Compare San Antonio car hire

Ibiza’s party capital has a well-deserved reputation for beach parties, all-night raves and swanky bottle service. But beyond its club scene, San Antonio – also known as Sant Antoni de Portmany – is a beautiful coastal town packed with quiet coves, historic architecture and ample opportunities to explore.

Renting a car gives you the freedom to roam and discover the best of Ibiza, far beyond its big-name DJs and super clubs.

The area around Playa es Pouet is your best bet for car hire in San Antonio, with both local and international brands offering rental outlets not far from the beach.

It always pays to book a rental in advance. But if you’re the spontaneous type, don’t forget to compare deals between the various rental companies and you could still make some last-minute savings.

In addition to other big names, you’ll find companies including:

• Europcar: +34 911 505 000
• Class Rent a Car: +34 971 804 045
• Autos Portmany Rent a Car: +34 971 340 673 / +34 687 768 460
• Turbo Rent a Car: +34 971 343 799
• Moto Luis Rent a Car: +34 971 340 521

With a car at your disposal Ibiza becomes your oyster. Discover the island’s natural wonders, including stunning beaches like Cala Vadella, Cala de Sant Vicent and Cala Comte.

San Antonio is around 22km (12 miles) from Ibiza Airport (IBZ). As the island’s only airport, it’s the gateway to all of Ibiza and Formentera, with plenty of direct flights from the UK.

Behind the wheel of a rental car, you can be in town in half an hour on a good day. Hop on the scenic EI-700 or the C-731, which takes you directly to San Antonio.

You’ll find a range of car rental companies on Floor 0 in the Passenger Terminal. There are several clusters of agent desks here, some in the baggage claim hall and others in the arrivals hall. You can take your pick from:

• Hertz: +34 971 809 178
• Avis / Budget: +34 902 090 262
• Enterprise: +34 871 554 700
• Europcar: +34 911 505 000
• Goldcar: +34 918 341 400
• Sixt: +34 902 491 616 / +34 871 180 192

Whichever provider you go with, it’s always best to book in advance. This way, you can digest any fees and added extras ahead of time, while taking your pick from a wider selection of vehicles.

Most rental companies at Ibiza Airport offer compacts, SUVs, saloons, people carriers and luxury cars.

Booking in advance also saves you time and hassle when you touch down on the White Island. Just waltz up to the rental desk with your booking info, passport and credit card and you’ll be behind the wheel in no time.

With the keys to your hire car, you’ve got all you need to explore San Antonio’s sunset boulevards, Michelin-star restaurants, Punta Galera cliffs and picture-perfect beaches.

At just 35km (21 miles) long and 20km (12 miles) wide, Ibiza is entirely within your grasp at the wheel of a rental car. For a little culture, make your way to Dalt Vila, Ibiza’s fortified old town of quaint cobbled streets, winding alleys and beautiful restaurants.

For more quiet contemplation, put on your sunnies, pack your swimmers and head to the island’s northeast. The beaches here are as sleepy as it gets, perfect for lazy afternoons on the sand with little more than a good book.

It’s hard to find anywhere that’s more than an hour’s drive away from San Antonio. All the same, a scenic cruise around the whole island will bring you into contact with striking greenery, mountain passes and salt flats.

Wherever you collect your wheels, keep the rules of the road at the front of your mind. Most are easy enough to remember: drive on the right, keep off your mobile phone, use headlights in poor visibility and stick to the speed limits.

Unless clearly signed, go for 50km/h (30mph) in urban areas, 90km/h (55mph) on national highways and 120km/h (75mph) on motorways. You might get a ticket if you forget where your indicators are too.

With the important stuff ingrained in your brain, you can strap in and enjoy your Balearic adventure.