Overview of the Balearic Islands

Quick Overview

The small archipelago south of Barcelona is an autonomous community of Spain. It consists of four main islands, from north to south: Menorca (94,000 inhabitants for 700 km²), Mallorca (860,000 inhabitants for 3,640 km²), Ibiza (140,000 inhabitants for 540 km²), and Formentera (12,000 inhabitants for 83 km²). The first two have varied terrain, with heights reaching 1,445 m at Puig Mayor (on Majorca) and rugged coastlines sheltering numerous coves. Ibiza and Formentera, however, are less rugged.

Tourism is the main source of income for the Balearic Islands. The archipelago has built a global reputation over decades, first as a hippie destination, then a trendy one, and later as a prime spot for "mass tourism" or partygoers, particularly in Ibiza.

Key Facts

• Type of place: tourist region.

• Location: less than 200 km off the coast of Spain, south of Barcelona.

• Latitude/longitude: 39.30' N, 3.00' E.

• Local time: Heure : 4742.

• "Capital": Palma de Mallorca.

• Official languages: Spanish and Catalan.

• Population: 1,113,114 inhabitants (2012).

• Area: 4,992 km².

• Density: 223 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Puig Mayor on Majorca (1,445 m).

• Lowest point: sea level.

Tourism

The Balearic Islands, especially Ibiza and Majorca, rely primarily on tourism and welcome several million visitors annually, with peak tourist pressure in July and August. Out of nearly 65 million people who visit Spain each year, one in six travels to the Balearics. Germans, Britons, Scandinavians, French (438,000 in 2011), and Italians are the most numerous foreign visitors, in addition to the million mainland Spaniards who also vacation in the Balearics every year.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for beginner travelers.

• By air: France-Ibiza or Majorca for 100 €/250 round trip.

• Backpacker daily budget: 45 € to 60 € per person.

• Accommodation:

• Getting around:

• Risks: almost none in terms of health and very low in terms of security.

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices: roughly late April to early June and late September to late October.

• Interests (on ★★★★): Nature ★★; Adventure ⊘; Culture ★★; Relaxation/Holidays ★★★★.