Ischia Travel Guide

From tips on the best times to visit to insights on the island's top beaches, thermal spas, and stunning hotels, my comprehensive Ischia Travel Guide will help you plan the perfect island escape on Italy's breathtaking Bay of Naples.

Ischia, known for its natural hot springs, lush gardens, and coastal charm, is one of Italy's most enchanting islands. Whether you're looking to unwind at a luxury spa, explore picturesque villages like Sant'Angelo, or enjoy crystal-clear waters and seaside dining, this guide has everything you need to plan your perfect island getaway.

Jump to:

• How to Get to Ischia
• Best Time to Visit Ischia
• How Many Days to Stay in Ischia
• Key Towns of Ischia
• Getting Around Ischia
• Top Hotels in Ischia
• Top Things to Do in Ischia
• Top Beaches to Visit
• Best Restaurants in Ischia
• Top Beach Clubs
• Top Thermal Spas
• Travel Tips
• Ready to Book Your Italy Trip?
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How to Get to Ischia

By Air: The closest major airport is Naples International Airport (NABy Air: The nearest airport is Naples International Airport (NAP), which is the main gateway to Ischia.

By Ferry: From Naples, you can take a ferry or hydrofoil from Molo Beverello or Calata Porta di Massa directly to Ischia Porto, Casamicciola, or Forio. The journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the type of boat. **Book in advance during peak season (May-September)

By Train: If you're arriving from another Italian city, take a train to Naples Central Station (Napoli Centrale), then transfer to the port for your ferry connection to the island.

By Car: Cars can be transported on select ferries from Naples or Pozzuoli, but driving isn't necessary on the island-many visitors prefer taxis, scooters, or local buses to get around.

Best Time to Visit Ischia

The best time to visit Ischia is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October), when the weather is pleasantly warm, the gardens are in full bloom, and the island is less crowded than in peak summer. During these months, you can enjoy the thermal spas, beaches, and charming villages at a relaxed pace, and hotel rates are generally more reasonable.

Summer can be busy, especially in popular towns like Ischia Porto and Forio, while winter offers a peaceful retreat with fewer tourists, though some attractions and hotels may have limited services. Overall, spring and fall offer the perfect balance of weather, tranquility, and accessibility for exploring all that Ischia has to offer.

We always go in May and it is amazing! Sunny, warm, and not crowded at all 🙂

How Many Days to Stay in Ischia

For a fulfilling visit, 3 to 5 days on Ischia is ideal. This gives you time to explore the island's main towns like Ischia Porto, Forio, and Sant'Angelo, relax in the thermal spas, soak up the sun on beautiful beaches, wander through lush gardens like La Mortella, and savor local cuisine.

Fewer than three days can feel rushed, while a week or more is perfect if you want a slower pace, more hiking, or to discover quieter corners of the island, hidden coves, and scenic viewpoints.

Key Towns of Ischia

Below are the most popular towns of Ischia:

1. Ischia Porto

• Description: The vibrant heart of the island, Ischia Porto is the main port and hub of activity. Known for its lively streets, bustling marina, and historic sites, it's a great base for exploring the island.
• Highlights: Aragonese Castle, Corso Vittoria Colonna for shopping and dining, marina views, and ferry connections.

2. Forio

• Description: Forio is a charming town famous for its beaches, thermal spas, and historic churches. It has a relaxed, authentic atmosphere with a mix of local life and tourist-friendly spots.
• Highlights: Citara Beach and Giardini Poseidon thermal park, Chiesa del Soccorso, vibrant piazzas, and seaside promenades.

3. Sant'Angelo

• Description: A picturesque fishing village at the southern tip of the island, Sant'Angelo is known for its car-free streets, colorful harbor, and luxury hotels. It's ideal for a romantic or tranquil getaway.
• Highlights: Harborfront cafes, boutique shopping, private beach clubs, and sunset views over the sea.

4. Casamicciola Terme

• Description: Renowned for its thermal springs and wellness resorts, Casamicciola Terme offers a rejuvenating experience with a historic spa culture and quiet streets.
• Highlights: Thermal baths, wellness resorts, hiking nearby Mount Epomeo, and peaceful village charm.

5. Lacco Ameno

• Description: A small, elegant town known for its beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and scenic views. Lacco Ameno combines relaxation with a touch of sophistication.
• Highlights: San Montano Bay, ancient Roman Villa, thermal baths, and boutique hotels along the coast.

Getting Around Ischia

Getting around Ischia is part of the island experience, with ferries, buses, and scooters making it easy to explore without a car. While driving is possible, many visitors prefer public transport or walking to fully enjoy the island's charm.

• Walking & Exploring: The best way to discover the narrow streets, colorful alleys, and scenic harbors of towns like Ischia Porto, Forio, and Sant'Angelo.
• Ferry & Boat: Short ferry and hydrofoil connections link Ischia Porto with nearby ports and even day trips to Procida or Naples, while private boats or water taxis offer access to hidden coves and secluded beaches.
• Bus: Local buses run frequently between the main towns, beaches, and attractions, making it convenient to explore without a car.
• Car or Scooter: Renting a car or scooter is useful for reaching hilltop villages or more remote areas, but traffic and narrow streets in town centers can make parking challenging.

Top Hotels in Ischia

Ischia is home to some of Italy's most enchanting and luxurious accommodations, where island charm, lush landscapes, and warm Italian hospitality come together perfectly. From seaside resorts with panoramic views of the Bay of Naples to boutique hotels tucked into charming village streets, the island offers options for every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking a luxury spa retreat, a romantic hideaway in Sant'Angelo, or a cozy inn near thermal gardens and beaches, Ischia accommodations are as unforgettable as the island itself.

Luxury Hotels in ISCHIA

• San Montano Resort & Spa (Lacco Ameno) - A chic, modern hotel with thermal pools, lush gardens, and access to the serene San Montano Bay, ideal for relaxation and wellness.
• Mezzatorre Hotel & Thermal Spa (Forio) - A luxury resort set on a private promontory, offering exclusive beaches, thermal pools, and breathtaking sunset views over the Tyrrhenian Sea.
• Hotel Terme Manzi (Forio) - A historic 5-star hotel with thermal spa facilities, stunning sea views, and elegant rooms, perfect for a rejuvenating island retreat.
• Regina Isabella (Ischia Porto) - An iconic 5-star hotel blending historic charm with modern elegance, featuring a thermal spa, private beach, and panoramic terraces.
• Miramare & Castello (Ischia Porto) - Located near the Aragonese Castle, this boutique hotel offers cliffside views, beautifully designed rooms, and a tranquil atmosphere.
• Excelsior Belvedere Hotel & Spa (Ischia Porto) - A family-owned luxury property on the waterfront, known for refined service, spacious rooms, and stunning views of the marina.

Boutique & Mid-Range Hotels in ischia

• Hotel Villa Durrueli Resort & Spa (Forio) - A seaside luxury resort combining elegant accommodations, thermal spa treatments, and direct access to a beautiful private beach.
• Hotel Punta Molino Beach Resort & Spa (Forio) - A five-star resort with cliffside views, lush gardens, and a focus on wellness and personalized service.
• Parco Smeraldo Terme (Casamicciola Terme) - A tranquil spa resort offering thermal pools, panoramic terraces, and proximity to the island's top hiking and sightseeing spots.
• Grand Hotel Il Moresco (Sant'Angelo) - A boutique luxury hotel perched near the harbor, featuring elegant rooms, sea views, and intimate, personalized service for a peaceful island escape.

Top Things to Do in Ischia

Ischia is an island full of unforgettable experiences, from charming villages to hidden coves and lush gardens along the sparkling Bay of Naples. Whether wandering the streets of Ischia Porto, relaxing in thermal spas, exploring historic castles and gardens, or watching the sunset over the sea, there's something for every traveler to enjoy.

• Boat Tours: Discover hidden coves and beaches from the water. Ferries and private boats depart from Ischia Porto or Sant'Angelo.
• Hiking Mount Epomeo: A scenic trail leading to the island's highest point, offering panoramic views of the coast and surrounding islands.
• Day Trips to Procida or Capri: Take a short ferry to explore neighboring islands with charming streets, beaches, and historic sites.
• Historical Sites: Visit Aragonese Castle in Ischia Porto, La Mortella Gardens in Forio, and centuries-old churches scattered across the island.

Top Beaches to Visit

Ischia isn't just about thermal spas and charming villages-it's also home to some of Italy's most beautiful beaches. From secluded coves with crystal-clear waters to lively seaside stretches lined with cafés and colorful umbrellas, the island offers something for every type of beachgoer. Whether you're looking to relax, swim, or soak in breathtaking coastal scenery, these beaches are perfect for a sun-soaked day on the island.

• Spiaggia dei Maronti (Forio) - One of the island's longest beaches, known for its golden sand, thermal springs nearby, and lively local atmosphere.
• Citara Beach (Forio) - Famous for the Giardini Poseidon Thermal Park, this beach combines sun, sea, and wellness facilities.
• Sant'Angelo Beach (Sant'Angelo) - A picturesque, car-free village beach with colorful harbor views and charming seaside cafés.
• Cartaromana Beach (Ischia Porto) - A small, scenic beach near Aragonese Castle, perfect for swimming and snorkeling in calm waters.
• San Montano Beach (Lacco Ameno) - A tranquil bay surrounded by gardens and luxury resorts, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.
• Cava dell'Isola (Forio) - A quiet, pebbly cove offering dramatic cliffs and clear waters, great for a peaceful escape.
• Fumarole Beach (Barano d'Ischia) - Unique for its natural hot springs that warm the sand and water, a truly one-of-a-kind beach experience.
• Maronti Bay Hot Springs (Forio) - Secluded areas along the bay where geothermal activity creates natural thermal pools right on the shore.
• Zaro Beach (Ischia Ponte) - A charming local beach near Ischia Porto, ideal for families and casual sunbathing.
• Cava Grado (Ischia) - A small, scenic spot popular for snorkeling and enjoying quiet moments by the water.

Best Restaurants in Ischia

Ischia's dining scene is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, where fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and traditional island recipes come together in every dish. From elegant seaside restaurants with stunning views of the Bay of Naples to cozy trattorie tucked into charming village streets, Ischia offers a culinary experience that blends rustic charm, creativity, and authentic Italian flavors.

Whether you're savoring freshly caught fish, spaghetti alle vongole, or a classic Caprese salad paired with locally produced wine or limoncello, every meal on the island feels like a true taste of the Mediterranean.

High-End Restaurants

• La Conchiglia (Sant'Angelo) - Seaside restaurant known for fresh, locally caught seafood, traditional Ischian recipes, and a panoramic terrace with sunset views.
• Il Mosaico (Forio) - Michelin-starred fine dining featuring creative Italian cuisine with impeccable presentation and a stunning sea view.
• Regina Isabella Restaurant (Ischia Porto) - Elegant dining at the iconic hotel, offering gourmet Mediterranean dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients.
• Lo Scoglio (Sant'Angelo) - Chic seaside restaurant serving refined seafood dishes with panoramic harbor views.
• Ristorante La Torre (Forio) - Innovative menus blending traditional island flavors with modern culinary techniques, set in a luxurious setting.
• Ristorante Casa Celestino (Ischia Porto) - Michelin-level experience with sophisticated Italian cuisine emphasizing local and seasonal ingredients.

Family-Friendly Restaurants

• Da Ciccio (Forio) - Casual eatery with classic Italian dishes perfect for families and relaxed meals.
• Ristorante Zi'Ntonio (Sant'Angelo) - Traditional island cuisine in a welcoming, informal atmosphere.
• La Piazzetta (Ischia Porto) - Cozy trattoria serving pasta, pizza, and fresh seafood with a friendly, family-oriented vibe.
• Ristorante Il Giardino (Lacco Ameno) - Offers hearty, approachable meals with local ingredients and a casual setting.
• Pizzeria del Porto (Ischia Porto) - Simple, delicious pizzas enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Local Favorites

• Ristorante Da Renato (Forio) - Beloved spot for fresh seafood, pasta, and authentic island recipes.
• Trattoria Il Focolare (Casamicciola Terme) - Rustic and authentic, serving classic Ischian dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
• Bar Calise (Ischia Porto) - Historic café and gelateria known for pastries, coffee, and light bites.
• Ristorante Aenaria (Sant'Angelo) - Charming harbor-side restaurant popular for fresh fish and local specialties.
• Il Giardinetto (Forio) - Family-run favorite serving traditional recipes with a focus on seasonal, local ingredients.

Top Beach Clubs

Ischia offers more than just sun-soaked beaches-it's home to beach clubs where relaxation and Mediterranean charm come together. From stylish lounges with cabanas and cocktails to lively seaside spots with music and fresh dining, these clubs provide the perfect setting to enjoy the sun, sea, and island atmosphere like a local.

Many of these spots require reservations, especially during peak season.

• Giardino Eden Beach Club (Ischia Ponte) - An exclusive seaside retreat across from Castello Aragonese, Giardino Eden combines crystal-clear waters with refined dining and private sun terraces carved into the rocks.
• Gardenia Mare (Ischia Ponte) - A chic beach club and restaurant perched just below Castello Aragonese. Expect turquoise waters, Mediterranean dishes, and a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere ideal for a long lunch or sunset aperitivo.
• Negombo Beach Club (Forio) - One of the most famous on the island, offering thermal pools, private beach access, and a full-service restaurant.
• Club Scannella (Sant'Angelo area) - A hidden gem accessible only by stairs or boat, this club offers tranquility and panoramic sea views. Its secluded setting, natural pools, and laid-back restaurant make it one of Ischia's most exclusive coastal spots.
• La Scogliera Beach Club (Sant'Angelo) - A scenic, chic spot with sunbeds, umbrellas, and seaside dining, ideal for a relaxed day by the water.
• Lido San Montano (Lacco Ameno) - Located in a tranquil bay, this club offers luxury loungers, crystal-clear waters, and access to nearby thermal springs.
• Bagno Elena (Ischia Porto) - A lively beach club with cocktails, sunbeds, and easy access to the harbor, perfect for combining relaxation with a bit of social atmosphere.

Top Thermal Spas

Ischia's thermal spas are the soul of the island - where nature, relaxation, and centuries-old healing traditions come together. Known as the "Island of Eternal Youth," Ischia is blessed with over a hundred natural hot springs, volcanic muds, and mineral-rich waters that have drawn visitors since Roman times.

From luxurious wellness resorts overlooking the sea to charming thermal parks surrounded by tropical gardens, each spa offers its own blend of rejuvenation and serenity. Whether you're soaking in a cliffside pool at sunset or unwinding in a natural grotto, Ischia's thermal experience is a journey of pure Italian indulgence and well-being.

• Castiglione Thermal Park (Casamicciola Terme) - A serene hilltop retreat featuring multiple thermal pools with views of the Gulf of Naples. The park also offers a funicular to the sea, wellness treatments, and an excellent restaurant for a full-day relaxation experience.
• O' Vagnitiello Thermal Park (Casamicciola Terme) - Smaller and more intimate than the larger parks, O' Vagnitiello offers cliffside pools, direct sea access, and a cozy family-run atmosphere. It's perfect for travelers who prefer a more local, peaceful vibe.
• Parco Termale Tropical (Sant'Angelo) - Overlooking Maronti Bay, this thermal park offers ocean-view pools, waterfalls, and flower-filled terraces. A great mid-priced option for those who want the benefits of Ischia's waters without the crowds.
• Giardini Aphrodite Apollon (Sant'Angelo) - A beautiful seaside spa within walking distance of the village of Sant'Angelo. Featuring thermal pools overlooking the sea, a natural sauna, and a quiet sunbathing area - it's both scenic and soothing.
• Terme di Nitrodi (Barano d'Ischia) - Renowned since ancient Roman times for its healing waters, Nitrodi is surrounded by lush greenery and known for its restorative effects on skin and health. Simple, peaceful, and perfect for a natural wellness escape.

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