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Why Visit Ischia
Ischia's story starts with Greek colonists in the 8th century BC, making it the West's first Greek settlement. The Aragonese Castle, linked by a 15th-century causeway, stands as a testament to its past, with defenses against Saracen pirates.
Beyond the beaches, Mount Epomeo offers trails through lush tuff stone landscapes, revealing ancient hermitages carved into the rock. For anyone visiting Ischia, the thermal parks like Negombo are a must, fed by over 100 volcanic hot springs.
The island's cuisine is defined by its land and sea. Try "coniglio all'ischitana," a slow-cooked rabbit dish unique to our culinary tradition. Pair it with a glass of Biancolella white wine, grown on ancient terraced vineyards overlooking the sea.
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Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octmild weather, fewer crowds
- Jul-Aughot, busy with tourists
- Wintermild, occasional rain
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Sunscreen
- #Swimwear
- #LightJacket
- #PowerAdapterTypeC
- 3-5 days for highlights
- 6-7 with beaches & day trips
- Euro (€)
- Italian
- English widely spoken in tourist areas
- #CastelloAragonese
- #SantAngelo
- #GiardiniLaMortella
- #ForioBeach
- #NegomboThermalGardens
- #IschiaPort
- Relax at thermal springs
- Visit Castello Aragonese
- Explore the village of Sant'Angelo
- Hike Mount Epomeo
- Taste local seafood dishes
Recommended Hotels in Ischia by Experience
Things to do in Ischia
Discover
Exploring Ischia reveals a volcanic island with rich history. Discover the medieval Castello Aragonese, the lush botanical Giardini La Mortella, and panoramic views from Monte Epomeo's peak. The island is dotted with ancient churches and museums.
Experience
Relax in thermal parks like Negombo, hike trails on Monte Epomeo, or enjoy boat tours around the island. Experience local culture at the Festa di Sant'Anna, taste the island's unique wines, and visit the charming village of Sant'Angelo.
Castello Aragonese
Historic castle on a tidal islet with panoramic sea views.
Giardini La Mortella
Subtropical botanical garden created by Susana Walton.
Monte Epomeo Hike
Challenging trail to the island's highest volcanic peak.
Sant'Angelo Village
Charming, car-free fishing village with quaint alleys.
Negombo Thermal Park
Seaside thermal park with pools and contemporary art.
Maronti Beach
Ischia's largest beach, known for its thermal sands.
Museo Archeologico di Pithecusae
Museum housing artifacts from the Greek colonial era.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
To get to Ischia, fly into Naples Airport (NAP). Take the Alibus to Molo Beverello for fast hydrofoils (~50 min) or Porta di Massa for ferries (~90 min). There is no direct train to Ischia; travel from Napoli Centrale station to the port by bus or taxi.
Getting Around
The public transport in Ischia is a reliable bus network. Key routes are the CS (Circolare Sinistra) and CD (Circolare Destra) that circle the island. For more freedom, a car rental in Ischia or scooter hire is available. Water taxis connect beaches.
Local Essentials
As part of your plan a trip to Ischia, note that driving in Ischia involves very narrow roads. Purchase bus tickets from a 'tabaccheria' before boarding. Ferry and hydrofoil schedules change between high and low seasons, so verify times in advance.
Where to Stay in Ischia
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore authentic food Ischia offers. Taste the island's coniglio all'ischitana, fresh seafood, and local Biancolella wine. The day ends with a relaxed aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink and snack ritual before you eat.
Enjoy
Find the best restaurants in Ischia at Il Focolare for rustic charm, book ahead. Sip cocktails at Gardenia Mare, a chic bar with sunset views. Grab a morning pastry at the historic, bustling Calise, a local fixture.
Il Focolare
Famous for its Ischian rabbit. Rustic, hilltop setting.
Cantinando
Top-rated for creative seafood. Intimate, cozy atmosphere.
Gardenia Mare
Upscale waterfront dining experience. Reservations essential.
Ristorante da Ciccio
Classic dishes by the Aragonese Castle. Family-run feel.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Ischia's heritage through religious festivals like the Festa di Sant'Anna, with its parade of boats, or the Festa di San Michele, marked by a sea procession. These events connect to the island's deep-rooted fishing and Catholic traditions.
Enjoy
Discover modern Ischia cultural activities. The island hosts the acclaimed Ischia Global Film & Music Fest and the Ischia Film Festival. Enjoy classical concerts and other performances at venues like the Giardini La Mortella.
Festa a Mare agli Scogli di Sant'Anna
July sea festival with a parade of allegorical boats.
Ischia Global Film & Music Fest
International film and music event held every July.
Festa di San Michele Arcangelo
A religious event in Sant'Angelo in late September.
Ischia Film Festival
International film competition held at the Aragonese Castle.
Andar per Cantine
September wine festival with cellar tours and tastings.
Festa di San Vito
Patron saint festival in Forio in June with processions.
Kirker Ischia Music Festival
A series of private classical concerts at La Mortella.
A truly calming escape
Ischia is such a beautiful island, way more relaxed than other spots near Naples. The whole place is covered in green, with amazing views of the sea everywhere. It is perfect for just unwinding and soaking in the natural scenery and laid-back feeling.
Incredible thermal parks
The thermal parks are the main reason we came and they did not disappoint. Spent a whole day at Negombo, moving between the different pools. It is set in a gorgeous garden that goes right down to the beach. An amazing way to relax and recharge.
Great beaches and local food
The beaches are lovely, especially Maronti with its long stretch of sand and thermal steam vents. We found a great little restaurant nearby and had the coniglio all'ischitana. The combination of sea, sun, and fantastic local food was just perfect.
Picture perfect towns
Ischia has some of the most picturesque towns. We absolutely loved Sant'Angelo. It is a completely pedestrian area with lovely little shops and cafes. The walk up to the islet offers some incredible views. Such a unique and peaceful part of the island.
Stunning hiking views
Beyond the coast, the island's interior is stunning. We took a hike up parts of Mount Epomeo and the views are just spectacular. You can see the entire island and across the bay. It is a great way to see a different side of the island from above.
So much history to explore
Really enjoyed the history here. The Castello Aragonese is a must-see. You can spend hours exploring the different levels, churches, and gardens within the castle walls. The history is fascinating and the views from the top are simply amazing.