The perfect day trip to Formentera from Ibiza
What to do and how to get there
Want to take a break from the busy Ibiza and get some hippie vibes for a change? Only 9 km south of Ibiza, you will find tranquility in the gorgeous Formentera. Its small size and amazing landscapes make it an ideal destination for a day trip from Ibiza.
In this article, we will help plan a day trip to Formentera to enjoy peaceful beaches, outdoor activities, sights, and incredible food. Find out how to get there from Ibiza and book ferry tickets with no hidden fees on Ferryhopper!
Picturesque wooden walkway at the Ses Illetes beach
How to get to Formentera from Ibiza?
From Ibiza, you can get to Formentera only by ferry. In fact, the boat ride from Ibiza to Formentera lasts only around 30 minutes to 1 hour.
In the summer, ferries from Ibiza to Formentera depart daily almost every 15 minutes. The route is serviced by 4 companies: Baleària, Formentera Lines, Aquabus, and Trasmapi. Crossings start early in the morning (around 06:30) and continue until late at night (around 01:30). Ferry ticket prices range from around €9 to €30, depending on the vessel type and company.
Feeling overwhelmed by options for your Ibiza - Formentera ferry trip? Let us help you with our guide on which ferry company to choose for your trip from Ibiza to Formentera.
The colorful “Podarcis pityusensis” lizards of Formentera and Ibiza
What to do in Formentera on a day trip
From La Savina to El Pilar de la Mola, we have planned an ideal day in Formentera for you: you can swim in idyllic beaches and try water sports, visit historic sights, ride through gorgeous landscapes, and taste local dishes with a view:
1. Arriving in La Savina
Catch an early morning ferry from Ibiza and start your trip in Formentera’s port, La Savina. You can grab a breakfast on the go and explore the charming village.
In La Savina, there are places to rent bicycles, e-bikes or scooters, so you can start your riding adventure around the island.
Tip: while walking around La Savina, take a moment to admire the historic Far de la Savina, one of the 3 lighthouses in Formentera.
The imposing “Far de la Savina” lighthouse
2. Take a swim at Llevant beach
Head north to the Trucadors peninsula to reach the incredible Llevant (Levante) beach. Located within the Ses Salines Nature Park, it is a long beach with turquoise waters, white sand, footbridges, and salt ponds. Llevant is also popular with surfers.
For a quieter experience, choose Ses Illetes beach, also located on the Trucadors peninsula. Ses Illetes is equally beautiful and has no infrastructure.
The amazing turquoise waters of Llevant beach
3. Sightseeing and lunch in Sant Francesc
After a refreshing swim, you can reach the capital of Sant Francesc Xavier, which is also the island’s cultural center, in just 20 minutes. Take a walk around the village to see the fortified parish church and the small, historic chapel of Sa Tanca Vella.
We recommend browsing the local craft market for unique souvenirs, before getting lunch in one of the town’s many restaurants and taperías. For your after-lunch walk, check the mills of Sa Mirada near Sant Francesc.
Tip: to get more ideas for activities on the island, take a look at our guide on top things to do in Formentera.
The austere fortified church of Sant Francesc
4. Ride to Far de La Mola
Now that you have regained your powers, are you ready for a scenic ride to Formentera’s southern part? Follow Green Route 32 towards El Pilar de la Mola, where the iconic Far de la Mola lighthouse stands tall on 120-m cliffs. Take the climb to the lighthouse and enjoy a breathtaking view of the sea.
Afterwards, if it’s a Wednesday or a Sunday, we suggest you head back to La Mola and visit the lively hippie market. There, you can purchase handmade jewelry, clothes and other artisanal items, and enjoy music and performances by local artists at the village’s square.
The majestic La Mola lighthouse, with breathtaking sea view
5. Swim at the Caló Des Mort cove
After the big climb to Far de la Mola, cool down with a refreshing swim. From El Pilar de la Mol, head west-south to the Migjorn Bay to reach the cove of Caló des Mort in less than 30 minutes. This cozy beach is a local favorite, offering a tranquil escape.
If you prefer larger beaches, you can go to Playa Migjorn instead, which occupies most of the southern coast of Formentera. With big sand dunes and pine trees, it is a perfect beach to enjoy the breeze and relax.
The precious cove of Caló des Mort
6. Dinner and drinks in Es Pujols
Before your magical Formentera day trip comes to an end, go north-east to the lively Es Pujols and indulge in a delightful dinner and drinks. Es Pujols offers many restaurant options for every taste. There are many great places in Paseo Maritimo, where you can admire the sea views.
We recommend you try local dishes, such as ensalada pagesa (salad with tomatoes, potatoes and dried fish) and sobrassada (cured pork sausage), as well as the incredible local seafood and hierbas (anise-flavored liqueur).
Tip: check out our post on the 9+1 top restaurants in Formentera.
Glorious red sunset in Formentera
How to get around Formentera
Since Formentera is very small (19 km long) and mostly flat, we recommend that you get around by bike or scooter to explore the island’s beautiful landscapes. You can also get around on foot, using Formentera’s 32 green routes (rural paths and tracks).
Either way, from early June to late September, circulation of motor vehicles on the island is limited for environmental reasons. However, there are 5 bus routes operating regularly to Formentera’s main towns and beaches.
Bike riding and enjoying the ocean view from the Cap de Barbaria lighthouse
Book ferry tickets to Formentera online
On Ferryhopper, you can book ferry tickets to Formentera with no hidden fees. Find all available Ibiza - Formentera crossings, compare ferry companies and get ready for your day trip from Ibiza to Formentera!