Curator’s statement
Ischia is the kind of place that makes the rest of the world fade away. Time slows. The scent of lemon groves lingers in the air, and the island’s thermal waters are the best remedy. Hot spring carved into the rocks, stop for a glass of Biancolella as the sun dips behind Aragonese Castle, Ischia invited me to live fully in the moment. Here, worries dissolve like seafoam, and all that matters is the simple pleasure of being topped with Italian cuisine.
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Day 1: Check in and relax
Arrive by ferry from Naples late morning. Stop at Ristorante da Bellezza for lunch. You're not here for the decor, but the food and the view!
The ferry can be 50 minutes to nearly two hours depending on the company you select. The journey is beautiful, so make sure to get on the deck for the first pictures! Tickets from 20€ one-way.
Check in at the Mezzatorre Hotel & Thermal Spa. The view will take your breath away. Make sure to sit back before heading to San Montano Bay for its sheltered beach, shallow waters. They are perfect for relaxing after the journey to reach the island.
Time for a sunset aperitivo at Il Fungo, Lacco Ameno, where again the scenery is mindblowing.
More food, of course! Dinner at Ristorante Alberto, a seafront restaurant with a relaxed vibe offering fresh seafood and traditional Italian Ischian dishes. Must-try: Pezzogna all' Acqua Pazza. If you fancy a more gastronomic option: diner at Indaco would be the one!
Day 2: Castles, secret hot springs & authentic Ischia
Time for some culture, because Ischia's got a lot to share. I went to Castello Aragonese (best to arrive early), a dramatic medieval fortress connected to Ischia by a stone bridge. Definitely worth the tour, even just to look at the Island from another angle.
Espresso break in Ischia Ponte. Take a quick stop for some comfort with a sfogliatella, the infamous shell-shaped pastry with a creamy filling.
Time to relax, so head to the secret hot springs at Baia di Sorgeto: one of Ischia’s best-kept secrets. These natural thermal pools sit right on the rocky shoreline. Soak in the warm, bubbling waters while enjoying views of the open sea. Bonus: It’s free! Loving Italy.
Late lunch at Da Gisella (near Sorgeto): charming family-run spot where you can try traditional rabbit stew (Coniglio all’Ischitana) and other island specialties.
While time seems to stop, head to Sant’Angelo, a picturesque fishing village. It's known for its whitewashed houses and boutique shops. Lemons are everywhere and invigorate the area with its scent.
More food and more views with the Ristorante Lo Scoglio (Sant’Angelo): a hidden gem where you can enjoy seafood pasta with a stunning waterfront view. It was perfect to finish the day with a light meal and some wine.
Day 3: Hidden trails & the island’s soul
To make up for the pastas and pastries, go to Monte Epomeo. This a hike with a scenic trail from Serrara Fontana to the highest point on the island. The panoramic views are absolutely worth the climb! Pack water and a hat.
Light brunch at La Grotta di Fiore (on the way down): rustic spot carved into the rock serves simple but delicious Ischian specialties.
It is time for another swim at Nitrodi Natural Springs. This is a lesser-known but historically significant thermal spring, where Romans once came to heal. The mineral-rich waters here are known for their skin benefits. All you need after the hike.
Last diner of the escape at Umberto a Mare, a perfect way to toast while enjoying the sunset. Best to book ahead.
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