Best Balearic Islands to visit for every traveller

Floating off Spain’s east coast, the Balearic Islands get a bad rap. You hear Ibiza, you think wild nights and club flyers. You hear Mallorca, Menorca or Formentera, and maybe you picture all-inclusive resorts and English breakfasts in the sun. But brush off those tired stereotypes, and you’ll find four distinct islands — each with a lot more going on than their reputations suggest.

Skip them, and you’ll miss out on some of the best beaches in Spain, surprisingly rugged hiking trails, UNESCO-listed old towns, and a laid-back lifestyle that’s hard to beat.

Planning a Balearic Islands vacation? Whether you’re into diving, cycling, beach-hopping, or long lunches by the sea, there’s an island with your name on it. From the pine-covered cliffs of Mallorca to the slow charm of Menorca, here’s your guide to the best Balearic island — for you.

Formentera: Best for nature-lovers and laid-back travellers

If you’re chasing peace and quiet, Formentera is one of the best Balearic Islands to visit. Just a 30-minute ferry from Ibiza, it feels like a different planet — one with no airport, no high-rise resorts, and no stress. While Ibiza parties hard, Formentera stays blissfully slow.

The island’s rugged coastline wraps around powdery white-sand beaches and crystal-clear sea — perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or diving. Don’t miss the salt flats, where flamingos gather in spring and autumn. Formentera’s also strict about development, with a ban on new beachfront buildings, so you won’t find mega hotels cluttering your view.

If you’re planning a trip to Spain and looking to escape the crowds, this is your place. Add it to your Spain itinerary for a few days of sun, sea, and total stillness.

Nature comes first here, and so does the slow life. Back in the sixties, this place drew in hippies — and you can still feel that free-spirited vibe. Hit one of the local craft markets (like the lantern-lit one in El Pilar de la Mola, the island’s highest village) for handmade jewelry, woven goods, and standout sunset views.

Things to do in Formentera:

• Cycle or scooter to remote coves along the Camí de Cavalls.
• Snorkel off the shores of Ses Illetes, one of the best Balearic Islands beaches.
• Shop handmade crafts at La Mola’s artisan market.
• Catch golden hour at the Cap de Barbaria lighthouse.

Menorca: Best for families and beach bums

All the Balearic Islands boast great beaches — but Menorca takes it up a notch. Think Caribbean-level coves without the long-haul flight. The island is ringed with white-sand hideaways and calm, turquoise water that practically begs you to jump in.

If you’re after the best Balearic Islands beaches, start with Cala Mitjana, Cala Trebalúger, Cala Macarelleta, and Cales Coves. You’ll find soft sand, crystal-clear shallows, and fewer crowds than Mallorca or Ibiza. And because many beaches here are gently sloping, Menorca is hands-down one of the best Balearic Islands for families — especially if you’re exploring Spain with kids.

Older kids (and grown-ups) will love the snorkeling, or you can level up with a dive — Menorca’s waters are packed with marine life and visibility is excellent. Don’t want to fork out for gear or lessons? No problem. The snorkeling is top-notch, and many of the island’s best spots are easy to access from shore.

Things to do in Menorca:

• Spend the day beach-hopping along the island’s southern coast.
• Try snorkeling at Cala en Brut or diving near the Pont d’en Gil cave.
• Explore Ciutadella’s historic streets and harborside restaurants.
• Walk a stretch of the Camí de Cavalls, a coastal trail that circles the island.

Ibiza: Best for nightlife and a side of culture

Sure, it’s predictable — but Ibiza and nightlife go together like gin and tonic. If you’re here to party, you’re in the right place. The island’s summer season is packed with big-name DJ sets, beach bars that blur into the early hours, and legendary clubs. Whether you're into sunrise raves or low-key rooftop cocktails, Ibiza is the best Balearic Island for night owls.

But here’s what might surprise you: Ibiza also delivers on culture. Step away from the sound systems and into Dalt Vila, the island’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, where you’ll wander cobbled streets beneath medieval walls. Climb up to the cathedral for sweeping views, then wind your way back down past whitewashed buildings and quiet plazas.

It's no wonder Ibiza makes the list of the best places to visit in Spain — you get ancient history, creative energy, and coastal beauty all on one compact island.

For something more low-key, head to Es Canar’s hippy market, where you’ll find handmade jewelry, leather goods, and trinkets that actually make decent souvenirs. It's a nod to the island’s free-spirited past — and proof that Ibiza’s always been more than just a party.

Things to do in Ibiza:

• Dance the night (and morning) away at world-famous clubs.
• Wander through Dalt Vila’s ramparts and historic alleyways.
• Browse stalls at the hippy markets in Es Canar and Las Dalias.
• Watch the sunset at Café del Mar — touristy, yes, but still iconic.

Mallorca: Best for travelers who want it all

Can’t decide what kind of trip you want? Go with Mallorca — the best Balearic Island if you want a bit of everything. It’s the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, and whether you're here for beaches, nightlife, history, food, or hiking, you’ll find your fix.

Let’s start with the obvious: the beaches. From wide golden stretches like Playa de Muro to tucked-away coves near Cala Deià, the coastline delivers. Nightlife? You’ve got everything from beach clubs in Palma to salsa bars in Sóller. With over 2,500 restaurants and 41 marinas, you'll never be short on dinner options or sea views.

Mallorca is also ideal for families, especially those with teens. Palma is packed with culture and style — walk along its waterfront promenade, browse edgy boutiques, or take in the Gothic Santa María Cathedral and Almudaina Palace, once home to Moorish rulers.

Prefer action? You’ve got world-class cycling and hiking trails. Base yourself in Alcúdia or Pollença for easy access to the mountains, coasts, and countryside. These spots are also among the best areas to stay in Mallorca, offering a solid mix of scenery, history, and access to outdoor adventures.

Planning a romantic escape? There are loads of dreamy places to stay in Mallorca for couples, from boutique stays in the Tramuntana mountains to sleek seafront hotels made for sunset cocktails.

And when it’s time to slow down, sip your way through the island’s underrated wineries.

Things to do in Mallorca:

• Explore Palma’s historic center and buzzing food scene.
• Swim in the hidden coves near Cala Tuent or Es Caló des Moro.
• Hike the Serra de Tramuntana mountains or cycle coastal roads.
• Taste local wine in Binissalem or visit family-run vineyards inland.