Living in Ibiza 2025 >> The Magical Island

Our City Living Guide series covers the practical and emotional journey of moving to a Spanish town or city. With the observations of an Expat this combination helps you feel what it’s like to live there and — crucially — gives you confidence in making your ‘moving to Spain’ decision.

More than a Club Scene

“L’illa blanca et captura l’ànima i mai te la torna completament
(“The white island captures your soul and never completely gives it back“)

ibizan saying

Ibiza, the third-largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands after Mallorca and Menorca, has captivated visitors for centuries with its unique blend of pristine beaches, bohemian spirit, and, of course, legendary nightlife and club scene.

Light of Ibiza

Ibiza’s distinctive natural light, characterized by its extraordinary clarity and brilliance, has long attracted artists. The stunning phenomenon is created by sunlight reflecting off the sea and chalky soil, enhanced by the island’s clear skies and low humidity. The result is a magical glow, making whites appear more brilliant and blues more intense.

Community Spirit: Integration and Belonging

Ibiza’s welcoming atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging for residents and Expats alike. And the true heartbeat of Ibiza extends far beyond its renowned nightlife, residing in its unique social fabric that blends local traditions with international influences. During winter months, when tourism quietens down, the true social fabric reveals itself.

The island’s international community is vibrant and diverse, comprising people from all over the world who contribute to its multicultural fabric. The Ibicenco people are renowned for their hospitality, which has fostered a culture of mutual respect between locals and newcomers.

Nevena explains: “The sense of community among locals is super nice — everyone seems to know someone who can help with whatever you need. The mix of cultures makes it easy to feel at home, no matter where you’re from.

“People are open-minded, and there’s a real sense of freedom to just be yourself,”

Social Life

In line with Ibiza’s inclusivity, its social life offers something for everyone. From pulsating nightlife in Ibiza Town to tranquil, family-friendly neighborhoods like Santa Eulalia, you can tailor your lifestyle to your preferences.

Social life follows the island’s seasons. Winter (November-March) offers a more authentic experience when locals ‘reclaim’ their island. Summer brings a frenetic energy with international visitors and events.

Expat Community

Ibiza’s exceptional quality of life attracts Expats from all over. Unlike some destinations where foreigners remain isolated, Ibiza’s international residents are very much part of island life. Many businesses and social circles are inherently multinational.

The most successful Expats in Ibiza tend to be those who embrace the island’s dualities – respecting both its tranquil natural beauty and its vibrant social scene, its traditional rural values, and its progressive creative communities.

“Respect the locals and the island. Ibiza isn’t just a tourist destination; it’s home to people who’ve lived here for generations,” advises Nevena.

“Appreciating the culture, traditions, and the way of life is key to settling in and being welcomed.”

Settling Down: Housing and Neighborhoods

Creating a home in Ibiza offers a wide range of options, regardless of your budget or the type of area you are seeking. While the island is small enough to be traversed in under an hour, each area has its own distinct character and attracts different types of residents.

In rural areas like Santa Gertrudis or San Juan, you’ll find tight-knit village atmospheres where neighbors know each other and participate in local festivals and traditions. In contrast, areas like Ibiza Town and Santa Eulalia have more cosmopolitan communities with international influences.

Housing Advice

When settling in Ibiza, consider:

• Whether you need year-round amenities or prefer seasonal variation
• Transportation needs
  Public transport is limited outside the main towns
• Budget
  Prices vary dramatically between areas

Also important is the type of social community you’re seeking – some areas have strong Expat networks while others offer more local experiences.

Housing Challenges

The balance between the tourism economy fuelling the island’s economy and its year-round community has reached a critical point. Tourism-focused development and the conversion of long-term rentals into vacation properties have created tension in the real estate market. Without a tourist licence, owners cannot rent property for less than a month. However, many do without a licence (often through Airbnb), and this is one of the biggest causes of the housing issue.

Additionally, property prices have surged by 150% over a decade, making them unaffordable for many locals and essential workers. Many Ibicencos are forced to consider multi-generational housing or relocate to other areas.

Ibiza’s government, the  Consell de Ibiza, has introduced initiatives to address the problem, including ‘stressed housing zones’ with rent increase limits, a freeze on new tourist rental licenses, and stiff penalties for illegal rentals. The Alquiler Seguro program offers subsidized rentals at rates 30% below market prices, encouraging landlords to prioritize long-term residents.

According to Nevena: “The government is working hard to improve the situation, but there’s still a long way to go. It’s a complex issue that impacts the local community.”

Buying Property

As a result, Ibiza’s property market remains one of Spain’s most resilient and exclusive, with prices continuing to defy national trends. Premium properties in prime locations can command €10,000 to € 15,000 per square meter.

Foreign buyers are common, with Germans, British, Dutch, and, increasingly, Americans among the buyers.

Renting in Ibiza

In line with the advice we provide at Moving to Spain, many new residents rent for their first year to experience different areas before committing to buying. This is especially wise given Ibiza’s ‘dual personality’ between summer and winter months.

The rental market is thriving due to high demand for tourism, with properties offering private pools and sea views being particularly desirable. However, stricter regulations on tourist licenses have increased the value of properties already equipped with permits.

Rental costs vary hugely depending on the time of year. Many Expats live on the islands as ‘winter residents’, renting apartments for six out-of-season months. The apartments they rent can more than triple in cost during the summer months.

Typical Long-Term Rental Costs in Ibiza – Apartments (€/month)

Area	Area Type	1 Bedroom	2 Bedrooms	3 Bedrooms
Ibiza Town (Eivissa)	Urban	1,500 – 3,000	2,500 – 5,000	3,000 – 6,000
Santa Eulalia	Suburban	1,800 – 5,000	2,400 – 6,000	3,900 – 7,000
San Antonio	Urban	1,200 – 2,500	1,800 – 3,000	2,500 – 4,000
San José (Sant Josep)	Suburban	1,800 – 3,500	2,800 – 5,500	4,000 – 6,500
Es Canar	Coastal	1,200 – 2,200	1,500 – 2,500	2,000 – 3,500
Santa Gertrudis	Rural	1,800 – 3,500	3,000 – 6,000	4,500 – 7,000
San Juan	Rural	1,400 – 2,500	2,000 – 3,500	2,500 – 4,500

Note: Prices typically include community fees but do not include utilities.

Typical Long-Term Rental Costs in Ibiza – Houses (€/month)

Area	Area Type	2 Bedrooms	3 Bedrooms	4 Bedrooms
Ibiza Town (Eivissa)	Urban	2,500 – 4,500	4,000 – 6,000	5,000 – 8,000
Santa Eulalia	Suburban	3,500 – 5,000	3,500 – 6,500	5,000 – 10,000
San Antonio	Urban	1,800 – 3,500	2,000 – 5,000	4,000 – 6,500
San José (Sant Josep)	Suburban	2,500 – 5,000	4,000 – 6,500	5,500 – 8,000
Es Canar	Coastal	1,400 – 2,500	2,000 – 3,500	3,000 – 5,000
Santa Gertrudis	Rural	2,800 – 5,500	4,500 – 7,000	6,000 – 9,000
San Juan	Rural	2,200 – 4,000	3,500 – 5,500	4,500 – 7,000

These figures are approximate and may vary based on property condition, location, amenities, and market trends.

Selected Ibiza Areas at a Glance

Area	Resident Profile	Characteristics
Ibiza Town (Eivissa)	Young professionals, cosmopolitan internationals, Expats, LGBTQ+ community, creative types	The capital city is known for its urban lifestyle and historic charm, vibrant nightlife and cultural scene; a mix of historic buildings and luxury developments, excellent restaurants and shopping, limited parking, and seasonal tourist influx
Santa Eulalia	Families, retirees, year-round residents, service industry professionals, and  international residents	Family-friendly; balanced pace between tourism and local life; excellent schools; strong Expat community; good medical facilities; wide beaches and marina; year-round amenities; relatively consistent population throughout seasons
San Antonio	Young professionals, budget-conscious Expats, British seasonal workers, young adults, first-time buyers	Affordable entry to Ibiza; beautiful beaches, excellent water sports, and stunning sunset views; stark contrast between tourist center and peaceful outskirts; affordable housing, good transport links; famous nightlife; clear seasonal differentiation with quiet winters
San José (Sant Josep)	Wealthy internationals, privacy-seeking celebrities, nature enthusiasts, long-term Expats, and traditional Ibizan families	Quiet villages surrounded by natural beauty and access to Ibiza’s best beaches; exclusive villa developments and secluded living; slower pace of life with excellent restaurants and shops; limited public transport; strong seasonal population variation
Es Canar	Bohemian artists, Expats, seasonal workers, semi-retired couples, and value-focused buyers	Friendly resort evolving into residential community with boho vibe; Beautiful beaches and water sports; lower property costs; famous hippie market; modest amenities; limited winter activities
Santa Gertrudis	Families, artists, and luxury tourists	Central location, charming inland village, strong community spirit; boutique shops, art galleries, and top international schools; blend of traditional and modern housing; good accessibility to all parts of the island
San Juan	Traditional farmers, wellness practitioners, off-grid enthusiasts, and privacy seekers	Most authentic traditional rustic northern area with a laid-back vibe; scenic countryside, restored fincas, limited tourism development, and tight-knit communities

The Essential Considerations

Employment Opportunities

Ibiza’s economy is overwhelmingly dominated by tourism. The sector is the backbone of employment, accounting for 80% of the island’s GDP. This creates a distinctive employment landscape with pronounced seasonal patterns.

Ibiza’s unemployment rate is 5.4%, significantly lower than the national average of 11.8%. Unemployment has steadily declined by 6.6% year-on-year as of early 2025, thanks to strong job creation in tourism, construction, and services, bolstered by a longer tourist season and diversification efforts.

Unemployment Rate: Ibiza v National Average

High Season (April-October):

Tourism boosts opportunities in hospitality, nightlife, and services. Wages rise due to longer hours and high demand, and there is intense competition for premium roles at luxury venues. Workers often log long hours, up to 70-80 hours per week, to maximize annual earnings.

Low Season (November-March):

Employment opportunities drop dramatically (up to 70%) as businesses close. Work shifts to construction and seasonal preparation. Only core services and some tourism persist. Many seasonal workers leave the island or rely on saved summer earnings.

The Tourist Sector

1. Tourism Services

Services such as excursions, water sports instruction, and yacht services provide thousands of seasonal positions. Retail operations from boutique shops to markets employ significant numbers, while property management and villa services have grown substantially with the increase in luxury tourism.

2. Nightlife and Entertainment

Ibiza’s famous clubs provide jobs like door security, VIP hosts, bar staff, and production teams. Event management companies operate on a large scale in summer. PR teams promote venues and events, often with commission-based roles.

3. Yacht and Maritime Industry

Crew positions on private and charter vessels offer well-paid opportunities for certified and experienced individuals. Water sports instruction, like diving and paddleboarding, offers seasonal roles for qualified instructors. Boat rental and excursion companies hire captains, hosts, and admin staff. Year-round work in the sector for skilled workers includes marina services and maintenance.

Other Key Employment Sectors

Construction and Property Services

Winter sees active building and renovations as tourism slows, allowing property updates. Landscape maintenance is steady year-round. Property management and interior design services have grown to handle high-value real estate.

Digital and Remote Work

Ibiza’s improved digital infrastructure has boosted this sector, enabling professionals to enjoy a digital nomad lifestyle. Services include marketing, creative services,  IT, and software development.

Growth Areas and Opportunities

Wellness tourism is expanding with a corresponding increase in demand for yoga instructors, nutritionists, and trainers. Other areas include eco-tourism, green hospitality, and personalized luxury experiences.

Expat Opportunities

For Expats considering employment in Ibiza, success typically requires either specialized skills in high demand, entrepreneurial initiative, or willingness to start in entry-level positions while building local connections. Network development is paramount as many premium opportunities are filled through personal recommendations rather than public listings.

Daily Routine and Work-Life Balance

The most notable aspect of Ibizan life is the seasonal difference. In summer, residents often work 6-7 days a week. Service workers may start at 9.00am and finish after midnight, leading to ‘summer amnesia’ where personal time disappears.

In winter, the island slows down. Many businesses cut hours or close, allowing residents to enjoy beaches and restaurants again. This season promotes better work-life balance with shorter days, more time off, and a focus on community and personal projects.

For Nevena, the work-life balance strikes the right ratio:

“Work can be fast-paced — especially if you’re in real estate, tourism or events sectors — but it’s also the kind of place where you can take a swim in the middle of your workday and not feel guilty.”

One peculiarity is “island time” – a more relaxed approach to punctuality than mainland Spain, particularly in rural areas. Appointments often happen 15-30 minutes later than scheduled, with locals joking about hora ibicenca (Ibizan time).

Bureaucracy and Paperwork

Spanish bureaucracy in Ibiza adds island-specific challenges to an already complex national system. While following mainland procedures, Ibiza’s administrative offices are overwhelmed during summer months.

Many processes require trips to Palma de Mallorca, adding costs and delays. The language situation complicates matters further, with documents requiring Catalan with verbal communication happening in Spanish or English. Navigating the system often requires patience or legal assistance (recommended) to ensure compliance.

Transportation and Getting Around

Ibiza’s transport system faces challenges, as infrastructure for 150,000 winter residents must support over 500,000 summer visitors. The limited road network causes congestion, especially in peak season. Rural areas, particularly in the north, have limited public transport options.

For residents, maintaining private transportation is essential, especially those living outside main towns or working irregular hours. Many businesses provide staff transport during the summer to address these limitations.

Public Bus Network

IbizaBus operates the island’s public transport system, with 15 routes connecting major towns and beaches. Service fluctuates seasonally – summer sees buses every 15-30 minutes on main routes, while winter schedules reduce to hourly service or less. Some northern villages receive only 2-3 daily buses. However, Fares remain affordable at €1.55-4.00 per journey, with resident discounts available through the Tarjeta Intermodal card.

Taxis and Ride Services

Ibiza’s taxi system operates under municipal licensing that restricts pickups to the taxi’s registered area. This fragmentation causes substantial wait times during peak season, sometimes exceeding an hour. Fares are government-regulated but expensive — expect €15-25 for brief 10-minute journeys. Pre-booked private drivers offer alternatives for planned journeys.

Recently, Uber started operating, notably transforming the island’s transportation. Users can book official taxis through Uber in Ibiza Town, enhancing accessibility and convenience without increasing the number of vehicles. This makes it easier to secure rides, especially during peak tourist season, although reliability varies, and local alternatives like TaxiClick remain popular.

Car Rental

Car rental is popular due to limited public transport coverage. Summer rates can be three times higher than winter prices, and advance booking is essential during peak months.

Ferries and Water Transportation

Ferries connect Ibiza Town, San Antonio, Santa Eulalia, and Formentera (every 30 minutes in summer), alongside routes to Mallorca and mainland Spain. Water taxis offer scenic transport to beaches and coves during the summer months.

Cycling and Scooters

Cycling infrastructure is improving, but remains limited to certain areas. Hilly terrain and hot summers make commuting challenging, though electric bike rentals are growing popular. Scooter rentals provide flexibility for navigating congested areas and managing limited parking spaces.

Ibiza Airport (IBZ)

Ibiza Airport is exceptionally well-connected to the rest of Europe, particularly the UK. During the peak summer season, Ibiza is connected to 16 UK airports, including major hubs such as London Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, and Manchester. Airlines such as British Airways, Ryanair, easyJet, and Jet2 operate frequent flights, with some routes offering multiple daily departures.

Connections to the US are via transit through European hubs such as Madrid, London, or Paris. One-stopover flights are available year-round, with options to cities like New York, Miami, and Boston. These journeys typically take 9–11 hours, excluding layovers.

Efforts are underway to establish direct routes between Ibiza and the USA, driven by increasing demand from American tourists.

If you’re looking for a quick escape to Spain or other nearby European countries, Nevena stresses that Ibiza is “very well-connected.”

“You’re only ever a short boat or plane trip away from the stunning nature of the surrounding islands or beautiful Spanish mainland cities.”

Shopping and Amenities

The island’s retail landscape undergoes seasonal transformations. Summer features extended hours (10am-10pm), while winter sees many businesses close, especially in tourist areas like San Antonio.

Year-round residents stock up during mainland trips, as selection narrows in winter and prices remain high due to shipping costs and limited competition. Expats must adapt by embracing local markets for fresh produce, remaining flexible with unavailable brands, and understanding which amenities are available year-round.

Main Shopping Areas

Ibiza Town is the island’s main shopping hub, featuring luxury boutiques at Marina Botafoch and independent shops in La Marina.

The walled old town (Dalt Vila) features artisan shops selling handcrafted jewellery, clothing, and souvenirs.

Santa Eulalia offers a well-rounded shopping experience, complemented by tourist attractions and local stores. Its pedestrianized main street features fashion retailers, home goods stores, and services.

San Antonio’s West End caters primarily to tourists with souvenir shops and casual fashion, while the outskirts feature more practical amenities, including one of the island’s largest supermarkets.

Markets

Ibiza’s famous hippy markets — Las Dalias (Saturdays year-round) and Punta Arabí (Wednesdays May–October) — are must-visits for unique finds. Craft markets in Sant Jordi and Santa Gertrudis showcase local artisans creating handmade jewelry, ceramics, and textiles inspired by the island’s natural beauty.

Nevena loves the “hippy markets.” “They are pretty special, especially the Sant Jordi market on Saturdays. It’s not just about shopping. Locals and travelers get together and exchange stories and goods. And, of course, there’s a dancing for anyone who feels like it!”

Shopping Centers

La Sirena & Art shopping centers, with over 25 outlets across Ibiza Town, Playa d’en Bossa, and San Antonio, specialize in casual clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and beach essentials.

Ibiza Gallery — a €15m luxury shopping center is scheduled to open in summer 2025. Located in Playa d’en Bossa, it offers a unique blend of high-end fashion, exquisite dining, and contemporary art.

Ibiza’s Cost of Living

Ibiza’s cost of living is significantly higher than that of the Spanish mainland, but generally lower than in the UK. Rent here is about 25% lower, and transportation and entertainment costs are also more affordable. However, groceries are 17% pricier than in the UK.

For US expats, living in Ibiza is more affordable than in major cities like New York or Los Angeles, especially for housing and healthcare, although imported goods and dining can be expensive due to the island’s remote location.

Use our Spain cost of living calculator to see the differences and plan your budget.

Typical Living Costs in Ibiza

Item	Typical Monthly Cost (€)
Cost of Living: Single person (including rent)	2,000-3,500
Without Rent	1,000-1,700
Utilities (Electricity, Heating,  Water and Waste) Standard Apartment	180-250
High-Speed Internet (50 Mbps)	35-60
Meal for One: Inexpensive restaurant	15-20
Dinner (three-course) for Two: Mid-range restaurant	70-100
Groceries: Single Person	200-350
Gym Membership	40-75
Cinema Tickets	8-10
Taxi (5km ride)	10-15

Costs as of April 2025
Note: Costs can vary significantly depending on the season, location, and individual consumption

Education and Family Living in Ibiza

Ibiza’s education system caters to both local and international families, offering a range of options that include public schools and prestigious private institutions.

Public Schools

Public schools in Ibiza follow the Spanish national curriculum, with Catalan taught as the co-official language of the Balearic Islands alongside Spanish. These schools emphasize language proficiency and general knowledge development. Public education is free, making it a popular choice for local families. However, non-Catalan speakers may require additional support to adapt.

• CEIP Sa Bodega (Ibiza Town)
  Known for good academic standards and facilities
• IES Santa Maria (Ibiza Town)
  One of the better-regarded public secondary schools
• IES Sa Blanca Dona
  Well-established secondary school with good extracurricular programs
• IES Quartó de Portmany (Sant Antoni)
  Solid academic reputation in the western part of the island

Private and International Schools

Private schools offer alternatives to the public system, often with smaller class sizes and additional resources. International school fees range from €5,000-12,000 annually, placing them below equivalent UK private schools and far below comparable US private education.

• Morna International College (MIC) (Santa Gertrudis)
  Offers the British curriculum from Early Years to A-Levels. Emphasizes small class sizes, academic excellence, and holistic education
• Lycée Français International d’Ibiza (San Jordi)
  Follows the French curriculum with multilingual instruction in French, Catalan, and English
• Colegio Mestral (Ibiza Town)
  A bilingual school offering the Spanish curriculum with a strong focus on technology, robotics, and multilingualism

Higher Education

Ibiza does not have a major university campus of its own. Many students from Ibiza typically relocate to mainland Spain for higher education, but there are options on the island:

• The University of the Balearic Islands (UIB)
  Its Ibiza campus offers degrees in nursing, business administration, early education, law, and tourism
• Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED)
  Its center in Ibiza offers distance learning programs for various degrees
• Escuela de Turismo de Ibiza
  Specializes in tourism and hospitality management

Vocational Training

Ibiza also offers several vocational training centers. These focus on tourism and hospitality, culinary arts, marine industries, and creative arts and music production, reflecting the island’s status as a global music destination.

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Health and Wellness

Ibiza boasts a well-developed healthcare system, offering both public and private options, which ensures high-quality medical services for residents and visitors alike.

Public Healthcare

Spain’s public healthcare system, the Sistema Nacional de Salud, extends to Ibiza and is generally available free or at low cost to all residents who contribute to the Spanish social security system or hold a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Prescription medications are generally less expensive than in the UK and the US.

The primary public hospital in Ibiza is Hospital Can Misses, located in Ibiza Town. It serves Ibiza and Formentera, providing emergency care, surgery, pediatrics, maternity services, radiotherapy, and intensive care.

Waiting times for non-urgent treatments can be long, and Catalan is often the primary language of communication. If necessary, patients are referred off-island for complex treatment.

Private Healthcare

The private sector offers faster access, shorter waiting lists, and, often, the reassurance of English-speaking professionals. Many Expats choose to supplement with, or entirely rely on private healthcare.

Policlínica Nuestra Señora del Rosario in Ibiza Town is the leading private hospital. It offers 40+ specialties, including neurosurgery, orthopedics, and aesthetic surgery. With 70 rooms and a 24/7 emergency department, its multilingual staff serves international patients seeking quick access to specialists and personalized care. Private clinics also offer house visits and tailored services.

Private health insurance ranges from €60-150 monthly, substantially below US rates and comparable to UK private coverage.

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A Growing Reputation for Wellness and Mental Health

Ibiza is renowned for wellness and holistic health. Mental health and rehabilitation services are expanding through private clinics, offering detox, burnout recovery, and therapy programmes for residents and international visitors.

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Living Like a Local in Ibiza

Living in Ibiza offers two worlds: serene winters and tourist-filled summers.

Year-round residents enjoy the Mediterranean charm, community, and natural beauty, embracing a slower pace of life and the island’s “mañana“ attitude.

“We have visited many islands in Europe and Asia. Each had its charm, but none felt more than a vacation. Here, you meet like-minded people who work hard, enjoy long lunches, and have time for friends and family,” comments Nevena.

A Taste of Life: Food, Festivals, and Traditions

Ibiza offers a rich culture that extends far beyond its beaches and nightlife. Its festivals, dances, and gastronomy provide a unique glimpse into its heritage, blending ancient customs with modern celebrations.

Culinary traditions shine with dishes like sofrit pagès, a hearty stew, flaó, a mint-flavored cheesecake, and bullit de peix (fish stew) paired with salsa aioli. Seasonal food festivals — such as the World Matanzas Rice Championship in February — highlight local ingredients and community spirit.

The island’s traditional local festivals include Festes de la Terra in August, which celebrate Ibiza’s patron saints with parades, fireworks, and concerts. The Festival of Our Lady of Carmen on July 16 honors sailors with maritime processions and beach celebrations.

Leisure and Recreation

While Ibiza is famous for its party scene, Nevena knows it is easy to live completely independently of it. “Nature, hikes, outdoor sports, family-friendly activities, markets… there’s so much more to the island than nightlife. Whether you’re into yoga, padel, sailing, or just finding hidden beaches to disconnect, there’s a version of Ibiza for everyone.”

The Mediterranean’s clear waters invite sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and diving among vibrant ecosystems. Cliff jumping at Cala Tarida attracts thrill-seekers, while hiking trails through pine forests and dramatic coastlines showcase Ibiza’s natural beauty. Beach volleyball courts and year-round tennis clubs cater to sports enthusiasts. For golfers, there is the island’s single golf club, Golf Ibiza, which features an 18-hole and 9-hole course. Water sports centers offer jet skiing, wakeboarding, and parasailing in summer.

Cycling is popular, with pro teams training on the varied terrain in winter, and horse-riding ranches provide sunset beach rides for a unique experience.

Indoor activities include gyms, yoga studios that embrace the island’s wellness culture, escape rooms, and cinemas showing English-language films. Unique venues like Cap Blanc Aquarium in Sant Antoni and biotech botanical park, BIBO PARK combine education with entertainment. Families can enjoy waterparks, including Aguamar in Playa d’en Bossa.

Arts and Entertainment

The island has long been a magnet for creatives, dating back to the 1960s bohemian movement that established its free-spirited identity.

The contemporary art scene thrives through galleries like Parra & Romero and La Nave Salinas, which showcase international artists within dramatic spaces. The Ibiza Museum of Contemporary Art (MACE) in Dalt Vila showcases modern works alongside ancient Punic ruins.

The island’s heritage museums, including the Archaeological Museum in Dalt Vila, preserve Phoenician, Roman, and Moorish artifacts that tell Ibiza’s past.

The performing arts are equally dynamic, with exclusive dinner shows featuring aerial acts, fire performances, and rituals hosted by Ibiza Visual & Performing Artists.

Cinematic arts find expression through the Ibiza International Film Festival, while street art adorns walls in San Antonio and Ibiza Town.

Festivals like the Ibiza Jazz Festival and Bloop Festival celebrate music and urban art in iconic settings like Dalt Vila, and the Ibiza Light Festival transforms the streets into immersive installations.

Ibiza also integrates art into everyday spaces, with bars, restaurants, and markets doubling as exhibition venues. Nevena explains: “I love the live gigs in the middle of the day. Sometimes, it feels like you’ve just walked into someone’s backyard, surrounded by strangers of all generations, but with the same plan: enjoy the great band and its music, cold drinks, and dancing in the sun at 1:00 pm — just because you can.”

Learning and Speaking Spanish

While Spanish is the official language (with Catalan as a co-language), English is widely spoken throughout, especially in service industries and Expat communities. However, Spanish proficiency is essential for most local employment opportunities and integration into daily life.

When it comes to learning the language, Nevena’s advice is: “Learn a bit of Spanish (or Catalan), it makes a huge difference in connecting with the locals. We are actively learning,” she explains.

Balancing Expectations

Overcoming challenges

Living in Ibiza involves striking a balance between expectations and the distinct challenges of island life.

It’s essential to accept the island’s dual nature. Seasonal changes affect daily experiences: the island bustles in summer yet quietens down in winter. Adjusting to Ibiza’s relaxed lifestyle, embracing local customs, engaging with both Expat and local communities, and learning Spanish or Catalan can open doors closed to tourists.

“Be prepared for the housing market. Start looking early; the best time is after the holiday season. And don’t be afraid to ask around — the word-of-mouth channel is gold,” advises Nevena. “Come to Ibiza on an extended visit before committing to living here. Living here is different from vacationing here,” she adds.

Unexpected Pleasures of Living in Ibiza

Nevena has been struck by the light, the sunsets, the mix of people, and Ibiza’s history.

Watching the Es Vedrà sunset is something she will never tire of: “It feels like stepping into a postcard, but also deeply magical, like the rock is alive. Everyone who has experienced knows exactly what I mean — you simply have to be there.”

“And being able to swim in stunning water in the morning and enjoy world-class dining in the evening” is an unexpected, delightful Ibiza pleasure.”

Is Living in Ibiza Right for You?

Despite its challenges, Ibiza remains a haven for those seeking a balanced lifestyle that combines productivity with tranquility.

And there’s no getting away from the fact that the island’s Mediterranean climate, stunning natural beauty, and relaxed pace of life provide an escape from the stresses of urban living.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re here for a week, a year or a lifetime — Ibiza simply makes you feel like you belong. I wholeheartedly think it’s beautiful.”

Ibiza is a small island, but endlessly surprising. Many say you either click with it instantly or not at all — there’s no in-between.

“That’s true,” concludes Nevena.

Frequently Asked Questions