Ischia is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. The volcanic island off the coast of Naples has everything you could want from an Italian island escape—turquoise water, quaint towns, incredible food, and natural hot springs, all without the crowds. Just an hour from Naples by ferry, the stunning island of often overshadowed by its glamours neighbor Capri, but those in the know head to Ischia.
Thanks to its volcanic origins, Ischia is lined with natural hot springs, thermal parks, —perfect for wellness-focused and water-loving travelers. But its unique draw doesn’t stop there. Hike to panoramic viewpoints around Mount Epomeo or visit the island’s most iconic landmark—the Aragonese Castle jutting out on a rocky islet. Whether you’re soaking in thermal waters or exploring its pastel-colored villages, Ischia is the perfect blend of relaxation in an unforgettable atmosphere. Here’s the ultimate travel guide for visiting Ischia!
Where is Ischia
Ischia sits just off Italy’s coast near the bustling port city of Naples. Spanning 18 square miles, the volcanic island is the largest of the three main islands in the Gulf of Naples. Its neighbors Capri and Procida are beautiful in their own way—Capri with its international draw and Procida with its kaleidoscopic colors—but neither match Ischia’s under-the-radar mix of authenticity and luxury.
Know Before You Go
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ischia is May through October. The busiest (and hottest) months are July & August. June and September are two of the best months to visit as the temperatures are more pleasant and crowds are fewer than peak months. For a quiet trip to Ischia geared towards cooler temperature, consider May or October. Outside of these months, many locales close for the off-season.
- How Long to Stay: Spend three days on Ischia for a quick but fulfilling visit—enough time to see the highlights and unwind on the beach. With four to five days, you can venture deeper into the island’s towns and coastal trails. For the ultimate getaway, stay a week to fully embrace the island’s sun-soaked charm.
- How to Get Around: While having your own transportation on Ischia can be convenient, it’s not essential as all the main towns are walkable. Taxis are easy to find in the larger towns during the summer months. For evening rides between villages, it’s a good idea to have your hotel arrange in advance. Buses are also available as the primary form of public transportation, running regularly between towns. Water taxis are a scenic way to get between coastal towns during the summer months. If you’re comfortable driving a scooter on windy narrow roads, this is a fun and convenient option.
- What to Pack: Pack breathable, lightweight pieces—think linen and cotton—for the hot summer days along with plenty of swimwear. Bring a few casual-chic outfits for dinner and a light sweater for the occasional cooler evening. For more tips, read my full European Summer Packing List—coming soon.
- Currency: Euros.
How to Get to Ischia
To reach Ischia, you’ll have to take a ferry—there’s no airport on the island. The most common ferry route is from Naples to Ischia which takes about one hour. In the summer, seasonal ferry routes run from the Amalfi Coast and Capri to Ischia. Ischia has three main ferry ports, Ischia Porto (the busiest), Forio, and Casamicciola.
The closest airport to Ischia is the Naples International Airport (NAP). Alternatively, travelers can fly into the Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and take a high speed train to naples (about 1 hour 10 minutes) then connect to a ferry. You can check ferry timetables here – select the route Naples – Ischia and enter your desired dates.
- From Rome to Ischia: Take the train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale (1 hour 10 minutes). From the station, either catch taxi or bus to Naples port area. Naples has several port areas, Molo Beverello and Calata Porta di Massa, so confirm which port your ticket departs from.
- From Capri, Amalfi, and Sorrento to Ischia: Seasonal ferry routes travel from these destinations to Ischia. Check current schedules and availability in advance. View ferry timetables here by entering your desired route.
Where to Stay on Ischia
Whether you’re planning a quick visit or longer retreat, Ischia offers a town for every type of traveler. From the charming Ischia Ponte & Forio—both ideal for first-time visitors—to the luxury hotels and thermal spas of Lacco Ameno, each town has its own unique appeal. For more indepth recommendations and hotel picks read the full post Where to Stay on Ischia: Best Towns & Hotels.
- Ischia Porto – The busiest town on Ischia, Ischia Porto is perfect for those looking for a quick visit with easy access to the ferry lines and other transportation. Read about our stay at Excelsior Belvedere Hotel & Spa – perfectly located between Ischia Porto and Ischia Ponte.
- Ischia Ponte – Best for first time visitors, Ischia Ponte is a lively seaside town with easy access to dining, the main port, and the Aragonese Castle.
- Forio – Another great option for first-time visitors, Forio is one of the largest towns on Ischia with a direct ferry to Naples, beautiful beaches, and an energetic atmosphere.
- Lacco Ameno – Set on the northwest coast, Lacco Ameno is a quiet town known for its upscale accommodations and thermal spas. Stay here if you’re looking for a luxurious and relaxing getaway. Stay at the stunning San Montano Resort & Spa.
- Casamicciola Terme – With a waterfront promenade, family-friendly beaches, and nearby thermal springs, Casamicciola Terme is ideal for families.
- Sant’Angelo – The secluded picturesque town is for travelers looking for a quiet escape. The car-free town is located near hot springs and beautiful beaches however is a 30-minute drive from ferry ports.
Best Restaurants Ischia
Ischia is known for its rustic island cuisine and fresh seafood. The island’s mineral-rich volcanic soil produces incredibly flavorful local ingredients, especially tomatoes, lemons, and herbs. One of Ischia’s most famous dishes is Coniglio all’Ischitana—Ischian style rabbit cooked in a terracotta pot with herbs, tomatoes, and white wine.
For fresh seafood, Tiramisù in Ischia Porto is a local favorite. For stunning views of the Aragonese Castle at sunset, make a reservation at Giardino Eden Resort or Restaurant Auras. In Lacco Ameno, Indaco offers Michelin-starred cuisine with an impressive wine selection and a serene seaside setting. Another standout is Daní Maison, a two-Michelin-star restaurant uniquely set in the chef’s home with aperitifs served in the garden. Taverna Janto serves delicious food and drinks with sweeping views above Casamicciola Terme. In the hills of Barano and Mount Epomeo, Il Focolare and Il Bracconiere are two of the best spots to try Ischia’s signature rabbit dish. For great cocktails and music head to Porto51in Ischia Porto to finish the night on a lively note.
Best Things to See & Do
Castello Aragonese
Ischia’s most famous landmark, Castello Aragonese is a medieval castle built on a rocky islet connected to Ischia by a stone bridge. The unique castle not only offers panoramic views of Ischia and the surrounding sea, but it also boasts a fascinating history. The castle’s origins date back to 474 BC, when the Greeks built the first fortress. Over the centuries, the location was captured and ruled by numerous powers. In 1441, King Alfonso V of Aragon reconstructed the castle to the structure seen today. Castello Aragonese is one of Ischia’s top attractions. Explore the ancient castle along with its historic chapels, gardens, and incredible views.
Thermal Pools
No trip to Ischia is complete without relaxing in the island’s thermal waters. Underground volcanic activity heats mineral-rich waters that bubble up into natural hot springs. This unique geological activity has been recognized for thousands of years as people would travel from near and far to lounge in Ischia’s thermal springs. The tradition continues today as travelers soak in the island’s rejuvenating waters. Some of the island’s best thermal parks are Giardini Poseidon (Forio), Negombo Thermal Park (Lacco Ameno), and Castiglione Thermal Park (Cassamiciola).
La Mortella Gardens
La Mortella is a stunning subtropical and mediterranean garden cultivated in the 1950s by Lady Susan Walton. Spanning nearly five acres, the gardens are a vibrant collection of rare and exotic plants with numerous water features including streams and tranquil ponds. In addition to its botanical attractions, La Mortella is also home to a museum and a Greek Theatre that hosts concerts and masterclasses. Located outside the charming town of Forio, La Mortella opened to the public over 30 years ago and can be visited seasonally.
Mount Epomeo
At 2,589 ft in elevation, the volcanic mountain is the highest point on Ischia. The steep path offers incredible views that stretch from the island itself to Capri and the Tyrrhenian Sea. At the top of the mountain, visit the Epomeo Museum and enjoy the panoramic vistas. There are several routes to the peak with the Fontana Route being the most popular. This 3.2-mile loop trail takes a couple hours to complete and passes through vineyards, lush landscapes, and volcanic terrain. Be sure to pack water & wear sturdy shoes.
Sant’Angelo
A secluded car-free village on the island’s southern coastline, Sant’Angelo is a serene escape from busier parts of the island and one of Ischia’s most beautiful villages. Wander the narrow streets and shop the local boutiques before enjoying fresh seafood and homemade pasta by the water. Pair your visit to Sant’Angelo with a visit to the popular nearby Maronti Beach.
Beaches
Ischia’s coastline is a stunning mix of soft sands, hidden rocky coves, and alluring blue water—all shaped by island’s volcanic background. Many of its beaches are not just places to swim and sunbath, they’re also natural spas thanks to the island’s hot springs. Whether you’re in looking for a lively atmosphere, sheltered family cove, or a blissful spot to soak up the sun, Ischia has it all. Here are some of the island’s best beaches:
- Maronti Beach (Sant’Angelo) – Stretching nearly 2 miles, this is the largest and most famous beach on Ischia. Spend the day lounging on a sunbed under an umbrella, swimming in inviting sea, and enjoying the area’s many cafes and restaurants.
- Citara Beach (Forio) – Located near Forio, Citara Beach is one of Ischia’s liveliest beaches. This bustling stretch of sand is lined with beach clubs and restaurants and sits steps away from the popular Giardini Poseidon Thermal Park.
- San Montano Bay (Lacco Ameno) – Sheltered by protective cliffs and next to Negombo Thermal Park, the sandy cove offers calm shallow waters ideal for families. Its tranquil setting combined with stunning scenery makes it a relaxing spot to sunbath and swim.
- Spiaggia dei Pescatori (Ischia Ponte) – With stunning views of the Aragonese Castle, this beach in the town of Ischia Ponte and a convenient stop for a swim during a quick visit to the island.
