The Balearic Islands, among the most popular seaside destinations in the whole Mediterranean, are a mix of relaxation and transgression, tranquility and fun, natural wonders and cultural attractions. Which island to choose between Ibiza, Formentera, Menorca, Mallorca? Difficult to say, because each contains unique treasures that you will not find in the others. Below we show you the best travel offers for the Balearics and a description of the things not to miss on each of the four islands.
Majorca – The Island For All Tastes
With over 850,000 inhabitants it is the largest island of the Balearics. It has a highly developed transport network as well as highly developed accommodation facilities, for all tastes and budgets. There are so many activities to do on the island, below we list some places and sites of interest that we advise you not to miss:
Palma de Mallorca: worth a visit for its historic center and its nightlife
Pollença: ancient city founded by the Romans
Valldemossa: village that houses the monastery of La Cartuja
Cuevas (caves): are a particularity of the island, do not miss the Cuevas de Genova, the Cuevas del Drach and the Cuevas de Ham
Beaches: not to be missed Can Pastilla, Cala Major, Cala Estancia, Playa Formentor, Es Trenc.
Ibiza – Nightlife and UNESCO heritage
In old Spanish the word Ibiza means “have fun until you drop” and the island certainly keeps its promises, representing one of the favorite destinations for those looking for a vibrant nightlife in its discos.
At the same time, however, the island manages to satisfy even those looking for a relaxing holiday by the sea, thanks to over 150 kilometers of coastline, with about 50 beaches, some of which are truly heavenly.
Ibiza also offers many restaurants, bars and various sports activities can be practiced in each of its main centers: from Plaja den Bossa to Sant Antoni de Portmany.
Not enough for you? Know that the island is also home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the ancient city of Ivissa, where we recommend a trip to visit Dalt Vila, an ancient fortification in the city center, rich in history and charm.
Formentera – The Jewel of the Balearics
It is the smallest of the Balearics and does not have its own airport, perhaps also for this reason you can breathe a more peaceful and relaxed air here. Like Menorca, it has been declared a Natural Reserve and a World Heritage Site by Unesco.
Reachable in half an hour by ferry from Ibiza, it is the ideal place to enjoy the pristine beauty of the sea and beaches , such as Playa de ses Illetes, Playa de Llevant, Cala Sahona and Migjorn and offers beautiful backdrops ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Trekking and cycling are highly developed thanks to the 20 itineraries that can be traveled on foot or by bike. In addition to unspoiled nature, the island also boasts a lively nightlife, much less hectic and confusing than Ibiza, but still growing in recent years, examples are the resorts of es Pujols and San Ferran.
Minorca – Trekking and Wild Nature
Menorca is the least touristy of the Balearics, or rather, the one best preserved from mass tourism, where uncontaminated nature and natural beauties reign supreme.
White beaches abound on the island (mainly in the southern part), such as the famous and beautiful Son Saura and Son Bou, and rocky coves (in the north), above all Cala Morell.
There is certainly no shortage of natural parks, which have made it a World Biosphere Reserve. Don’t miss the s’Albufera des Grau Natural Park, where a trek is a must, but also Monte Toro and Es Pinaret.
Even Mahon, the island’s capital, is worth a visit, especially for its historical center, as well as Ciutadella, the ancient capital of Menorca and the island’s religious center, for a walk in Es Born, its main street. Fornells is instead, a quaint and quiet fishing village, where you can enjoy excellent fish, do not miss the delicious lobsters