Are you planning to visit Formentera? What are the essential things to do and see on this Spanish island?
Do you dream of spending a long weekend on a paradise island? No need to go to the other end of Earth for that! Formentera is an island of the Spanish Balearic Islands, where you can admire the turquoise waters and beautiful beaches of fine sand. Ideal for a relaxing getaway to the sun!
We have selected for you a list of activities and essential places of the island. Find our selection of the best things to do in Formentera.
1. A walk on the most beautiful beaches
Photo credit: Shutterstock – fernandobosch
The island of Formentera is full of more beautiful beaches than others. The beaches His Illetas , Migjorn , Cala Saona or Calo Des Mort You will enchant yourself as soon as your eyes arise on it. Of course, these stretches of white and fine sand are beautiful, but it is especially the color of the water that will surprise you. The waters are of a turquoise blue so clear that you will feel like you are in the Caribbean.
Some of these beaches have a sandy restaurant and a bar where to buy fresh drinks.
2. The mills of the island
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The island of Formentera is a region of Spain where wheat has always been very important for the subsistence of its inhabitants. And who says wheat, says mills to die.
There were up to 7 active windmills in Formentera, including the old mill, which can still be visited today. By going to La Mola, you can understand how it works for free.
3. The flagship of La Mola
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Eduardo Jarnac de Freitas
At the east end of Formentera, you will find one of the most spectacular places on the island, the La Mola Lighthouse. Perched on a cliff at 120 m above sea level, it welcomes a versatile space of culture and heritage valorization. You will be impressed by the view on the Mediterranean that this lighthouse offers, especially if you have the courage to climb the steps to the top.
The tour of the lighthouse costs €4.5 for adults, €2.5 for students and seniors and it is free for minors and unemployed people.
4. Craft markets
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Naeblys
Art craftsmen’s markets are not missing on the island. Not only because the inhabitants are very attached to traditions, but also because the island has retained its hippie character of the 1960s. This relaxed and bohemian atmosphere can be found in the clothes of many inhabitants, in the decoration of some houses and in the markets.
You will find baskets, spiders, jewellery and textiles. You can also buy art objects made with glass, ceramic or leather.
The market of La Mola
The Mola artisanal market is the oldest in the island. It is open from May until October 12, the day of the feast of the Virgin of Pillar. This is the artisanal market where you will find the largest number of exhibitors, but also the one where there are the most visitors.
It is not rare that bands of musicians live on the village squares, and the terraces of nearby bars and restaurants are animated all day long.
The market Antoni Tur Gabrielet
This market is open Monday to Saturday. You can find local food products, such as vegetables, fruits, honey or eggs.
But this market is also a place of exhibition for the island’s craftsmen who often organize awareness workshops on the protection of crafts.
The market of Sant Ferran
This night market is the most visited in Formentera. It takes place every day except Wednesday and Sunday from 8:30 to midnight, from May 29 to September 30. Exhibitors are artists, mostly painters, who show you their works inspired by the atmosphere of the island.
They regularly organize workshops for the youngest of their clients, to stimulate their creativity. On Saturday, you will be able to attend live concerts.
5. Gastronomic weekends in October
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Kittichet Tungsubphokin
Formentera's restaurateurs give you an appointment during the whole month of October to feast with fixed-priced menus. The menus are specially designed for the occasion. Some chefs concoct the traditional recipes of the island’s cuisine, others opt to revisit it.
What’s safe is that you can taste local, fresh and seasonal products by always knowing how much you will pay. Drinks are not included in the menu price.
6. Island to swim
Photo credit: Shutterstock – D.Bond
Are you looking for a unique experience for your holidays? If you are athletic, what would you say to discover the coasts of the island by participating in an international swimming competition?
You can choose between 4.5 km, 8 km or even 11 km routes. To make the most of the turquoise waters and beautiful beaches of the island. The Marnaton Formentera takes place every year as part of the Marnaton Edreams free water competition.
7. A boat ride
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Rocky Reborn
How not to finish his experience in Formentera with a nice boat ride? Navigate above turquoise water, surrounded by colorful fish... A dream afternoon offers to you if you opt for the boat rental in Formentera !
And if you don’t have the boat permit, you can always use the services of a skipper, who will take you to the island by showing you the best spots where to make snorkeling with your loved ones!
How do I get to Formentera?
Formentera is only 2 hours’ flight from Paris, plus 30 minutes’ boat from Ibiza. To get there, nothing simpler.
A flight from France to Ibiza
Buy your Paris to Ibiza flight ticket for a 2-hour flight. If you leave another airport in France, you will surely have a stopover in Barcelona. In this case, the flight will last about 4 hours. To find a flight to Ibiza at an interesting rate, you can use our partner's website Ulysses , which counts all comparisons.
Getting to the shipyard
When you arrive on the Spanish island, you will have to go from the airport to the ferry. The most advantageous solution is the bus, but you can also ask for a taxi to drive you there.
The bus n°10 , which passes every 30 minutes, will deposit you at 200m from the starting point of the ferry. You'll have to pay a ticket 3 € for public transport.
The ferry crossing
The journey by boat from Ibiza to Formentera will cost you between 15 and 42 € , according to the ferry company you choose.
The journey lasts between 30 and 40 minutes, and the boats leave quite frequently. So, no panic if you miss it when you arrive at the boat!
- ⛴ in See the ferries between Ibiza and Formentera
Where to stay in Formentera?
Formentera is full of establishments to accommodate tourists who come to visit the island. Hotel, Airbnb , villa, apartment or house, you will only have the embarrassment of choice!
The fishing village of Es Pujols, for example, is highly recommended for travellers looking to combine beach and nightlife. It is located near one of the most beautiful beaches of the island and many establishments open at night, especially in the summer.
Here you can find modest or more luxurious hotels, apartments or villas, but the fare is fairly high, around 200 € at night.
Whatever the village of Formentera you choose for your rental, you can find accommodation adapted to your budget by searching our Compare hotels.
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