Top things to do in Formentera

The island of Formentera is the smallest in the Balearic group. It is a perfect destination for easy-going holidays, beautiful beaches, hippie vibes, family moments, cultural exploration, as well as outdoor activities.

In this article you can find everything you need to know about Formentera:

1. What to do in Formentera
   • Best beaches in Formentera
   • Markets in Formentera
   • Formentera for families
   • Top sights in Formentera
   • Outdoor activities in Formentera
   • Food in Formentera
2. How to get to Formentera
3. Book ferry tickets to Formentera

Windsurfing at the idyllic beach of Ses Illetes in Formentera

What to do in Formentera?

Formentera is an ideal holiday destination for travelers who are after a relaxing vacation, combined with majestic beaches, important cultural sights and lively nightlife. The island may not be as prestigious as the neighboring Ibiza, but it is a special destination, where you can enjoy top accommodation facilities, swim in crystal waters, try water sports, visit artisanal markets, and dance!

Located close to the Spanish mainland, the island welcomes many visitors, particularly during the summer months. Most travelers choose to stay in the following towns and seaside resorts:

• La Savina
• Es Pujols
• Sant Ferran
• Sant Francesc
• Es Arenals
• Es Caló
• Es Migjorn
• El Pilar de la Mola
• Cala Saona

Wooden fisher cabin on the rocky coast of Es Caló

What are the best beaches in Formentera?

Formentera has sandy and rocky beaches with crystal-clear waters. The island’s beaches radiate a refreshing and calming vibe and are great for water activities, such as diving, snorkeling, underwater photography, and windsurfing. You can also find party beaches to dance and enjoy cocktails and chupitos.

Here are 10 great beaches in Formentera:

1. Ses Illetes
2. Levante
3. Cala Saona
4. Es Pujols
5. Es Migjorn
6. Es Arenals
7. Caló des Mort
8. De S’alga
9. Ses Platgetes
10. Cala es Ram

Tip: the beaches of Ses Illetes, Es Migjorn and Es Arenals are popular with visitors looking for clothing-optional spots. When in Es Migjorn, search for the beach spot “10.5”.

Amazing blue and green waters at the Cala Saona beach

Which markets to visit in Formentera?

Formentera has a long history with open-air craft markets since the ‘60s. You can find local products, handmade clothes, jewelry, and many artisanal items. Explore the market stalls and begin your journey into the hippie world of the Balearic Islands.

Here are the best markets in Formentera: 

• Sant Ferran craft market
• La Mola craft market
• Antoni Tur Gabrielet craft center
• La Savina market
• San Francisco market
• Es Pujols market

Normally, most markets are open from mid-May to October.

Is Formentera good for families?

Formentera is a great holiday destination for families with kids. You can find luxury accommodations to unwind in a safe, family-friendly environment. Most of the island’s beaches are sandy and have visitor facilities. The laid-back character of the island means there are many outdoor activities to try in nature.

Here are some suggestions for family activities in Formentera:

• Cycling around the island
• Scuba diving in La Savina
• Horse riding on the beach
• Dining at Michelin Guide restaurants
• Visiting the Cap de Barbaria
• Swimming at the quiet beach of Es Migjorn

Bicycle at a beautiful beach in Formentera

What are the top sights in Formentera?

The island’s history goes back to 2000 BCE and it has a rich tradition. Apart from interesting markets and beautiful beaches, Formentera is home to several historical sites worth exploring.

We suggest you visit the following sites in Formentera: 

• Far de la Mola (lighthouse)
• El Molí Vell de la Mola (wheat mill)
• Torre des Garroveret (watchtower)
• Cap de Barbaria lighthouse and cave
• Camí de Sa Pujada (Roman pathway)
• Ca na Costa (Bronze Age burial ground)
• Torre de Punta Prima (watchtower)
• L'Ermita de Sa Tanca Vella (historic chapel)

The impressive La Mola lighthouse

What are the best outdoor activities in Formentera?

A true paradise for outdoor activities, Formentera is the place to be for nature lovers! The inviting waters of the island are ideal for underwater exploration and the unspoiled nature is truly magnificent. The island is full of natural wonders, from secret coves to impressive caves, and you can explore the landscape by bicycle or horseback.

These are our top 6 outdoor activities in Formentera:

1. Visit the Ses Salines Natural Park.
2. Explore the cave of d’Estrips.
3. Dive in La Savina.
4. Sail to the hidden coves of the islet of S'Espalmador.
5. Hike in the Cap de Barbaria area.
6. Have a boat party around the island.

Tip: if you're feeling adventurous, grab your swimming suit and discover the best water sports to try in Formentera. 

The glorious cliffs and tower of Cap de Barbaria

What to eat in Formentera?

The cuisine of Formentera reflects the traditional way of life still practiced on the island. Many locals work in fishing and agriculture; this means you can find fresh local products in most of the island’s restaurants and taperías. Seafood, herbs and delicious wines dominate the local gastronomical scene, but there’s definitely something for everyone.

Here’s what you have to try in Formentera:

• peix sec (dried fish)
• frit de polp (fried octopus)
• calamars a la bruta (calamari cooked in its ink)
• flaó (mint-flavored cheesecake)
• xereques (dried figs)
• greixonera (cinnamon pudding)
• ensalada pagesa (salad with tomatoes, potatoes and dried fish)
• botifarró (cured pork sausage)
• vi pagès (red farmers’ wine)
• hierbas (aniseed-flavored liqueur)

“Peix sec”, the delicious dried fish of Formentera

How to get to Formentera?

The only way to reach the island of Formentera is by sea, as there is no airport on the island. There are frequent ferry routes from Barcelona and Dénia, as well as from Mallorca and Ibiza.

Here are more details about direct ferry routes to Formentera:

• Ferry from Barcelona to Formentera: normally, there are up to 7 weekly crossings from the port of Barcelona to Formentera. The route is operated by Baleària and the duration of the trip is approximately 10 hours. Standard tickets start at around €63.
• Ferry from Dénia to Formentera: ferries from Dénia to Formentera travel at least once a day with Baleària. Crossings take around 2 to 4.5 hours and tickets start at €71. There’s also an indirect ferry route from the nearby port of Valencia stopping at Ibiza.
• Ferry from Ibiza to Formentera: the ferry trip from Ibiza to Formentera is the fastest way to get to the island. There are at least 35 daily crossings, serviced by Baleària, Formentera Lines, Aquabus, and Trasmapi. Tickets start at €15.
• Ferry from Mallorca to Formentera: there is at least 1 daily crossing from Mallorca to Formentera. The trip duration is approximately 3.5 hours and tickets for the Baleària route start at around €103.

Good to know: occasionally, there is a ferry route from the port of Gandía to Formentera. Have a look at our complete guide on how to get to Formentera.

Ferry en route to Formentera from Ibiza

Book ferry tickets to Formentera online

On Ferryhopper, you can book ferry tickets to Formentera very easily. Find all available crossings, compare ferry companies and prepare for your adventure in the Balearic Islands!