Ibiza Town
Not until the 15th century did Ibiza (also known as Eivissa in Catalan) become part of the Spanish kingdom. Before that, the Arabs had held sway on the island for a time, but also the Greeks could be found on the island some centuries before Christ. The Spanish established trade in fish, oil, salt and ceramics. This enabled the population to grow and Ibiza town became steadily more important as a result. Only in the seventies was the island discovered by tourists and did the island, as well as the capital, undergo rapid change.
Hippies
The hippies came to dance, sing and smoke weed. These people knew how to find each other here. Ibiza had a free culture, was spiritual, and a place that drew many artists. This group of people still frequents the island, but as we know it has become known by a much larger section of people and has grown into the party capital of Europe, and maybe even the world.
Dalt Villa
Enter Dalt Villa on foot, walk through the narrow, winding streets and see how the real Ibizans live to this day. Old women and men sit in front of their doors, just sitting and talking, as can only be done in Spain. Walk through the largest entrance in the city walls and follow the steep incline. You will pass nice bars such as S'es Calinata or trendy restaurants like Kyupiddo. But also, typically good (but not cheap!) restaurants such as La Oliva, between the high walls with the cosy candle light (does that not sound romantic?) are worth a visit. Dalt Villa is a special part of Ibiza town that you must definitely go and see.
Shopping and the harbor
But the city has more to offer. Even outside of the old part of town, there are nice areas to be discovered. Shoppers can rejoice, as there are many shops to be found. You can also visit Marina Botafoc, the harbor of the town. Here you will find nice restaurants, but also trendy clubs like Lio, and a little further along, Cipriani. After that, you can club until the small hours in the Pacha, one of the oldest clubs on the island.
Houses surrounding Ibiza Town
The most beautiful holiday homes are not found close to the city. They are located a little further away, some 5-10 minutes’ drive from the town. Think of Casa Rana Real, or La Casita and Can Ramon Palau with beautiful views over the old town. Playa den Bossa, which has many bars and discos, has virtually no houses. You can also find places in Sant Jordi, a short drive away.