Ibiza Neighbourhood Guide

What Ibiza is really like

Ibiza is the third-largest of the Balearic Islands, south-west of Mallorca. Ibiza Town, with its walled old quarter of Dalt Vila above the port, sits on the south-east coast. Santa Eulària des Riu, on the east coast, is the quieter family town; Sant Antoni de Portmany, on the west coast, is known for its sunsets and its nightlife; Sant Josep de sa Talaia takes in the south-west, including the salt flats of Ses Salines; and Sant Joan de Labritja covers the rural north.

The island changes with the seasons. From late spring to early autumn it is full of visitors, and many restaurants and businesses keep summer hours. In winter it is much quieter and some places close, so see it in both seasons before you commit.

For buyers

Homes range from apartments in Ibiza Town, Santa Eulària and Sant Antoni to villas on the coast and traditional country houses inland. Large parts of the coast and countryside are protected, so building land is scarce and most buyers choose from existing homes. The live figures above show what is listed right now and at what asking prices.

Before you commit, check that everything built on the plot is legal and registered, what access and water supply the house has, and how far it is from the town you will use every day. Ask the agent for recent sales nearby, not only asking prices.

For long-term renters

Long-term rentals come up less often than holiday lets, and many owners let for the season instead. Start looking well before summer, confirm that the contract covers the whole year, and ask what heating the home has for the winter.

For holiday-makers

For a stay, choose the base by the holiday you want. Ibiza Town puts the old quarter, the port and the restaurants within walking distance; Santa Eulària is calmer; Sant Antoni and Sant Josep suit sunsets, beaches and nightlife; the north suits a quiet rural stay. Book early for July and August, when the island is at its busiest.

Getting around and practical

Ibiza airport is just south-west of Ibiza Town, with flights to mainland Spain and across Europe, many of them seasonal. Ferries link the island with Barcelona, Valencia and Dénia on the mainland, with Palma de Mallorca, and with Formentera. Buses connect the main towns, but outside them a car is the practical choice.

Holiday letting on Ibiza is tightly regulated. If you plan to let to tourists, confirm what the rules in force allow for that exact property before you buy, and do not rely on how the seller uses it today.

Frequently asked questions

Which part of the island suits me?

Ibiza Town for city life and the port, Santa Eulària for a calmer family base, Sant Antoni and Sant Josep for beaches and evenings out, and the north for space and quiet. Visit each before you decide.

What is Ibiza like in winter?

Much quieter. The year-round towns keep their shops and services, while many resort businesses close. If you plan to live here all year, spend some time on the island between November and March.

Can I buy a home here to let to tourists?

Only if the rules in force allow it for that property. Holiday letting on Ibiza is tightly regulated, so check what applies before you buy, not after.

How do I get to the island?

By air to Ibiza airport, or by ferry from Barcelona, Valencia, Dénia or Palma de Mallorca. Flights are more frequent in summer than in winter.