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Holidays in Ibiza, Spain

Boutique hotels

Self-catering properties

Ibiza Balearic Islands Overview

Spain

Coastline
Social-scene beaches
Coast life
Boho bars and superstars

Crystal-clear waters, quiet beaches, pine forests and great seafood may not be the first things that spring to mind about Ibiza, but the legendary nightlife is only one aspect of this lovely Mediterranean island.

Ibiza villas and hotels have long been luring a cool, cosmopolitan crew. Following in the footsteps of the Phoenicians, Romans, Moors and Catalans, visitors present and past are drawn to the tranquillity of the rural interior and the natural beauty of the island's lesser-known coastlines. Of course, there are always the world’s best clubs, and the charming narrow streets of Ibiza Town’s old quarter on hand if you feel you’re getting a little too relaxed.

Irresistibly Ibiza Balearic Islands

Ibiza sunsets have graced a thousand compilation CD covers. We love Benirràs beach with its impromptu sunset drumming on Sundays, and the secluded cliffs near Portinatx lighthouse.

Local Knowledge

Taxis
Try to use licensed taxis. You can flag them down if their green light is lit; prices are metered and reasonable. Get your hotel to book for you when possible.

Tipping culture
If you experience good service, it’s nice to leave up to about ten per cent, although it’s not always expected.

Siesta and fiesta
Some shops close for siesta between 13h30 and 17h. Restaurants don’t get busy until after 21h. Head for the clubs after midnight. Of course it’s also possible to party 24 hours a day throughout the summer if the urge takes you.

Packing tips
Hippie chic forever; style here is always about boho luxe. Pack something glam for those indulgent evenings out.

Recommended reads
Dorothy Dunnett wrote a much-loved mystery novel set on the island, Ibiza Surprise. For something chewier, try Elliot Paul’s forgotten classic The Life and Death of a Spanish Town, which tells of the impact of the civil war on Thirties Santa Eulalia, now Ibiza’s third largest resort. Many will fully appreciate The White Island: The Extraordinary History of the Mediterranean’s Capital of Hedonism by Stephen Armstrong.

Cuisine
Seafood is unsurprisingly popular. Local specialities include ray with almonds, Fideuá seafood stew with pasta, and anglerfish casserole. Fish stews can be exceptionally good, and fresh lobster and squid are delicious.

Currency
Euro.

Dialling codes
The country code for Spain is +34; Ibiza is 971.

Do go/don't go
May, September or October are perfect, although in summer you can find uncrowded beaches on Formentera and the north coast. The opening and closing parties in June and September are highlights of the clubbing calendar.

Don't go home without...

Tuning into Ibiza Sonica at 95.2FM (www.ibizasonica.com). Let it provide the soundtrack to your holiday – and forever after.