Turquoise coves, golden sunsets, and palm-fringed mountains — welcome to Spain’s dreamy Balearic Islands. These Mediterranean islands are a go-to summer escape (and for good reason): one moment you’re floating in clear water, the next you’re wandering colorful fishing towns or hiking coastal trails with epic views. We’ve explored the islands ourselves, soaking up the quiet hideaways and local charm. In this guide, we’ll share how many islands there are, what makes each one unique, and which island we’d actually pick as the best.

What & Where are the Balearic Islands?

Just off the eastern shores of Spain lies an archipelago known as the Balearic Islands. These consist of four main islands — Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera — and the lesser-known Cabrera. Together, they form their own province, with Palma de Mallorca as its capital and largest city.

Aerial view of Cala del Moro, Mallorca, Spain: a turquoise cove surrounded by rocky cliffs and dense green trees, with people swimming and sunbathing on the beach.

A woman stands on a cobblestone street in the valldemosa, mallorca, Balearic Islands, reaching toward red flowers in a window box on a stone building with green shutters and potted plants.

In between and around a few minor islands lay dotted, including Dragonera and S’Espalmador, which are beautiful, peaceful havens only reached by boat. The Balearics are the second largest and most populated archipelago in Spain, right after the Canary Islands, and each one has unique reasons that make it a must-see.

Outdoor market stall with handcrafted goods displayed in front of a white church with a bell tower, flowering tree to the left, and people near the entrance in picturesque Ibiza, Balearic Islands.

Wander through the cozy streets of fishing villages like Fornells in Menorca, tan on the pristine beaches of Formentera, or hike the incredible mountains of Sierra da Tramuntana in Mallorca. And, if you’re looking for a party, you know Ibiza is the place to be (although in our guide, we wrote much more to discover on the island!).

No time to read now?

No worries! Save on Pinterest to read it later.

Save to Pinterest

Balearic Islands, Spain: Our Tips & Travel Guide for 2025

Did you know? Besides Spanish, the official language of the Balearic Islands is Catalan.

A wooden boardwalk leads to a sandy beach with turquoise water and a rocky island in the distance under a clear sky, capturing the tranquil essence of Ibiza in the Balearic Islands.

Outdoor patio inspired by Ibiza, with a white cushioned bench, small table with a vase of flowers, mint green chairs, large umbrellas, and lush greeneryâ€”evoking the relaxed charm of the Balearic Islands.

Aerial view of a coastal landscape in Ibiza, Balearic Islands, with a winding road, forested cliffs, and rocky islands in the sea at sunset.

Mallorca – The Best Balearic Island for Variety

Mallorca is the largest island in Spain, famed for its dramatic landscapes, incredible beaches, and unreal architecture. No wonder it attracts a myriad of famous actors, artists, and many a tourist — all hoping to be inspired by its unique surroundings.

Must-read: 7-day Mallorca Itinerary

A vintage red tram glides through a busy outdoor cafe area in SÃ³ller, Mallorca, in front of a large stone church with a rose window and two towers on the Balearic Islands.

This island is perfect for those looking for a bit of everything: beautiful architecture, incredible nature, beaches, lively towns, and fun summer activities. It’s our personal favorite out of all the Balearic Islands and is easy to explore because of its good infrastructure (apart from some small villages during the high season 😉).

A woman in a teal skirt and light sweater sits on a stone ledge in Valldemossa, Mallorca, with a hillside village and lush greenery of the Balearic Islands in the background at sunrise.

People sit at outdoor tables eating and drinking under umbrellas in front of a shop called Can Gelat, enjoying the lively atmosphere near the Santanyi Market Mallorca on a sunny day.

A man walks along a rocky path overlooking Cala Moro, a small beach on Mallorca in the Balearic Islands, where people swim and sunbathe by clear turquoise water surrounded by cliffs and greenery.

Spend your days taking in the Gothic buildings and narrow historic streets of Palma before soaking up the sun on the rocky shores and dining with incredible sea views in villages like Deià.

A woman in a light green dress sits in the foreground with Palma Mallorcaâ€™s historic Gothic cathedral and palm trees of the Balearic Islands visible in the background.

Outdoor restaurant with round tables covered in white tablecloths, surrounded by chairs, set among stone buildings and lush greenery in the charming village of Deia, Mallorca, Balearic Islands.

A woman sits on a rocky ledge overlooking the clear turquoise water and rugged cliffs of Mallorca, with trees in the backgroundâ€”capturing the natural beauty of the Balearic Islands.

Some of our favorite things to do in Mallorca are:

Palma — the capital city of the island.
Visit the many markets and traditional villages like Santanyi!
Take a dip in the shallow turquoise waters at Cala Llombards + Cala Figuera.
The breathtaking Drach Caves: one of Mallorca’s most famous sites.
Book an incredible farm-to-table lunch at Terragust.
Discover the adjoining beaches of Cala del Moro and Cala s’Almonia, two secluded coves connected by a small walking path.
Mondrago Natural Park: This beautiful natural park feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the island.
We joined a fantastic Llaut boat tour
No Mallorca itinerary is complete without exploring the magical mountain towns of Valldemossa and Deia.
Go adventuring by walking through a cliff tunnel towards the remote and wild beach of Sa Calobra.

Discover all the best things to do in Mallorca, Spain

A small wooden boat is moored in a calm harbor with white houses and green trees on the hillsideâ€”a tranquil scene that captures one of the many picturesque things to do in Mallorca.

Aerial view of Sa Calobra Beach, Mallorca, nestled between steep rocky cliffs in the Balearic Islands, with people swimming and sunbathing by turquoise water.

A woman walks through the Santanyi Mallorca Market, passing vibrant fruit and vegetable stalls set in front of a historic stone church on a sunny day.

Where to Stay

There are so many incredible accommodation options across Mallorca, from luxury hotels on the slopes of the mountains to boho beach resorts. Because of this, we recommend switching hotels halfway through your itinerary, reducing the driving distances. For example, we stayed around Palma first, followed by Soller.

Some of our favorite stays in each destination are:

Valldemossa: Ca’s Papà, Bordoy Continental, Son Niu Vell-La Hermossa
Soller: Ca’l Bisbe, Ecocirer Stay, Casa Bougainvillea, Hotel El Guía
Puerto de Soller: Hotel Esplendido, Camp de sa Mar, Hotel Marina
Deia: Es Moli, Hotel y Apartamentos Des Puig, Hostal Miramar
Palma: Palau Sa Font, Dog Admiral – Urban Guest House, Hotel Saratoga
Pollença: L’Host Boutique Rooms, Can Aulí Luxury Retreat, Juma Historic Hotel
Cala Figuera: Hotel Nou Can Guillem, Hotel Santanyi Port, Apartamentos Casa María

Rectangular outdoor swimming pool at Hotel Soller, Mallorca, Balearic Islands, surrounded by lounge chairs and greenery, with authentic buildings and mountains in the background under a clear sky.

Ibiza – More Than Just Nightlife

The party island of Spain is famous for its international DJs, legendary nightclubs, bright lights, and loud music. However, dig a little deeper, and you’ll find some amazing secluded spots, home to Bohemian communities, garden restaurants, and natural parks.

A woman walks along a rocky beach at sunset in Ibiza, with the iconic Es Vedra island in the background, framed by blurred flowers in the foreground.

In fact, the island has even been declared a UNESCO site for its rich biodiversity and cultural attractions, like the archaeological site of Sa Caleta and the historic town of Eivissa.

eivissa town with boats docked at the marina, colorful buildings on a hillside, and a historic church near the top

Outdoor patio with empty mint green metal tables and chairs under a wooden pergola, next to a lemon tree with ripe lemonsâ€”perfect for relaxing at a garden restaurant in Ibiza.

Four people sit on a rocky cliff overlooking the sea at sunset, gazing at the iconic Es Vedra island off the coast of Ibiza in the Balearic Islands, with calm water and a dramatic landscape in the background.

We loved starting our mornings in Ibiza with a quiet coffee in town, watching the streets slowly wake up before diving into the busy markets. By lunchtime, we’d be tucked away in a garden restaurant, eating delicious farm-to-table dishes under the trees. The contrast was wild — calm mornings that felt almost small-village, and then nights where the whole island lit up with music and energy.

Our favorite moment? Visiting the Es Vedra Viewpoint at sunset — it honestly felt magical watching the sun sink behind the rock while the island geared up for another big night. 😉

Our Ibiza tips in your Google Maps? We made it easier for you! All our tips: favourite to do's, restaurants, hikes, secret spots & more in Google Maps!

Shop our maps

Aerial view of the rocky coastal cliff at Atlantis, Ibiza, with unique arch formations and green algae-covered tidal pools beside clear blue Balearic Islands sea water.

Must-dos:

Discover the cobbled streets and whitewashed houses of Ibiza Town (Eivissa).
Watch the sun sink into the sea behind the legendary rock of Es Vedra.
Enjoy the farm-to-table-style plates in beautiful surroundings by having lunch at a garden restaurant.
Discover the island with a Jeep Safari Tour.
Go looking for Atlantis — one of the most incredible hikes in Ibiza.
Looking for a party? Dance the night away at some of the biggest clubs in the world, like Ushuaïa or Pacha.
Beach hop around the Spanish island; there’s a beach for everyone here. Our favorites are Cala Saladeta (scenic) and Cala Comte (great for relaxing).
Go shopping at the fantastic markets around the island, like Mercadillo Saint Jordi or Las Dalias Market in Sant Joan de Labritja.
Stop in one of the quintessential Ibiza villages, like Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera.

Two men play acoustic guitars and sing outdoors in Ibiza, Balearic Islands; one raises his hand in a peace sign.

A woman wearing a white cover-up sits on a stone wall overlooking clear turquoise water, a wooden dock, and tree-covered hillsâ€”perfect inspiration for things to do in Ibiza under a partly cloudy sky.

Where to Stay

Where you stay in Ibiza depends on the vibe you’re looking for. For a good mix of city and beach choose Ibiza Town, where you’ll find boutique hotels, guesthouses, and luxury hotels.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for total tranquility and relaxation, choose one of the coastal areas like Santa Eulària des Riu or an authentic Ibizan village like Santa Gertrudis.

We stayed at the Play Hotel, which was in a nice area close to a bustling boulevard with many restaurants, bars, and a large beach. It’s also only a 15-minute walk to Ibiza Old Town.

Our favorite hotels in Ibiza 😴

See available hotels in Ibiza

Check available hotels

Check available hostels

A Mediterranean-style house with a round tower, ivy-covered walls, arched windows, and palm trees evokes the charm of coastal escapes and the allure of things to do in Ibiza, with a stone stairway leading to a wooden gate.

Formentera – White Sand Beaches & Laidback Vibes

Stepping off the ferry onto Formentera honestly felt like landing in the Caribbean, just with Spanish tapas. The water was so clear we could see the sand rippling underneath, and the beaches had that floury-white softness that makes you kick your shoes off instantly. Not only is the coast beautiful, but there are also salt marshes, cute villages, and laidback beach bars to discover.

A narrow sandbar stretches through clear turquoise waters at Platja de Ses Illetes Formentera, connecting small islands with a distant coastline visible on the horizon.

Formentera is more low-lying than Ibiza, with flat(ish) landscapes covered in fig trees, country houses, pine forests, and vineyards, spilling down to the shores of otherworldly beaches. Explore the famed Platja de Ses Illetes, a preserved natural park leading towards a wide-open peninsula, and afterward relax on beaches filled with pretty shells and driftwood.

Aerial view of a beach in Formentera, Balearic Islands, shows a rocky coastline with clear turquoise water and a small stone structure near the shore, surrounded by sparse vegetation.

A cooked whole fish, inspired by the Balearic Islands, served in a pan with roasted tomatoes, potatoes, and mixed vegetables on a wooden table.

A woman in green swimwear walks barefoot down a sandy path toward the turquoise ocean of Formentera in the Balearic Islands, beneath a clear sky.

Some other things to do in Formentera:

The pretty town of La Savina (the first place you’ll probably see).
Explore the colorful Salt Flats that stretch on as far as the eye can see.
Go beach-hopping!
Visit the capital of the island, San Francisco, which sits at the very center of the island. This is a great place to go shopping, pop into a bar, or stroll the markets.

Aerial view of rectangular pink salt ponds near a turquoise coastline in Formentera, Balearic Islands, surrounded by greenery and hills in the background.

Four people stand on a rocky cliff overlooking a turquoise bay with anchored boats and a clear sky, capturing the stunning beauty of Formentera beach in the Balearic Islands.

A shirtless older man with long white hair stands in a colorful jewelry stall in Formentera, Balearic Islands, displaying various beaded necklaces and bracelets on a yellow background.

How to Get to Formentera

Getting to Formentera is relatively easy and convenient. The only way to get there is by ferry, either from the mainland ports of Dénia and Barcelona or from Ibiza. During the high season, boats leave every 15-30 minutes to La Savina on Formentera from Ibiza (30-minute journey).

While you can buy tickets on the day, note that these are subject to availability. Because of this, we booked our tickets with Trasmapi Ferries online, which saves us time at the port. Note: Prices are seasonal, but a return ticket costs between 29 and 50 EUR.

Alternatively, book a day tour from Ibiza to Formentera. Tours usually include your return trip on a shared boat, food and drinks, and activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling.

Where to Stay

Formentera is a tiny island; it only takes about 30 minutes to drive from one side to the other. This means you can stay in any beach town and be close to everything you can do. Some great areas are La Savina and Es Pujols.

Our favorite hotels in Formentera 😴

Es Pas Formentera Agroturismo

Formentera

See available hotels in Formentera

Check available hotels

Check available hostels

Menorca – Quiet Escapes & Nature Spots

From rugged coves and lush, protected areas to bustling harbor towns and pristine sandy beaches, the Spanish island Menorca seems to have it all. Out of all the Balearic Islands, Menorca is focused on relaxation and its nature, making it a great holiday destination if you’re looking for a bit more peace and quiet.

View of a Mediterranean town in Menorca, Balearic Islands, with historic buildings, palm trees, and a large church in the background under a clear sky.

In fact, the island has intentionally preserved its natural landscapes and traditional charm, which makes it less developed. This way, you can fully enjoy the incredible scenery, from the Albufera des Grau Nature Park and the turquoise shores to the classic Mediterranean towns.

A woman in a sunhat walks past a white two-story house with black shutters and lush green vines, evoking the charm of Menorca in the Balearic Islands.

A traditional white windmill with large blades stands on top of a white building with green window shutters in Menorca, Balearic Islands; people and a car are in front of the building.

A few of the must-dos in Menorca are:

Ciutadella de Menorca — the island’s previous capital city filled to the brim with historical charm.
Climb up El Toro, the highest point on the island with panoramic views all across.
Visit Fornells, a charming, picturesque fishing village with a lovely natural harbor.
Soak up the scene and incredible wines at Bodegas Binifadet, a family vineyard and restaurant are 100% worth checking out for an afternoon.
The whitewashed alleys of the town Binibeca.
Go explore the wide mix of different beaches, all lined with crystal-clear water. Our personal favorites were Cavalleria Beach and Cala Macarella.
Eat, eat, eat — discover the diverse Menorcan cuisine.

People swim and relax in a clear turquoise bay surrounded by rocky cliffs and pine trees on a sunny day in Menorca, one of the stunning Balearic Islands.

Colorful triangular bunting is strung across a narrow street lined with yellow buildings in Menorca, Balearic Islands, with a church bell tower visible in the background.

Charming outdoor restaurant Menorca with wooden tables and chairs, covered by a leafy vine canopy. People are dining and talking, surrounded by lush greenery and natural light.

Where to Stay

With plenty of beautiful corners, there’s no wrong option when it comes to picking a hotel in Menorca. We stayed in a holiday villa near Cala Blanca and really loved it! It was close to Ciutadella de Menorca and had many incredible bays and delicious restaurants around it.

Our favorite hotels in Menorca 😴

See available hotels in Menorca

Check available hotels

Check available hostels

Small boats are docked along a quay lined with palm trees and white buildings under a partly cloudy sky in Menorca, one of the beautiful Balearic Islands.

The Best Balearic Island (Our favorite)

Mallorca is hands down our favorite Balearic Island, with a perfect mix of diverse landscapes and activities for all types of travelers. From the rugged mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana to the stunning beaches and charming villages, there’s always something to explore.

A woman with long blonde hair stands at a stone wall overlooking Valldemosa, Mallorcaâ€”a charming village with a church, nestled among the mountains and greenery of the Balearic Islands in sunlight.

While Ibiza is much more for party-goers and Menorca is ideal for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet, Mallorca has the best of both worlds. This means you get to soak up the buzzing city atmosphere as well as the tranquil beaches tucked between the green.

Outdoor table setting at a restaurant on the beach in Ibiza, featuring a plate of salad topped with goat cheese, a glass of orange juice, bread basket, and cutlery on a napkin.

A woman in colorful clothing walks past a white building with yellow trim and a bell tower under a clear blue sky in Ibiza, Balearic Islands.

How to Visit the Balearic Islands

By Plane

As they lie close to mainland Europe, it’s easy to get to the Balearic Islands. There are numerous flight options from major destinations in Europe and Spain to the islands of Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza. The others are only accessible by boat.

Find flights to Balearic Islands ✈️

The airport in Mallorca is located just outside the city of Palma, which is about 20 minutes away by bus or taxi. That’s why Palma is the perfect place to stay for the first few days of your Mallorca itinerary! The same goes for Ibiza and Menorca, which are all well-connected by ferry or plane.

A colorful bus marked 203 passes a cyclist on a narrow street in a scenic Mallorca village, with stone houses and Balearic Islands mountains in the background.

By Boat

Major ferry carriers like Ferry Balearia offer various overnight routes connecting mainland cities like Barcelona, Valencia, and Dénia to the four main Balearic islands, many of which operate daily.

Mainland to Mallorca: 6-8 hours
Dénia to Ibiza: 2 hours
Barcelona to Menorca: 4-8 hours
Dénia to Formentera: 2 hours

A person walks along a curved coastal road above the sea in the Balearic Islands, while a ferry passes by in the distance on calm water.

If you want to island-hop instead, you’ll also find plenty of daily options that run between the four main isles. For example, Formentera can be reached from Ibiza via the Ferry Balearia and Trasmapi lines.

Browse your ferry tickets here

Getting Around

Once you’ve arrived on one of the Balearic Islands, the best way to get around is with your own transportation. Depending on the time of year you visit, as well as your itinerary, this can be either a scooter or a car. Having your own set of wheels gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and get to more off-the-beaten-path destinations.

We recommend to rent a car in Spain through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.

In Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca, we recommend renting a car for the ultimate freedom on your itinerary. These islands are relatively large, and there’s lots to see, so this guarantees you will get to all those corners.

A white vintage car in a quiet street lined with white buildings and potted plants on Ibiza island

Alternatively, there’s also good public transportation. In Mallorca, for example, some buses and trains run across the island, connecting well-known villages with one another. And Ibiza even adds a disco bus that transports tourists around the island after midnight! Prices are very reasonable, with return tickets costing no more than 4 EUR.

Tip: If you plan to explore each island, first, rent a car on Mallorca and take in the scenic coastal routes. If you’re traveling in high season, we recommend renting a scooter on Ibiza and Menorca, and a bicycle on Formentera. You can read more about getting around each island in our individual destination guides.

A winding road leads to a white lighthouse on a rocky cliff overlooking the ocean, photographed from above at sunset near Cap de Formentor, Mallorca, in the beautiful Balearic Islands.

How many days on the Balearic Islands?

We’ve never done it ourselves, but we often get the question of how many days we recommend for all the islands. Well, if you plan on island hopping, we’d recommend spending about 10-12 days.

Ibiza: 2-3 days
Formentera: 2 days
Mallorca: 4-5 days
Menorca: 2-3 days

Best Time to Visit

The Balearic Islands are a perfect year-round destination thanks to their Mediterranean climate. However, the best time to visit is during the spring and early fall, particularly May, June, and September. These months offer a nice balance of warm temperatures (between 15 and 30°C) and fewer crowds, great for outdoor activities like hiking or beach-hopping.

Best

Good

Mixed

Poor

🌤

13°C

Jan

🌤

16°C

Feb

🌤

18°C

Mar

🌤

20°C

Apr

☀️

25°C

May

☀️

29°C

Jun

☀️

34°C

Jul

☀️

34°C

Aug

☀️

30°C

Sep

🌤

24°C

Oct

🌤

17°C

Nov

🌤

15°C

Dec

°C °F

If you’re seeking the hottest weather, July and August see temperatures reaching up to 32°C and long sunny days. However, remember that this is also when the islands are at their busiest. After October, the weather remains mild, but many businesses close for the off-season.

A white building with a wooden door and green window stands on the rocky shore of Mallorca, Balearic Islands, by clear blue water, surrounded by dense green trees.

Tips for visiting the Balearic Islands

Visiting the Balearic Islands offers a beautiful mix of stunning beaches, rich culture, and vibrant local life. To make the most of your trip, here are a few practical tips:

Expect to pay a tourist tax at your accommodation. Fees will vary and are often lower for extended stays.
Unlike what’s often said, all of Spain’s beaches are public. However, even so, resorts can get pretty pricey for their amenities like sun beds and umbrellas. Expect to pay a separate fee per item.
The sun can be quite strong, even in the cooler months. For that reason, always use reef-safe sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated, especially when hiking or exploring remote areas.
While Spanish is widely spoken, Catalan (Mallorquí, Menorquí, etc.) is the local language. Many locals appreciate when visitors make an effort with a few phrases in Catalan, but English is commonly understood in tourist areas.

Always respect the environment. The Balearic Islands are committed to sustainability and conservation, especially with the influx of tourists. Don’t litter, and respect local wildlife and protected areas like the Albufera Grau Natural Park.
Many shops and businesses close during siesta, typically from 2 – 5 PM. It’s worth planning your shopping around this time.
The Spanish islands are perfect for water-based activities like snorkeling, sailing, and paddleboarding. Some hotels offer discounts or packages for these, so make sure to check with yours!

Which is the best Balearic island to visit?

Mallorca is our favorite because it’s a mix of mountains, beaches, charming villages, and nightlife. Ibiza is best for parties, Menorca for peace, and Formentera for insane beaches.