Ibiza Town in Winter (Eivissa)
Life goes on in Ibiza town throughout the winter months. As the capital of the island, with a population of over 30.000, there is a great deal going on in Ibiza which has nothing to do with the Summer tourism.
First of all one is struck by the genuine Spanish flair to the town, much more than you see in summer; this a chance to see some real locals in the cafés, bars and shops of Ibiza. Take a stroll around the new town, near to theAvenida España, with its large indoor market. Cheap clothes, great value Tapas and real Spanish food, and a wonderful feeling of belonging, of being part of Spanish life.
Shopping
Although almost all the shops and bars right down to the end of the Port are shut, there are many, many shops still open in the lanes just below the city walls and in the Carrer del Mar, running parallel to the harbour. Designer fashion from Diesel, Mango and Levis (at cheaper than summer prices); all sorts of shoe shops, such as Angels and Buffalo (great value); jewellery stores; souvenir shops selling trinkets and knick-knack; even the famous Croissant Show at the foot of the main gates to Dalt Vila is open.
Take a look at our Dalt Vila shopping guide, some of these small shops are open for business in the winter months so it is worth taking a wander upto the old walled town, whilst our Ibiza Town shopping guide can give you a flavour of what you may find in the port area.
The first Christmas decorations are on show, and the Vara de Rey becomes a Christmas Market over the festive season (06.12 – 05.01), (with Gluehwein and all! from 12.00).
And do remember to pay a visit to the wonderfully empty Dalt Vila and the Cathedral.
For those of you used to the summer months of parties, sunbathing and going out, Ibiza in winter will be quite different – (before you shake your head, make sure you read our off-season clubbing special – at the weekend even in winter you can be sure to find some great parties!).
However, if you ask any residents which is their favourite time of year, you will almost always hear ‘winter of course!’ It is a slower, more tranquilo vibe. A time for admiring the architecture and the scenery. A wonderful time to appreciate the clarity of the air, the vibrant colours and the mild climate. A very important time of year for the island and her inhabitants to rejuvenate and recover. After all, without the winter there would be no summer season.
Sightseeing & Exploring in and around Ibiza Town
Dalt Vila
A few hours spent in Ibiza Town exploring the Old Town, Dalt Vila is a must for everybody visiting Ibiza. Simply the sight of the Medieval fortress rising over the horizon as you drive into the town of Ibiza is enough to bring out the romantic in everyone. You can really feel the history as you walk the ancient cobbled stone paths of the ancient fortress.
Remember to bring good sturdy shoes for the walk to the top of the Castle and of course your camera.
The Marina
Focal point of the rich and famous ‘Wet-Set’. Be amazed at the beautiful ships on display, and enjoy a coffee and a snack in some of the many bars and cafés there (our tip: Café Sidney). There is a lovely walk from the harbour right along to Marina Bota Foch (and even further onto Talamanca for the intrepid). Maybe one day one of those ships will be yours…. (we can all dream!)
Out on the Town
See our section on off-season clubbing for some tips on where to go out in Ibiza Town adn around the island. Remember there are many of us residents who stay on the island all year, so there is always a good party to be found!
Out and About
For those who have hired a car, this time of the year is ideal to get out and about exploring the island. To help you on your way take a look at our 4 ‘self drive’ island routes – do them all or choose the one for the area you’re staying in – we’re sure they’ll introduce to another side of Ibiza. They’re printer friendly too – so you can take them with you when you travel.