There is nothing much better than an island escape. Luckily, Spain has several beautiful islands to offer its holidaymakers and vacationers. In fact, these Spanish islands make up some of the most popular islands in Europe, with each offering something different to all their visitors. So, if you’re thinking of taking a break, Spain’s islands are waiting for you!
In this article we will cover all of Spain’s gorgeous islands, highlighting just why they are so popular for an island holiday! If you’re stuck in Madrid during its infamously hot summer season, take a moment to check out our guide to pools in Madrid as well as some awesome beaches just a few hours outside of the city.
The Balearic Islands
The Balearic Islands are an archipelago off the eastern coast of Spain. The island group is made up of four major islands – Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca and Formentera – as well as several smaller islands and land clusters. These Spanish islands actually make up their own autonomous region within Spain, with their own unique languages, cultures and flag. Below, we will be covering the four main islands that make up the Islas Baleares.
Mallorca
The island of Mallorca is the largest of the Spanish islands and also the home of the capital city of the Balearic region – Palma. Mallorca, or Majorca as it’s known in Catalan, is home to amazing scenery, crystal blue waters, beautiful reefs and a lively nightlife scene. Many Europeans, like Germans and the English, flock to Mallorca every summer to enjoy a familiar holiday atmosphere. If you’re looking to stay at a resort, meet people from around the world and spend time at the beach, Mallorca is for you!
Ibiza
Join us for the Yeah! Ibiza Festival every spring! Keep an eye on our trips calendar for upcoming dates.
Probably the most world-renowned of all the Spanish islands would be Ibiza. Ibiza is a backpackers’ paradise off the east coast of Spain near Mallorca. Gorgeous beaches and some of the craziest, most luxurious nightclubs in the world are what are waiting for you over there. If you’re into the crazy, wild experience of being surrounded by an international party, Ibiza in summer is perfect. However, if you want to see Ibiza at a slower pace, try to head over during the off-seasons of spring or autumn.
Menorca
Peaceful, quiet, tranquil and beautiful are all words that can easily describe the island of Menorca. The island is the easternmost of the Balearics and home to the largest number of beaches in Spain. Menorca is perfect for those looking for a purely relaxing holiday. Unlike its neighbours, Menorca is underdeveloped and offers seclusion for its visitors. Many people hire boats to visit all of the beaches as well as to tour the many prehistoric monuments that were shaped as far back as 1300 BC.
Formentera
Turquoise waters, white sand beaches and huge yachts are what you will find in beautiful Formentera. This is the smallest of the Spanish islands that form the Balearic region. It’s just south of Ibiza and can be accessed by boat either from mainland Spain or Ibiza itself. Formentera is famous for its nude beaches and calm waters, and is perfect for a typical beach holiday with a very Spanish flair. Most visitors spend all their time on the beaches, participating in water sports and chatting with locals. There are also many beautiful natural monuments to be seen on the island.
