Top islands near Barcelona for a Mediterranean escape
Are you ready to swap city streets for sea views?
Are you looking to trade in Barcelona’s buzz for some beachside Mediterranean bliss? Then set your course for the iconic Balearic Islands, easily reached by ferry thanks to year-round connections and bursting with just about everything you could ask for!
From golden sands and laid-back island vibes, to stunning nature trails and endless nights dancing under the stars, you will find it all and more at just one ferry ride away. Check out the list of the best islands near Barcelona and plan your city escape!
Mallorca
The largest of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca is one of the most popular islands near Barcelona, and for good reason. First off, getting to Mallorca is a breeze, as the Barcelona-Alcúdia ferry zip over in about 3.5 hours, while the crossings from Barcelona to Palma take 7 hours (usually overnight).
Once there, you’ll quickly discover that Mallorca has it all: golden beaches, mountain villages, a lively nightlife and more. Mallorca’s beaches are easily accessible and cover all bases, from family-friendly havens and peaceful coves to trendy spots with beach bars and water sports.
Urban explorers will also find plenty to see and do in Palma de Mallorca and Alcúdia, from strolling through their impressive historic quarters, to discovering their lively restaurant and bar scenes. And if you are looking to expand your city getaway, keep in mind that Mallorca is also an excellent starting point for island-hopping in the Balearics.
Mallorca is only a few hours away from Barcelona
Menorca
If you’re after an island escape that’s more low-key but just as beautiful, Menorca is your best bet. With its UNESCO-protected biosphere, turquoise bays, and ancient Talayotic sites, this island is all about slow travel and natural beauty.
Simply put, Menorca is an ideal destination, whether you are a laid-back explorer, traveling with family, or a couple looking for peace without skimping on scenery. And when you’re ready to cool down by the sea, the beaches in Menorca are unreal.
As for ferry options, you can travel from Barcelona to Ciutadella in as little as 3.5 hours, while Barcelona-Mahón crossings take about 7 to 9 hours, depending on the company and season.
Good to know: if you’re debating whether you should visit Mallorca or Menorca, our comparison guide breaks it down to help you decide.
Menorca has some of the best beaches in the Balearic Islands
Ibiza
Although mostly known for its world-class club scene, there’s more to Ibiza than meets the eye. Take Ibiza’s beaches, for example, such as Las Salinas, Cala Llonga or Sol d’en Serra, which offer crystal-clear waters and stunning coastal views far removed from the party crowds.
Head further inland, and you’ll be rewarded with traditional villages, yoga retreats, and pine-covered hills that are a world away from the island’s more hedonistic side. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that people are torn choosing between Ibiza and Mallorca.
Traveling from Barcelona to Ibiza by sea is fairly straightforward, with daily ferry crossings taking about 8 hours. The ferry route operates year-round, allowing you to discover the joy of visiting the Balearics in the off-season.
Good to know: if you would like to discover the Balearics, check out of guide to island hopping from Ibiza to plan your adventure.
Sunset at Cala D'Hor is one of the best times to discover Ibiza's natural beauty
Formentera
No airport, no stress! Formentera might be the smallest of the Balearic Islands, but in many ways it is arguably also the most breathtaking. With dreamy beaches, peaceful villages and a relaxed atmosphere, Formentera is as quintessentially Mediterranean as you can get.
If you are after endless stretches of white sand, calm turquoise waters, and a blissfully chill vibe, you will not be disappointed. Our guide to Formentera’s finest beaches is a great place to start planning your beach escape.
You can only reach this unplugged slice of Balearic heaven by the sea, directly on the Barcelona-Formentera ferry, in about 10 hours. Alternatively, you can also reach Formentera from Ibiza Town in about 30 minutes, while the Palma-Formentera crossings usually take 3.5 hours.
Tip: while mostly known for its impressive beaches, Formentera also has some of the best hiking trails in the Balearic Islands.
Barcelona - Formentera from €34.50
Find your slice of beach paradise at Migjorn in Formentera
Smaller islands near Barcelona
If you are already soaking up the sunshine in Mallorca, but want something a little more private, you won’t want to miss Cabrera and Dragonera, two slices of Balearic beauty that fly under the radar.
The islet of Cabrera is a protected national park just off Mallorca’s southern coast and is a haven for snorkelers and hikers alike. You’ll find quiet trails, a lighthouse with views for days, and even a sea cave glowing electric blue.
To the west of Mallorca and just a quick hop from Sant Elm, you will find the rugged and windswept island of Sa Dragonera. As with all islands in the Balearics, there’s a fair share of amazing beaches, but this one stands out for its dramatic cliffs and lizard-spotting hikes.
If you're curious about these off-the-grid options, we break them down in our guide to lesser-known Balearic Islands.
Head off the beaten path in the Balearics and you will be rewarded
Book your ferry tickets online
From the golden beaches of Mallorca and the epic nightlife of Ibiza, to the slow living in Menorca and the barefoot bliss in Formentera, the Balearic Islands are closer than you think.
Ready to leave Barcelona’s hustle and bustle behind? Check out our Map of ferries to plan your sun-drenched Balearic Island escape and book ferry tickets on Ferryhopper hassle-free!
