Dalt Vila

Ibiza maintains its culture and its origins. Thus, they have passed through the island Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines and Arabs, who left a great mark on the place such as names and customs, which can still be seen in the traditional folklore. Currently, you can not see the traces of all the peoples who passed through the city of Ibiza, but we can say that Ibiza town has been built on a real museum as underground there are many buildings belonging to other times. Especially in the city center can be these historical sites be found.

If there is something should visit in Ibiza town this is Dalt Vila. It is the old part of the capital. It can be spotted on top of a hill, magnificently looking above the entire island. It is surrounded by stunning high Renaissance walls. The old town of Ibiza it is known as "Dalt Vila" (the high town) as opposed to the rest of Ibiza town, known simply as Vila. The importance of Dalt Vila is such that the walls were declared World Heritage by UNESCO in 1999. There are up to a total of five gateways to access Dalt Vila but we recommend visitors to enter through the main and most beautiful one known as "Portal de ses Taules" right next to the "Mercat Vell" or Old Market. Once past this door you will find yourself at the Patio de Armas, where the first hippie market was set on the island. Passed this courtyard tourists will find the beautiful Plaza de Vila with small shops and restaurants. From here you can choose different routes to explore Dalt Vila. Do not follow a fixed direction, just lose yourself inside the narrow streets to discover Ibiza’s city centre secret corners and special places. 

All itineraries will eventually lead you to the top of the city where the Cathedral is: the highest point of Dalt Vila. From where you can see great views not only of Ibiza but also of its little sister Formentera. We also recommend you get to Santa Llúcia, overlooking the entire city; and the City Hall, where you will see a small creek below a cliff. Although Dalt Vila is a historic and picturesque area, the absence of a large number of shops, terraces and restaurants induces visitors to go to Vara de Rey and Plaza del Parque. These places are located in the heart of the city of Ibiza. They are lively spots throughout the year, especially during the summer, and are surrounded by a large number of shops, bars and terraces to drink or eat.

Vara de Rey is a walk of about 250 meters with bars, restaurants and terraces alongside it. At certain times of year, you can find different markets and fairs (craft markets, books, food ...). At one end of the square there’s a tourist information office in case you need any guidance on routes and maps of Ibiza city centre. This area is also perfect for shopping throughout the year. In addition to mainstream stores, you will also find original boutiques to shop at an affordable price. Do not miss the exclusive boutique of Charo Ruiz, the most international Ibizan designer who has dressed many celebrities around the world. Her designs are out of this world!

On the other hand, we emphasize the Square Park, situated between Vara de Rey and the walls of Dalt Vila. It's a small place but well known for its lively and charming atmosphere, especially at dusk when the sun sets over the mediterranean sea. At the end of Avenida Bartolomé Roselló, we arrive to the port of Ibiza. Between the sea and the ancient city of Dalt Vila we find the old fishing district, known as La Marina. If you walk along the harbour you will get to see superyachts, luxury boat rental offices and magnificent sailing boats. We recommend you rent one for at least a day: Ibiza is better discovered by boat! Luxurious boat charters are available in our offices in case you want to spend a sailing day around the island. The port of Ibiza is also where you catch the ferry to Formentera. The district of La Marina, where fishermen traditionally lived in Ibiza City, maintains buildings of centuries ago and is the place where to find exclusive souvenirs at the hippie market. From May to October, there are countless shops and open boutiques, restaurants, bars, etc. Possibly, the area of Ibiza town is the preferred place chosen by famous clubs such as Pachá Ibiza to make their gogo parades! You will spot all sorts of different people here that won’t leave you indifferent. 

Calle de Barcelona and Carrer d'Enmig also have of interesting venues to have a drink or a bite. If you want to explore the gay quarter then Call de la Virgen is the place to be. This narrow street has a fun environment and it’s always packed with people enjoying Ibiza’s nightlife and gastronomic offers. The marina might be a bit more empty once summer season is passed, but in fact this tranquil and calm atmosphere is best enjoyed during the months of October until May. Streets breathe tranquility and Ibiza’s charm is recuperated during colder days. We also recommend the neighbourhood of Sa Penya, between La Marina and Dalt Vila. This neighborhood has also retained a traditional architecture, just like La Marina, although it does not contain bars or touristy places. Another interesting area to visit in Ibiza Town is El Soto situated just behind the Cathedral and from where the entire coastline of Playa D'en Bossa to Ses Salines can be seen with Formentera on background. Follow the walkway along El Soto and you will end up in Ses Figueretes, a large city beach.