Five Laid-Back Live Music Venues in the Balearics

 

You’re never far from a party in the Balearics. Just off Spain’s east coast, the islands of Menorca, Mallorca, Ibiza and Formentera are a hit with European holidaymakers, and for good reason. The islands offer 11 hours of sunshine a day in the summer, miles of beautiful coastline, lively resorts and more sedate countryside retreats. Ibiza might be the favourite for young people looking for a party, but where can you head to find laid-back live music? Read on for the top five live music venues across the Balearics to suit all musical tastes.

Putumayo Café, Ibiza

Ibiza has something to offer all. While there are plenty of crazy venues to lose yourself in, you’ll also find laid-back venues for quieter days and nights. Putumayo Café is has a magnetic appeal for the locals. Run by Dutch musician Rick DeVito, you’ll find regular live music concerts by the house band Putumayo Project, and sets by international guests throughout the year. With a cosy atmosphere and great drinks prices, this is a venue worth checking out all year round.

Jazz Voyeur Club, Palma de Mallorca

You’ll find some great jazz clubs echoing through old town Palma. The Jazz Voyeur Club offers early and late evening sessions six days a week so you can catch a set before or after dinner. It’s a tiny venue so you have to get up close to the music. Head in for a Santana tribute, or, on some evenings, rock and funk acts.

Hippy Market Es Mola, Formentera

Fancy a spot of souvenir shopping with a soundtrack? The famous Hippy Market runs every Wednesday and Sunday just outside El Pilar de la Mola, Formentera throughout the summer and offers a lively atmosphere with artisan goods for sale alongside live music into the early evening (don’t worry, they’re nicer knickknacks than these).

Akelare Jazz and Dance Club, Menorca

Akelare is a live music bar famous for its cocktails. A venue has been situated on this site for decades, so you can sit and enjoy the history of the spot alongside great music. Split over two floors, live jazz and blues is played on Thursday nights, and local musicians regularly pop in to get their groove on. Located right by the harbour, it’s also a great place to stop for lunch.

Bluesville Bar, Palma de Mallorca

Described by some as an informal, ‘down-and-dirty’ bar, Bluesville offers laidback live music every single night. Located in the old town, entry is free and acts mainly include blues, funk and reggae. It doesn’t get going until after midnight though, so it’s not one for those looking for an early night.

 

Wherever you find yourself in the Balearics, laid-back music venues await. Look out too for summer festivals such as Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival in May, and the Menorca summer fiestas.