Having to choose between two different destinations like Spain or Greece is never an easy decision. But when it’s Ibiza vs Mallorca then the decision can often become even harder. These two sun-kissed Spanish Balearic Islands have so much to offer. From glorious sandy beaches and pebbled coves to tanalizing Catalan cuisine and refreshing alcoholic beverages.
While both Ibiza and Mallorca are popular tourist destinations, which one should you visit for your holiday this year? Should it be the well-known party central of Ibiza or the family-friendly holidaying mecca of Mallorca?
We’ve put together the ultimate travel guide comparing accommodation, budget, food and drink, beaches, nightlife, and attractions so that you can choose which holiday you want this year. Whether you’re seeking a boozy vacation with friends or an action-packed family vacation we’ll help you decide.
Ibiza vs Mallorca: Accommodation
Before you even consider which destination you want to go to, you’ll want to consider what type of vacation you are searching for. Different regions have different types and styles of accommodation from traditional Spanish apartments to luxury 5-star hotels complete with swimming pools and easy access to the beach.
Ibiza has a real mix when it comes to accommodation. From resorts that look like super clubs where the party never stops to small, rural homely fincas and beach resorts you won’t want or need to leave. While Ibiza is widely known for its party scene there is a lesser-known side to the island where those seeking the Med’s quiet, rural charms will happily find peace. Situated on the coast of the Island, the quiet beach resort town of Es Cana is definitely a must for those looking to get away from the big party crowds.
Meanwhile, Mallorca offers sun, sand, and sea for days as well as some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful scenery. Accommodation here is just as varied with the most obvious choices being resorts and hotels right on the beachfront. However, those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the slightly more peaceful side of the island may prefer selecting a property, apartment, or house in Mallorca’s rural interior.
Accommodation Winner: Draw. Both places offer some truly unique and exciting accommodation that fits everyone’s style and budget.
Ibiza vs Mallorca: Affordability
Being one of Spain’s biggest draws, it’s no real surprise that these two Balearic islands aren’t exactly the cheapest. Ibiza vs Mallorca can often come down solely to their affordability for most travelers. This is why we’ve done some research to bring you a comparison of the two to help guide you to the slightly cheaper option if you’re on a tight budget.
Ibiza definitely comes out slightly more expensive than Mallorca. The average cost of a 7-day trip to Ibiza for a solo traveler is likely to cost you around $1,870, for a couple’s vacation you’d be looking at spending around $2,700. For a 7-day vacation for a family of four, you’d be looking to spend somewhere around $4,550.
The table below shows the average price per day you would need to budget for food, accommodation, and any sightseeing activities. This doesn’t include flight costs or any additional transportation costs like car hire or taxis. So bear this in mind when choosing where to go. Accommodation costs are likely to be more expensive if you opt for a one or two-bedroom apartment over a hotel.
| Solo Traveler | Couple’s Vacation | Family Vacation | |
| Accommodation | $200.00 | $253.00 | $380.00 |
| Food | $34.00 | $67.00 | $135.00 |
| Sightseeing | $34.00 | $67.00 | $135.00 |
Mallorca is certainly a little easier on the wallet. A 7-day vacation for a solo traveler to Mallorca is around $1,000 and a couples vacation is around $1,400. If you’re a family of four then you’d be looking at around $2,300. These prices are considerably cheaper when comparing them to Ibiza.
Again bear in mind that these figures don’t include flights or any additional transport. Food tends to be a little cheaper too and you can save money by going for all-inclusive package deals or buying food and making dinner or lunch yourself instead of having every meal out. This can be said for Ibiza or Mallorca.
| Solo Traveler | Couple’s Vacation | Family Vacation | |
| Accommodation | $70.00 | $90.00 | $128.00 |
| Food | $24.00 | $48.00 | $97.00 |
| Sightseeing | $24.00 | $48.00 | $97.00 |
Affordability Winner: Mallorca. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly destination then Mallorca is by far your best bet.
Ibiza vs Mallorca: Best Beaches
Ibiza vs Mallorca is one of the hardest comparisons to make when it comes to beaches. Both islands are fantastic on the coastal front. Although Ibiza is known for being a party destination, it’s also known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. So you have plenty to choose from. From the small cove beach of Benirras Beach to Playa d’en Bossa: Ibiza’s longest, there are golden sand beaches for you to get your tan on.
Mallorca is also a popular tourist destination with plenty of beach towns making the variety vast. Among its 50km of white sand beaches are some of the best beaches in Europe. From the sheltered pebble beach of Cala Deià to the island’s famous Es Trenc ‘virgin’ beach. Some of the beaches in Mallorca belong to the resorts and are private, however, there are still plenty of options where you can watch the sunset and gaze out across the ocean.
Beach Winner: Draw. Both offer some truly stunning beaches where you can feel the sand between your toes, get your tan on, and watch the sunset.
Ibiza vs Mallorca: Wildlife
There are plenty of dangerous animals in Spain, however, there are also some incredible ones too.
Ibizan nature is one of its biggest charms. With large areas of Mediterranean pine forests, it’s no wonder that the flora and fauna thrive. From its vast marine life to its smaller invertebrates, you’ll find something worth spotting across the island. You’re bound to find a lizard running across your path, a bird flying overhead, and if you’re lucky you might even spot the elusive dolphins playing out at sea.
Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic islands and when compared to Ibiza means there’s so much more land for its wildlife to thrive. Although Mallorca’s vegetation supports surprisingly few land animals, there are still over 300 endemic species of animals that live on the island. From field mice, rats, and rabbits to civet cats, wild goats, and over 2,000 species of birds.
Wildlife Winer: Ibiza. There are plenty of animals to see here, both in and out of the water.
Ibiza vs Mallorca: Attractions
No matter which of these Balearic islands you visit, whether it be Ibiza or Mallorca, you’ll be spoilt when it comes to attractions and things to do. You can follow up wild nights out with relaxing and therapeutic days before repeating the whole sequence again. With so many options packed into these idyllic islands, it’s often hard to know which offers more.
As a party getaway, Ibiza needs no introduction but it’s not just filled with epic clubs and parties until the sun comes up. If you’re traveling during April or October the Ibiza Spirit Festival is a must. Celebrating all things wellness, spirituality, meditation, yoga, and tantra, you’ll leave feeling more relaxed and in line with yourself than you ever realized was possible.
But if that’s not really your thing then there are plenty of other options there. From immersing yourself in history at the UNESCO site of Dalt Vila to taking a tour of the beautiful whitewashed villages in Ibiza’s rural interior. Walking along many of Ibiza’s beaches or exploring the cathedrals and water parks will always make for a wonderful discovery.
Mallorca, just like Ibiza, delights vacationers with historic towns and charming Spanish villages. From medieval churches and ancient castles to art museums, coastal walks, and some fantastic snorkeling spots. You’ll be able to fill your days with something different, exciting, and interesting. Some of Mallorca’s top attractions include the capital city of Palma de Mallorca, Alcúdia’s Old Town, the incredible Hilltop Town and monastery of Valldemossa, and the adrenaline-pumping Jungle Parc and Aqualand El Arenal.
Mallorca is brimming with fun things to do for any type of traveler. It really lives up to its reputation as an all-rounder with action-packed fun for the adrenaline seekers, and a more relaxed setting for those seeking peace, tranquility, and calmness. After all, vacations are taken to have fun, switch off from the world, and refresh ourselves ready to take on hustle and bustle of our everyday lives.
Attractions Winner: Mallorca. There is just so much to do here and it’s a great all-rounder for any type of traveler.
Ibiza vs Mallorca: Food & Drink
Whether you’re a foodie or not, when you go on vacation you need to try at least one or two of the country’s traditional dishes and cuisine. Ibiza for one is a treasure-trove of delicious traditional Spanish cuisine. From the very traditional seafood paella and tapas to mouthwatering desserts and refreshing beverages. While the seafood paella can be found in seaside towns in Ibiza and Mallorca, there are some dishes that are completely unique to each island.
Here are three of the top dishes in Ibiza you just have to try:
- Sofrit Pagés – A traditional Balearic stew with a mix of meats (lamb, chicken, and Ibizan sausage
- Arròs de Matança or Arroz de Matanzas – This is a very traditional Ibizan dish made up of rice, any type of local meat, saffron, and mushroom. Each family has their own special version of this dish
- Greixonera – A traditional Ibizan dessert akin to bread pudding, made from leftover pastry or bread.
Mallorca’s gastronomy is similar to that of Ibiza, however, it comes with a twist of spice. It takes its influences from Mediterranean cuisine, north african cuisine, and from Catalan kitchens. You’ll notice that some of the dishes you find in Mallorca, such as seafood paella or tapas, can also be found in Ibiza. But what makes Mallorca different is the choice of traditional Mallorcan dishes that you aren’t going to find anywhere else.
From fascinating spiral pastry called Ensaïmada to a simple Trempo salad. You’re taste buds will come alive with the mix of flavors spices and delights it will be treated to on a daily basis.
Here are three very traditional Mallorcan dishes you’re taste buds will crave:
- Sopas Mallorquinas – One of the most traditional Mallorcan dishes you can find. It’s a soup that includes slices of local bread, onion, garlic, tomatoes, cabbage and beans. You may even find pork, beef, or Paprika will be in there too and you might also find pork or beef included in this dish
- Botifarron – A fried blood sausage made with pork blood, pepper, and a mix of herbs and spice.
- Tumbet – A mix of fried aubergines, potatoes, red peppers, tomatoes, olive oil, and garlic are combined to make a dish similar to ratatouille.
Food Winner: Draw. Each has delicious traditional dishes you have to try.
Ibiza vs Mallorca: Best Nightlife
The second someone mentions Ibiza, you’re met with thoughts of parties, raves, and people dancing till the sun comes up. It will come as no surprise that those looking for a place for their hen do, stag do, or boozing holiday would choose Ibiza. It’s known the world over for its vibrant, eclectic, and simply outstanding nightlife. From clubbing resorts to boat parties, you’ll be able to enjoy a night of non-stop fun.
DJs from around the world will come and play at some of Ibiza best clubs. Parties here start early with the Sunset Strip in San Antonio lined with clubs blaring music from 6pm. Head down to Eden and the Ocean Beach Club for tanalizing pool parties and be warned that the nightlife scene in Ibiza is serious stuff, it’s definitely not a casual scene like you might expect.
Mallorca is a popular tourist destination for many reasons and their nightlife is one worth checking out. From lively bars and nightclubs to easy going cocktail bars and chilled out restaurants. In every village across Mallorca you’ll find somewhere to enjoy a refreshing beverage.
Palma de Mallorca is a city busting with life and one of the most well-known for its party scene. From the upstairs/downstairs Brooklyn Club to the legendary A-Lister club of Tito, you’ll find everything you could need to keep the party going through the night, before spending your days lounging on the beach just to repeat the whole thing again the following night with a brand new club.
Nightlife Winner: Ibiza. It’s known as being the nightlife capital with tons of parties, clubs, raves, and dancing venues. Nothing is quite like it.
