Ibiza vs Mallorca in the Balearic Islands – Which One to Visit?
Ibiza and Mallorca in the Balearic Islands are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain. Great beaches, fabulous weather, and the variety of things to do make them an ideal holiday destination. However, most of us don’t have enough free days to visit both islands. Thus, the question remains: Ibiza vs Mallorca, how to choose? We’ll try our best to help you solve this dilemma.
One of us is an architect and the other one an environmental lawyer. That’s why we like Mallorca a bit more. Just a bit! Touring the Tramuntana Mountain Range is an unforgettable experience. The views over the peaks, valleys, and the Mediterranean are epic. Palma is a bigger city and offers a better cultural life, while Soller is one of our favorite towns in Spain.
Quick Comparison
Let’s make a quick comparison of the two fantastic Spanish islands. Ibiza is just 150 km (93 mi) from Valencia. Mallorca is further away, some 260 km (161 mi) from Valencia and some 207 km (128 mi) from Barcelona (128 mi). Ibiza has an area of roughly 572 km2 (221 sq mi). Mallorca is six times bigger, with 3640 km2 (1405 sq mi).
Mallorca is much more populated. Some 900000 people live in Mallorca, versus 150000 in Ibiza. Both islands are quite popular and incredibly crowded in summer. The capitals of both islands are beautiful cities full of heritage, cultural attractions and sandy beaches. However, when it comes to nightlife Ibiza is the clear winner.
If You Have to Choose
Without a doubt, visit both islands if you can. Even better, add Menorca and Formentera to the list. Menorca combines well with Mallorca, while Formentera makes an ideal pair with Ibiza. If you have less than a week, perhaps it’s better to focus on just one island. Rushing through both islands makes no sense.
To us, Mallorca is slightly more attractive, so we would suggest going there if it’s your first time in the Balearic Islands. It is much bigger and its nature more varied. There are no mountains in Ibiza, while Mallorca’s Sierra de la Tramuntana stands out as one of Spain’s most beautiful mountain ranges. Choose Mallorca if culture and hiking are your things. If you are a party animal, then Ibiza is your place!
Ibiza Island
Eivissa, as Ibiza is known in Catalan, is Spain’s most popular party destination. While the rest of Spain was under Franco’s tight control Ibiza welcomed Europeans eager for some fun. The first clubs opened here in the 60s. However, the island became world-famous in the 80s with clubs like Pacha, Amnesia, and Ku.
Truth be told, Ibiza is so much more than a party island. There are wonderful beaches all around, several interesting national parks, and the capital Ibiza Town is a splendid city, full of heritage. We have visited Ibiza in winter and summer and can guarantee you there were always loads of things to do.
Ibiza Town
Ibiza Town is the capital and the largest city on the island. The city goes back to the Phoenicians, who founded it in the 7th Century BC. It was later Roman, Byzantine, and Arab. Today, the city can be divided into two: the old town on the hill, called Dalt Vila, and the modern area called Eixample.
The 16th-Century fortification done by Philip II of Spain contains some of the world’s most remarkably preserved medieval bastions. UNESCO included the whole area inside the fortress and the island’s diverse nature in its World Heritage Site List. Two large sandy beaches surround the city on the north and the south.
Other Places to Visit
There aren’t many cities in Ibiza with more than 20000 inhabitants. These are Ibiza Town, Santa Eulària des Riu, and Sant Antoni de Portmany. The former is a large resort town north of the capital popular among families. It is known for the small historical quarter Puig de Missa that hosts the beautiful 16th Century Church of Santa Eulària.
The latter is a popular party town, known for its two major clubs: Es Paradís and Eden. It’s a fairly modern town without much heritage and historic charm. The other two settlements worth mentioning are Sant Josep de sa Talaia and Sant Joan de Labritja.
Cultural Attractions
When in Ibiza we always visit the mercadillo in Sant Jordi. The traditional little town still retains its relaxed atmosphere. Its main church is from the 14th Century. Every Saturday morning a hippy market takes places over the former hippodrome. The Phoenician Settlement is some 5 miles (8 km) west. The archaeological remains are as cool as the caves by the sea.
The other incredible archaeological remains are closer to Ibiza town. The UNESCO listed Puig des Moins holds approximately 3000 tombs, some dating back to the 7th Century. You can enter the massive man-made cave. The adjacent museum is pretty cool. We recommend visiting Sa Capelleta Chapel from 1754. Every August 8, locals celebrate the conquest of Ibiza by Spain. It’s so much fun!
Beaches in Ibiza
Ibiza hosts a variety of beaches from small secluded coves to long organized ones. Our favorite one is Ses Salines on the island’s southern tip overlooking Formentera. It’s a long sandy beach lined with bars and restaurants popular among party-goers. Ibiza’s most spectacular natural park, Ses Salines (salt ponds), is right next to the beach.
If you are into smaller, more intimate beaches, there are quite a few. Cala Saladeta might require a small hike above the rocks but is well worth it. For unforgettable sunsets head directly to Benirrás on the north of the island. The famous D’en Bossa beach, south of the capital is party central.
Outdoor Activities
Ibiza is mostly flat, with only a handful of hills above 400 meters (1300 feet). The most spectacular natural spot to visit is the Es Vedrà Island across Ibiza’s southwestern tip. You should drive to Mirador de Es Vedrà and hike along the surrounding area. Go in the afternoons for picture-perfect sunsets.
Of all Ibiza’s hiking trails, we highly recommend going around the Ses Salines salt ponds. The scenery is breathtaking, you’ll probably spot hundreds of colorful flamingos, and there are even historical watchtowers. We also loved hiking over Ibiza’s medieval fortifications. Whether in the morning, afternoon or at night, unique architecture and stunning views are guaranteed.
Nightlife
Ibiza’s nightlife is better than Mallorca’s. People from all over the world travel to Ibiza to party. The locals party too. It’s like the United Nations met to dance. The most famous bar is Pacha. The club opened in 1973 and it’s still attracting the inn crowd. The place is hip, inclusive, and worth every penny.
When we don’t feel like dancing, we go to Up at The Standard Hotel. It’s the only rooftop pool with a bar and restaurant in Ibiza. The views over the Old Town are stunning. Though the cocktails are expensive, you won’t be able to restrain yourself. It’s got plants, nooks for couples, tables for friends, and the coolest music.
Family Holidays
As fun and crazy as Ibiza is, it’s also perfect for families. Locals with children go to Cala Bassa, on the west coast. It’s a lovely bay with shallow blue waters where kids can snorkel and bathe without any risks. There are banana boats and pedal boats. Your kids can play in the dunes and forest behind the beach too.
Cap Blanc Aquarium north of San Antoni is a great place for kids to learn about local sea creatures. This is not a man-made aquarium but a natural one. It’s actually a cave with lots of fish and sea creatures. There’s a bar next to the Aquarium with gorgeous views of the sea.
Where to Stay in Ibiza
The best places to stay in Ibiza are by the beach. There are several hotels along the endless beautiful beaches. In Ibiza Town, we recommend Hotel THB Los Molinos. The fabulous 4-star hotel has a lavish garden with a pool overlooking the sea and direct access to the Figueretes Beach. Their rooms are chic and offer memorable views from the balconies.
If you want to stay in the town, but in a more quiet setting, Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay is a superb luxury hotel directly on Talamanca beach. If you are into history and arts, stay in Mirador de Dalt Vila, an early 20th-Century palace, right in Ibiza’s old town. Finally, if you prefer staying at a remote location, Ibiza hosts several wonderful rural retreats. To us, Agroturismo Sa Talaia is the best option.
Mallorca Island
Majorca, as Mallorca is known in Catalan, is the largest and second most populated island in Spain. It is also the largest and geographically most diverse Balearic Island. Mallorca has been continuously inhabited since the Neolithic Period. Traces of these early human settlements can be found around the island. Additionally, Roman, Arab, Medieval, and Modern heritage dot the island.
As if that was not enough, Mallorca boasts incredible nature, full of flora and fauna. There are two mountain ranges, Serra de Tramuntana in the west, and Serres de Llevant on the east. The former is Mallorca’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. An array of nice historic towns and golden sandy beaches complete the feast.
Palma de Mallorca
Palma de Mallorca is the island’s capital and the administrative seat of the Balearic Islands Autonomous Community. The city of over half a million people is the largest in the Balearic Archipelago. Today, Palma is a cosmopolitan city that attracts people from all over the world. There are three beaches within the city limits.
Among the numerous architectural landmarks that dot Palma, three stand out: The Palma Cathedral, the Royal Palace of la Almudaina, and the Bellver Castle. That’s not all. We also loved its beautiful old town, the quirky colorful fisherman’s neighborhood, and the world-class parks and museums. Shopping and entertainment lovers won’t be disappointed either.
Other Places to Visit
Palma is the largest city on the island, but it’s certainly not the only one. The three largest cities in Mallorca are Manacor, Llucmajor, and Inca. None of these cities is an important tourist center. Far more interesting are the historic cities of Alcúdia, Sóller, and Pollença. All three are close to the sea and connected to their port city with the same name.
The nicest small towns and villages are located on top of Serra de Tramuntana. Valldemossa, Deià, Banyalbufar and Fornalutx are the most picturesque ones. Other interesting cities close to the eastern coast are Artà, Capdepera, and Santanyí.
Cultural Attractions
We consider the cultural life in Mallorca better than in Ibiza. Since we love classical music, we always go to the Teatro Principal near the Cathedral. The original one opened in 1667. The one we can see today is from 1857. Their program includes concerts, theater, and exhibits. The other great concert venue in Palma is the Auditorio de Palma.
For contemporary art we go to Casal Solleric. The lavish 18th Century Palace has a permanent installation and holds temporary exhibits too. Every summer they have an International Film Festival. Felanitx is a tiny town east of Palma. It’s Casa de la Cultura (culture house) is all about local culture, art, and music. The place is also famous for its wine and pottery.
Beaches in Mallorca
Mallorca has beaches for just about everyone: big, small, crowded, deserted, accessible, and isolated. Apart from the beaches close to Palma, the other popular beaches on Mallorca are mostly on the north. Port de Pollença and Port de Alcúdia are two coastal resort towns with long sandy beaches. Cala Formentor is another fantastic beach in the same area.
The island’s western coast features rugged terrain and a few isolated bays and coves. Port de Sóller hosts the largest beach in the area, but Sa Calobra has the most dramatic scenery accessible through an impressive canyon. Other nice small beaches are Cala Mesquida and Cala Torta on the north, and Caló del Moro and S’Amarador on the east.
Outdoor Activities
Mallorca offers hiking routes for all tastes and experience levels. Serra de Tramuntana on the western coast is by far Mallorca’s nicest natural habitat, thus it’s no surprise the most scenic hikes are all here. The island’s most famous route, GR221 starts in Port d’Andratx, crosses the mountain, and ends in Pollença. The route follows ancient cobbled paths and passes through Valldemossa, Deià, and Port de Sóller.
The adventurous should try the scenic route along the Tossals Verds peak. If you are a beginner, like us, you can hike from downtown Palma to Bellver Castle. Great views guaranteed! There is no doubt Mallorca offers more outdoor activities. Even if you visit Mallorca in winter you’ll find an abundance of things to do.
Nightlife
Though Ibiza has better nightlife, Mallorca has Magaluf. The infamous town has tones of bars, clubs, and discos. We have to be honest, the only place we like there is BCM Mallorca. It’s the biggest club on the island. Its sound system is superb. For cocktails we go to Taylor’s, near the beach. It’s the place to see and be seen.
Our favorite cocktail bar in Palma is Agabar in the center. The place has high ceilings, arches, and more than 200 agaves! Every time we go, we try something new. Gabi the bartender is the best. To have cocktails and grab a bite with epic views over the sea and the city, go to Es Príncep, on the coast.
Family Holidays
Mallorca is a bit more family friendly than Ibiza. The best place to relax with your family is Alcudia. The Medieval tiny town is super quiet. It’s got superb architecture, lots of green spaces, and a family oriented vibe. Alcudia Beach next to the town is the best beach for kids. It’s wide, sandy, and shallow. The pine forest next to it is perfect to chill.
Soller is the best town to spend some time enjoying family time. There are hardly any cars, but lots of parks. Life here is slow. The Tramontana Mountains provide the perfect backdrop. You can take the tram and get to Soller beach in 20 minutes. It’s super safe and there are lots of local kids playing. Adults can rest in one of the sea front bars.
Where to Stay in Mallorca
Mallorca is a big island with a fairly varied tourist offer. Thus, you should decide on where to stay based on the reason you’re visiting. If you are a sea and sun bunny, stay on some of the best beaches. Playa de Muro, Port de Alcudia’s main beach, hosts some of Mallorca’s best luxury hotels. Grupotel Parc Natural & Spa, next to the Albufera national park, is regarded as the best one.
If you prefer staying at a more scenic beach, Hotel Esplendido in Port de Sóller might be your best choice. The elegant hotel from 1954 offers chic comfortable rooms directly on the beach. If you have a thing for private historic villas, we highly recommend Sa Pedrissa near Deià. This historic Villa that once belonged to royals, is all about class, views, and service. We just love it there! In Palma, we recommend Petit Palace Hotel Tres.
Our Opinion
As mentioned, we like Mallorca slightly more than Ibiza. The island is sophisticated and raw at the same time. Since it’s bigger, it offers more places to relax and better cultural experiences. The air is fresh and time seems to have stopped. You will relax to the bone. Mallorca is better for a romantic getaway and for families.
If you are travelling with friends, go to Ibiza. The vibe on the island is electrifying. If you are short of time, go to Ibiza. Since it’s smaller you won’t spend much time moving around. Maybe if you asked us about Mallorca or Ibiza a couple of years ago, we would have chosen the latter. We used to go with friends in our younger years and always had a blast.
Traveling between Ibiza and Mallorca
Since Ibiza and Mallorca are big islands, there is a constant traffic flux between them, even in winter. As mentioned above, you can fly from Palma de Mallorca to Ibiza throughout the year. It takes between 40 and 45 minutes. Take note that both airports are close to the city, easily accessible by public transport.
You can also travel between the two islands via a ferry. Ferries link Palma with Ibiza all year round. The journey takes 2 hours. Take note that you can go from Ibiza to Formentera by ferry for a day. Another great day excursion by ferry is from Mallorca (Alcúdia) to Menorca (Ciutadella). We use Ferryhopper to check prices and book our ferry tickets around the Mediterranean.
