Car hires in Ibiza: practical information
Where to rent a car in Ibiza
Ibiza is a party island, unashamedly bold and lined with beaches. It's without a doubt the most popular of the Balearic Islands, especially once summer rolls around. Being an island, it's an ideal place for car rentals. At the airport, there are 5 car rental companies available: AurigaCrown, Avis, Europcar, Hertz and National Atesa. Alternatively you can pick up your rent car in Eivissa, the capital city on Ibiza.
In Eivissa, you will find most of the major international car hire companies huddled in and around Puerto de Ibiza, the main road that heads to the harbour. Some even offer scooters which is a great way to whizz around the city. Elsewhere on the island there is less demand but you can still hire from local companies in Sant Antoni de Portmany and Santa Eularia des Riu.
Parking in Ibiza: what you should know
Parking anywhere on the island used to be a nightmare, cars parked whichever way they please. Now things are a little bit more regulated although you will still see some "creative" parking jobs. Most main roads have blue markings on the curb, indicating that you must Pay & Display at a nearby meter. You do not need to pay for parking during siesta time, from 2pm to 4pm.
Do not park on any yellow markings or you can kiss your discount car hire goodbye. It will be towed. Most street parking is only valid for 2 hours. If you plan to rent a car, choose a hotel in Ibiza that offers free parking to their guests, most likely outside a main town or at a beach resort.
Road trips from Ibiza: what to do, what to see
- A stone's throw away: D'Alt Vila is a historic walled town which will certainly satisfy the museum and history buffs in your entourage. It has been recognized as a UNESCO site since 1999. The outer walls once protected the island against attacks and invasions from both the French and the Turkish.
- A little further: The Cova de Can Marcá is another great place to visit for the outdoorsy types. It's a collection of caves and caverns which, at night, are lit up. They're beautiful! You can find the caves to the right of the entrance into Port de Sant Miquel. Hire a guide to take you through the maze, the tour takes less than an hour.
- A proper day-trip: If you're in Ibiza during the summer, it goes without a doubt that there will be some excellent parties and festivals going on. The island is known, after all, for its clubbing scene. While many are located in the main city, you can enjoy a much lower-key club scene in the smaller towns along the coast.
For more things to do in Ibiza, check out Mini-guide: Ibiza.
