Hippy flea market Alamy
4. Make for the markets
Serving as a portal into Ibiza’s bohemian past, Ibiza’s markets are a must-visit, but be sure to arrive early to avoid the stifling heat. Some are more touristy than others, like Punta Arabí hippie market in Es Canar, which sees busloads of visitors arrive every Wednesday and Friday to soak up the vintage vibes. Still, it’s the oldest and biggest on the island, with over 500 stalls selling everything from handbags to hammocks. Las Dalias in San Carlos (open on Saturdays and Sundays) is more of a community hangout, with a hodgepodge of stalls hosted by local craftspeople, delicious food stands and a lively atmosphere that continues long into the night. Those looking to score bespoke souvenirs should head to San Jose market on Saturdays, when local artisans convene to sell enticing handcrafted products, or for a second hand bargain, San Jordi’s iconic flea market on Saturday mornings is the hottest, busiest and best place to haggle for furniture, clothes and tempting trinkets. For a proper village experience, head to San Juan market on Sunday mornings, where a raft of craft and organic food stalls spill across the main street and cover bands jam like their lives depend on it.
Formentera Sophie Knight
5. Sail to Formentera
Only 45 minutes away by ferry but a world away in vibe, Formentera is Ibiza’s beautifully low-key, laid-back neighbour. The perfect antidote to Ibiza’s sometimes pernicious high octane pace, trips to this tiny island unfold gently, with little rush or expectation. Follow dusty, winding caminos to clifftop lighthouses, explore the island’s clutch of cute villages, stop for sundowners at ramshackle beach clubs like Blue Bar or Lucky Bar, and luxuriate in languid lunches at A-List hangouts like Juan y Andrea, Beso Beach, and Casa Pacha Formentera. And of course, serene, salt-kissed beach days are a must. Ses Illetes is a sliver of silvery sand and gin-clear waters backed by barefoot restaurants; Migjorn is a wild and untamed stretch on the southern coast; and Cala Saona has unbeatable sunset views, with Ibiza and the island of Es Vedrà silhouetted against pastel skies in the distance.
6. Seize the day
Get to know Ibiza’s rocky curves and coves by heading out to sea on a luxury yacht or speedboat. Rental companies like Smart Charter boast a range of vessels, some loaded with water sports equipment or designed specifically for on-deck parties. Routes can be tailored on demand, so you can nip in and out of secret bays, snorkel in the cerulean depths, explore the mystical island of Es Vedrà (reportedly the third most magnetic place on earth), just off Ibiza’s southwest coast, or shoot over to Formentera for the kind of dreamy day trip that lingers in the heart long after you’ve landed back on terra firma.