Exploring Spain: A Complete Guide from Barcelona to Ibiza

07 June 24

Spain offers a tapestry of rich history, culture, food, and beautiful landscapes, making it an irresistible destination for travellers from all over the world.

In this guide, you’ll discover the ease of planning your Barcelona and Ibiza trip, including how to get from Barcelona to Ibiza, attractions to see, Spain tours to help you guide your way and some lesser-known spots to add to your list of must-sees.

We'll explore the magic of both Barcelona and Ibiza, offering insights into what makes each place special and how to travel between them seamlessly.

Let’s dive in!

How to travel from Ibiza to Barcelona

There are two options when travelling from Barcelona to Ibiza: air or by sea.

The quickest way to get from Barcelona to Ibiza is by flying. The Barcelona to Ibiza flight duration is just under an hour, and with several daily options, you can easily hop between the two at a convenient time for you.

If you’d prefer a slower, more scenic route, ferries are a good choice. Baleària and Trasmed provide regular services, with the journey taking around 8-9 hours in total. The ferry ride allows you to enjoy the Mediterranean's beauty, and if you want to bring your car, you can. Some ferries offer night trips, allowing you to sleep in a cabin and wake up refreshed in Ibiza.

Why combine a Barcelona and Ibiza Trip?

If you plan a trip from Barcelona to Ibiza (or the other way around) it means that you get to enjoy the best of both worlds. The city life of Barcelona has its pulls, from the architecture, cuisine, shopping and art scene, whereas Ibiza gives you the Mediterranean's most beautiful beaches, world-renowned nightlife and the unmistakable bohemian island vibe.

The closeness of these two destinations makes travel easy and convenient.

Barcelona: The Heart of Catalonia

Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of Spain's Catalonia region, is known for its art, architecture, and street life.

Must-See Barcelona Attractions:

Sagrada Familia: Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece and an architectural marvel.
Park Güell: A colourful park offering panoramic views of the city, with Gaudí’s unique architectural style.
La Rambla: A lively street perfect for shopping and dining as well as the famous La Boqueria market.
Gothic Quarter: Wander through medieval streets and discover hidden gems. Also home to the Barcelona Cathedral.

Barcelona’s Foodie Scene

Barcelona’s food scene is a mix of traditional Catalan cuisine as well as more modern and innovative culinary experiences. The local spots serving up traditional tapas are incredible, but the city is home to many highly-rated restaurants that you can enjoy.

For a true taste of the city, visit the local markets such as Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, where you can sample fresh produce, cured meats, and local cheeses.

Hidden Gems in Barcelona

Even though there are lots of popular places to see in, it also hides some lesser-known spots waiting to be discovered. Try to locate Paradiso, a speakeasy bar hidden behind a pastrami shop in the El Born district. Ranked No. 1 in the World’s 50 Best Bars 2022, Paradiso offers an unforgettable cocktail experience with its creative drinks, accessible only through a secret refrigerator door.

Another hidden gem is the Bunkers del Carmel, providing panoramic views of the city without the crowds found at more popular sites. If you like art, check out the Palo Alto Market. Set in a former factory, the market showcases local artists, designers, and chefs, offering a unique blend of art, fashion, and gourmet food.

Ibiza: The White Isle

Ibiza, known for its nightlife, beautiful beaches, and bohemian vibe, is a stark contrast to Barcelona’s urban charm.

Beaches and Nature

Cala Comte: Known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning sunsets. This beach is perfect for swimming and has several nearby restaurants where you can enjoy local dishes while watching the sunset.
Benirrás Beach: Famous for its sunset drumming sessions. You can enjoy the island’s true bohemian spirit, barefoot on the beach. It’s a must-do!
Ses Salines: A lively beach lined with bars and restaurants.

Ibiza’s Cultural Highlights

Dalt Vila: Explore the historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its ancient cobbled streets, visit the museums and art galleries, and marvel at the architectural wonders dating back centuries.
Hippy Markets: Visit Las Dalias or Punta Arabi for unique handmade goods. These markets are perfect for picking up souvenirs, including jewellery, clothing, and artwork made by local artisans.

Nightlife in Ibiza

Ibiza’s nightlife is legendary, with iconic clubs like Pacha, Hï, and Amnesia offering nightly events with world-renowned DJs. You can also choose to party and soak up the sun during the day at venues such as Cova Santa, Las Dalias, Nikki Beach and Ushuaïa to name a few.

However, the island does also offer quieter experiences like beachside bars with live music or resident DJs. For a more relaxed evening, visit one of the island’s incredible rooftop bars with a view of the sea.

Spain Tours Covering Barcelona and Ibiza

A trip combining Barcelona and Ibiza allows you to experience the best of both worlds.

Sample Itinerary:

Days 1-3: Explore Barcelona's landmarks, enjoy local cuisine, and soak in the city’s atmosphere. Spend your days visiting the main attractions and your evenings dining at local restaurants or bar-hopping.

Day 4: Travel from Barcelona to Ibiza. Opt for an early flight or a leisurely ferry ride. Consider arriving in Ibiza in the afternoon to settle into your accommodation and enjoy your first evening on the island.

Days 5-7: Unwind on Ibiza’s beautiful beaches, explore Dalt Vila, and experience the island's nightlife. Take a day trip to Formentera, Ibiza’s sister island, with Maldivian-style beaches.

Budgeting Tips

You might have heard that cheap holidays in Ibiza don’t exist, and cities like Barcelona are too expensive. However, this is not necessarily the case. There are certain things you can do to make your holiday more cost-effective.

Accommodation: In Barcelona, consider staying in central yet affordable areas like El Raval or Gracia. In Ibiza, consider looking at Ibiza villa rentals as a group to spread the cost out between you. Booking in advance can help secure the best deals and the property that you want to stay in.

Dining: Take advantage of ‘Menu del Día’ offers for amazing food at great prices. Enjoy beachside picnics or local eateries that won’t break the bank. Look for local bakeries and markets for fresh, affordable food.

Transport: Use public transport in Barcelona and rent a scooter or use buses in Ibiza to explore the island. Public transport is an economical and convenient way to get around, and renting a scooter offers flexibility for exploring Ibiza's hidden gems.

Conclusion

From the architectural wonders of Barcelona to the sun-soaked beaches of Ibiza, this guide covers everything you need for an unforgettable Spanish adventure.