First Things First: New Rules for Bringing a Car to Ibiza

Thinking of bringing your car (or camper) over to Ibiza this summer? Take note: the island now has a cap on the number of vehicles allowed between June 1st and September 30th, and once those permits are gone… they’re gone.

You’ll need to apply for a permit and pay a small daily eco-tax (around €1 per day) via the official Ibiza Council website. Don’t leave it to chance! This is a first come, first served system, and with limited permits, it fills up fast.

A few extra things to know:

Rental Cars: Even hire companies have a set limit on how many vehicles they can operate during peak season, so if you’re planning to rent, book early.

Camper Vans: You’ll now need proof of a booking at an official campsite to bring your camper over.

Exemptions: If you’re a resident, own property, or work on the island, you may be exempt but double-check the rules before you travel.

In short: check your dates, apply promptly, and don’t get caught out!

Hit the Roads, Not the Headlines: Drive Smart in Ibiza

Well, now you've got the car; before you set off exploring Ibiza’s sun-soaked roads it’s worth brushing up on a few essentials because while this island might look laid-back, the roads can feel very Wacky Races.

First off, very clearly we drive on the right here. Secondly, seatbelts on, because the police are very hot on stopping people not wearing them. Next? Keep your wits about you because between the rental cars, mopeds, cyclists, and the odd idiot who thinks they’re in a rally, you’ve got plenty to watch for.

Overtaking? Honestly, unless it’s a life-or-death situation, it’s rarely worth it. Ibiza’s not that big, and wherever you’re going isn’t worth ending up in a ditch or an argument.

Zebra crossings: They are everywhere and sometimes in the most inexplicably ridiculous places. People will step straight out, not giving a toss whether you can see them or not. Keep your eyes peeled.

Cyclists? There are loads of them. Give them space. Ibiza’s hills and coastal roads make it cycling heaven, but it only works if drivers and riders look out for each other.

Paperwork: This one’s important. You need to carry your ID, driving licence, rental agreement (if applicable), and insurance documents with you every time you drive. The traffic police run regular roadside checks and yes, they’ll pull you over whether you’re a tourist or a local. No docs? Expect fines. Think because you're driving a foreign plated car you'll not be stopped? This is 2025, they know how to use the internet, it takes 2 minutes to see if you have tax and an MOT, they will quite happily seize your car if you haven't.

And most importantly don’t drink and drive. Being on holiday is not some sort of responsibility pass, the Spanish traffic laws still apply. Common flipping sense still applies! The heat messes with how alcohol affects you, and the police have zero tolerance for it. Simple rule? If you’re driving, don’t drink. Full stop.

Look after yourself and everyone else out there. That way, you’ll spend your Ibiza days soaking up the scenery, not dealing with paperwork or paramedics.

Ibiza Roads - The Good, The Bad, and the Bumpy.

The roads in Ibiza? Let’s just say, they’re a bit like the island itself, mostly smooth, occasionally unpredictable, and full of character.

The main roads connecting the big spots like Ibiza Town, San Antonio and Santa Eulària are in great nick and constantly improving. Cruise between towns and you’ll find well-paved routes that make life easy. But veer off the beaten track? That’s when things get... interesting.

Those hidden beaches, cheeky little chiringuitos, and secret sunset spots often come with gravel tracks, potholes, and roads that feel like they were designed by someone with a sense of humour. Make sure your car (and your nerves) are up to it especially if you’re rocking a rental with city tyres.

Speed limits:

100-120 km/h on highways (but let’s be honest, Ibiza isn’t exactly motorways galore)

80-90 km/h on main roads

30-50 km/h in town and village areas

Watch out for speed bumps, especially near tourist hotspots and residential areas. Hit one too fast and your suspension (and your pride) will feel it.

Take it steady, stay alert, and know your car’s limits. The best places in Ibiza often need a little off-road spirit to reach but they’re definitely worth it.

Parking in Ibiza - A Sport of Its Own

Parking in peak season? Brace yourself. Even with all the new little parking lots they’ve introduced around town and near the beaches, finding a space can still feel like entering the seventh circle of car park hell.

We often joke that it takes 5 minutes to drive to Santa Eulalia, and 20 minutes to find a parking space. Honestly, we’re not even exaggerating. If you can avoid taking the car into town, do yourself a favour and skip the stress, a taxi, scooter, or your own two feet might just save your sanity.

Heading to a beach club or chiringuito with a handy parking area? Great, but a word of warning: these spots often don’t have cameras, security, or anyone keeping an eye on your pride and joy. Sadly, while most folks are here for fun in the sun there are people who make a job of lurking around trying car doors or eyeing up open windows. It’s not paranoia, it's reality. Opportunistic thieves are never far behind unsuspecting tourists anywhere in the world.

Street parking: Watch the signage. Double parking or slipping your car into a restricted zone is a quick way to rack up fines and worse, they are not shy about towing your car. You’ll come back to find nothing but a small triangle sticker on the side of the road where your car used to sit, and that sinking feeling in your stomach.

Getting it back? That’s its own fun little Ibiza adventure. First stop, the local police station with your paperwork and ID to find out which yard they’ve taken it to. Then you’ll be paying not just your parking fine, but the towing fee and a daily charge for every day it’s sat there sulking.

If you’re set on driving to a popular beach, town or market, get there early, especially in summer. Many beaches have designated parking areas, but expect to pay a small fee and even then, spaces disappear fast.

Bottom line? Plan ahead, lock up, leave nothing on show. Basic common sense!

Popular Driving Routes

Ibiza isn’t just beaches and beach clubs, hit the right roads and you’ll uncover pine forests, rugged cliffs, sleepy villages, and some of the best views in the Balearics. Here are a few scenic routes that show off the island’s good side and make the drive every bit as enjoyable as the destination.

Sant Josep to Cala Tarida: Cruising along the western coast, this route serves up dramatic sea views and, if you time it right, one of Ibiza’s famous sunsets. Cala Tarida is a laid-back spot for a swim, a sundowner, or simply parking up and soaking in the scene. Keep an eye out for tucked-away beach bars and little chiringuitos along the way, always perfect for an impromptu pit stop.

Cala d’Hort to Es Vedrà: One of Ibiza’s most iconic drives. The road to Cala d’Hort is winding and scenic, with jaw-dropping views of the mystical rock formation, Es Vedrà, rising out of the Mediterranean. According to some it has healing powers, positive aura's and is one of the most magnetic places on earth. While we can’t guarantee all that, nobody can say that it isn't eye-catching. There are plenty of viewpoints along the way to snap that perfect photo, just watch the road, some of those bends sneak up on you!

Ibiza Town to Santa Gertrudis: Swap the coastal buzz for countryside calm. This route takes you inland and is utterly charming. Santa Gertrudis is a must, well known for its buzzing square, indie boutiques, and fantastic food scene. Grab a coffee, a bite to eat, and soak in the relaxed, local vibe. It’s as ‘authentic Ibiza’ as you’ll find without needing a beach towel.

Bonus: San Juan to Portinatx via the North Coast: For those wanting to escape the crowds, the north of Ibiza feels like a different island entirely. The drive from San Juan to Portinatx weaves through forests and hills, with sea views popping up along the way. It’s quieter, less developed, and perfect if you fancy seeing Ibiza’s more rustic, bohemian side.

Safety Tips While Driving

Driving in Ibiza is generally pretty straightforward, but a few local quirks and island realities mean it pays to stay sharp. Here’s how to keep your journey smooth and avoid any unwanted adventures:

Don’t Drink and Drive: Yes, it’s Ibiza. Yes, the sangria is flowing. But get behind the wheel after a drink and you’re not only risking a hefty fine or losing your licence, you're risking lives. (Never mind the total shame and embarrassment)The legal blood alcohol limit here is 0.5 g/l, and it’s even lower for new drivers. Honestly? Just don’t bother. Taxis, buses, or drawing straws for a designated driver are far better options than spending your night explaining yourself to the Guardia Civil and wondering how you're going to break the news to the other half/kids/friends/work.  Think I'm stating the obvious? You'd be surprised by the number of people that seem to believe this island exists in some weird time warp. This isn't the 1960's living the Hippie dream, it's 2025. And while I'm about it, don't smoke weed and drive, and don't be on your phone and drive. There's a whole load of new legislation come in to effect in Spain that is basically coming down harder on people that flout the rules.

Watch for Wildlife: (Always the Chickens!) In large parts of the island, animals on the road are more common than you might think. It is not unusual to see Chickens wandering about by the side of the road. They don’t care how shiny your car is and no, they're not in the habit of throwing themselves under your wheels so chill out, slow down, and just keep your eyes peeled.

Night Driving: Some Ibiza roads, especially out in the sticks, have minimal lighting. Couple that with winding bends, the occasional nocturnal critter and not knowing the state of other people on the road, and you’ll want to take it steady after dark.

Emergency Know-How: If things go pear-shaped, dial 112 the general emergency number for Spain. It’s good practice to have your rental car’s paperwork, insurance details, and a basic first aid kit with you too. Most hire cars come with one, but double-check before you set off.  Also from 1st January 2026 Spain is doing away with the emergency triangle. Now you are to have a new V16 emergency beacon. It is basically a flashing orange light with a GPS signal. It sends your cars exact location to the DGT (Spain's Traffic Authority) letting authorities and other drivers know where you are. It is a much more visible and safer system.  They're everywhere to buy online and they've even got them in Eroski (as I type).

So? Enjoy the ride, respect the rules, and keep your wits about you. That way, your Ibiza driving memories will be sunsets and sea views not fines, phone calls to the tow yard or trying to find a mechanic.

Final Thoughts

Hitting the road in Ibiza isn’t just about getting from A to B, it’s part of the adventure. From coastal curves to pine forest tracks, having your own wheels gives you the freedom to see the island properly, not just the tourist hotspots, but those hidden gems most people miss.

So, plan ahead, (because at the end of the day it is your responsibility to make sure you know the law, "I didn't know" is not an excuse! Stay sharp, and bring your sense of adventure. The island awaits!