Things to do in Formentera – Your Ultimate Guide
Find out the top things to do in Formentera, the smallest of the Balearic islands. This tiny island is located super close to Ibiza. It’s actually a popular option, to have a day trip to Formentera, whenever someone takes a holiday in Ibiza.
Rightfully so, as it’s a beautiful island. It will take around a 30 minutes boat ride to reach Formentera. The island is perfect for anyone who loves beaches. There are multiple sandy beaches where you can go swimming and relaxing in the sun. Grab a sweet cocktail and you are practically set for the day.
How to get to Formentera
To get onto the island you will need to take a ferry or boat ride. There is no airport, not even a small, private one. If you plan to have your whole vacation in Formentera, first you will have to fly to Ibiza. From there the ferry will quickly take you to La Savina, the port of Formentera.
Of course, there are other ways to visit. There are multiple companies that do boat day trips to Formentera. You can take a tour like that to have a streamlined experience of visiting.
How to get around on Formentera Island
When you get off the ferry at the port of La Savina you will be wondering: okay, what’s next? If you want to start touring the island and do some sightseeing, you have a couple of options.
1. Rent a scooter or an ATV
This is one of the most popular options for getting around the island. You can rent a scooter or an ATV and quickly travel between the attractions. It can be a fun way to experience what Formentera has to offer.
2. Rent a bike
Another good option is to rent an actual bike. The island is mostly small, so you’ll have an easy time cycling around Formentera. When you get tired of all the biking, you can always pull up to a beach and cool down in the water.
3. Public Transport
There is a tourist bus running from the port. It’s a kind of small paid trip. The bus will take you to the spots worth visiting. There are a total of three options to choose from. They start at 8 EUR and the most expensive ticket is 15 EUR.
The most expensive option is a full-day trip. It will take you up to some viewpoints, let you stop for photo-ops, and take you around 2 different beaches.
Keep in mind though, that these tours are lengthy, and the last bus starts around 13:00. If you arrive after that time, you will have no tourist bus option.
4. Walking
Lastly, walking is a good option. If you want to walk to Far de la Mola it will take around 3 hours and 30 minutes. That’s the other end of the island from the ferry. It’s not short, but considering you walk through the whole island it’s not that bad.
Of course, you don’t need to go that far. There are many beaches around the port city. Once you arrive, you can get lost on the small roads of the island. It’s one of the best options if you want to take it slow.
Things to do in Formentera
Now that you know all the essentials, it’s time to look at all the fun things to do in Formentera. Whether you choose to rent a scooter or simply walk, we will have something for you to enjoy.
1. Go to the beach
As we have already mentioned, Formentera has amazing beaches. When you come to the island you must spend some time on the beach.
It’s good for both winding down or being active with some swimming. The weather will most likely be great and the water is always warm.
If you have trouble choosing a beach, then read on. We will hook you up with some good beach recommendations in the latter part of this guide.
2. Visit the lighthouses
There are a total of 3 lighthouses that belong to Formentera. Out of the three, one is on an island, which’s quite hard to reach. However, you will be able to approach the other two easily.
When you visit Formentera, make sure that you check out at least one of the lighthouses. They are an impressive sight with perfect views of the sea.
3. Visit Sant Francesc Xavier
Enjoy the classical architecture and village atmosphere at Sant Francesc Xavier. This is the main town of the island. You will find a lot of beautiful whitewashed houses and narrow walkways.
It’s central location makes it easy to visit even if you opt to walk.
4. Learn about the history of Formentera
If you are someone who likes to understand the history and culture of the place they are visiting, check out Museu d’Etnografia de Formentera. It’s an etnographic museom in Sant Francesc Xavier.
The museum itself is small, so it fits perfectly into a day trip. Regardless of the size, it offers a good cultural and historical experience.
5. Visit the salt marshes
On the north side of the island, you will find Salines d’en Marroig. It’s an interesting salt marshland. You can walk between the salt tables and enjoy some great photo opportunities.
One thing to keep in mind if you arrive by car is that the official parking is rather small. The spots fill up easily during the day, as such, it’s best to arrive in the morning.
6. Find all the fortification towers
The Balearic Islands were always a center of attention during the middle ages. Due to their central locations, they were perfect naval targets. Just like the other islands, Formentera has fortifications scattered around the shore.
You can make a fun little game out of trying to visit all of them. Most of the fortifications are simple bastions. Many of them are in good condition, waiting for you to admire them.
7. Mercat de La Mola
If you are the shopping type, then you need to seek out the town of El Pilar de Mola. It has a fun street market, where you can shop for all kinds of things.
There are many artists and craftsmen who bring their own handcrafted items to the market. It’s considered an art market. Browse through the assortment of colorful creations while there is live music playing in the background.
8. Go Snorkeling
You might be already used to the crystal clear water around the Balearic Islands. Formentera is no different. However, it adds to the experience with a unique and interesting seabed.
Put on your snorkeling goggles and explore away. Fish, rock formations, and underwater vegetation await.
9. Go off-the-beaten-path
When you go to Formentera, you must explore. Whether you rent a vehicle or walk, it’s very easy to wander off the path.
There is just one main road and many tiny dirt roads on the island. We encourage you to go take these small dirt roads and explore on your own.
You can discover cute buildings, super nature, and fun walking trails.
3 Best Beaches on Formentera
As promised, we will hook you up with the best beaches in Formentera. Now that you know what are the top things to do in Formentera it’s time to dive into the water.
1. Platja de Ses Illetes
One of the most famous beaches on the island. It’s located at the northern tip. It’s a long sandy beach that goes into the sea. You can walk and walk, and it will feel like that this beach never wants to end.
This also means that you will be able to find a good spot for yourself. Even in the high season you can get comfortable and enjoy Platja de Ses Illetes due to its large size.
2. Platja de Migjorn
The beach Platja de Migjorn is another very popular place to go on Formentera. Unlike Ses Illetes, it’s on the southern shore of the island.
This is another huge patch of sandy beach. It covers more than 5 kilometers, so it’s easy to say, you will find a quiet spot.
Although this might not be the most spectacular beach, it’s the best if you want to go swimming. The water is great and if you walk long enough you can leave the crowds behind.
3. Caló d’Es Mort
Beach Caló d’Es Mort has an impressive and dramatic landscape. People who visit it love to fill up their Instagram feed with pictures of the beach.
It has jagged rocky cliffs, a small fishing hut, and crystal clear water. Just the perfect combination to create amazing travel pictures.
Keep in mind though, that unlike the other two, this is a small beach. During the height of the tourist season, it can get very crowded quickly. Either try to arrive early or late in the day in order to find a good spot.
Finish with seafood
If you want to close your visit to Formentera in style, we recommend grabbing some seafood. You can try any of the local restaurants. During the summer, places that offer outside seating are the best. If you are looking for more guides and inspiration head over to our travel hubs page!
