a popular choice for short distances. Each island’s transport system ensures convenient travel for locals and visitors alike.

Know Before You Go...® - Balearic Islands, Spain Travel Tips

Before making their way to Balearic Islands, Spain , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Balearic Islands, Spain even more relaxing.

Capital: Palma (located on Mallorca)
Population: 1.2 million (across all islands, estimated)
Size: 1,927 square miles (total across the islands)
Electric Current: 230
Official Language: Catalan and Spanish are the official languages of the Balearic Islands. English and German are widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, catering to international visitors.
Currency:
  • The official currency is the Euro (EUR).
  • ATMs are widely available across the islands.
  • Major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted in most establishments.
  • Contactless payments are common in shops, restaurants, and transport services.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. Leaving 5-10% of the bill is customary in restaurants and for guides.
  • VAT (Value Added Tax) of 21% is typically included in displayed prices.
Dress Code: The Balearic Islands have a relaxed Mediterranean dress code. Lightweight, casual clothing is ideal for daytime activities, while smart casual is recommended for dining and nightlife, especially in Ibiza and upscale areas.
Topography: The Balearic Islands feature diverse landscapes, from Mallorca’s dramatic mountains to Menorca’s unspoiled beaches, Ibiza’s vibrant coastline, and Formentera’s turquoise waters.
Telephone: * Country code: +34 * Area codes vary by island (e.g., Mallorca: 971, Ibiza: 971). * Mobile networks and Wi-Fi are widely available in towns, hotels, and public spaces.

Balearic Islands, Spain Weddings and Honeymoons

In the Balearic Islands, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Application: Submit a marriage application to the Registro Civil (Civil Registry Office) or Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) in the Balearic Islands where the marriage will take place. At least one partner must have legal residency in Spain or provide a valid reason for marrying in the Balearic Islands.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards
  • Birth certificates (translated into Spanish and certified with an Apostille)
  • Certificate of no impediment to marriage or single status certificate (issued by your home country and translated into Spanish)
  • Proof of residency in Spain for at least one partner (if applicable)
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable)
  • Application form provided by the Civil Registry Office

Translation and Certification: All foreign documents must be translated into Spanish by a sworn translator and certified with an Apostille.

Publication of Banns: Marriage banns may need to be posted at the Civil Registry Office for a minimum of 15 days before the ceremony.

Ceremony: Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted by a registrar, typically at the Town Hall or Civil Registry Office.

Costs: Marriage registration fees are minimal, usually under €100. Additional costs may apply for translations, Apostilles, and optional ceremony arrangements.

Religious or symbolic ceremonies are popular in the Balearic Islands, especially in stunning venues such as beaches, luxury villas, or historic churches in Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca, or Formentera. These ceremonies are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.