Mediterranean Escape to Ischia
Curated By
Rachel Golike
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Ischia
Italy
Food & Wine
Beaches
Outdoors
Sightseeing
Local Food
Curator’s statement
Most people have heard of Capri, but have you heard of Ischia? It is a magical little island off the coast of Naples and is easier to get to than you would imagine. Crowds flock to Capri, but Ischia has much of the same beauty but is less crowded than its next-door neighbor. You are completely immersed in the Mediterranean lifestyle the second your feet step off the ferry. You will find beautiful beaches, rich history and mouth-watering food. The island is small enough that you can explore most of it in a week but could stay longer to relax and soak up the sun.
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Insider knowledge
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Where to stay in Ischia, Italy
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Things to do in Ischia, Italy
Visit Castello Aragonese
This iconic castle takes about half a day to explore. There is so much history, amazing views and even a quaint cafe at the top to enjoy a spritz while you soak in the scenery.
Relax in thermal hot springs
These hot springs are naturally occurring, bubbling up from the ground. They are said to have amazing therapeutic qualities. Some are free (like Sorgeto and Le Fumarole) and some have been turned into breathtaking thermal spas where you pay to spend the day in relaxation and rejuvenation. Some of the most popular ones are Poseidon, Negombo, Giardino Eden and Castiglione.
Giardini la Mortella
This breathtaking garden was created for Lady Susana Walton but is now a garden you can pay to enter and spend the day awestruck by its meticulous landscape and beauty.
Casamicciola
This quaint town is only accessible by foot, so there is something magical about walking around the shops and relaxing at the beach, looking at spectacular views.
Hike Mount Epomeo
Mount Epomeo is the tallest point on the island of Ischia. The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. This is an almost 2-mile hike (3 kilometers) and will take you about 50 minutes each way.
Relax on the Beach
While in this beautiful Mediterranean climate, you will want to spend time unwinding on the beach (Bagnitiello Cava dell'Isola and San Montano are some of the best). In the summer, it is easy to hop from beach to beach via water taxi.
Visit Chiesa Del Soccorso
This church offers incredible views of the sea and is easy to pop into while visiting the beautiful town of Forio.
Take a Boat Tour Around the Island
What better way to see the Island then taking a boat tour? There are several tours out there. A couple of options are Alcione Boat, Ascanio Charter Boat and Summer Breeze Gite Turistiche in Barca.
Day Trips
Capri: The direct ferries generally run from the beginning of April to mid-October and the sailing takes about an hour.
Positano and Amalfi: Take the ferry from Forio, Lacco Ameno or Casamicciola and bask in the beauty of one one of Italy's top destinations for a day.
Places to eat & drink in Ischia, Italy
La Sirena Del Mare: An incredible seafood restaurant with a fantastic atmosphere located on the Beach in Forio.
Al Vecchio Capannaccio Braceria: If you are looking for a relaxed environment with incredible meat offerings, this is it.
Ristorante Pizzeria la Bella Napoli al Porto: This restaurant specializes in delicious pizza but also has amazing pasta and wine offerings as well.
Bar Gino: This bustling beach bar is definitely worth trying while in Casamicciola Terme. It is perfect for a quick bite around lunchtime.
Dani Maison: This Michelin-starred restaurant is worth every penny you spend. Be prepared for incredible food and top-notch service.
Il Focolare: This restaurant is featured on Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy and is well worth the hype. It is known for its rabbit dish, coniglio all'ischitana. The Ischia wild rabbit is a dish unique to the Island and is something you should try at least once.
La Ceffetteria Del Monastero: This is a must-do while visiting the Castello Aragonese. After you climb to the top, sit in this relaxing spot and have a delicious cappuccino or spritz while taking in the stunning views from a castle built in 1441. The atmosphere doesn't get better than this.
Il Saturino: This seafood restaurant has beautiful views looking onto the port in Forio. They offer a seasonal menu and a top-notch wine list.
Need to Know
For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Bella Rose's guide, The All-Access Guide to Ischia, Italy.
Travel Advisor
Rachel Golike
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Ischia.