Embarking on a journey from Palma to Ibiza offers travellers a fantastic opportunity to experience two of the Balearic Islands' most vibrant destinations. This popular Mediterranean route spans approximately 150.3 km (93.4 miles) and is primarily served by regular ferry connections. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, island-hopping adventure, or an extended stay, the Palma to Ibiza route provides scenic sea travel with the beautiful Mediterranean as your backdrop.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the ferry options available, port information, and everything you need to know about making the most of your visit to Ibiza, including the best attractions, neighbourhoods, and seasonal considerations to help you plan the perfect trip.

How to get from Palma to Ibiza: Flights and Ferries

When planning your journey from Palma to Ibiza, you have two main transportation options: flying or taking a ferry. Each offers distinct advantages depending on your travel preferences, budget, and schedule.

Flying between Palma and Ibiza is an option for travellers seeking the quickest route between the islands. However, when factoring in check-in times, security procedures, and transfers to and from airports, the time advantage may be less significant than it initially appears.

Ferry travel offers a more relaxed and scenic alternative. The ferry route from Palma to Ibiza covers 81.2 nautical miles across the Mediterranean Sea. With an average duration of 2 hours and 33 minutes, ferry travel provides a comfortable journey with the added benefit of spectacular sea views. There are approximately 8 sailings per week, totalling around 36 sailings per month, giving you good flexibility when planning your trip.

While flying might save some time, taking the ferry allows you to enjoy the journey itself, with opportunities to relax on deck, enjoy onboard amenities, and watch the beautiful Mediterranean scenery unfold before you. The ferry also eliminates the stress of airport procedures and baggage restrictions, making it an appealing option for many travellers.

Taking the ferry from Palma to Ibiza

You can take a ferry from Palma to Ibiza. Ferries sail in around 2 hours and 33 minutes with about 1 sailing a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 2 hours and 15 minutes and is provided by Balearia. Ferry prices can range depending on operator, whether it is a conventional or fast ferry and time of year. The average price of a fast ferry ticket is around £247. Departures start as early as 08:00, with the last departure from Palma to Ibiza at 10:01.

Balearia is the primary operator serving the Palma to Ibiza route, offering reliable and comfortable ferry services. Their vessels are equipped with modern amenities to ensure a pleasant journey across the Mediterranean.

Onboard Balearia ferries, passengers can enjoy a range of facilities designed to make the crossing comfortable and enjoyable. These typically include spacious seating areas, cafeterias serving hot and cold food options, bars offering refreshments, outdoor deck space for enjoying the sea views, and duty-free shopping opportunities. Many vessels also provide entertainment options and Wi-Fi connectivity to help pass the time during your journey.

For those travelling during peak season (June through September), we recommend booking your ferry tickets well in advance to secure your preferred sailing time, as this popular route can fill up quickly during the summer months. In contrast, off-peak travellers might benefit from more availability and potentially lower fares.

If you're planning to bring your vehicle aboard, Balearia ferries can accommodate cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, allowing you to have transportation ready upon arrival in Ibiza. However, vehicle spaces are limited, so advance booking is essential, particularly during busy periods.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Palma)

Palma's ferry terminal is located at the Port of Palma, situated near the city centre and easily accessible by various transportation options. The port lies approximately 5 kilometres from Palma de Mallorca Airport, making connections between air and sea travel relatively straightforward.

To reach the port from the city centre, you can take a local bus, with several routes stopping near or at the terminal. Taxis are readily available throughout Palma and provide a convenient door-to-door service to the ferry terminal. If you're driving to the port, there are parking facilities available, though these can fill up during peak season, so arriving early is advisable.

The terminal itself is well-equipped with passenger amenities, including check-in counters, waiting areas, luggage storage, restrooms, and small shops where you can purchase snacks and travel essentials. There are also cafés where you can grab a bite to eat or a coffee before boarding. The terminal provides clear signage in multiple languages, making navigation straightforward even for first-time visitors.

Arrival Port (Ibiza)

Ibiza's main ferry terminal is located at the Port of Ibiza, situated close to Ibiza Town. Upon arrival, you'll find a well-organised terminal with clear directions to exit points, taxi stands, and bus stops.

From the port, Ibiza Town's historic centre (Dalt Vila) is within walking distance, approximately 15-20 minutes on foot. For those not wishing to walk, taxis are available directly outside the terminal building. The island's bus service also operates from near the port, connecting to major towns and beaches across Ibiza.

The terminal area features tourist information points where you can collect maps, brochures, and advice about the island. There are also car rental offices if you plan to explore Ibiza independently. Near the port, you'll find a selection of cafés, restaurants, and shops, making it easy to orient yourself and plan your next steps upon arrival.

For those continuing their journey to other parts of the island, the main bus station is located about 10 minutes' walk from the port, offering connections to popular destinations like San Antonio, Santa Eulalia, and various beach resorts.

Day Trip Possibilities

A day trip from Palma to Ibiza is possible but requires careful planning to maximise your time on the island. With the earliest ferry departing at 08:00 and the crossing taking around 2 hours and 15 minutes on the fastest service, you could arrive in Ibiza by approximately 10:15.

Given the limited daily sailings (typically just one per day) and the latest departure from Palma being at 10:01, a same-day return might not be possible on most days. This means a day trip would likely require an overnight stay in Ibiza.

If you do manage to coordinate a day when same-day return is possible, we recommend focusing your visit on Ibiza Town. This allows you to explore the UNESCO-listed Dalt Vila (Old Town), visit the harbour area, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, and perhaps even fit in a quick visit to a nearby beach like Figueretas or Talamanca, which are accessible from the town centre.

A more relaxed option would be planning a one-night stay in Ibiza. This gives you the afternoon of your arrival day, a full evening to experience Ibiza's famous nightlife if desired, and the morning of the following day before catching an afternoon ferry back to Palma.

For travellers with limited time but still wanting to experience both islands, we recommend considering a mini-break of at least two nights in Ibiza to truly appreciate what the island has to offer without feeling rushed.

Things to Do in Ibiza

Ibiza offers a diverse range of attractions beyond its famous club scene, making it an appealing destination for all types of travellers:

Top 5 Attractions

Dalt Vila (Ibiza Old Town): This UNESCO World Heritage site features impressive Renaissance fortifications, cobblestone streets, and stunning views from its hilltop position. Explore the cathedral, archaeological museum, and charming plazas. Open year-round, with the most pleasant visiting hours being morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat.

Ses Salines Natural Park: A protected area encompassing salt flats, beaches, and important ecological zones. Home to Ses Salines Beach, one of Ibiza's most beautiful shores with crystal-clear waters. The park is open daily, with flamingo sightings most likely during migration seasons.

Cala d'Hort: A picturesque beach offering spectacular views of the mysterious Es Vedrà island rock formation. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and photographing one of Ibiza's most iconic vistas. The beach is accessible year-round, though facilities may be limited outside summer months.

Hippy Markets: Experience Ibiza's bohemian spirit at markets like Las Dalias (Saturdays) or Punta Arabí (Wednesdays). Browse handcrafted jewellery, clothing, art, and souvenirs while enjoying live music and food stalls.

Can Marçà Cave: Located in Puerto San Miguel, these impressive natural caves feature stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations with a light and sound show highlighting the underground landscape. Open daily with guided tours running throughout the day.

Neighbourhood Guide

Ibiza Town: The island's capital combines historic charm in its UNESCO-listed upper town with cosmopolitan energy in its marina and waterfront areas. Home to excellent restaurants, boutique shopping, and cultural attractions.

San Antonio: Famous for its sunset strip and lively nightlife, this western resort town also offers family-friendly beaches and water activities during the day. The Sunset Strip with cafés like Café del Mar provides the perfect setting for watching Ibiza's legendary sunsets.

Santa Eulalia: A more relaxed, upmarket resort town with a beautiful promenade, yacht marina, and reputation for excellent restaurants. Popular with families and those seeking a more tranquil Ibiza experience.

Es Canar: A charming resort area known for its hippy markets, relaxed beaches, and family-friendly atmosphere. Perfect for those seeking a balance between accessibility and tranquility.

San Carlos: This inland village retains authentic Ibizan character and was a historic hippy enclave in the 1960s. Visit Bar Anita, a legendary gathering spot, and explore the surrounding countryside with its traditional whitewashed churches.

Weather in Ibiza

Ibiza enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, more humid winters. This creates generally favourable conditions for ferry travel throughout the year, though seasonal variations are worth considering when planning your trip.

Summer (June-September) brings consistent sunshine with temperatures typically ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F). These months offer the most reliable weather for enjoying Ibiza's beaches and outdoor activities, with minimal rainfall and warm sea temperatures ideal for swimming. This is also the busiest period for ferry travel, with more frequent sailings but higher demand for tickets.

Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) represent excellent times to visit, with pleasant temperatures around 18-25°C (64-77°F), fewer crowds, and still mostly favourable conditions. These shoulder seasons offer a good balance between comfortable weather and more affordable travel options.

Winter (December-March) sees temperatures drop to 12-17°C (54-63°F) with increased chance of rainfall and occasional storms. While many tourist facilities reduce operations during this period, the islands maintain their beauty, and ferry services continue to operate, though potentially with reduced frequency.

Regarding ferry operations, rough seas are most likely during winter months, particularly January and February, when occasional sailing cancellations may occur due to adverse weather conditions. The summer season generally offers the smoothest crossings, though the Mediterranean can experience strong winds at any time of year.

Cost of Visiting Ibiza

Ibiza has a reputation as a premium destination, but with careful planning, it can accommodate various budget levels. The ferry journey itself represents a significant cost, with average fast ferry tickets priced around £247.

For accommodation, budget travellers can find hostels from £20-30 per night, mid-range hotels from £80-150, and luxury options starting from £200+ per night. Prices increase significantly during the peak summer season (July-August) and around major club events.

Daily expenses vary widely depending on your travel style. Budget travellers might spend £50-70 per day including modest accommodation, self-catering options, and public transport. Mid-range travellers should budget £100-200 daily for comfortable hotels, restaurant meals, and some activities. Luxury experiences, including fine dining and VIP club entries, can easily exceed £300-500 daily.

Meal costs range from £10-15 for casual dining to £50+ for upscale restaurants. A local beer costs around £3-5 in regular bars, while club drinks start from £10-15. Entrance to major clubs can range from £30-80 depending on the venue and performers.

To save money, consider visiting during shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October), booking accommodation and ferry tickets well in advance, utilising public buses instead of taxis, and enjoying the many free natural attractions like beaches and hiking trails.

Best Time to Visit Ibiza

The ideal time to visit Ibiza depends largely on your interests and what you hope to experience on the island.

Peak season (July-August) offers the hottest weather, warmest sea temperatures, and the full-throttle Ibiza experience with all clubs, restaurants, and attractions operating at maximum capacity. This is the perfect time for those seeking the legendary nightlife experience, but be prepared for crowds, the highest prices, and the need to book everything well in advance, including your ferry from Palma.

Early summer (May-June) and September provide an excellent balance of warm weather, good swimming conditions, and slightly lower prices. Most establishments are open, the club season is either building up or winding down, and the overall atmosphere is more relaxed while still vibrant. These months represent the sweet spot for many visitors wanting to experience Ibiza's diverse offerings.

Off-peak season (October-April) reveals a completely different side of Ibiza. The island returns to its more authentic, tranquil character with empty beaches, mild hiking weather, and a focus on local culture rather than tourism. Winter visitors can enjoy the almond blossoms in February, participate in traditional festivals, and experience the islands at their most authentic, though with limited tourist infrastructure operating.

For those primarily interested in natural beauty and cultural experiences, the spring months are particularly rewarding, when the island is in full bloom, temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities, and the summer crowds have yet to arrive.

Festival-goers might plan their visit around specific events like the Ibiza International Film Festival (May), Medieval Festival in Dalt Vila (May), or the traditional feast days throughout the year that showcase authentic Ibizan culture.

Accommodation Options in Ibiza

Finding the perfect place to stay in Ibiza depends on what kind of experience you're seeking on this vibrant Balearic island. The island offers diverse accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets.

For budget-conscious travellers, hostels in Ibiza Town and San Antonio provide affordable beds starting from around £20 per night. Guesthouses scattered around the island offer a more personal experience with prices ranging from £40-£80 per night depending on the season.

Couples might prefer the boutique hotels in the quieter parts of Ibiza Town or Santa Eulalia, where you can expect to pay between £80-£150 per night for something special. Many apartments are available for rent throughout the island, offering more privacy and self-catering facilities.

Families will find numerous family-friendly resorts, particularly around Playa d'en Bossa and Santa Eulalia, with facilities designed for children and spacious accommodation. These typically range from £120-£250 per night for family rooms.

For nature lovers, several campsites are available around the island, particularly in the northern regions, offering pitches from around £15 per night. Many also accommodate campervans with basic facilities.

Getting Around Ibiza

Once you've arrived in Ibiza, exploring the island is relatively straightforward.

Public buses connect most major towns and beaches on the island, with fares typically between £1.50-£4 depending on distance. The service is more frequent during summer months, with routes linking Ibiza Town, San Antonio, Santa Eulalia, and other popular destinations.

Taxis are readily available but can be expensive during peak season. Expect to pay around £15-£25 for journeys between major towns. Several ride-sharing apps also operate on the island during busier months.

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore hidden coves and inland villages at your own pace. Daily rates start from around £30 for a small car, plus fuel costs. Scooter rentals are also popular and more affordable, starting from about £20 per day.

Walking is pleasant in the towns and along some coastal paths, while cycling is an option for the more energetic, with bike rentals available from around £10-£15 per day.

Plan Your Perfect Balearic Island Hop

The journey between Palma and Ibiza offers a wonderful opportunity to experience two of the Balearic Islands' distinct personalities. With Balearia offering the fastest crossing at just 2 hours and 15 minutes, the sea route provides a scenic and relaxing travel experience between these Mediterranean gems.

While there are 8 weekly sailings (approximately 36 monthly), it's advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the summer months when demand is highest. Morning departures between 08:00 and 10:01 allow you to maximise your day upon arrival.

The ferry journey itself becomes part of your holiday experience—offering stunning sea views, comfortable facilities, and the excitement of approaching a new island destination. At approximately £247 for the shortest crossing, it represents good value considering the experience and convenience.

Ready to experience the magic of both Mallorca and Ibiza? Book your ferry crossing today and prepare for an unforgettable Balearic adventure that combines the best of both islands. The Mediterranean awaits!