The most popular Spanish islands for 2023

Did your favorite island make the cut?

Whether you’re more than ready to leave 2023 behind, locked in a deep dark cellar in the basement of an abandoned warehouse or you’re already looking back with a little bit of nostalgia, one thing is certain!

You wouldn’t change your 2023 vacation on the Spanish islands! And we’re the same. So, which of our favorite destinations was the most popular for the year that passed? Keep reading to find out which Spanish islands made it to the top-visited list for 2023.

Boat tour in Ibiza with a view to the islet of Es Vedrà

Touring around the coast of Ibiza with a view to Es Vedrà

Which were the most popular Spanish islands for 2023?

Are you reading this article to learn about the new, off-the-beaten-path, underground, mystical, alternative island in Spain that no one has ever heard of? Well, that’s exactly what you’re not gonna get!

What did you expect? This is a list of the most popular islands in Spain for 2023. So, let's see which are the most visited islands for the past year!

Tenerife

No wonder why Tenerife is at the top of the list of the most visited Spanish islands for 2023! The “island of eternal spring” is the largest among the Canaries with temperatures between 23ºC and 30ºC all year round!

So what suits you best? Climbing up to the top of Mount Teide, walking along the hiking trails of the Anaga Rural Park, dancing to the rhythms of the colorful Santa Cruz Carnival or lying down on the sandy beach of Las Teresitas in northeastern Tenerife.

Cacti in the beautiful beach of Las Teresitas in Gran Canaria

The stunning scenery of the beach of Las Teresitas in Tenerife

Lanzarote

It is no surprise that the easternmost of the Canary Islands is among the top Spanish islands for 2023! Lanzarote has its way of charming you with its blackened lava fields, impressive volcanic cones, and enchanting villages.

From the volcanic hills of Timanfaya National Park and the fresh seafood in the picturesque village of Arrieta to the César Manrique House Museum in Haría, Lanzarote is one of the most impressive Spanish islands with visitors having a magnetic pull towards it.

Volcanic rocks in Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote, Canary Islands

The impressive volcanic landscape of Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote

Ibiza

If the word Ibiza brings back memories of making a fool of yourself dancing with a cold beer in hand at the beach, then you had a little bit more of Ibiza than you should have this year!

But that’s why Ibiza is one of the most popular Spanish islands for 2023 and will be for many years to come! Apart from endless partying, Ibiza is famous for its idyllic beaches such as Benirrás, its amazing architecture evident in the old town, as well as its finger-licking food!

The green coast of Cala Portinatx in Ibiza

The charming cove of Cala Portinatx in Ibiza

Formentera

Right next to Ibiza, the island of Formentera again got into the spotlight in 2023! It’s been one of the most popular islands in Spain for the past year and for good reason.

The Spanish island is great if you want to kick back and relax after a month in Ibiza or if you want to recharge your batteries throughout the summer. It is distinguished by its small fishing villages, remote beaches and delicious seafood dishes. Oh, and its friendly lizards!

The famous lizards of Formentera

The lizards of Formentera welcoming you to the island

Mallorca

Yet another Balearic island that made the most popular list for 2023, Mallorca is a staple of beach holidays in Spain! Also, this was the year that Ferryhopper settled once and for all the Mallorca vs Majorca debate.

So, why is Mallorca so popular with travelers? Well, the island is the largest in the Balearic archipelago, Mondragó beach is one of the most impressive in the Mediterranean, the old town of Alcúdia is mesmerizing and its local markets hide some real culinary and artistic treasures.

Lighthouse at Cap de Formentor in Mallorca

The lighthouse of Cap de Formentor in the northern part of Mallorca

La Gomera

La Gomera might be the second smallest island of the Canary Islands but it made it to the list of the most popular destinations for 2023! For some, it may come as a surprise but not for us!

La Gomera that is also known as the "The magical island" offers stunning viewpoints, picturesque villages, enchanted laurel forests, and beautiful hiking trails. 

It is a great destination for nature lovers who want to spend their vacation surrounded by stunning views. From the amazing hiking trails in the Garajonay National Park to the charming mountainous villages and the pine-filled valleys, La Gomera has a lasting effect on every visitor.

Enchanting laurel forest covered in moss in the Garajonay National Park in La Gomera, Canary Islands

The fairytale-like laurel forest in the Garajonay National Park of La Gomera

Fuerteventura

In 2023, travelers also decided to venture beyond the well-trodden paths of Ibiza and explore the enchanting island of Fuerteventura. Renowned for its pristine beaches and windswept landscapes, Fuerteventura stands out as a haven for sunseekers, nature enthusiasts and windsurfers.

Whether it was chosen by the ones who were looking to unwind after a month in Ibiza or simply revel in the summer vibes, Fuerteventura is rightfully on the list of the most popular Spanish islands for 2023! 

If you didn't get the chance to visit it, you can always make plans for 2024 and explore Fuerteventura's vast stretches of golden sands, complemented by turquoise waters, embrace the laid-back atmosphere, and immerse yourself in the island's blend of tranquility and adventure.

The Matorral beach with turquoise waters and golden sand in Fuerteventura, Spain

The Matorral beach with its pristine waters surrounded by palm trees

Βook ferry tickets to the Spanish islands online

On Ferryhopper, you can book cheap ferry tickets to the islands of the list and many more Spanish destinations easily and quickly. Check our Map of ferries, read our blog for inspiration and tips, start dreaming of your next adventure in 2024 and... Happy new year!