I’ll come right out and say it: the volcanic island of Ischia, Italy is the most underrated destination in Italy. So, if I were you, I’d visit immediately - before everyone else realizes that too!
Between its natural hot springs, gorgeous beaches, mountainous landscapes, and incredible sunsets, Ischia is a natural wonder.
Plus, the food and wine produced on Ischia - thanks to the fertile volcanic soil - are unrivaled in the flavor department. You’ll never taste a more delicious tomato! Ischia isn’t called L’Isola Verde (The Green Island) for nothing.
Not to mention, this island is home to authentic culture. It’s not saturated with tourists and souvenir shops (like the neighboring island of Capri!). It’s affordable; peaceful; easy to get to; dripping in ancient history; and covered in vineyards, hiking trails, stunning coves, and quaint, colorful towns.
I had a feeling I’d fall in love with Ischia. But what I experienced exceeded my every expectation.
As someone who’s long been obsessed with Italy - and has written dozens of travel guides on the country - I can confidently say Ischia is one of Italy’s top destinations. And a total hidden gem.
Upon arrival on Ischia, I picked up a rental car and wasted no time exploring every inch of the island I could. In this definitive travel guide to Ischia, Italy, I’ll cover everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Ischia.
Keep reading for how to get to Ischia, where to stay, the best things to do in Ischia, which restaurants and vineyards you can’t miss, and must-know tips! Andiamo.
Quick Facts About Ischia, Italy
- Ischia is pronounced “ees-kee-ah.”
- A volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ischia sits pretty at the northern end of the Gulf of Naples. It’s located in the region of Campania - and yes, technically, it’s part of the city of Naples.
- The easiest way to get to Ischia is via ferry from Naples Beverello port. You can disembark at Ischia Porto or Forio Porto. You can also reach Ischia from Capri and the Amalfi Coast.
- Naples is the birthplace of pizza, so yes, you’ll find amazing pizza in Ischia. But also, Coniglio all’Ischitana (rabbit stew). Lots of fresh seafood. Super flavorful vegetables. Mineral-forward white and red wines. And spirits distilled with local fruits and wild herbs.
- The best things to do in Ischia include this private boat tour on a traditional gozzo, exploring the Aragonese Castle, soaking in natural hot springs, beaching, and hiking.
- Unlike nearby Capri and Positano, prices on Ischia are quite reasonable. Expect to pay €1 for an espresso. €4-8 for a spritz. €10-20 for a primo or segundo at a great, casual restaurant. As little as €130/night for a sea-view hotel room during peak season - as long as you book well in advance! €35/day for a rental car. And about €5 for a daily bus pass. You get the point!
- Ischia is about five times the size of Capri (by surface area), so there’s a lot more to see and do in Ischia. It’s also less touristy, quieter, slower-paced, and much less pretentious. Ischians are so friendly, helpful, and proud of their amazing island.
How Many Days Do You Need in Ischia, Italy?
There are so many things to do on this island (which covers about 18 square miles, or 47 square kilometers); so the longer you can stay, the better!
You need at least four full days to experience all of the best things to do in Ischia. However, you could easily spend one week exploring Ischia - especially if you plan to kick back at the many different beaches and hot springs.
Trust me, you’ll only regret not staying long enough. Ischia = Italian paradise!
HOT TIP: Only have one day to spend on the island? You can easily take a self-guided day trip to Ischia via ferry from Naples, Sorrento, or Capri. While there, visit the Aragonese Castle and stroll around Ischia Ponte. After, you can visit a winery or hit the beach. If you prefer a guided tour, then go for either this private Ischia guided day trip from Naples or this Ischia and Procida boat day trip from Sorrento.
How to Get to Ischia
To get to Ischia, you’ll need to take the ferry.
Ischia Porto and Forio Porto are the two main ports on the island.
During the high season (mid-April through September), direct routes to Ischia include:
- Naples (all ports; Beverello, Calata Porto di Massa, and Pozzuoli), Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast (Positano and Amalfi), Capri, and Procida > Ischia Porto.
- Naples Beverello and Procida > Forio Porto.
If you plan to visit Ischia during the low season (October through mid-April), you can only reach Ischia by ferry from Naples Beverello.
I stayed in Forio, so I took a roundtrip ferry from Naples Beverello to Forio Porto.
I recommend using this website to search for ferry timetables, check prices, and reserve tickets. In the high season, book well in advance. Click here to book your ferry tickets!
HOT TIP: Only have time for a day trip? You can take this Ischia and Procida boat day trip from Sorrento OR this private Ischia guided day trip from Naples.
GOOD IDEA: Since you can access Ischia directly from Positano, Amalfi, and Capri, adding Ischia to the beginning or end of your Amalfi Coast itinerary is a great idea!
NOTE: Bringing a rental car with you? Take a car ferry (with Caremar or Medmar) from Calata di Massa or Pozzuoli.
How to Get Around Ischia Island
I think the best way to get around Ischia, Italy is by rental car. I say that with a few caveats, though…
The roads in Ischia are very, very, very narrow and winding. And the terrain is mountainous. (True story: we had to push our rental car the last few feet up a steep incline to reach a mountaintop agriturismo…) And parking can sometimes be a pain. But it’s nothing you can’t manage, right? It’s adventure time!
With your own wheels, you’ll see more; get off the beaten path; discover secret spots; and explore on your own schedule. Plus, local drivers are a lot more relaxed than mainland drivers. No rush, no problem.
That said, I’d avoid renting a car in peak season (July and August) since traffic is heavy and parking is even more limited.
If driving isn’t for you, you can also take the bus around the whole island. It’s easy and convenient, though somewhat limiting. You can get a daily pass for €5,10; a 3-day pass for €11; or a weekly pass for €14,50.
The green bus lines - Linea CD (clockwise) and Linea CS (anticlockwise) - circumnavigate the island, starting at Ischia Porto (Ischia port). These routes pass by all of the island’s main hotspots. You can check the bus schedules and purchase tickets from most tabaccherie (tobacco shops/markets marked with “T” signs) on the island. Ask your hotel receptionist any bus-related questions.
If you’re an experienced driver, you can rent a scooter.
Otherwise, you can take taxis around the island. There are also some water taxis (i.e. between Sant’Angelo, Maronti Beach, and Baia di Sorgeto).
Where to Rent a Car or Scooter
I highly recommend renting a car or scooter through CostabileRent, a local Ischian rental company.
Far and away, this is the best rental car company I’ve ever dealt with. Booking, pick-up, and drop-off were quick and easy and the staff were super friendly and helpful. Just look at their Google reviews.
They have offices in Ischia and Forio, located about a 30-second walk from their respective ferry ports. So convenient.
I rented a new automatic Hyundai i10 for €55 a day, including insurance. (Manual cars start at about €35/day.) Whichever car you choose, just make sure it’s compact; this is essential!
Scooter rentals start at €20/day.
HOT TIP: If you plan to drive anywhere in Italy, you should have an international driver’s license. It’s the law. If pulled over, you can receive a hefty fine just for not having one! This happened to us in the Dolomites to the tune of €282… Not ideal!
Where to Stay in Ischia, Italy
On the island of Ischia, there are two main towns you should consider staying in: Ischia and Forio.
The only reason not to is if you’d rather stay at a luxe hot spring resort like Botania Relais & Spa - The Leading Hotels of the World, Mezzatorre Hotel & Thermal Spa, or San Montano Resort & Spa. (And, well, any of those would be a fabulous choice.)
Ischia (The Town)
Located on the island’s eastern side, Ischia is home to the main port and bus terminal, making it the most convenient base (especially if you don’t rent a car).
Ischia is busier and more touristy than Forio, but it’s home to a vast collection of cute shops, local bars, fabulous restaurants, and the magnificent Castello Aragonese d’Ischia. The picturesque towns of Casamicciola Terme and Lacco Ameno are close by too.
The next question is whether you should stay in Ischia Porto (by the port) or Ischia Ponte (Ischia Point, by the castle). I’d choose Ischia Ponte because it’s as charming as can be - especially if you score a room with a castle view!
Best Places to Stay in Ischia:
- Albergo Il Monastero (Ischia Ponte): This unique hotel is literally inside the Aragonese Castle compound, housed within a 16th-century monastery. The views alone will convince you to stay here! Click here to book it.
- Pagoda Lifestyle Hotel (Ischia Porto): Pagoda Lifestyle Hotel features a gorgeous private bay for swimming, amazing seaview suites, two on-site restaurants, a beach bar, a pool, a gym, and a spa. Click here to book it.
- Villa Livia (Ischia Ponte): Situated atop a peaceful hill in Cartaromana, Villa Livia is surrounded by lush vegetation and features incredible views of the castle and Ischia Ponte. Heavenly. Click here to book it.
Forio
Situated on the island’s western side, Forio is quainter and quieter than Ischia but still offers plenty of fantastic restaurants, bars, and shops. The beaches in Forio are also larger and less crowded.
Forio is closer to most of the island’s top attractions (except the castle, obviously!). Plus, the sunsets here are incredible.
I stayed in Forio, and I’m so glad I did! In part, because the hotel I chose, B&B Marina Garden, was so lovely.
I highly recommend B&B Marina Garden for its spacious guest rooms, quiet but ideal location in Forio town, and excellent breakfast spread! Click here to book your stay at B&B Marina Garden.
Best Places to Stay in Forio:
- Hotel Nettuno: There’s no better place on the island to watch the sunset than Hotel Nettuno’s terrace. The location, a stone’s throw from Forio’s main street, is perfect too. Click here to book it.
- Faro Punta Imperatore: A 10-minute drive to Forio, Faro Punta Imperatore boasts four exclusive guest suites, elegant maritime design, a rooftop bar, stunning views, and the fact that it’s a lighthouse! Click here to book it.
- B&B Marina Garden: Where I stayed and loved. Click here to book it.
Still looking? I always use this website to find great deals on luxe hotels, beachfront resorts, and vacation rentals - and always with free cancellation, just in case. Click here to book your Ischia hotel.
Best Things to Do on Ischia
There are so many things to see and do on this beautiful island, so let’s dive in. Add each of these activities to your Ischia to-do list!
Explore the Aragonese Castle
Ischia’s Aragonese Castle (Castello Aragonese d’Ischia) - perched on a rocky islet across from Ischia Ponte - is one of the most beautiful and interesting castles I’ve ever visited. For sure, it’s the best thing to see in Ischia.
The castle’s history is pretty wild, and goes something like this…
The first fortress was built in 474 B.C. by Hiero I, the Greek-Syracusan tyrant ruler of Sicily.
Later, in 315 B.C., the Romans used the castle as a fortress and built more dwellings. Over the centuries, the Visigoths, Vandals, Ostrogoths, Arabs, Normans, Suebi, and Angevins took over the castle, transforming it in their own ways.
In the meantime, local Ischians used the castle for shelter and protection against the 1302 eruption of Mount Epomeo and roughly 300 years of pirate invasions (which ceased around 1750). The castle also passed through the hands of the French in the early 1800s and was a political prison for King Ferdinand of the Two Sicilies in the 1820s.
And, finally, in 1860, Naples became part of the Kingdom of Italy.
Beyond the breathtaking views of the sparkling turquoise waters, colorful Ischia Ponte houses, and lush green hills from the Terrace of the Immaculate Conception, my favorite parts were the Church of Holy Mary of Grace (which juts out over the sea and exudes calm) and the Sun Route (lined by olive, bay, and carob trees, figs, pomegranates, prickly pears, and jaw-dropping sea views).
Allocate about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the Aragonese Castle; the entire walking route is about 1.3 miles (about 2 kilometers) so wear comfy shoes!
The castle is open daily from 9 AM until sunset (the last entry is 1.5 hours before closing). It costs €12 to enter (children aged 0-9 enter free; tickets for children aged 10-18 cost €6).
Visit a Vineyard
If you like wine - and especially tangy, mineral-driven white wines - then you’re going to love this island.
During my stay in Ischia, I visited three family-run vineyards: Casa D’Ambra, Cenatiempo, and Cantina Raustella. And I highly recommend them all!
Casa D’Ambra
Casa D’Ambra is a fourth-generation family-owned winery; they’ve produced Ischia’s local grape varieties (Biancolella, Forastera, and Per’e Palummo since 1888.
If you only have time for one winery tour, let it be this Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting Experience. This is the most comprehensive wine tour on the island - and the views are fantastic too!
During your Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting Experience, you’llstroll through Casa D’Ambra’s lush terraced mountainside vineyards, take in incredible views, learn about Ischia’s unique terroir, and gain insights into fine Ischian winemaking.
Afterward, you’ll taste a series of Casa D’Ambra’s best wines - from mineral-forward whites to full-bodied reds - paired with artisanal cheeses and cured meats.
This Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting Experience includes transportation, so you can indulge as much as you like!
Click here to book it.
Cantina Raustella
Francesco, of Cantina Raustella, is the most enthusiastic and welcoming host you will ever meet. After strolling through his family’s old wine cellar (which is now filled with antiques and family heirlooms), you’ll sit down in your private sea-view gazebo and be treated to a generous feast.
We thought he was kidding, but the full bottles of red and white wine for our party of 3 just kept coming. And so did the food tastings of cold cuts, cheese, bruschetta, grilled vegetables, fresh fruit, honey, and more… It was madness. And so much fun.
After our meal, Francesco brought out about 10 different amari for us to try. From the traditional arugula to basil to fennel. And limoncello, of course.
I promise, a tasting at Cantina Raustella is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Contact Francesco on Whatsapp (+39 331 784 8052) to make your reservation for €40 per person.
Cenatiempo
Since 1945, Cenatiempo has been one of Ischia’s premier wineries. You’ll see their bottles on most restaurants’ wine lists (and, IMO, you should order them!).
But you can also tour their vineyard if you have time.
Cenatiempo’s wine tour includes a stroll through their vineyards and ancient wine cave; tastings of four different wines; and a small tasting of cheeses, cold cuts, bruschetta, yummy salads, and more.
To book your tour for €35 per person, contact Federica on Whatsapp (+39 333 7100480).
Wander the Giardini la Mortella
There’s no shortage of lush vegetation on the Green Island, but Giardini La Mortella (La Mortella Gardens) offers one of the most spectacular displays.
Created by the late Susana Walton, wife of the English composer William Walton, Giardini La Mortella’s lush subtropical and Mediterranean botanical gardens have been a top attraction on the island since 1956.
You’ll need about two hours to stroll through the gardens, relish in the cool shade and sounds of water features in the exotic Valley Garden, and take in the sea views from the Mediterranean Hill Garden.
Giardini La Mortella is open from April through October on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays between 9 AM and 7 PM. Tickets cost €12.
Every Thursday evening in the summer, you can attend symphonic concerts in the garden’s outdoor Greek Theatre. And on Saturdays and Sundays during the spring and fall, recitals are held indoors. Find more details here.
HOT TIP: If you have even more time, visit Giardini Ravino! This lesser-visited botanical garden features cacti and succulents - and peacocks!
Savor Lunch at an Agriturismo
My favorite thing about Ischia is how fresh and flavor-packed the fruits and veggies are!
When you visit Ischia, it’s your duty to dine at an organic farm-to-table restaurant (agriturismo) that celebrates the island’s fertile volcanic soil, local produce, and Ischian wine - over incredible views.
I dined at a few agriturismi on the island (and they were all truly great), but Agriturismo Malvisiello deserves a special mention.
Perched in the lush mountains overlooking Forio, Agriturismo Malvisiello is not (at all) easy to reach.
But the journey up the narrowest, winding road is worth it for the sublime natural atmosphere, jaw-dropping views, and unforgettable food and wine.
When I made our reservation on Whatsapp, I ordered a whole rabbit in advance so we could try Ischia’s iconic dish: Coniglio all’Ischitana (whole rabbit stew). It was €45 and served 4.
The rabbit came out in a steaming clay pot in the most sumptuous sauce of Ischian tomatoes, white wine, and wild herbs. The mouth-watering aromas helped me ignore the fact that I could see his little skull in the pot… And, also, it was delicious.
In addition, we savored a bottle of Malvisiello Bianco (house white wine) and the generous farmer’s antipasto platter. It included potato croquettes, fried zucchini flowers, bruschetta with the best-ever tomatoes, eggplant parmigiana, grilled zucchini, giant white beans in herbaceous olive oil, fava beans with tomatoes and olive oil, grilled peppers, olives, and an assortment of cured meats, cheese, and bread.
Everything we tasted was perfectly simple, beyond delicious, and produced on Ischia - if not the actual agriturismo itself.
Some of the other top agriturismi on Ischia include La Porta di Agartha, Tenuta del Cannavale, Antica Fattoria Greca Chiarito, La Cantina Torre Di Mezzo, and Il Giardino Mediterraneo. All of these places feature spectacular views too!
Go on a Boat Tour
What’s the best way to explore this volcanic island? By boat!
Spending a sunny day aboard a traditional gozzo boat, gazing out at the island, listening to the sounds of the sea, swimming and snorkeling, and sipping chilled white wine and limoncello sounds like the ultimate Mediterranean summer day to me.
If you agree, here are the best boat tours of Ischia, Italy:
- Private, 8-Hour Ischia Boat Trip on a 7.5-Meter Gozzo: This luxury private boat tour on a traditional wooden gozzo includes beach towels, snorkeling equipment, drinks, and fuel/gas for the boat. This tour is totally customizable, so you can decide where and when to snorkel, swim, dock for gelato or lunch, etc. Click here to book it!
- Group, 8-Hour Boat Excursion Around Ischia: This full-day group tour around the whole island packs in lots of fun and sightseeing. You’ll swim in 4 or 5 of Ischia’s most beautiful caves and coves too. Brunch, lunch, drinks, and snorkeling equipment are included! Click here to book it!
I went on this private boat tour around Capri a few days before visiting Ischia, so I skipped this experience… And I seriously regret it! Click here to book your group boat tour or here to reserve a private boat tour!
Lap Up Ischia’s Beautiful Beaches
Ischia, Italy is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Southern Italy.
Whether you’re after private beach clubs, public sandy beaches, secluded rocky coves, or natural pools, you’ll find them in Ischia, Italy!
Kick off your beach-hopping adventure with these top Ischia beaches.
Best Beaches in Ischia
- Spiaggia dei Maronti: Locals say that Spiaggia dei Maronti, on the southern side of Ischia, is the best, longest, and most spacious beach on the island. Options for restaurants and beach clubs along this black-ish sand beach are endless. I went to Di Iorio and loved the food and hospitality. You can drive to Maronti or take the water taxi from Sant’Angelo.
- Le Fumarole dei Maronti: The westernmost side of Maronti Beach, Le Fumarole, is one of the world’s most unique beaches! A “fumarole” is a volcanic vent. Here, thermal steam rises through the sand. Some sections are so hot that restaurants dig out pits to steam fresh-caught seafood before your eyes!
- Spiaggia di Sant’Angelo: This small golden beach separates the fishing village of Sant’Angelo from its hilly islet. In other words, it’s super scenic. There are a few small beach clubs here, but you need to arrive early to get a spot!
- Spiaggia di Cava Grado: This tiny, picturesque beach is just around the corner from Sant’Angelo. It’s an absolute gem for morning and evening swims - but mid-day during peak season, it can get a little too cramped.
- Spiaggia della Chiaia: Within walking distance of Forio’s old town, Spiaggia della Chiaia features a long stretch of golden, soft sand and calm, sparkling clean water. There are a couple of beach clubs with chairs/umbrellas for rent, plus a public (free) section.
- Spiaggia di San Montano: Tucked between two craggy cliffs, Spiaggia di San Montano offers soft golden sand, crystalline sea, and good vibes! The left side of the beach is public (free), while lounge chairs from Negombo Thermal Spa and the five-star San Montano Resort & Spa take up the right side.
Relax at a Thermal Spa
Relaxing at one of Ischia’s thermal parks, and soaking in the healing mineral waters, is one of the best things to do in Ischia.
Take your pick between these two thermal spas (both offer daily passes):
Giardini Poseidon overlooks the beautiful Bay of Citara, on the southeast side of Ischia. It’s the island’s largest thermal park, featuring 20 naturally-fed thermal pools (at varying temperatures), a private section of beach along the Spiaggia di Citara, spa treatments, a wellness center, and three eateries.
A day at Giardini Poseidon won’t disappoint! Click here to book your day pass for €44.
Negombo sits magically within the bay of San Montano in Ischia - engulfed in lush flora and warm sea breeze. Negombo’s salty mineral spring waters flow from the source at above 40°C (104°F) into a series of pools, volcanic rock tunnels, and caves. You’ll be immersed in a sense of calm as you explore this enchanting place!
Negombo also features multiple restaurants/bars and a private beach club on San Montano Beach. Check out the different passes and prices here.
Swim at Baia di Sorgeto
Want to visit some free hot springs? The Baia di Sorgeto (Bay of Sorgeto) is the place to go.
This secluded, rocky bay features a scalding hot spring that streams into the cool Mediterranean water.
Your task? Find the perfect rock to sunbathe, where hot springs and cool sea water converge just right. But be careful as you get in though; the water can be up to 90°C (194°F).
To get here, drive yourself and park in the small lot up top. Then, walk the 300 steps down to the bay. Otherwise, take the water taxi from Sant’Angelo; it’s €5 each way.
My advice? Get here early (by 10 AM) to beat the crowds. And, potentially, to claim some lounge chairs at the bay-side restaurant, La Sorgente.
Afterward, head up to Antica Fattoria Greca Chiarito for friendly hospitality, local wines, bruschetta, and a fabulous view overlooking the Baia di Sorgeto.
P.S. The hot spring resort overlooking the Bay of Sorgeto, Hotel Punta Chiarito Resort, would also be a fantastic place to stay. The sea views and thermal pools are all you need. The family who runs the place is so lovely too! Click here to check it out.
Visit a Local Distillery
In Ischia Ponte’s old town, across from the castle, you’ll find Ischia’s first distillery: Distillerie Aragonesi.
By sourcing the best local fruits, employing traditional distillation techniques, and crafting ancient (near-extinct) Mediterranean flavor profiles, Distillerie Aragonesi has built something to be proud of - inside a space built by Augustinian monks in the 1700s.
On this Private Distillery Tour and Tasting, you’ll taste the very essence of the Mediterranean, distilled down into the most delicious artisanal liqueurs and spirits. Think: Fig liquor. Orange wine. Arugula bitters. And carob brandy.
This Private Distillery Tour and Tasting is as much a fascinating history lesson as it is a cultural foodie experience. If you have an hour to spare, it’s a must! Click here to book it.
Visit Sant’Angelo
Everyone will say you have to go to Sant’Angelo. And they are right.
This sleepy little fishing village is one of the most peaceful places on the island, thanks to its somewhat remote location. And with its small beach, marina, colorful buildings, narrow laneways, and the iconic “La Torre” islet, Sant’Angelo couldn’t be more picturesque either.
Cute cafes, luxury boutiques, art galleries, ceramic shops, and coastal-view restaurants line the streets of Sant’Angelo. And since the old town is car-free, Sant’Angelo is the perfect place for a care-free stroll on a balmy day.
I couldn’t resist purchasing some fish prints from local artist Manuel Di Chiara’s gallery - keep your eye out for it!
To get here, you can drive yourself and park in one of the private lots, or take the bus to the Cava Grado stop and walk downhill. You can also take the water taxi from Sorgeto or Maronti.
Hike Mount Epomeo
Feeling ambitious? Then head over to the town of Serrara Fontana and ascend the forested hiking trail until you reach the 2,589-foot peak of Mount Epomeo.
Mount Epomeo is a volcanic horst (raised fault) and the highest mountain on the island. The 360° views from the top - that stretch to Naples, Capri, and beyond - will take your breath away.
From the town of Fontana, you can embark on this hiking trail, until you reach the peak. It’s pretty steep - and you do have to scramble a bit toward the top - so be prepared with the essentials: hiking boots, trekking poles, water, natural sunscreen, and a wide-brim adventure hat.
The roundtrip journey should take you about two hours - and the views are well worth the effort.
Have Lunch Atop Mount Epomeo
On your way to (or from) the peak of Mount Epomeo, you have to stop for lunch and vino at La Porta di Agartha!
The food is incredibly fresh and flavorful here. Partly, because the menu changes based on the season. But also because Chef Salvatore is something of a culinary genius.
We enjoyed carpaccio di manzo (beef carpaccio with citrus zest, fresh tomatoes, and parmigiano - so good!), polpettine di verdure (veggie “meatballs”) with the most scrumptious tomato sauce, some homemade sausages of local beef with smoky grilled swiss chard, ravioli di ricotta e limone (handmade ravioli stuffed with lemon and ricotta), and scialatone al datterino giallo e salsiccia (a local handmade pasta noodle with yellow tomato sauce and sausage - my favorite!).
Plus, a bottle of the local Cenatiempo Forastera white wine for good measure!
A welcome treat mid-way through a sweaty hike, this rustic restaurant is well worth the effort to reach.
Hot tip: Don’t want to hike up? You can simply drive up the winding dirt road to Porta di Agartha and enjoy a fabulous lunch. From there, it takes about 15 minutes to get to the peak of Monte Epomeo on foot.
Visit Procida
Ever heard of Procida (pronounced pro-chee-dah)?
This tranquil, colorful island oozes authentic Italian charm. In fact, it was named Italy’s Capital of Culture in 2022! The best part? From Ischia, you can reach Procida in about 20 minutes.
This island is tiny (less than two square miles), so you really only need a couple of hours to see it all.
But what exactly will you see? The ridiculously vibrant port, Marina Grande. A breathtaking view of Procida’s oldest fishing village, Corricella, that’s lined with charming waterfront restaurants and bars (best viewed from the Corricella Belvedere). Procida’s iconic yellow church, the Santa Maria delle Grazie. A stunning black sand beach, Spiaggia della Chiaia. And the medieval fortified clifftop village of Terra Murata - which includes a 16th-century palace, Palazzo d’Avalos.
Some say the main attractions on Procida are peace and quiet, though. Oh, and the seafood… So before you return to Ischia, indulge in fresh-caught delights at La Medusa or La Lampara.
Home-grown lemon and mandarin gelati from Chiaro di Luna Gelateria Artigianale are musts too.
For a self-guided trip to Procida, you can book a roundtrip ferry from Ischia Porto, Casamicciola Terme, or Forio. Click here to search timetables and book ferry tickets.
Otherwise, go on this 8-Hour Boat Tour of Ischia and Procida from Forio. You’ll boat around Ischia and over to Procida, while enjoying stops to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear Tyrrhenian Sea, drinking plenty of local wine, savoring bruschetta with Ischian tomatoes, and having lunch on board. You’ll also explore the island of Procida on foot, before boating back to Forio. Click here to book your Boat Tour of Ischia and Procida!
Stroll Around Lacco Ameno
Lacco Ameno is the smallest town and fishing village on the island - and it’s too cute to miss!
While there, browse the ceramics shops, stroll along the pier, snap a photo of the mushroom-shaped rock formation (“Il Fungo”), and visit Lacco Ameno’s two museums (the Museo Archeologico di Pithecusae and the Museo di Santa Restituta underneath the Basilica di Santa Restituta).
And, of course, have a spritz and some bruschetta or fritto misto (mixed fried seafood) at a seaside bar. I went to Ondablu; it was good, but nothing to write home about.
Feeling ritzy? Book a sunset table at Lacco Ameno’s one-Michelin-starred restaurant, Indaco, for creative, seafood-focused fare and fabulous views.
Go Kayaking
Ischia’s crystalline sea, craggy volcanic-rock coastline, and tranquil bays make it the perfect place for a sea kayaking excursion.
On this 3-Hour Guided Kayak Tour of Ischia, you’ll get a little workout in as you paddle through the beautiful blue-green Bay of Citara, past the Punta Imperatore lighthouse, marine life and plants, and stunning rock formations, caves, and calm coves.
Kayaking is such a fun, active way to see a new destination; don’t you think? Click here to book your kayak tour!
Enjoy a Passeggiata in Forio
There’s no place better than Forio’s sweet main street, Corso Francesco Regine, to enjoy the simplest of Italian pleasures: the passeggiata (A.K.A. a leisurely pre-dinner stroll - and a hallmark of Italian culture).
Forio is as adorable as can be. So snap a few photos. Take it all in.
Along the way, no one would blame you if you got distracted by the many cute boutiques and bars.
Go on, taste the limoncello; buy the handmade mandarin soap; try the rucolino amaro (arugula bitters - infused with wild Ischian herbs, roots, and citrus peels too); chat with the friendly locals; and stop for an aperitivo of high-quality local wine and cheese at Florio La Wineria. You know you want to!
Just make sure you don’t miss the sunset…
Watch the Sunset from the Chiesa del Soccorso
Ask any local, and they’ll tell you that the ancient white Chiesa del Soccorso is the place to be at sundown. The sunsets here are truly remarkable!
Aperol spritz in hand, mosey up to Punta Soccorso and watch the sunset over the Pontine Islands in the distance (and try not to start plotting your next Italian island vacation… Or do…).
Visit a Museum or Two
I know, you’re visiting Ischia for the beaches, food and wine, and hot springs. But Ischia is home to a lot of fascinating history too. If it’s raining - or if you just like museums - I’ve got you covered.
In Ischia Ponte, you can visit the Museo del Mare (Museum of the Sea) and the Museo Diocesano di Ischia (Diocesan Museum).
In Lacco Ameno, you’ll find the Museo Archeologico di Pithecusae (Archaeological Museum of Pithecusae) and the Museo di Santa Restituta (Santa Restituta Museum) which is temporarily closed.
And finally, in Serrara Fontana, you can visit the Casa Museo (House Museum).
Dine at Ischia’s Best Restaurants
My personal opinion is that eating is the best thing to do in Ischia. Go to these restaurants and tell me you disagree… (You won’t be able to!)
We already talked about some of these Ischia restaurants in depth, so here’s a quick rundown of the best foodie experiences on the island.
- Auras (Ischia Ponte): This was one of the best meals we had on Ischia! Everything was perfect. The fresh pasta and seafood. The lemoniest dessert. The crisp local wine and craft cocktails. The friendliest, most professional service ever. And most of all, the unbelievable atmosphere of Ischia Ponte, the fuchsia flowers, the white tablecloths, and the views of the castle from our boardwalk table. Stunning.
- daní maison (Ischia Ponte): This two-Michelin-starred restaurant is set inside the chef’s lovely home, in the verdant hills of Ischia Ponte. There, you’ll watch and taste, in awe, as chef Nino crafts beautiful, whimsical, and delicious culinary masterpieces for you, one after another after another. But only before and after enjoying drinks in the garden!
- Kantharos (Forio): A “kantharos” is a giant ancient Greek wine chalice, so it makes sense that Kantharos boasts a fantastic wine list and a filled-to-the-brim wine cellar. The menu offers an elevated twist on classic Ischian dishes, mainly seafood. Shrimp tortellini with a burrata cream sauce and tomatoes? Yes, please. The food and wine were fab, but the warm hospitality was even better.
- Core a Core (Forio): In the mood for the best seafood on the island? Then come here. Enough said.
- Il Saturnino (Forio): Whatever you order (hint: let the chef choose; get the 4-course tasting menu), you can be sure it’ll be farm-fresh and “conserve the soul of the historical recipes.” Deep-rooted traditions, big flavors, and a fantastic view of Forio’s harbor await at Il Saturnino.
- Ristorante Di Iorio (Maronti Beach): Di Iorio is one of the best restaurants/beach clubs along Maronti Beach. From the fried seafood to the caprese to the special lasagna (“nonna’s recipe!”), the food is excellent. So is the service.
- Indaco (Lacco Ameno): At this one-Michelin-starred restaurant, you’ll savor the incredible blue hour views of Lacco Ameno, Casamicciola, Procida, Naples, and the sea, all at once - while tasting the flavors of Pasquale Palamaro’s childhood growing up on the island. Seafood is the star of the show here!
- Agriturismo Malvisiello (Forio mountainside): We talked about Malvisiello already… The agriturismo (farm-to-table restaurant) up in the hills? You have to come here!
- La Porta di Agartha (Mount Epomeo): This rustic restaurant with a view, perched up on Mount Epomeo, focuses on local, fresh ingredients done to perfection. Hike up here, or drive. Either way, you’ll leave very happy.
Ischia, Italy Travel FAQs
Ischia, Italy: Your Comprehensive Travel Guide
Well, friends, there you have it: the ultimate travel guide to Ischia, Italy.
This is my new favorite destination in all of Italy (right up there with the Dolomites, Puglia, and Florence).
From beach-hopping and wine-drinking to boat excursions, thermal hot springs, and hiking trails, you’re going to have a blast on this beautiful and authentic slice of Italian paradise!
SAVE THIS POST ON PINTEREST!
Are you visiting Ischia soon? Have questions? Leave them in the comments section below!
