Ibiza vs Majorca – where should I party this summer?

Best for swanky sundowners - Majorca

Ha, bet you didn’t see that one coming. But while Ibiza might have super-clubs sewn up, Majorca’s historic seafront capital, Palma, is leading in more sophisticated sipping. The backdrop of its gorgeous Gothic old quarter sure helps. Varadero bar’s terrace makes the most of this setting, looking out to sea and the city’s signature floodlit cathedral. Or there’s the Cuba Sky Bar, where chichi types enjoy a 360-degree skyline view while clinking aperitifs in private cabanas. Cool cats head to the dimly lit Jazz Voyeur Club after dark for live music.

Sticking with Palma’s swanky streak, wine fans can conduct their own tasting session at aptly named Wineing. There are 48 world wines to try from natty dispensers. Palma has its fair share of big-draw clubs, too. As well as its own Pacha, there’s the legendary temple to garage, Tito’s. And while Magaluf might not typically enjoy the most elegant reputation, it does cater to more style-conscious night owls with glam seaside club Nikki Beach.

Best for world-class clubbing - Ibiza

Should big-name DJs and see-and-be-seen venues be your thing, Ibiza is a no-brainer. Its whole reputation is built on being the best place in the world to go clubbing. And on that score, it won’t disappoint. EDM fans are spoilt for choice thanks to the holy trinity of Pacha - the original iteration of the international super-brand, Amnesia - host of popular, night Cream, and Space - home to super-star DJ Carl Cox. And thanks to Ibiza’s long, hot summers, open-air clubbing is also an option, with famous names for all-night al fresco parties including Ushuaïa and Bora Bora.

Best for a wild one - Majorca

If Ibiza is for the fashion set – people who excel at posing as much as partying - then Majorca’s acclaimed nightlife resort, Magaluf, is for folks who just want to let their hair down with all-out, raucous revelry. A gaudy strip of brightly neon-lit clubs and bars, Magaluf keeps things simple - it’s brash, a bit trashy, and a whole lot of fun if that’s your jam. The biggest club, BCM Planet Dance, hosts foam and glow parties. Nuff said. Expect ‘booze cruises’ too – Thomson’s own HMS Scene sets sail from Magaluf jetty and keeps the sangria flowing all afternoon.

Best for big live acts - Ibiza

In addition to being electro heaven, Ibiza hosts huge shows from top rock, hip-hop and pop acts over the summer party season. This year, Lethal Bizzle, Tinie Tempah, LCD Soundsystem, Dizzee Rascal, Wolf Alice and Kaiser Chiefs will all be rocking up to play on the Ibiza Rocks legendary stage under the stars. So if catching some of today’s hottest musicians amid Ibiza’s famous party atmosphere sounds like a plan, this particular Balearic big-hitter is for you.

Best for peaceful beaches - Majorca

When it comes to post-party recovery, if you need soothing quiet, Majorca can deliver. With more than 120 beaches and coves scattered along its palm-fringed coastline, there are plenty of secluded spots for peaceful sunbathing. Quiet Camp de Mar has one of the best beaches on the entire island – so good, in fact, celebs including Tom Cruise have all bought property around these parts. The laid-back vibe means you can hide those bleary eyes behind sunglasses and sneak a snooze in.

Best for a seafront ‘scene’ - Ibiza

Even by day, Ibiza is buzzing. Chic beach cafés pumping chill-out tunes help holidaymakers unwind from the night before - and rev up for the evening ahead. San Antonio’s Café Del Mar is probably the most famous, and best known for its sunsets. Closer to Ibiza Town, Playa d’en Bossa is this Balearic’s longest stretch of sand, lined with busy bars and restaurants playing the island’s signature sound – what else? - house. Yep, Ibiza is the party that keeps on giving.

Want to know more?

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Author: Laura Chubb