For an island where million-euro villas change hands like beach towels and VIP tables sell at eye-watering prices, the ‘world-class lifestyle’ hasn’t always extended to the bus network. It’s often felt… vintage.
But finally Ibiza is getting a proper bus system.
From April 1, 2026, the Island Council has signed a brand-new, 10-year, €88.8 million contract with national bus operator ALSA and this time it actually sounds modern.
100 New Buses
Not a repaint. Not a reshuffle. A fleet of 100 vehicles, including:
• 64 fully electric
• 3 hybrid
• The rest brand-new and upgraded
Over 10 years, the operation is projected to generate €203.5 million. This isn’t a side project. It’s infrastructure and for an island that talks sustainability 24/7, having most of the fleet electric feels appropriate.
Bigger Network. More Routes. Actual Coverage.
The island-wide contract is split in two:
Ibiza Town and surrounding area
• 17 lines
• 38 buses (all electric)
• 1.8 million km a year
• 1.9 million passengers
Rest of the island
• 44 lines
• 62 buses (26 electric + 3 hybrid)
• 4+ million km annually
• Nearly 4 million passengers
Routes and frequencies are being overhauled so in theory, this means less ‘hope for the best’ and more ‘the bus has actually turned up’.
Revolutionary Concept: Knowing When Your Bus Arrives
Brace yourselves, there will be:
• Live tracking via the ALSA app
• QR codes at bus stops
• Real-time arrival updates
Yes, Ibiza is officially entering the era where you don’t just stare into the distance wondering if the 8.15am was cancelled in 2014 and it was a secret that nobody told you about.
You Can Pay by Card. On The Actual Bus
Groundbreaking (for Ibiza anyway).
Contactless payments on all buses. Ticket machines at key hubs including the airport, port, Ibiza, San Antonio, Santa Eulalia and Es Cana.
No more scrambling for coins. No more ‘cash only’ surprises. Just tap and go like most of Europe has been doing for years. Progress.
Not Just New, Actually Thought Through
The new buses will include:
• Double ramps and proper accessibility
• Dedicated spaces for reduced mobility passengers
• Free WiFi
• USB charging ports
• Onboard streaming systems
So yes, you can charge your phone while watching something on your way across the island. We’ve made it!
The process started in 2019. There were appeals, suspensions, administrative drama. Very Ibiza but now it’s signed, sealed and rolling out progressively through 2026.
ALSA is positioning Ibiza as a flagship project, with a strong focus on zero-emission vehicles, which means the infrastructure might actually match the island’s eco-messaging.
Why It Matters (Even If Buses Aren’t Sexy)
Public transport isn’t glamorous but it shapes:
• Traffic chaos
• Air quality
• Worker mobility
• Tourist experience
• The daily sanity of everyone who uses it
If this delivers as promised, it could be one of the most important upgrades the island has seen in years. Ibiza doesn’t need another beach club, it needs buses that turn up. April 2026, we’re ready.
MAN IN SAN AN by Martin Makepeace 