The Balearic Islands are a small archipelago off the coast of Spain, bringing all the flavours of a Spanish holiday to a gorgeous island setting. A holiday to the Balearic Islands could see you in the popular Ibiza, Majorca or Menorca, or the lesser known but still stunning, Formentera.

Beachy delights

From tourist-packed sands to secluded coves, the beaches in the Balearics are glorious and endless and there’s a spot for every kind of beachgoer.

• Menorca’s beaches sit on it’s picturesque yet rugged coastline and tends to offer the more laid-back picks. Playa De Son Bou is the largest beach on the island and being right by a nature reserve, peace and quiet is guaranteed. You can still enjoy ammenties like loungers, parasols and beach bars, but the allround vibe is quite lowkey.
• The lively shores of Majorca, in particular Playa de Alcudia, hold Blue Flag status with their dreamy turquoise waters and white sands. You’ll find most beaches here decked out with loungers and parasols, and lined with bars and restaurants. Majorca’s beaches are great for families with shallow shores and plenty of opportunity for boat trips and watersports.
• Ibiza, as expected, is where you’ll find the most activity. The livelier shores are decked with bars and restaurants, beach clubs with DJ sets and late nights right on the sand, plus, there’s even cocktail joints hidden in caves! There are quieter spots on Ibiza’s southern shores, like Es Cana and Figueretas, where you can make the most of the tranquil surroundings.

Capital cities

The islands’ capital cities brim with culture and activity, each one offering something slightly different for every kind of traveler looking to holiday in the Balearics.

• Majorca’s capital, Palma, has a perfect blend of historic and modern attractions, stacked with castles, cathedrals, fashion boutiques and stunning Mediterranean views. Palma boasts a lively cultural scene, delightful seafront restaurants serving the local cuisine and incredible beaches perfect for a relaxing day.
• Menorca’s Mahon is lined with 17th-century Italian-style architecture, a beautiful natural harbour that is in fact, one of the largest and deepest in the world, and a cultural scene that let’s you step back in time to learn all about the island’s history. Mahon is famous for its local cheese, so be sure to buy it fresh from the Mercat de Mahón.
• Ibiza Town is the lively capital of Ibiza and of course, is famous for it’s world renowned nightlife with clubs like Pacha, Ushuaïa topping the list. There’s much historic charm in Ibiza Town too, being home to the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site Dalt Vila old town, as well as castles and cathedrals, and plenty of museums.

Places to go

The Balearics are made up of picturesque views, charming towns and soft sands, there really is plenty to see and do on holiday – or just plenty of spots for relaxing and watching the world go by.

• In Menorca don’t miss the chance to explore Ciutadella – its narrow lanes reveal pretty boutiques and cosy cafes, and its Saturday morning market on Placa des Born is the perfect spot to find breakfast or gifts for those back home. To escape the midday sun, the Cathedral Ses Voltes’ whitewashed archways and spacious interiors provide a tranquil spot for quiet contemplation.
• While on holiday in the Balearic Islands, you’re sure to spend plenty of time at the beach, but if you’re not one for laying out the towel and reading a book, there’s three spots calling out your name. Playa D’en Bossa in Ibiza, Playa De Alcudia in Majorca and Cala ‘n Porter in Menorca offer a range of watersports, from bouncing across the waves on a jet ski, to peacefully bobbing around on a pedalo, or even heading out on a boat trip, these are worth the day trip.

Things to see

No matter where you holiday in the Balearics you’ll find there’s countless adventures to be had. Whether it’s hiking, cycling, or touring historic sites, the beautiful diversity across the islands make for something quite unique.

• Formentera is known for its idyllic beaches, but its quieter, more rugged terrain is perfect for cycling and hiking – and being so small, it’s the perfect day trip. The coastal paths offer great views of the crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches, and you can visit the La Mola Lighthouse or hike along the Cami de Sa Pujada for a lovely path and panoramic views.
• One of the most famous hikes in Majorca, the Torrent de Pareis is a dramatic gorge in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. The hike can be challenging, but the views are incredibly rewarding and ending at Sa Calobra Beach, where the rugged cliffs meet the sea, it’s one of the most beautiful spots in all of Majorca.
• For the history lovers, Palma Cathedral, also in Majorca, is a magnificent, must-see cathedral that overlooks the sea. It’s one of the largest cathedrals across Spain and holds great significance to Majorca. Its impressive interior was designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi, and its exterior showcases colourful stained glass windows ands stunning sculptures.

Cuisine in the Balearics

Being part of Spain, the cuisine in the Balearics is distinctly Spanish, but still presents unique hints of its own flavour on each island. On holiday in the Balearic Islands, the first thing you’ll notice is that they have grown accustomed to being self-sufficient, which means you’ll enjoy plenty of local fruits and vegetables from the mountains and freshly caught seafood from the Med.

• Due to the self sufficiency of the Balearic Islands, the cuisine here is very seasonal, for example, aubergines and peppers are popular in the summer, while in winter you’ll tend to find more tomatoes and plums.
• Pork and lobster are particular of the meat and seafood specialities plated up in the Balearics, as well as sobrasada, a speadable cured sausage.
• Pastries and sweet treats are common across the islands, with key ingredients like cheese, sugar and almonds making up most of the dishes.
• A holiday in the Balearic Islands will treat you to plenty of fresh Spanish delights, tapas style or a la carte. Expect plates of paella, fisherman’s stews, and of course, Mahon cheese.

Just like everything in the Balearic Islands, you’ll find an abundance of choice when it comes to dining out so there’s something for every fussy eater, as well as those trying to stay within their cheap Balearic islands holiday budget. If you’re on an All Inclusive holiday in the Balearic Islands, it’s definitely worth a night or two out to try something new!

Nightlife in the Balearics

Balearic Islands holidays also boast an incredible nightlife scene, with not one, but two famous nightlife centres in Majorca and Ibiza. But it’s not all neon lit clubs and foam parties, there’s plenty of quieter evenings to be had too.

• Magaluf, Ibiza Town and San Antonio Town are top picks for those looking for a 24-hour party atmosphere, awe-inspiring clubs and world-renowned DJs. Of course, San Antonio Town is also where you’ll find the famous Ocean Beach!
• There’s also nightlife that will tick the boxes of the more laid-back holiday-goer or families in the Balearics. Expect quiet beach bars and pretty restaurant terraces for an evening in Menorca, but there is the odd karaoke bar if you are looking top take it up a notch, and even a club or two.
• Classic English pubs and Irish bars can be found all over the Balearic Islands, so you’re never too far from a refreshing pint or a spot to catch the game. These are always great picks for cheap food and drink too!