Past the eastern coastline of mainland Spain, close to Valencia, is one of the most famous archipelagos in the Mediterranean Sea. The Balearic Islands have a reputation as a party destination, which has been well-established worldwide. However, it doesn’t overshadow the natural, scenic, and historical importance of Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca, and Formentera. Ferry tickets to the Balearic Islands are available from Barcelona, Valencia, Gandia, and Denia, with boats taking anywhere from two hours to over 11 hours on some leisurely sailings.

Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands and a great option to start an island-hopping vacation in the archipelago. The birthplace of tennis champ Rafael Nadal, Mallorca is best explored by renting a scooter or a car. There are plenty of popular sunbathing spots along the island’s 555km shoreline. Es Calo des Moro and Cala Formentor are two of the best beaches in Mallorca. The sister island of Menorca is quieter although not without its fair share of fun activities. Tourists can snorkel here using a sea scooter, explore the beauty of the Ciutadella with its ancient limestone buildings, and party till late at Placo Nova, a square with various bars and cafes. Time permitting, take a cruise around the spectacular natural harbor of Mahon to understand more about the island’s maritime history.

Depending on the starting point, travelers can book ferry tickets either from home to the Balearic Islands or from one island to another. Ferryscanner makes it easy to find tickets and go island hopping, giving more flexibility to tourists who wish to play things by ear. The legendary clubs of Ibiza have long been a mecca for music lovers. The likes of Pacha and Amnesia still pack in hundreds of partygoers every day. When recuperating from a night out, a visit to the Hippy and Las Dalias markets is a wonderful opportunity to immerse into the local shopping culture.

Formentera’s beautiful sandy beaches are only a half-hour ferry from Ibiza. Jules Verne immortalized the island in his book Hector Servadac. Many also believe that Faro de la Mola is the scenic spot on the isle that Verne mentions in his beloved story The Lighthouse at the End of the World.