An absolute must do during winter (but also nice in summer!) on Ibiza is to head to the north of the island, to the quaint and picturesque village of San Juan, and immerse yourself in the colourful and joyful vibe of the weekly Sunday market.
Arriving a little after eleven o'clock, my friends and I found plenty of free parking in a car park on the right hand side of the main street just after the church and the market already bustling and in full swing.
One of the first stalls we passed couldn't fail but draw our attention as Toni, a local farmer whose olives are used in the prize-winning olive oil; Oliada (that we spoke about in our previously featured restaurant Villa Mercedes) beckoned us over to sample his home-made traditional and ever-popular drink of Ibiza, Hierbas Ibicencas. Delicious, smooth and beautifully uniquely bottled, we found ourselves warmed and smiling (by the atmosphere as much as by the Hierbas) as we set off to explore more of the market.
A real sense of community presides here, and for Ibiza residents, it is more than likely that a visit to San Juan market will bring you into contact with many familiar faces. That said, an equally warm welcome is extended to holiday-makers and new-comers, and wherever you look, people are relaxed, chatting happily and clearly having a great time!
A plethora of stalls line the main street of San Juan, selling a wide variety of hand-made and local wares; natural soaps, herbs and spices, leather goods, jewellery, Aloe Vera products, clothes, musical instruments and food, to name but a few…and the scents, sounds, colours and vibes were enough to cause sensory over-load…in the best sense of the term.
My companions and I were also intrigued to learn that an open art showroom is now part of the San Juan market experience, and we encourage you to check out the Japan-Ibiza Rainbow Bridge Art Collaboration...a project which aims to link Ibiza to Japan through art. Here you can enjoy the art, listen to ambient tunes being played by the DJ, and eat delicious spiced biscuits dipped in chocolate!
San Juan Sunday market takes place every week from around 10.00 until 15.00 hrs, with live music adding to the atmosphere, but only respectfully starting after morning mass has finished in the church at around mid-day.
A completely delightful way to spend a winter Sunday on Ibiza, for locals, residents and holiday-makers alike, and the perfect way to experience the true warmth and impressive creativity of this beautiful island.
Quick Facts
What Sunday market.
Where San Juan.
When Every Sunday all year round.
Why For a taste of authentic Ibiza goods and hospitality.
Average spend per head Free to browse...but we take no responsibility for how much you spend on all of those wonderful goods you cannot resist buying!
Disabled Access Yes.
Room for Improvement We don't think so.
Top Tips Get into the festive mood by indulging in roasted chestnuts and finding the best in unique Ibiza Christmas gifts for your friends and family.
