The Balearic Islands are incredibly popular with us Brits, with thousands of us flocking to Majorca, Menorca and Ibiza each year. There are pastel-coloured towns with cobbled streets, long golden beaches lined with pine trees and some of the world’s finest nightlife, all in this cluster of islands. It’s not hard to see why we love it so much. We’ve rounded up the destinations that have us rooting for our passports, and desperately trying to find extra holiday leave.

1. Palma

Majorca’s biggest city, Palma, offers up cobbled streets brimming with tiny tapas bars, bounteous shopping opportunities and an imposing Gothic Cathedral, all served up with a healthy dose of sea air. As beach-side cities go, this is an awfully good one. To mingle with the hip, young Majorcans, head to the former fishing district of Santa Catalina which has seen an outburst of bars and restaurants in recent years.

2. Playa d’en Bossa

We couldn’t feature a blog on the Balearics without featuring Ibiza’s infamous clubbing scene. Playa d’en Bossa is graced with Ibiza’s longest beach replete with white sands and swaying palm trees and lots of beach bars at which to sip a cocktail. However, beyond the picturesque scenes there is a hedonistic world just waiting to be explored. Space, Ushuaia and Sankeys are some of the world’s (arguably) greatest nightclubs and draw in acts such as David Guetta, Avicii and Carl Cox year on year.

3. Mahon

Menorca may be sleepier than its counterparts Ibiza and Majorca, but that doesn’t mean that its capital Mahon has nothing to offer. It is a city full of cafes, many of which are set around the world’s largest natural port, creating a picturesque focal point. For a touch of glamour, head down to the quayside where you can imagine a jet set life for yourself surrounded by yachts.

To get to grips with the history of the island, head to the Museum of Menorca which is situated in a 17th century monastery.

4. Formentera

The pretty isle of Formentera packs a serious holiday punch. It is only accessible by ferry from Ibiza, and as such does not have the crowds of its sister islands. The island is resplendent in its turquoise waters and golden sands, backed by lush green pine forests. This is a destination where nature rules, and you’d be best placed spending your time here snorkelling under the cool waves or absorbing the beauty of your surroundings. Pack plenty of books, and prepare yourself for a thoroughly relaxing escape on a holiday in Formentera.

5. Puerto Pollensa

Puerto Pollensa is a tree-lined town on the northeastern coast of Majorca graced with two pretty beaches and copious numbers of restaurants serving the freshest sea-fare. For a romantic evening stroll, walk hand-in-hand along the Pine Walk beside the seafront. Those who are looking for something a little less sedate should head to Pollensa Beach during the day, when the waves are cut up by jet-skiers, paddle-boarders and water-skiers.

6. Alcudia

Alcudia in the north of Majorca is one of the island’s most popular tourist resorts, and it’s not hard to see why when it is endowed with an Old Town full of pastel-coloured buildings, long swathes of beach and a whole host of activities to unleash your inner child. We recommend heading to the Hidropark where children and adults alike will enjoy slipping down the water slides, and racing back up to do it all over again. Elsewhere, you can brush up on your culture at the Fundacion Yannick y Ben Jakober which houses a number of fine artworks and sculptures.

7. Cala Galdana

Cala Galdana is one of Menorca’s most picturesque beaches and on an island full of pretty beaches, that says a lot. The beach has been awarded Blue Flag status for its clear, sparkling waters and flour-soft sands. Just at the edge of the sands there is a cluster of pine trees where sun-seekers can take some much needed shade. There are a number of water sports on offer but you’d be forgiven for choosing to spend your time here splashing in the shallows, or really doing nothing at all.

8. Ibiza Town

Ibiza Town marries art galleries, museums and historic sites with a vibrant night scene, meaning that travellers can experience the best of both worlds. Ibiza’s Upper Town (Dalt Vila, in Spanish) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers holidaymakers the chance to ascend the fortifications of the Old Town, to find panoramic vistas at the top.

Those looking to dance the night away should head to Pacha, where entrance to the restaurant (with a minimum spend) will give you free entry to the nightclub.

9. Cala Portinatx

The tiny resort of Cala Portinatx is arguably Ibiza’s prettiest. It is nestled amid cool green forests, and surrounded by turquoise waters. Exploring the sea here, you have three options for a white sandy beach: S’Arenal Gros, S’Arenal Petit and Es Port. The last of which is a great spot for snorkelling.

Those looking to get their hearts racing after a few too many days relaxing in the sun, should head to the El Greco Waterpark where holidaymakers can splash around for hours.

10. Ciutadella

Ciutadella is Menorca’s second city, and is full to the brim with historical sites. There are lots of 18th-century palaces to ogle, and you can step inside and explore the Palau Salort. If you prefer to enjoy your culture with a glass of wine in hand head to one of the many cafés and bars on the city’s main square, Plaça des Born. Every June, an equestrian festival parades through this square bringing with it jousting matches, and much pomp and revelry.

Ciutadella’s shopping streets are lined with artisan jewellers and independent boutiques making it a great spot to purchase unique items that cannot be found at home.