Balearic Islands: a wonderful holiday in the Mediterranean

The Balearic Islands (also known as the Balears) is an archipelago located in the Mediterranean Sea. Its geographical location brings a beautiful Mediterranean climate and wonderful natural scenery, which attracts millions of tourists every year.

If you too are considering a holiday in the Balearic Islands, read the most basic information to get to know them better.

Island of Menorca: Port of Es Castell

Map: Where are the Balearic Islands? 

You will find the Balearic Islands near the east coast of Spain. Specifically, they are located southwest of mainland Spain and northeast of the African coast.

Map of the Balearic Islands: Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera

The distance between the Balearic Islands and Barcelona is approx. 200 km as the crow flies, thanks to which you can reach the islands in a few hours by boat or one of the ferries from the mainland. In addition to the boat, you can also get here by plane (flying here from Barcelona: Vueling): each of the three largest islands has its own airport, and you can fly from Barcelona to Mallorca, Menorca or Ibiza in about an hour. 

Would you like to go from Barcelona to Mallorca or Ibiza by ferry? 

There are daily sailings to the Balearic Islands ferries from Barcelona from several companies. The most famous Balearia, you may come across Trasmed or Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV). Round trip ticket prices from Barcelona to the Balearic Islands start from around €30. You can only travel light or board with a car.

Search for a ferry and find out the prices >>>

How many islands are there in the Balearic Islands?

Although most people only know the 4 main islands, in total, the Balearic Islands have 151 islands and islets. It should be noted that, apart from the main ones, most of them are not inhabited. Cabrera, Dragonera, Espalmador or Es Vedrà are among the smaller, better-known islands. You can go on a trip to them with a rented boat or be taken there as part of a trip. 

Island of Menorca: Cala Macarella beach in a picturesque bay with clear water

What are the 4 largest Balearic Islands?

The Balearic archipelago consists of several main islands, with the four largest and most famous being Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera:

• Mallorca (Majorca): The largest of the Balearic Islands, known for its beautiful beaches, historical monuments and colorful nightlife. This is a great choice if you are looking for a combination of historical monuments, beach relaxation, good services and transport accessibility, beautiful nature and tourism. 
• Ibiza (Eivissa): The island of Ibiza is the number one destination for anyone looking for vibrant nightlife, music, dancing and endless parties. It is probably not surprising that Ibiza is mainly visited by younger tourists who want to have fun. Cala Comte is considered the most beautiful beach here, and the most iconic club has been the Pacha club with its iconic cherry logo for decades. 
• Menorca (Minorca): Compared to Ibiza and Mallorca, Menorca offers a calmer atmosphere, beautiful beaches and several nice historical monuments. The famous white sandy beach Cala Macarella offers a gradual entry into the water. If you prefer a more active holiday, go out into the picturesque nature on one of the hiking tours around the island...
• Formentera: If you prefer peace, rest, well-being and relaxation as a tourist, go to Formentera. It is the smallest of the most famous Balearic Islands, where you will find clear waters and beautiful beaches. 

Es Vedrà, one of the smaller Balearic islands

Who owns the Balearic Islands?  

Although the Balearic Islands are an autonomous community, administratively belongs to Spain since 1978. 

The Balearic Islands have their own government, parliament and therefore laws, but at the highest level they fall under the Kingdom of Spain. 

The Balearic Islands offer beautiful beaches and rich nature suitable for hiking

Practical information

• Weather: The islands have a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures hover around 30°C, offering sunny and dry weather, ideal for beach activities. In the winter months, the temperature drops to a still pleasant 10-15 °C. 
• Currency: Payment is made here in euros. I recommend having some cash for the local shops and markets, but in many places you can pay by card without any problems. 
• Language: Although Spanish is the official language, you can communicate well in English in the tourist areas. A lot of people talk here too Catalan. 
• Time: The Balearic Islands are in the Central European Time (CET, i.e. UTC+1) time zone; the time here is the same as in the Czech Republic. Winter and summer time alternate here. 
• Population: permanent residence in the Balearic Islands has 1 people