Formentera travel guide: Top 7 sights and insider tips for your vacation!
- Julian
- Jun 30
- 6 min read
Formentera, Ibiza's little sister, is for me the true insider tip in the Mediterranean – a place where you can leave the hectic pace of everyday life behind and immerse yourself in a world of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and untouched nature.
Here you'll not only find idyllic bays and spectacular views, but also the feeling of experiencing the "true" charm of the Balearic Islands. If, like me, you dream of remote, authentic destinations, then Formentera is sure to appeal to you! In this article, I'll take you on a journey to the 7 places you absolutely must see during your visit to this beautiful island.
Don't have time to read? Here's a quick overview of the most important information:
What makes Formentera special?
Formentera is known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and untouched nature—ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. The island is known as the "Little Caribbean" because its beaches are so similar to those of the Caribbean.
How do I get to Formentera?
The island is only accessible by ferry from Ibiza, with a crossing taking about 30 minutes.
What is the ideal time to travel to Formentera?
The best time to travel is from May to October – with mild spring, warm summer and relaxed autumn.
How do I get around Formentera?
It's best to go by bike, scooter or rental car – the island is small and easy to explore.
How many days should I plan for Formentera?
3 to 5 days are perfect to experience the island and its most beautiful places in peace.
Which places should I definitely visit on Formentera?
The beaches of Playa de Ses Illetes and Cala Saona, the lighthouses Far de la Mola and Far de Barbaria and the salt lakes of Ses Salines.
Where can I find the best accommodation on Formentera?
Accommodation near Playa de Migjorn or Playa de Ses Illetes offers an ideal location for beach and island excursions.
General information about Formentera:
Formentera is the smallest of the four inhabited Balearic Islands and is located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Ibiza. Known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, the island is perfect for a quiet, relaxing holiday. With an area of only about 83 square kilometers, it's one of the smaller islands, but that doesn't make it any less exciting. The flora and fauna here are still untouched, making Formentera a true natural paradise.
Best time to travel:
The best time to visit Formentera is from May to October. In spring and autumn, temperatures are pleasantly mild and tourism is less intense, making the island perfect for a quiet holiday. Summer, on the other hand, brings warm, clear waters and is ideal for beach vacationers, but also attracts more visitors.
If you want to experience the island in peace and quiet, the months of May - June and September to October are ideal.
Getting to Formentera:
Formentera has no airport and is only accessible by ferry. The crossing is from Ibiza , where you land by plane. Major companies like Balearia and Trasmapi will take you to La Savina, the island's main port, in about 30–45 minutes . The crossing costs between 15 and 30 euros per trip.
Getting around the island:
On Formentera, simplicity is key! The best options are bicycles or scooters , which you can rent from many locations. If you prefer a more comfortable stay, you can rent a car —although cars are limited during peak season to protect the environment. Hiking is also an option for shorter distances.
How many days are enough for Formentera?
Three to five days are ideal for a relaxing stay on Formentera. This gives you enough time to discover the island's most beautiful beaches and towns while enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty. If you just want to relax on the beach, you can of course plan your stay longer.
Location of the accommodation:
Formentera offers a variety of accommodation options, from small hotels to luxurious resorts and charming fincas. The most popular accommodations are near the beaches of Ses Illetes and Migjorn, as they provide an ideal base for exploring the island. Those seeking a quieter and more secluded setting will find cozy accommodations near Es Caló de Sant Agustí or the Ses Salines Natural Park.
The 7 most beautiful places on Formentera:
Ses Illetes Beach:
This stunning beach is an absolute highlight on Formentera. The fine white sand, crystal-clear water, and breathtaking scenery make Playa de Ses Illetes one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Here you can relax, swim, or simply enjoy the view of the sea—the perfect place to spend a day! This water looks so fake!
Cala Saona:
Cala Saona is a small, secluded cove that immediately captivated me. Surrounded by steep cliffs, you'll find crystal-clear waters and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxing or snorkeling. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the touristy beaches, this is the perfect place.
Far de le Mola
The Far de la Mola lighthouse on the cliff is not only a landmark of the island but also a fantastic spot to enjoy the sunrise. The views over the sea and the surrounding cliffs are spectacular, making this a must-see, especially for photographers.
Far de Barbaria:
In the south of Formentera lies the iconic Far de Barbaria lighthouse. The sunset is particularly magical, bathing the sky in beautiful colors. Here, you'll feel like you're standing at the end of the world, surrounded by the island's untouched nature.
Ses Salines:
The salt flats of Ses Salines are a true paradise for photographers. The shimmering water, which glows in pink and gold tones at sunset, makes this place particularly photogenic. Here you can enjoy nature in peace and take in the beauty of the landscape.
Sant Francesc de Formentera
Sant Francesc, the capital of Formentera, captivates with charming alleys, whitewashed houses, and the pretty church of Sant Francesc Xavier. Around the central square, you'll find cozy cafés, boutiques, and a colorful market offering regional products and handmade souvenirs in the summer.
Migjorn Beach:
Playa de Migjorn is Formentera's longest beach, stretching for almost 6 kilometers. The beach offers plenty of space to enjoy the day, and the turquoise waters are perfect for swimming. Here you'll find a relaxed atmosphere and numerous beach bars inviting you to enjoy a cocktail.
Three insider tips for Formentera – Discover the island’s hidden highlights
Calo des Mort – The hidden dream beach:
Formentera is known for its stunning beaches, but Calo des Mort is a true gem away from the crowds. This tiny, secluded cove is located near Playa de Migjorn and offers a spectacular backdrop of crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs. The access is a bit steep, but worth the effort! Be sure to bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities here—just pure relaxation.
Magical sunset at Far de Barbaria:
The Far de Barbaria , Formentera's southernmost lighthouse, is a magical place, especially at sunset. The view over the endless expanse of the sea, the dramatic cliffs, and the golden rays of the sun are incomparable. An insider tip: Walk a few meters away from the hustle and bustle to find a quiet spot and stay until after sunset to enjoy the starry sky in total darkness.
Authentic handicraft market in La Mola:
Every Wednesday and Sunday, La Mola hosts a handicraft market that immerses you in the island's creative spirit. Local artists and artisans sell handmade jewelry, clothing, leather goods, and unique works of art. Alongside the stalls, there's often live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Tip: Come in the evening to enjoy the sunset over the hills of La Mola and round off the day with a glass of wine.
By the way : Follow me on my social media channels to get exclusive insights into my travels! On Instagram (@juliantravelstheworld), I'll take you to the most beautiful places in the world, share insider tips, inform you about local prices, and show you my accommodations. I'll link everything for you so you're perfectly prepared. Let's discover the most beautiful places in our world together.
Conclusion:
Formentera absolutely enchanted me with its natural beauty, stunning beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. This small Balearic island is the perfect place to escape everyday life and unwind.
Whether you're strolling through charming Sant Francesc, admiring the sunset at Far de Barbaria, or relaxing on one of the stunning beaches, Formentera manages to make you feel like you've truly arrived. For me, Formentera remains a place I want to return to again and again.
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