“Ibiza” – the name alone evokes images of strobe lights, DJ sets and nights that blur into mornings. But step off the party path and a different island unfolds – one of quiet coves, sun-warmed rocks, and waters clearer than any club’s intentions.
15 euros for a bottle of water? No thanks – I’ll take the ocean instead. No lines, no dress codes, no overpriced entries.
If you’re not here to party, but you’re interested in a more sober-like magic, you’re in good company. Here’s how to spend four-five days in Ibiza, unplugged, unbothered, and fully immersed in the beauty of this Mediterranean gem.
Before we begin, there are two important things to know:
- Ibizia is small, but it doesn’t move like it. If you want to really feel the island, you’ll need a car.
- Have a loose plan. Not an itinerary, but a sense of direction. Because things on the island aren’t really as close as they look. What feels like a quick skip from one side to the other often turns into 40mins of winding roads. So group places by region.
Day One: Land, Sink, Float
Depending on when you arrive (and from where), the first day calls for something gentle. When you’re ready, head toward Cala d’Hort or Cala Tarida. If you’ve landed a bit earlier in the day, you might also drive a bit further south to wander near the calm coves of Cala Vadella.
This spot, tucked away on the southwest coast, offers one of the best views of Es Vedrà, the mystical island that rises dramatically from the sea.
The red shore is quite rocky, so its not the most barefoot-friendly (something to keep in mind if you’re hoping to lounge in the sun). Also, because of the wat it sits beautifully nestled against the cliffs, it loses sunlight earlier than some of the more open beaches. Still, it’s a powerful place to begin.
There’s also a small cafe nearby where you can grab a drink and if you wander a bit past the cafe, you’ll find a little stone-frame window built into the cliff. Providing a perfect lookout over the beach.
Day Two: Stone Portals & Sunscapes
The beauty of this island isn’t only in its beaches. A visit to Dalt Vila, Ibiza’s old town of Ibiza offers a different kind of experience. If you’re driving (and I hope you are), it’s best to park down below near the boulevard – from here it’s about a 10-15min walk.
The small streets are uneven and often steep, so comfortable shoes are a great idea.
This part of town is best enjoyed slowly, without too much of a plan. Let yourself wander, take in the stone walls, enjoy an Aperol or a late lunch with a spectacular view at one of the many restaurants that are dotted around the castle. And if you’re visiting in the warmer months, check to see if the open-air cinema is running. Watching a film beneath the stars, with Ibiza’s ancient stone walls towering behind the screen is something special. (Cinema Paradiso)
Es Vedrà Viewpoint
If you’re up for a short stroll with a big reward, this viewpoint is worth the detour. Here, you can park nearby and follow a dusty path that leads you to a cliff’s edge overlooking the legendary rock formation. It’s one of those quiet places that leaves you pausing. If you’ve skipped lunch in Old Town, this is a perfect spot to pull out a picnic.
Time and Space (Ibiza’s Stonehenge)
Not far from the viewpoint, tucked a few minutes’ drive away, is another curiosity: Time and Space by Australian artist Andrew Rogers in 2014. The piece was commissioned by Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberte. The columns were arranged to represent the solar system, with the tallest pillar capped at 23-karat gold symbolizing the sun.
If you park near Cala Codolar, you’ll be a short walk from this Stonehenge-style installation, as well as the mysterious Doors to Nowhere. Both are striking art pieces set against the wild coastal backdrop and since they’re only minutes apart, it’s a great idea to explore them together.
Standing alone in the landscape, these sculptural wooden doors face the sea, Es Vedrà, and Rogers’ pillars. While they’re not officially part of the Time and Space installation, these freestanding doors have become an iconic spot on their own. A great place for photos, or quiet reflection.
Day Three: Markets, Music, and Secret Coves
Start your morning slowly with a drive to the north of the island. It’s a bit less polished than the south, but humming nonetheless. If it’s a Saturday, head toward the Las Dalias Hippy Market. Quite truthfully, if there’s only one market you have time for, let it be this one. Why?
Las Dalias Hippy Markey is where you want to go if you’re into design, craftsmanship, and pieces that feel like one-of-a-kind. I purchased my favorite kimono here. The artisanry here is truly special and it really feels like the makers put their hands and heart into what they’re selling.
Punta Arabí on the other hand, is the island’s oldest and largest hippy market – which is why it’s made it to the top of so many tourists’ lists. Here you’ll find a lot of stalls repeating mass-produced pieces, often imported, and very little variation. It’s big, but unless you’re really just in it for a walk and a snack, it’s one you wouldn’t miss to skip.
For both locations, parking can get tight, so it’s best to arrive early.
Optional bite: grab lunch on-site at Las Dalias (a cute, green restaurant located inside the market space). It’s recommended to make a reservation in advance, especially on Saturdays. Price is expensive, but quality is well-worth it.
Pair this experience with a dip at Cala Nova (just a short drive away) or drive 20-25min to SLUIZ (a fun, quirky spot where you can find unexpected and oddball treasures. It’s part concept store, part art installation, and part eccentric cafe.
Day Four: Drums & Dips
If it’s a Sunday, start slow, then head north to the spiritual side of Ibiza: Benirràs Beach.
From the afternoon into the evening, this cove becomes its own little ritual on Sundays, so it deserves its own space and time. People gather, music rises, and the drums echo toward the sun. It’s its whole vibe and it’s also another great spot for a picnic. Bring something to sip on, something to snack on, and settle in to stay through the golden hour.
It’s the perfect place for an energy shift.
Optional add-on: Depending on where you stay, you could stop at a viewpoint, a local cafe, or check out a small town like San Miguel for a wander and something cold.
Day Five: Atlantis & Sunset Ashram
Set out early for the Atlantis hike (Sa Pedrera), one of the island’s most magical, hidden gems.
But be warned: this hike isn’t well marked. GPS will get you there well enough, but once you’ve parked the car, find the clearest way down and start there. The descent is steep and rocky terrain and in the heat it can be sweltering, but if you’re up for it, the payoff is unmatched. Bring solid shoes and water (there’s nowhere to buy any nearby). Park near Cala d’Hort.
Late afternoon / early evening:
Head back up and drive to Sunset Ashram for some DJ sets and cocktails. (The restaurant itself it extremely pricey, and nothing too special, so I’d recommend coming only for the sun and the experience.)
