Ibiza, Spain Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Ibiza, an island off the coast of Spain, is a vibrant and lively destination known for its stunning beaches, world-renowned nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. With a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages. From its crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscapes to its bustling markets and historic sites, Ibiza has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, dance the night away, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Ibiza is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking a memorable and diverse vacation.

Why Ibiza, Spain?

  • Ibiza is the third largest of the Balearic Islands in Spain.
  • The island is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with popular clubs like Pacha and Amnesia.
  • Ibiza is also home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Dalt Vila fortified old town and the Phoenician settlement of Sa Caleta.
  • The island has over 50 beaches, ranging from secluded coves to sandy shores with chic beach clubs.
  • Ibiza is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and over 200 species of birds.

Ibiza, Spain Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
59° F
° F
February
59° F
° F
March
61° F
° F
April
64° F
° F
May
72° F
° F
June
79° F
° F
July
84° F
° F
August
84° F
° F
September
81° F
° F
October
73° F
° F
November
66° F
° F
December
61° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
1.5 inches
February
1.2 inches
March
1.6 inches
April
1.5 inches
May
1.1 inches
June
0.6 inches
July
0.3 inches
August
1.1 inches
September
1.8 inches
October
2.8 inches
November
2.1 inches
December
2.3 inches

History

Ibiza, a small island located in the Mediterranean Sea, is known for its vibrant party scene and beautiful beaches. However, this popular tourist destination has a rich and interesting history that dates back thousands of years.

The first inhabitants of Ibiza were the Phoenicians, who arrived on the island around 654 BC. They established a thriving trading port and named the island Ibossim, meaning “pine-covered island.” The Carthaginians later conquered Ibiza, followed by the Romans in 123 BC. During the Roman rule, the island became an important hub for salt production, and many impressive Roman ruins can still be found on the island today.

In the 5th century AD, Ibiza was invaded by the Vandals, and then the Byzantines. However, it was the Moorish conquest in the 8th century that had the biggest impact on the island. The Moors introduced agriculture and irrigation techniques, which helped Ibiza flourish. They also built the first fortress on the island, now known as Dalt Vila, or “upper town.”

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Ibiza was repeatedly attacked by pirates and suffered from economic decline. However, in the 18th century, the construction of new fortified walls and the development of the salt trade brought prosperity back to the island.

The 20th century marked a turning point for Ibiza, as it became a popular destination for artists, writers, and bohemian travelers. The island’s relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty attracted many famous figures, including Hollywood stars and musicians. It wasn’t until the 1960s that Ibiza’s reputation as a party destination began to emerge, as young people from all over Europe flocked to the island for its legendary nightlife.

Today, Ibiza is known as a global hotspot, however, the island also maintains its charm with its traditional whitewashed villages, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

Transportation on Ibiza, Spain

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

Entry Documents

  • Valid passport for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa not required for EU/EEA citizens and most other nationalities for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period).
  • Return/onward ticket recommended as proof of departure.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: Foreign licenses are valid. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU licenses.
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are well-maintained, though some rural routes are narrow. Be cautious on winding roads leading to beaches or cliffside areas.
  • Speed Limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on open roads, 120 km/h (75 mph) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Parking can be challenging in peak season, especially near beaches and in Ibiza Town. Public transportation or scooters are recommended for shorter distances.

Local Transportation

Ibiza provides a range of transport options to explore its vibrant nightlife, idyllic beaches, and charming villages. Public buses are an affordable and reliable way to travel between key locations like Ibiza Town, San Antonio, and Santa Eulalia, with regular routes running throughout the island. For more flexibility, renting a car or scooter is ideal for discovering hidden coves and quieter areas off the beaten path. Taxis are readily available and a convenient choice for shorter journeys, especially late at night. Water taxis offer a scenic and unique way to hop between beaches or coastal towns.

Know Before You Go...® - Ibiza, Spain Travel Tips

Before making their way to Ibiza, 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 Ibiza, Spain even more relaxing.

Capital: Ibiza Town
Population: 149,900 (estimated)
Size: 221 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 230
Official Language: The official language spoken in Ibiza is Spanish. However, due to its popularity as a tourist destination, many people in Ibiza also speak English as a secondary language. Some locals may also speak Catalan, the co-official language in the Balearics.
Currency:
  • The currency used in Ibiza is the Euro (€), which is the official currency of Spain. It is recommended to exchange your currency to Euros before arriving in Ibiza, as the exchange rates may be higher in the island.
  • In terms of payment options, cash is widely accepted in Ibiza. Most establishments prefer cash payments, especially in smaller businesses and local markets. It is always advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and tipping.
  • Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in Ibiza, especially in larger establishments such as restaurants, and department stores. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, while American Express and Diners Club may have limited acceptance.
  • ATMs can be found all over the island, making it easy to withdraw cash. However, some ATMs may charge a fee for international transactions, so it is advisable to check with your bank beforehand.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping is not mandatory in Spain, but it is appreciated for good service.
  • In restaurants, it is common to leave a small tip of 5-10% of the total bill, but it is not expected. Tips are usually left in cash, directly on the table for the server. Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, so make sure to check before leaving a tip.
  • For other services such as taxis, it is common to round up the fare or leave a small tip of 1-2 euros.
  • Value Added Tax (VAT) in Spain is 21% and is included in the price of goods and services. This tax applies to almost everything, from meals and drinks to souvenirs. However, some establishments may offer a reduced VAT rate of 10% for items such as food and beverages.
  • Non-EU tourists are eligible for a tax refund on purchases over 90 euros, so ask for a tax-free form and get it stamped at the airport
Dress Code: The dress code in Ibiza, Spain is generally casual and relaxed, with a focus on comfortable and stylish beachwear.
Topography: Ibiza is a small island with a rugged coastline, rolling hills, and a central mountain range, surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, located off the eastern coast of Spain.
Telephone: * Telephone Country Code: +34 * Area Code: 971 (for Ibiza) * Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage across the island, with occasional weaker signals in remote coves. * Wi-Fi: Freely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Many public spaces also offer Wi-Fi hotspots.

Ibiza, Spain Weddings and Honeymoons

In Ibiza, Spain getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Apply at the local Civil Registry or town hall (Ayuntamiento) in Ibiza.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports for both parties
  • Birth certificates (officially translated into Spanish)
  • Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage, issued by your country of origin
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable)
  • Proof of residency in Spain (at least one party must be a resident or Catholic to marry in Ibiza).

Submit the documents several months before the wedding.

Civil ceremonies are held at the town hall, but many couples opt for symbolic ceremonies at scenic locations.

Costs: Civil ceremonies have modest fees. Venues like beach clubs or private villas involve additional costs.

Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: Ibiza offers stunning venues, from beachfront clubs to historic churches. Popular spots include Cala Llonga, the cliffs of Es Vedrà, or luxury resorts like Atzaró. Many couples also choose outdoor ceremonies at sunset for a magical experience.