The perfect (non-boozy!) Ibiza weekend itinerary | AD

Honestly, I didn’t imagine I’d ever go to Ibiza.

However, when Jet2 Holidays invited me to experience one of their couples holidays in Ibiza, I seized the opportunity to seek out the unexpected. And – you guessed right – it really paid off. Turns out, I’m just late to the world’s biggest party.

Although July’s superclub lineups are unquestionably epic, I wanted to explore the White Isle without a mind-splitting headache holding me back – especially with just two days in our hands. So, this Ibiza weekend itinerary is more about getting a flavour of the island’s vibe, with a chilled-out feel. Less rushing, more savouring handpicked moments you can’t miss.

So pack your crochet and get ready for whitewashed walls, paella and spritzes on tap because woah….fellow millennials, you finish the rest.

Your Ibiza weekend itinerary starts here.

When you don’t have much time, the first step to a relaxing trip is simplicity.

This was the first time in years I’ve travelled on a package holiday – usually you’ll find me buried in blogs to solo-plan my itineraries – but it was a relief not having to navigate public transport after an early (and super noisy) flight. Better still, I could fly from my closest airport as Jet2 flights from Liverpool Airport kicked off earlier this year!

In peak summer, I knew that flights to Ibiza with Jet2 would be rowdy but I’ll give them kudos; the team were super friendly, greeting us with ‘have a lovely holiday’ at every opportunity – even when their patience was absolutely tested.

We landed and sped through the airport, hopped on our transfer bus and after a 30 minute journey, we’d really arrived.

Now let me tell you, this is the place to stay for a relaxed break in Ibiza.

Located 15 minutes walk from the eastern town of Santa Eulalia, the Nativo Hotel Ibiza is a bohemian dream. We stayed in a huge Boheme Suite, complete with a king-sized bed, freestanding tub, walk-in rainfall shower and balcony.

It has all the aesthetics of your most bougie adults-only venue but kids would love it too, with bucket ‘n’ spades scattered around the sandy reception areas and two stunning, family-friendly pools on ground level. If that’s not your vibe, don’t worry – there’s an adults only rooftop pool with a private bar. We spent most of our hotel time planted on this very rooftop, particularly during Saturday afternoon’s chilled out DJ set.

Read my full review of Nativo Hotel Ibiza here

You can read my full review for more details on the Nativo Hotel but or now, I’ll just say this: there’s a really wide range of hotels in Ibiza with Jet2 Holidays but I reckon we got one of the best.

How to spend two days in Ibiza

Before this trip, I didn’t realise quite how much there is to do in Ibiza. So, if you’re spending a weekend on the island, ready yourself now because you won’t be able to do everything.

However, on a relaxed trip, I’d say there are three things to prioritise: eating, beaching and culture-ing. Ok, I know that last one is dodgy as but hear me out.

If you’re reading this article, I’m gathering that the nightlife isn’t your kind of culture. So instead, let me take you to Ibiza town, or Evissia. Ibiza has a great bus network that’ll get you to Evissia from most of the main towns for around €2, including Santa Eulalia. I really underestimated Ibiza town’s beauty, so prepare to be impressed – especially if you like to shop.

You’ll find all the classic European stores here – Mango, Zara, Berskha and more – all filled with their most Ibiza-esque white stock. However, you’ll also find absolutely tons of independent boutiques stacked with quirky jewellery, feathered dreamcatchers and jewel-toned maxi dresses that’ll have you wanting to give up work, move abroad and spend every day with sand in your toes and salt in your hair.

Actually, that’s just a dream I have most days but we’ll keep that between us.

Don’t have time to read the rest now? Pin it for later!

Once you’ve filled any space in your suitcase, it’s time to check out Dalt Vila. This is Ibiza’s fortified Upper Town which you’ll spot instantly if you’re staying anywhere in the area and it’s well worth a visit. With gorgeous cobbled streets, tiny cafes and even a cathedral with the island’s classic whitewashed interiors (Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de las Nieves), it’s the perfect balance of quaint and modern.

There are three ‘official’ walking routes around Dalt Vila but we chose to just dive in, choose our directions at random and enjoy delightful views over the port when they surprised us around corners.

After a morning in the Old Town, you’ll have undoubtedly worked up an appetite. I’d recommend Barocco for a gelato break or S’Escalinata Ibiza for tapas and bocatas (sandwiches made in a delightful homemade bread).

Now, your afternoon can be spent a number of ways. If you’re up for more shopping, the famous Las Dalias hippy market is a bus ride away. It’s open on Saturdays all year round, with over 250 stalls to browse, plus you’ll find some well-rated restaurants in the area. The venue even has its own club, AKASHA, which has become famous in its own right since opening in 2021.

Otherwise, the island’s beaches are your best port of call for a few hours of sandy siesta. Cala Gracio, Cala Gracioneta and Cala Llonga all come highly recommended but honestly there are so many to choose from. I’d recommend that you do your research beforehand, figure out how far you’re willing to travel and go from there.

We were really tempted by a boat party or heading to catch sunset at Es Vedra, but with a big boat trip coming tomorrow (spoiler alert!), we gave into heat-induced sleepiness. Heading back to the hotel, we alternated between swimming and lounging with our complimentary cocktail at the rooftop pool, before dinner at the magnificent Humo restaurant.

Laura holding cocktail at Nativo Hotel Ibiza

Taking a day trip from Ibiza to Formentera

For the second day in this Ibiza weekend itinerary, we had a big decision to make. With just a weekend in Ibiza, we wanted to explore the island. However, everybody who visits nearby Formentera absolutely raves about its white-sand beaches and we felt twitchy at the possibility of missing out. So, instead of renting a car to uncover Ibiza’s coastline, we gambled and took the ferry to this small island.

You can use these next pictures to decide whether it was worth the risk…

I’ll be honest: Formentera is far from its untouched, hippy roots. While still laid back and quieter than its big sister, packed ferries arrive multiple times per hour and restaurants on the most famous beach of all, Playa de Ses Illetes, capitalise on its remote location to charge hefty sums for food and drink – stock at the supermarket before you go!

However, it’s undoubtedly a joyful playground for the rich with boats are dotted along the entire stretch of completely clear, shallow coastline. If you come prepared for the crowds, it’s still a day from from Ibiza that’s absolutely worth the effort.

The ferry to Formentera should cost you €29.99 one way, then you’ll have to get a bus, taxi or scooter to Ses Illetes, or you could opt for an all-in boat trip that’ll sail you to a couple of locations in Formentera. These are pretty good value, with food and drinks included, so are a great option if you’re travelling in a group or for a special occasion.

With your time in Ibiza nearly done, there’s time to catch one last sunset from the island’s West coast and indulge in some tapas. We rounded off the trip with great tapas and burgers at Tabu in Santa Eulalia, closely followed by another stunning ice cream from L’Alchimista.

Should you spend a weekend in Ibiza?

Honestly, I came away from Ibiza understanding the hype. Despite the sometimes eye-wateringly high prices, Ibiza has a soul about it that draws you in. I can see why people return again and again.

If you want to experience everything Ibiza has to offer, I’d say you need around 7-10 days. However, as a weekend break – whether that’s raving or relaxing – it absolutely still works! Come prepared with what you’d like to prioritise and the fun will follow.

I can’t finish off without a huge thank you to Jet2 Holidays who made this Ibiza weekend itinerary happen! Without them, I’d have been unlikely to experience Ibiza for myself but now, I can say I’ll almost certainly be back for more.

Laura x