Things To Do
in Ischia
Ischia is a volcanic island in the Gulf of Naples known for its thermal springs and lush Mediterranean landscapes. Its towns—Ischia Porto, Lacco Ameno, and Forio—sit along steep coastlines framed by cliffs and gardens. Visitors come for spa retreats, beaches, and seafood prepared with locally grown olives and lemons.
Getting around is easy by ferry, bus, or taxi, with plenty of day trips to nearby Capri or Naples.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Ischia and check into your hotel, where you can enjoy stunning views of the island. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque marina, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and Italian coffee.
Spend the afternoon unwinding at one of Ischia's famous thermal spas, known for their healing properties. Indulge in a variety of treatments, from mud baths to hot springs, ensuring a refreshing experience. Take time to explore the gardens and bask in the sun while enjoying the island's natural beauty.
As the sun sets, dine at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood and regional specialties. Enjoy the gentle breeze and the sound of waves while experiencing local Italian hospitality. End the night with a stroll along the beach, marveling at the twinkling lights reflecting off the water.
Visit the iconic Castello Aragonese, a fortress that offers breathtaking views of the island. Take your time wandering through its ancient walls and exploring the small chapels and gardens. Discover the castle's rich history and enjoy picturesque photo opportunities.
After exploring the castle, head to the nearby town of Ischia Ponte for lunch at a charming trattoria. Sample local dishes while enjoying views of the castle from afar. Spend the afternoon wandering through the narrow streets filled with shops and artisan boutiques.
Return to your hotel to freshen up before heading out for dinner in a lively local piazza. Choose from a variety of restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience. Savor a gelato while enjoying the evening ambiance under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-5 |
| 🏨1-night stay in mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
| 🚆Local transit day pass | $3-8 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Thermal springs and spa culture
- Stunning landscapes and gardens
- Delicious seafood and locally grown produce
- Compact towns that are easy to explore on foot
- Hilly terrain can be tiring
- Some areas are crowded in summer
- Higher prices in peak season
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è la stazione?" - Where is the station?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi può portare il conto?" - Could you bring the bill?
Places to Visit in Ischia
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic fortress rising from the sea with stone stairways, whitewashed walls, and sweeping panoramas of the bay—ideal for dramatic sunrise and sunset shots.
Lush terraced gardens, exotic plants, and water features set against hillside backdrops—great for macro to panoramic photography.
Calm, turquoise waters framed by coastal cliffs; a perfect spot for reflective waters and golden hour photos.
Cliffside viewpoints and rugged coastline offering striking sea cliffs and expansive horizons for landscape imagery.
Food in Ischia
Ischia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rabbit braised with tomatoes, olives, and herbs, a staple Ischian dish savoring Mediterranean flavors.
Must-Try!
Fish (often swordfish or sea bass) baked or stewed with tomatoes, olives, capers, and lemon.
Mussels soup with garlic, tomatoes, white wine, and herbs served with crusty bread.
Spaghetti with clams, garlic, olive oil, and chili, a coastal favorite.
Bright lemon liqueur produced from the island’s abundant citrus, perfect as a after-dinner digestif.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls selling fresh seafood, produce, cheeses, and local crafts, ideal for a quick bite or to gather ingredients for a picnic.
Seasonal market with local vegetables, fruits, and baked goods; great for sampling everyday island life.
Try fried seafood bites, crocchè (potato croquettes), and freshly baked pastries from seaside stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting churches; greet with a polite 'Buongiorno' and use 'per favore' and 'grazie' in interactions.
Italians appreciate a friendly, warm greeting; maintain a relaxed pace in conversation and avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Expect to wait for the host or server; meals are social events often lasting longer than in some other countries.
Safety
Tipping in Ischia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, a service charge (servizio) may be included on the bill; if not, a tip of 5-10% is customary for good service. Small tips (rounding up) are common for taxi drivers and bar staff.
Cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but some small vendors prefer cash. Coperto (cover charge) is common in some eateries and is usually 1-3 euros per person.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming gardens; ideal for hiking and outdoor dining. Expect pleasant crowds and a fresh, green island vibe.
Hot and lively with long days; peak beach season and ferry schedules are at their busiest. Expect vibrant nightlife, festivals, and clear, sunlit seas.
Comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds; sea remains warm enough for swimming in early autumn. Great for slow travel and winery visits.
Cool and wetter with quieter towns; spa facilities remain appealing for a wellness-focused escape. Some businesses operate on limited hours.
Ischia at Night
Hiking in Ischia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep climb to the island’s highest point with panoramic views across the Gulf of Naples.
Coastal ridge paths with sea views, olive groves, and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Ischia by plane.
Main gateway for Ischia; frequent ferry and hydrofoil services from Naples to Ischia ports.
Major international hub; connect to Ischia via rail to Naples and onward by ferry or car/ferry combination.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding communities with strong family ties and traditions.
A large influx of tourists in summer supports a vibrant hospitality scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ischia’s sheltered waters make sailing a popular activity around the island.
Clear coastlines and coves ideal for water exploration.
Explore sea caves and submerged landscapes around the island.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ischia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant: look for tomatoes, olives, fresh cheeses, grilled vegetables, and pasta with tomato sauce. Ask for dishes without anchovies or meat and request olive oil-based dressings.