Set in the glistening waters of the Bay of Naples, Ischia is known for its rejuvenating thermal waters, stunning landscapes, and charming seaside towns. The Italian Island, often overshadowed by its famous neighbor Capri, offers an authentic and laid-back experience. Each of Ischia’s towns has its own distinct character, catering to a variety of interests and travel styles.
First time visitors should stay in either Ischia Ponte or Forio for their historic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and vibrant restaurant scene. For a serene and luxurious escape, Lacco Ameno’s upscale hotels and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect choice. Whether you’re drawn to cultural landmarks, natural beauty or indulgent spa experiences, Ischia has a town to match your vision of the perfect getaway. Here are Ischia’s best towns and standout hotels for planning your visit!
Read more about the under-the-radar Italian island in the complete Ischia Travel Guide, coming soon.
Ischia Town (Ischia Ponte & Ischia Porto)
Ischia Town is comprised of two areas: Ischia Porto and Ischia Ponte. Ischia Porto is the island’s main port area with some of the best nightlife on the island and year-round ferries to mainland Italy. A 25-minute walk from the main port, Ischia Ponte is a charming seaside village home to the Aragonese Castle.
Ischia Ponte – Best for First Time Visitors
Stay in Ischia Ponte for a walkable stay in a lively town with easy access to dining, the main port, and the Aragonese Castle.
A short walk from Ischia’s main port, Ischia Ponte combines history, charm, and convenience, making it an ideal base for first-time visitors. A former fishing village, the seaside town exudes charm with its narrow cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and inviting restaurants. The town is home to the iconic Aragonese Castle, a medieval fortress built on a rocky islet and connected to the mainland by bridge. As one of Ischia’s most iconic landmarks, the castle offers incredible views and a fascinating history.
Ischia Porto – Best for Nightlife & Transportation
Stay in Ischia Porto for the island’s best nightlife and easy access to transportation.
Ischia Porto is the island’s vibrant hub and main port area with year-round ferry connections to mainland Italy and seasonal routes to Capri, Sorrento, and the Amalfi Coast. As the busiest area on the island, Ischia Porto boasts the island’s largest selection of restaurants, cafes, bars, shops, and even a few nightclubs. The bustling atmosphere makes it ideal for those looking for a more energetic social scene.
Hotel Pick: Excelsior Belvedere Hotel and Spa – With a private beach, views of the Aragonese Castle, and a thermal spa, this villa-turned-luxury-hotel is a wonderful stay. Plus, the property is conveniently centered in Ischia Town with easy access to both Ischia Porto and Ischia Ponte.
Lacco Ameno – Best for Luxury & Thermal Spas
Stay in Lacco Ameno for a sophisticated atmosphere and proximity to thermal spas and upscale accommodation.
Nestled on Ischia’s northwest coast, Lacco Ameno is a refined and tranquil town known for its upscale accommodations and relaxing thermal spas. Lacco Ameno is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a luxurious escape paired with the island’s famed rejuvenating waters. One of the island’s best thermal parks is Negombo Thermal Park, which offers thermal pools and stunning sea views. The quiet town of Lacco Ameno features charismatic streets, boutique shops, and the famous Fungo rock, a mushroom-shaped rock formation. Lacco Ameno is a good central base for exploring the rest of Ischia—rent a scooter, car, or utilize the island’s bus system to visit other attractions.
Hotel Pick: San Montano Resort & Spa – Perched above the sea with panoramic views, the property features tiered thermal pools, incredible dining, and warm hospitality.
Casamicciola Terme – Best for Families & Thermal Spas
Stay in Casamicciola Terme for a convenient family-friendly getaway blending plenty of daytime activities with relaxing evenings.
Set between Ischia Porto and Lacco Ameno, Casamicciola Terme is a haven for families and wellness seekers. Known for its abundance of hot springs, the seaside town offers family-friendly beaches and a bustling town atmosphere that quiets down after dark. Casamicciola’s central location makes it a good base from which to explore Ischia. It even has its own ferry connection to mainland Italy. A highlight for families is the popular Castiglione Thermal Park, with numerous thermal pools and cooler pools designed for children.
Hotel Pick: Hotel Terme Gran Paradiso – A a short walk from the town center, this charming family-run hotel offers a comfortable stay with an onsite restaurant, refreshing pool, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Forio – Best for a Lively Stay & First Time Visitors
Stay in Forio for an energetic atmosphere with plenty to see and do.
Home to beautiful beaches, Forio is one of Ischia’s largest towns and is a great choice for first time visitors. Located on Ischia’s west coast, this lively town offers a direct ferry connection to Naples. Forio is known for its walkable streets and energetic dining scene. Nature lovers can visit the nearby beautiful Mortella Gardens, a botanical oasis, while relaxation seekers can unwind at Giardini Poseidon, one of Ischia’s most popular thermal parks.
Hotel Pick: Mezzatorre Hotel & Thermal Spa – The cliffside property features a private cove, incredible views at every turn, and its own thermal spa.
Sant’Angelo – Best for Secluded Relaxation
Stay in Sant’Angelo for a truly unplugged retreat that combines tranquility and understated luxury.
Located on Ischia’s southern coast, Sant’Angelo is a picturesque town for travelers looking for peace and charm. The idyllic car-free village is home to boutique shops and cozy cafes. Sant’Angelo offers easy access to thermal springs and stunning beaches, like the popular Maronti Beach. There are no direct ferry connections from mainland Italy to Sant’Angelo and the town is a 30-minute taxi ride from Ischia’s main ferry ports.
Hotel Pick: Miramare Sea Resort & Spa – Set in the cliffs on the edge of the Sant’Angelo, the luxury retreat features elegant rooms and breathtaking views with private terraces. Enjoy the property’s incredible dining and access to the Aphrodite Apollon Thermal Park.
