If you’re staying in Ibiza Old Town, wandering the cobbled streets of Dalt Vila, enjoying tapas with a view, or shopping the local boutiques, you’re already experiencing one of the most iconic parts of the island.
But just across the sparkling sea lies another gem: Formentera, a smaller, quieter, and stunningly beautiful island that’s just a short ferry ride away.
Taking the trip from Ibiza Old Town to Formentera is one of the easiest and most rewarding things you can do on your Ibiza holiday.
Whether you’re looking for a beach day, a romantic escape, or a full day of exploration, this guide will walk you through exactly how to make it happen, from ferry options and schedules to prices, what to do on arrival, and how to plan the perfect route.
Let’s get started.
Why Travel from Ibiza Old Town to Formentera?
If you’re already staying in or around Ibiza Old Town, you’re in the perfect spot. The main ferry terminals that serve Formentera are just steps away.
You don’t need a car or transfer, just your ticket, a swimsuit, and a sense of adventure.
Here’s why this route is the most popular:
- It’s quick – Travel time can be as little as 25 minutes
- It’s flexible – Dozens of daily departures during high season
- It’s scenic – You’ll cruise past Ibiza’s coastline and arrive at La Savina, Formentera’s peaceful port
- It’s perfect for day trips or overnight stays
- It’s well-connected – From La Savina, you can access beaches, bike rentals, buses, and taxis
If you want to visit Formentera without the stress of long travel times or expensive charters, this is the route to take.
Where Do Ferries Depart in Ibiza Old Town?
Ferries to Formentera leave from Puerto de Ibiza (Ibiza Port), which sits right at the base of the Old Town, near the marina and just below the historic walls of Dalt Vila. Depending on the ferry company, you’ll board at one of two main terminals:
1.Estación Marítima Formentera – This is where most fast ferries like Trasmapi, Balearia, and Mediterranea Pitiusa depart. It’s centrally located and easy to reach on foot from the Old Town or Figueretas.
2.Muelle de Pesqueros / Port of Ibiza – This is where Aquabus ferry boats usually depart. The vibe is more relaxed and casual, but you’ll get some of the best views along the way.
Clubtickets provides full departure point info with your booking confirmation.
How Long Is the Journey?
Your total travel time depends on which ferry you choose.
- Fast ferries (Trasmapi, Balearia, Mediterranea Pitiusa): 25 to 35 minutes
- Scenic ferries (Aquabus): 45 to 60 minutes
- Fast ferries are ideal if you want to maximize your beach time in Formentera. Scenic ferries are great if you want a chilled ride with panoramic views and don’t mind a slightly longer trip.
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices vary depending on the season, ferry company, and whether you book round-trip tickets. Here’s a general breakdown:
Ferry Type One-Way Round-Trip
Fast Ferry. €28–€35 €55–€65
Aquabus Scenic Ferry €19–€22 €38–€44.
Children under 4 usually travel for free, and discounts are available for children (4–12), seniors, Balearic residents, and groups.
Booking with Clubtickets lets you access:
- Combo deals (ferry + scooter rental or club entry)
- Flexible return tickets
- Fast mobile confirmation
- Special offers on afterparties or beach clubs
How Often Do Ferries Run?
In high season (May to October), ferries run frequently throughout the day. Here’s a rough idea:
- First ferry: 07:00 AM (fast ferry)
- Last ferry Formentera Ibiza: 10:30 PM (fast ferry)
- Scenic ferry departures: Start around 09:00 AM with last returns at 7:00 PM
There are departures every 30 to 60 minutes, especially during peak times. You can go early, stay late, or even book an open return for full flexibility.
How to Book Your Ferry from Ibiza Old Town to Formentera
The easiest way to book is through Clubtickets. You’ll get:
- Real-time availability and live departure times
- Mobile-friendly tickets
- Fast ferry or scenic ferry options
- Add-ons like scooter rentals, club tickets, or beach club access
- Customer support if you need to change plans
Skip the ticket office queues and avoid the risk of sold-out boats, book ahead and sail stress-free.
What’s On Board the Ferries?
Here’s what you can expect, depending on your ferry type.
Fast Ferries:
- Air-conditioned cabins
- Comfortable indoor seating Open-air decks on larger boats
- Onboard bar or refreshments
- Space for luggage
- Wi-Fi (on some services)
- Pet-friendly (check before booking)
Aquabus Scenic Ferries:
- Casual open-deck seating
- No-frills vibe
- Relaxed pace, great views
- Often cheaper and less crowded
- Great for photographers and families
No matter which you choose, the ride is smooth and safe. And since the journey is so short, it’s easy and enjoyable even for those prone to motion sickness.
What to Bring for Your Day Trip
You won’t need much, but here’s a packing list to make your day easier:
- Mobile or printed ticket
- Valid ID (required by most operators)
- Swimsuit and towel
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Hat or light cover-up
- Water bottle Snacks or beach picnic (optional) Camera or phone for photos Some cash or card for rentals, food, or beach bars
Pro tip: Wear your swimsuit under your clothes so you can hit the beach right away.
What to Do When You Arrive in Formentera
You’ll dock at La Savina, the only port in Formentera. From here, you can rent bikes, scooters, or cars, or hop on a local bus or taxi.
Everything is within walking distance, including the port’s own beach, a few shops, and several cafés.
Plan Your Ibiza to Formentera Experience with Clubtickets
Taking the ferry from Ibiza Old Town to Formentera is one of the easiest and most rewarding experiences on the island, but planning ahead can make the trip even smoother and far more enjoyable. That is where Clubtickets becomes especially useful.
Instead of only booking a ferry ticket, Clubtickets allows travelers to organize their entire Formentera day trip in one place. You can compare ferry options, choose between fast or scenic crossings, secure flexible return schedules, and even combine your journey with extras like scooter rentals, beach clubs, or additional Ibiza experiences.
This becomes particularly valuable during the summer months, when ferries between Ibiza and Formentera are in very high demand. Morning departures, sunset return ferries, and weekend crossings often sell out quickly, especially in July and August. Booking in advance helps avoid long ticket office queues, limited availability, and unnecessary stress while traveling.
Another major advantage is convenience. Instead of spending time organizing transport, rentals, and activities separately, Clubtickets helps create a much more connected Ibiza and Formentera experience. You can spend the morning exploring Ses Illetes, enjoy lunch by the sea, return to Ibiza in the evening, and continue directly into sunset drinks, beach clubs, or nightlife plans without disrupting the flow of your day.
For many visitors, Formentera becomes the highlight of their Ibiza holiday. And having everything organized properly beforehand allows you to focus less on logistics and more on enjoying the beaches, scenery, and atmosphere that make the island so special.
Top 5 Things to Do
1. Go straight to Ses Illetes: Often ranked among the best beaches in the world, Ses Illetes is just a 10-minute scooter ride or 30-minute walk from the port. Expect white sand, clear water, and calm waves, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
2. Explore Cala Saona: This cozy cove on the west side of the island is great for sunsets and has a couple of beach bars nearby. Ideal if you’re staying longer or want to avoid the Ses Illetes crowd.
3. Visit the lighthouse at Cap de Barbaria: One of the island’s most iconic photo spots. Ride out to the edge of the island and take in the view from the cliffs.
4. Rent a bike or scooter and cruise the coast: The island is small and flat, which makes it perfect for cycling. You’ll find rental shops just outside the ferry terminal.
5. Grab lunch at a beach club: Top choices include Beso Beach, Juan y Andrea, and Es Caló. Make a reservation in summer or pack your own picnic for a quieter day.
Sample Day Trip Itinerary from Ibiza Old Town to Formentera
08:00 – Wake up in Dalt Vila and enjoy coffee overlooking the harbor
09:00 – Walk to the ferry terminal and catch a fast boat
09:30 – Arrive in La Savina and rent a scooter
10:00 – Beach time at Ses Illetes
13:00 – Lunch at Beso Beach or picnic by the sea
15:00 – Explore more beaches or visit the lighthouse
17:30 – Enjoy a drink at the marina in La Savina
18:30 – Ferry back to Ibiza Old Town
19:00 – Freshen up and get ready for dinner or nightlife
Can You Stay Overnight in Formentera?
Yes, and it’s worth considering if you have the time. Formentera has a completely different energy after sunset, peaceful, quiet, and deeply relaxing.
You can book a small hotel, eco-resort, or beachside bungalow and return to Ibiza the next day.
Ferries run late enough to make overnight stays super flexible. You can even take the last ferry back the next morning if you want an early beach session and a calm return.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Ibiza Old Town to Formentera is one of the easiest and most memorable things you can do during your trip to the Balearic Islands.
The ferry ride is short, scenic, and simple.
The reward? An island that feels like another world, less crowded, more natural, and incredibly beautiful.
Whether you’re chasing beaches, sunsets, or just want to explore somewhere new, this route makes it all possible in under an hour.
Book your ferry from Ibiza Old Town to Formentera now on Clubtickets and unlock a whole new side of the Balearics, just across the water.
