Your Next Island Escape: Ischia, Italy

Visit Aragonese Castle

No trip to Ischia is complete without visiting the magnificent Aragonese Castle, which sits on its own tiny island just off Ischia Ponte, connected by a stone bridge. The site was first fortified in 474 BC, with the current castle dating back to the 1400s when it was rebuilt under Ferdinand I of Aragon, King of Naples. Wander the charming medieval hamlet within the castle walls and visit sights like the Cathedral of St. Anna and the Church of the Immaculate. Climb up to the top of the fortress for panoramic views across the island and sea.

Relax at Ischia's Beaches

With its 30 miles of coastline, Ischia offers no shortage of spectacular beaches. For a lively scene, head to Spiaggia dei Maronti on the south coast, the island’s longest sandy beach with beach clubs and watersports. For something more secluded, visit the picturesque San Pancrazio nestled at the base of cliffs on the northwest coast. The thermal beach of Cava Scura has warm mineral waters perfect for a soak. Cartaromana Beach has crystal-clear water great for snorkeling. And the north coast’s sandy Citara Beach is surrounded by luscious pine forests.

Explore the Gardens of La Mortella

Designed by the English composer William Walton, these stunning gardens sprawl across a hillside estate. Wander through terraces filled with exotic plants from around the world, from water lilies to cacti. Don’t miss highlights like the Tropical Garden with water features and cascades, the colorful Flower Garden and the upper Terrace of Infinity with panoramic vistas. The gardens are at their best in spring when azaleas, camellias and rhododendrons are in full bloom.

Soak in the Natural Hot Springs at Poseidon Gardens

Ischia’s volcanic activity heats up mineral springs across the island that have attracted visitors since ancient Roman times. The Poseidon Gardens spa is one of the best places to experience the therapeutic benefits of Ischia’s hot springs. Relax in the range of pools, from the large sea water pool to warmer thermal pools, or book treatments like massages and mud facials. The lush grounds also have archaeological ruins like an Ancient Roman pool and water tanks.

Take a Hike on Mount Epomeo

The highest point on Ischia at over 2,500 feet, Mount Epomeo offers wonderful hiking with spectacular panoramas across the island and Bay of Naples. Trails wind through chestnut groves and vineyards with the imposing volcanic peak looming above. The main path leads to the top, where you’ll find the 15th century Eremo di San Nicola hermitage carved into the mountainside. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Capri and Vesuvius. The hike up takes around 3 hours roundtrip.

Explore the Sea Life at Cartaromana Beach

Located on Ischia’s west coast, this small beach has calm, clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Rent a mask and fins from one of the beach bars to discover the diverse marine life just below the surface. Schools of fish like sea bream and mullet swim around the rocky outcrops. You may even spot an octopus hiding in crevices or sea stars in tide pools. The beach also has a cool underwater statue of Jesus Christ blessing the waters that makes for a one-of-a-kind sight while snorkeling.

Visit the Historic Santa Maria delle Grazie e delle Anime del Purgatorio

This picturesque church in Forio dates back to the late 1500s. Its facade is adorned with colorful majolica tiles in intricate patterns. Inside, don’t miss the series of 18th century paintings depicting souls in purgatory – the church was built for families to pray for their deceased relatives. Wander through the atmospheric crypt below the church with its evocative statues and tombs. On the last Sunday in May, a solemn procession takes the “anime” statues through the streets to commemorate the deceased.

Stroll Through the Picturesque Ischia Porto

Ischia’s main town has an atmospheric old port lined with colorful fishing boats and pastel-hued houses. Walk the seaside promenade and explore narrow lanes filled with shops, cafes and restaurants buzzing with locals. Look for the historic Sea Tower that once protected the port from pirate raids. Stop by one of the pastry shops like Pasticceria Buono or Gelateria la Sfogliatella to sample sweet treats like sfogliatella pastry filled with ricotta.

Day Trips

Capri Island

This breathtaking island with rugged cliffs, blue grottoes and cute cafes. Take the ferry over to explore Capri Town’s upscale shops or lounge on beaches reachable by boat like Blue Grotto.

Naples

Hop on the ferry back to the mainland to discover vibrant Naples. Must-see sights include the National Archaeological Museum’s ancient Roman artifacts and the world-famous pizza of Naples’ historic streets.

Pompeii

Visit the remarkably preserved ruins of Pompeii at the foot of Mt. Vesuvius to vividly imagine life in ancient Rome. Wander houses, temples, theaters and the haunting plaster casts of victims.

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is unmissable when traveling to the region of Campania. Don't miss charming towns like Positano and Ravello, connected by winding scenic roads.

Procida

Take a short ferry ride to Procida, another picturesque island in the Bay of Naples right next to Ischia. Explore its colorful fishing village and abbey-topped islet.

Coniglio all'ischitana at Umberto a Mare

This local rabbit dish slow-cooked in a clay pot with tomatoes, garlic, olives and herbs is an Ischia classic. Umberto a Mare serves a memorable version alongside ocean views in Forio.

Spaghetti alle vongole at Ristorante l’Arco

Perfectly cooked spaghetti tossed with fresh local clams, white wine, olive oil and parsley is a delightful primi piatti. Enjoy it on Ristorante l’Arco’s vine-covered terrace in Ischia Porto.

Ravioli at Da Nicola

Handmade pillows of pasta stuffed with fresh ricotta and herbs make a comforting meal. Da Nicola in Ischia Porto has been serving their melt-in-your-mouth ravioli since 1949.

Fresella at Il Focolare

This twice-baked bread rubbed with garlic and tomatoes makes a tasty snack. Try Il Focolare’s version warm from the oven with a glass of local Ischia Biancolella white wine.

Fritto misto di paranza at Ischia Sapori

This mixed fry platter with lightly fried seafood like shrimp, squid and anchovies showcases the day's catch. Ischia Sapori in Sant'Angelo serves an excellent fried seafood platter.

Nduja pizza at Pizzeria Di Massa Salvatore

Spicy spreadable ‘nduja sausage gives this pizza a kick. Pizzeria Di Massa Salvatore in Ischia Porto loads their pies with plenty of ‘nduja for the full flavor.

Panzanella salad at Ristorante La Capanna

Soak up Ischia’s famous tomatoes in this salad with crunchy bread, red onion and basil. Ristorante La Capanna serves an excellent panzanella along with bay views in Lacco Ameno.

Gelato at Gelateria Ice da Luciano

Stop for creamy artisanal gelato like zesty lemon or rich chocolate studded with hazelnuts. Gelateria Ice da Luciano uses high quality local ingredients.

Traditional Ischian Pizza at Pizzeria da Ciro

No visit to Ischia is complete without trying the island's famous pizza. Pizzeria da Ciro, located in Ischia Porto, serves up authentic Ischian-style pizza with a thin and crispy crust. Choose from a variety of toppings, including local ingredients like fresh buffalo mozzarella and flavorful tomatoes.

Pastries at Pasticceria Franco

Pasticceria Franco is a must visit if you love pastries and sweets. This renowned bakery in Forio offers traditional Italian pastries, including sfogliatelle, cannoli, and cream-filled croissants. Each pastry is expertly crafted with attention to detail and the finest ingredients.