Everyone knows Ibiza as a benchmark for partying , summer and the many international celebrities who visit it . However, the Pitiusa island is also synonymous with tranquility , a peace that is found in some of the beautiful towns scattered throughout its geography. Beyond the capital, Ibiza is home to small towns and villages where you can get away from the tourist bustle and discover that island that, decades ago, attracted communities of hippies and the first foreigners.
We could give you thousands of reasons to visit Ibiza , but exploring its charming towns is something that cannot be missed on your trip. Escaping for a few hours, strolling through the streets of the picturesque coastal towns until you reach a viewpoint , or discovering their incredible gastronomy , will give your vacation an unforgettable touch. Immerse yourself in the authenticity of the island and live a unique experience that will enrich your visit to Ibiza.
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One of the singularities of Ibiza is that, until the middle of the last century, most of its towns consisted only of a church , a shop that also functioned as a bar and post office , and a few homes around this nucleus. The inhabitants lived dispersed on self-sufficient farms, dedicating themselves to agricultural work during the week and meeting on Sundays at the church to socialize under its porch.
The only towns with greater development were Sant Antoni de Portmany and Santa Eulària des Riu , which eventually became the main tourist centers of the island . These places, which today are vibrant destinations , have preserved part of their historical and cultural charm , offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity that captivates all visitors.
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To make sure you have the best trip to Ibiza , we have prepared a list of the essential towns you should visit on your next vacation:
Sant Antoni de Portmany
The fourth city in terms of population , with 25,000 inhabitants , and a tourist reference in the west of Ibiza , San Antonio is a fascinating destination to visit. Historically , it was one of the main ports on the island and remains a key entry point for ships coming from the Peninsula . Located in a beautiful and protected bay with crystal clear waters , it is surrounded by small coves where you can enjoy some of the best sunsets in Ibiza. Known for its extensive bay , the municipality of Sant Antoni de Portmany offers many places of interest, such as Cala Bassa and Cala Comte.
Although San Antonio is not known for its historical heritage , its tranquility and natural environment make it one of the most pleasant and beautiful towns in Ibiza. In addition, it is famous for its iconic nightclubs such as Café del Mar, O Beach and Es Paradis , which add a vibrant nightlife atmosphere to this charming town.
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Santa Eularia des Riu
Santa Eulalia del Río , the second most populated municipality in Ibiza with 36,000 inhabitants , is one of the most charming towns on the island. At the top of Puig de Misa stands the Sa Creu d'en Ribes church , around which the houses that make up the picturesque architectural ensemble of the town are grouped . A unique characteristic of this region is that it is home to the only river in all of the Balearic Islands , from which its name comes.
Santa Eulalia is a quiet area , ideal for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle and nightlife of other parts of the island. With its pretty coves and serene atmosphere , it is one of the best areas to stay in Ibiza , especially if you are traveling as a family.
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Saint Gertrude of Fruitera
Santa Gertrudis is a charming town of white houses located in the interior of Ibiza , far from the hustle and bustle of the island's nightlife . This small town stands out for its cozy atmosphere, with streets full of bars and restaurants that attract many visitors. Although it is far from the coast , Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera is one of the best-known places on the island . Like many other towns, it is built around its church , and is an ideal place to buy Ibizan crafts or enjoy its excellent cuisine.
If you're looking for a place to relax , Santa Gertrudis is perfect for a quiet afternoon stroll , exploring the shops and finishing with dinner on an outdoor terrace. It is one of the few places where you can walk along pedestrian streets , admire the white houses and rest under the shade of the trees , as many of its inhabitants do. Among the white facades, the church of Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera stands out, with its yellow lines and its 18th century bell tower, the highest on the island.
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Sant Josep de Sa Talaia
To the southwest of Ibiza lies San José or Sant Josep de Sa Talaia , the largest municipality on the island. With areas including the airport and the island's summit, Mount Sa Talaia , which rises to 475 meters high . Although its extensive 84-kilometer coastline is impressive , the urban center of San José is located inland , presenting a charming traditional Ibizan town with white houses, restaurants and some interesting churches.
However, San José stands out especially for its coast , which is home to dazzling beaches and coves with turquoise waters bordered by small cliffs. The southern coast of Ibiza is a spectacle, with its steep topography that descends directly to the sea. Here, several defensive towers are still preserved , such as the iconic Pirata tower or Torre des Savinar , awarded as the best corner of the Balearic Islands in 2013 . From this position, the sunset is simply incomparable.
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Es Cubells
Within the municipality of San José , we discover the parish of Es Cubells , located on an impressive cliff that offers panoramic views of some of the most beautiful coves in Ibiza. The coastline here is truly spectacular, attracting attention with its natural beauty.
Although the urban center is modest , mainly made up of some chalets and the church with traditional Ibizan architecture , it is the coastline that really captivates in Es Cubells.
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Saint Agnes of Corona
Located in a protected area of Es Amunts , Santa Agnés de Corona is one of the most picturesque towns in Ibiza and also one of the smallest . It preserves the traditional Ibizan architecture, with its charming white houses.
The church of Santa Inés stands out , a white temple built in the 18th century, which stands among the few houses that make up this peaceful town. During January and February, you can marvel at the blooming almond tree plantations in Es Pla de la Corona , creating a landscape of singular beauty. Don't miss the impressive Ses Balandres cliff , known as the Gates of Heaven , from where you can enjoy spectacular views of this area of the island.
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Sant Joan de Labritja
Sant Joan de Labritja is a charming Ibizan town , far from the hustle and bustle of the famous nightclubs . With restaurants , supermarkets and shops , it offers comfort and the advantage of pedestrian streets, perfect if you are traveling with children . In addition, you can explore the quiet Cala Portinatx to enjoy its crystal-clear waters and practice snorkeling.
On Sundays , the town comes to life with a small market of crafts and organic products, a local experience that you cannot miss.
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Sant Carles de Peralta
Sant Carles de Peralta, one of the most emblematic towns rooted in the hippie culture of Ibiza , offers a unique experience. Its famous Las Dalias market , held every Saturday during the summer months , is a must-see for lovers of bohemian style . In addition, its beautiful beaches such as Es Figueral, Cala Boix, Cala Llenya and Aguas Blancas beach add an extra attraction to this charming town , standing out among the best coves on the island . Surrounded by an exceptional natural environment, life in Sant Carles de Peralta revolves around its charming 18th century white church , as is the case in most towns in the region.
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Sant Jordi de Ses Salines
Sant Jordi de Ses Salines , a quiet town close to the capital and the airport , is home to a peculiar fortified church from the 15th century . Its impressive walls, with 29 battlements , recall an old peasant fort that included a chapel inside.
On Saturdays , Sant Jordi comes to life with a lively market , an ideal space to both buy and sell a variety of products. In addition, its proximity to some of the most notable nightclubs in Ibiza , such as Hi Ibiza , Ushuaia or Swag Ibiza Club , adds an extra attraction to this charming town.
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Sant Miquel de Balansat
Sant Miguel de Balansat stands out as one of the most beautiful corners of Ibiza , largely thanks to its old 14th century church , which stands majestically on a hill , providing impressive panoramic views . In addition, this town is home to the fascinating Can Marçà Cave, with more than 100 thousand years of history , a must-see visit for lovers of exploration.
The charming Puerto de San Miguel, located in a picturesque bay facing the Mediterranean , invites you to stroll and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings. An interesting detail: on Thursday afternoons, the church courtyard comes to life with the traditional Ibiza dance , known as ball pagès , a unique cultural experience worth witnessing.
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Ibiza is not only synonymous with parties and vibrant beaches ; The island is also home to charming towns that offer a quieter and more authentic experience. From the pedestrian streets and white houses of Santa Gertrudis , to the majestic church of Sant Miguel de Balansat and the secret coves of Es Cubells , every corner of the island tells a story and offers stunning views . Stroll through artisan markets , discover the rich local cuisine and enjoy the culture and traditions that make these towns unique places.
We invite you to explore these picturesque towns and immerse yourself in the authentic essence of Ibiza . Come and discover a different side of the island, full of natural and cultural beauty that will leave you unforgettable memories. Do not miss it!
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