Ibiza, Spain

Port of call

Ibiza, Spain

Description — Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza is one of the islands that form part of the Balearic Islands archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea. It belongs to Spain. Population - 133,702 (2012). The island’s area - 571.04 km². Population density - 234.14 people/km². The administrative center is the city of Ibiza.

Ibiza is an international resort. The island’s greatest fame comes from numerous clubs where electronic music of the most diverse genres is performed. Every year the best clubs and promo groups, such as Cream, Renaissance, Cadenza and many others, present their parties in Ibiza. The main movement begins in May, and its peak falls on August-September: it is at this time that the island draws in the key figures: famous DJs and residents of the world’s largest clubs. Therefore, this period is considered the hottest and most fun.

Climate

The climate in Ibiza is Mediterranean, with a warm winter and a slightly cooler summer than in Majorca. Winter is mild, with temperatures in winter of about 15 °C; moderate precipitation falls. Snow and frosts are extremely rare. The hot season lasts from June through September inclusive; temperatures usually reach 30 °C, with a large number of sunny hours-rain is extremely rare.

Location on the map

Sights

Cathedral

Cathedral

The history of the Cathedral located in the old town of Dalt Vila began in 1235, when Ibiza passed into the hands of Catalan conquerors. At that time, by order of Guillem de Montgrí, a Catholic temple was built on the site of the mosque that stood here, dedicated to Our Lady of the Snows. In the early 18th century, the Gothic building went through a “rebranding” and was completely reconstructed in the Baroque style, which has been preserved to this day. The church’s interior decoration is not particularly luxurious-rather, minimalism prevails here, along with elements of the Romanesque style, highlighted by massive marble columns. In the temple, you can visit the museum in the sacristy and see a beautiful statue of Our Lady of the Snows.

Santo Domingo Church

Santo Domingo Church

Beautiful Baroque Church of Santo Domingo (the first “version” of which was built in the 12th century) - the only thing left from the Santo Domingo monastery. Like a large historical mosaic, it has been rebuilt and enhanced on numerous occasions with new elements. For example, in 1973, after an explosion at a gunpowder store, the church underwent significant changes after fires destroyed most of the frescoes and images of saints. Today, the Catholic church, in the architecture of which three completely different styles are harmoniously intertwined, is considered a historical and cultural treasure of the island.

What to see

Beaches of Ibiza

Beaches of Ibiza

In Ibiza - 18 kilometers of beaches. Cala de Portinatx in Portinatx - a quiet beach resort in a small cove, ideal for a whole-day getaway. Cala Xarraca - a wonderful place to explore the underwater world of the Balearic Islands, and nearby there are completely free mud baths. Platja es Canar - a popular beach among tourists traveling with families. Next to the beach there is a hippie market. Cala Jondal - this is exactly where the popular bars Jockey Club and Particular are located. Platja d’en Bossa - the longest beach on the island. Here you’ll find popular bars Bora Bora, where music starts playing already in the morning, and Tahiti Bar, whose main attraction is a sprinkling hose-through which dancing and drinking guests are periodically doused with icy water.

Old Town of Dalt Vila

Old Town of Dalt Vila

Dalt Vila, which is listed among UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is the oldest part of the island of Ibiza, preserving medieval charm. You can start your journey through the ancient streets of Dalt Vila at the main gates, Portal de Ses Taules, surrounded by powerful ancient Roman statues. By walking along the main square, Plaça de Vila, you can reach the 14th-century cathedral, where works of art are kept. On the cathedral square there is the Archaeological Museum, and a little further on-the Church of Santo Domingo. Another highlight of the old town is the El Palacio de Ibiza hotel, famous for its star-studded guests-Marilyn Monroe, Walt Disney, and Charlie Chaplin. On the building’s wall, plaques with impressions of some celebrities are displayed.

Sa-Peña Quarter

Sa-Peña Quarter

The medieval quarter of Sa Penya is just a few steps from the port of Ibiza. Bring your camera and take your time as you stroll through it, admiring ancient Gothic buildings and small white houses draped in bougainvillea. In the labyrinth of narrow streets of Sa Penya, it’s easy to get lost-but that is part of the charm of the quarter. For example, you might quite by chance come across the El Palacio de Ibiza hotel, whose facade features signs displaying celebrities’ handprints. Or stumble upon a couple of souvenir shops with lovely little trinkets.

Hippie Market

Hippie Market

The village of Punta Arabi lies between the town of Santa Eulària and the resort of Es Canar on the island of Ibiza. The main attraction of this small settlement is the weekly hippy market, considered a real find for shopping enthusiasts. Every Wednesday, the island’s largest and oldest market comes alive with wandering musicians and is filled with huge stall-tents stocked with goods from all over the world. Here you can find practically everything-from handmade jewelry to leather jackets and colorful scarves-and even discover a true masterpiece.

Pacha Club

Pacha Club

Pacha - the most famous and well-known club in the world, and every decent partygoer feels it is their duty to visit it. The scale of the club, which has been operating since 1973, is astonishing: several levels of the main hall, endless staircases, five dance floors with a capacity of over 3000 people, and summer cafés on the terrace. Music - from garage to house; guests - from Puff Daddy to Erick Morillo. Parties at Pacha are a show with decorations and popular DJs. An important feature is the club sound, considered one of the best in the world. The bass on the dance floor can sometimes be felt literally physically.

Recommended excursions

Excursion to the island of Ibiza

Excursion to the island of Ibiza

During the excursion you will see the beaches of Ibiza, viewpoints, pirate towers, caves, wineries, secret or, on the contrary, popular places, and hippie markets. A sightseeing tour of the island usually ends at a restaurant or another alternative place with a gorgeous sunset or a music program.

For a more detailed list of excursions and their prices, you can view it after booking your cruise in your «Client Personal Account».