Ibiza city spreads out around the old Dalt Vila, a hill at the entrance to the port on which stands the oldest part of the city. Founded in 654 BC by the Phoenicians, it was a thriving commercial centre during the Punic era. Dalt Vila is unquestionably the most iconic part of the city and was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. Ringed by Renaissance defensive walls erected in the 16th century, the inner area is crisscrossed by narrow cobbled streets that invite the visitor to discover the hidden corners and romantic restaurants of a place whose charm derives from its centuries of history. Ibiza Castle consists of a series of buildings that stand at the very top of Dalt Vila. These and the Cathedral are among the most eye-catching of the city’s monuments. Other impressive buildings include the former Court Room, where justice was administered from the time of the Catalan conquest, the University chamber and the Chapel of El Salvador, which today house the interesting Ibiza Archaeology Museum, the Town Hall, Can Botino and the Convent of the Cloistered Nuns. Some 500 metres from Dalt Vila is the Punic necropolis of Puig de Molins, the city’s burial ground throughout the whole of Antiquity and today an important archaeological site.
Outside the walled enclosure but still in the old part of the city is the old fishermen’s neighbourhood of Sa Penya, which stretches to the far edge of Ibiza Port, the spot where the lively nightlife begins as the large clubs on the island put on their shows to attract people to their events. In the summer, Ibiza Port is a bustling spot until well past midnight, with a throng of people strolling around its outdoor cafés, fashion boutiques and the stalls at the outdoor craft market.
In the port on the opposite side of Dalt Vila is Botafoch Marina, where some of the most exclusive restaurants and clubs on the island are to be found.
Ses Figueretes Beach is part of the urban nucleus of Ibiza city and is within easy walking distance of the centre. The beach stretches for 450 metres. The Ses Pitiüses promenade along the top makes a pleasant 20-minute walk to the tourist resort of Platja d’en Bossa. The excellent range of hotels and apartments along the beach without the busy nightlife found elsewhere on Ibiza make Ses Figueretes an ideal option for families with children and others looking for a peaceful time away from the hubbub of other resorts.
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