Ibiza is more than its world-famous clubbing reputation. In 72 hours, you can balance the island's high-octane nightlife with quiet coves and UNESCO-protected history. To make the most of this 3 day Ibiza itinerary, you will focus on three primary tiers: the ancient fortified streets of Dalt Vila, the sunset shores of San Antonio, and the turquoise waters of Formentera. This guide avoids the tourist traps. You will move from salt flats to secret beach clubs, ensuring you see the authentic Balearic lifestyle without wasting time on logistics.
Day 1: Old Town and Hidden Coves
Your first day focuses on the island's capital, Eivissa (Ibiza Town), and the rugged southern coastline. You will start with history and end with a high-end dinner.
Morning: Dalt Vila and the Marina
Start at the Portal de ses Taules, the main entrance to Dalt Vila. This is the fortified old town. It is a steep walk. Wear sneakers, not sandals.
- Cathedral of Santa Maria de las Nieves: Reach the summit for views over the harbor and the Mediterranean. It opens at 10:00 AM.
- S'Escalinata: Stop here for a coffee or a quick tapas plate. You sit on beanbags on the stone stairs.
- Marina Botafoch: Walk 15 minutes from the old town to the marina. It is the best place to gawk at superyachts.
Afternoon: Ses Salines and Sa Caleta
Grab a rental car or a 15-minute taxi south to the Ses Salines Natural Park. This area defines Ibiza’s landscape.
- Playa de Ses Salines: This is the most famous beach on the island. Walk past the first set of crowds to find quieter spots near the watchtower.
- Experimental Beach: Located at Cap des Falcó. Access this via a long dirt road through the salt flats. It is ideal for a late lunch and a cocktail.
- Sa Caleta: A 10-minute drive away. This small cove is flanked by red cliffs. It also houses the ruins of an 8th-century BC Phoenician settlement.
Evening: Talamanca and Pacha
Dinner in Ibiza Town sets the tone for the night.
- The Fish Shack: Located at the far end of Talamanca beach. It is rustic, no-reservations, and serves the freshest grilled fish on the island.
- Lío Ibiza: If you want cabaret and high-budget production, this is the spot in the Marina. Book weeks in advance.
- Pacha: The only major club within walking distance of the town center. It is an institution. If you are here for the "3 day Ibiza itinerary" experience, you go here on night one.
Day 2: The Rugged West Coast
Day two takes you away from the city toward the dramatic cliffs and sunsets of the west. This is where you find the iconic Ibiza "vibe."
Morning: Santa Gertrudis
Drive inland to the village of Santa Gertrudis. It is the geographic center of the island and feels like a different world.
- Bar Costa: Famous for its Cecina (cured beef) and Manchego sandwiches. It is an essential stop for a cheap, high-quality breakfast.
- Concept Stores: Walk the main square. Visit Es Cucons for curated Mediterranean home goods.
- The Flower Shop: A quick stop for photos of the white-washed church and the surrounding bougainvillea.
Afternoon: Cala Conta and Cala Bassa
Head west toward the coast. These beaches have the clearest water on the island.
- Cala Conta: Parking is difficult after 1:00 PM. Arrive early or use the ferry from San Antonio. The water is shallow and bright blue.
- Sunset Ashram: This is the primary bar at Cala Conta. The views are unmatched, but you need a reservation for a table.
- Cala Bassa Beach Club (CBBC): A more upscale, organized beach experience with sunbeds and DJs. Accessible via a quick water taxi from San Antonio harbor.
Evening: San Antonio Sunset
San Antonio is often dismissed, but the "Sunset Strip" remains a global bucket-list item.
- Hostal La Torre: Skip the central Sunset Strip crowds and go 5 minutes north to Cap Negret. It is quieter, more sophisticated, and has better music.
- Café del Mar: The original. Go here if you want the classic 90s chill-out experience.
- O Beach or Amnesia: For the night, choose between a daytime pool party at O Beach or a 15-minute taxi to Amnesia for a heavy techno lineup.
Day 3: Formentera or the North
For your final day, you have a choice. Most travelers prefer the "Caribbean of the Mediterranean"—Formentera.
Morning: The Ferry to Formentera
Take the Balearia or Trasmapi ferry from the Ibiza Town port. The fast ferry takes 30 minutes.
- Rent a Scooter: This is the only way to see the island efficiently. Rental shops are directly at La Savina port.
- Ses Illetes: Ride north to this thin strip of sand. It is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world.
- Es Pujols: A small village with great cafes if you need to stock up on water and snacks.
Afternoon: Exploring the Faros
Formentera feels slower. Use the afternoon to cruise the long, straight roads between lighthouses.
- Far de la Mola: The highest point on the island. The views are dizzying. There is a small market here on certain days selling local crafts.
- Caló des Mort: A tiny, hidden bay surrounded by boathouses. It requires a short hike to reach, but the swimming is incredible.
- Beso Beach Formentera: A high-energy spot for a late lunch. It is famous for its "No hay verano sin beso" (There is no summer without a kiss) bench.
Evening: San Carlos and Closing
Return to Ibiza on a late afternoon ferry (around 7:00 PM). Finish your trip in the north.
- Las Dalias: Located in San Carlos. If your trip hits a Saturday, this is the famous Hippy Market. On other nights, they host "Akasha," one of the best intimate clubbing experiences on the island.
- Bar Anita: The original hippie hangout in San Carlos. Order the house-made Hierbas (herbal liqueur) on ice.
- Fish Plains: For a final quiet dinner, search for restaurants near Santa Eulària for a more relaxed, local feel before you head to the airport.
Where to stay for this itinerary
For this 3 day Ibiza itinerary, stay in Ibiza Town (Eivissa) or Talamanca. You will be centrally located for the ferry to Formentera, the best restaurants, and the nightlife. You avoid the long transit times associated with staying in the quiet north. If you want a resort feel with sunset views, choose San Antonio Bay.
Add a day if you have time
If you have a fourth day, head to the North. Visit Cala Xarraca for its natural mud baths and the Instagram-famous rope swing. Spend the afternoon in Portinax, which feels like a traditional fishing village. End your day at Benirràs Beach on a Sunday for the ritual drumming ceremony at sunset. This area is more rugged and less developed, showing you the "Green Ibiza" that exists away from the strobe lights.