Best Things to do in Ischia, Hidden Gem of The Bay of Naples

Last Updated on 8th July 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

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A volcanic paradise bursting with hidden treasures! Ischia is famed for its thermal hot springs, picturesque scenery and traditional Italian ambience. Nested within the bay of Naples, this small island is a great escape to that of its alternative the glitzy and glamorous island of Capri. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Ischia, as well as top tips and what to know before you go.

Where is Ischia?

Located on a volcanic island, Ischia is a town that lies in the Tyrrhenian Sea, nestled within the bay of Naples. Considered as part of the Metropolitan city of Naples, it’s in the Campania region of Southern Italy. The biggest city on the island is Ischia and has a population of approximately 18,000 residents.

How long do you need in Ischia?

I would say you need at least three days to fully enjoy everything that this hidden gem of Italy has to offer. If you want to go for a longer and less fast paced retreat, you’ll want to set aside five days. For more inspiration to help plan your trip, be sure to check out our suggested Ischia itinerary.

Best things to do in ischia 

Relax!

One of the best things to do on Ischia is simply to sit back and relax in the slower pace of island life. Despite its proximity to Naples, it’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of busy modern life, especially when you get away from the port area and into the inner parts of the island.

Visit the port (Porto Ischia)

If you’re visiting Ischia via its ferry, then chances are that the port will be the first slice of the island that you step foot on! The main shopping portion of the port is Corso Vittoria Colonna, where you can pick up all kinds of souvenirs and go shopping.

This is also the busiest corner of the island, a buzzing hive of activity. Abundant with restaurants that line the waterfront, as well as trendy bars and clubs to sit at while sipping a Campari spritz as you enjoy the stunning views!

Castello Aragonese

Built upon it’s own small tidal island, just a bridge away from the rest of Ischia lies its medieval castle. Steeped in history which dates as far back as the 5th-century BCE, it has been occupied by and lived through centuries upon centuries of different civilisations.

Today it’s known as the Aragonese Castle of Ischia, a name that originates from the very dynasty that influenced expanded and fortified the castle, as well as had influence on the island as it appears today.

Imposing, regal and romantic, be sure to wear comfortable shoes when visiting as the castle is atop a hefty load of stairs which you will have to clamber up.

How much time do you need to visit? As you can probably imagine, what with the amount of history, you’ll need at least an hour or two to explore the castle! (Also be sure to set aside around 20 minutes for the hike up).

To learn more in depth about the fascinating history of this castle before (or after) your visit, you can read our complete guide to visiting Castello Aragonese in Ischia.

Michelangelo’s Tower (Guevara’s Tower)

Along with its castle, this historic tower stands overlooking both Ischia Ponte and Castello Aragonese as a true symbol of Ischia!

Originally built in 1433 for greater defence of the small islet, the majestic tower-palace building rises high above the rocky coastline, just across from the castello. The tower has taken on many names, known as Guevara’s Tower (from the name of the noble family that built it), Michelangelo’s (for the strong links to the famous artist), and by locals as Saint Anna’s tower, (because of the rocks it sits atop).

It’s said that Michelangelo lived in the tower, opposite to that of the Castello Argonese where his supposed muse and secret lover Vittoria Colonna (a noblewoman and poet) resided. It’s also believed that some of the frescoes in the tower are the work of the artist, but not known for certain.

Today, visitors are invited to wander around the various exhibitions held, showcasing famous international artists, both inside and outside in the large garden. Boasting of panoramic views over the sea, as well as one of the best viewpoints of Castello Argonese!

The tower is completely free to visit and is open daily (closed on Monday’s).

Eat local food 

Of course, one of the greatest joys of a visit to Italy is the chance to sample Italian cuisine! Some of the most famous local dishes are:

• Coniglio all’ischitana, or Ischian rabbit: a hearty and warming rabbit stew, simple and traditional
• Sarde a Beccafico: sardines, stuffed with a mix of breadcrumbs, pine nuts, raisins and herbs, with a hint of orange
• Spaghetti with Ragu di Mare: pasta with a seafood sauce, as you can imagine it’s fresh from the surrounding sea!
• Risotto all’Ischitana: similar to the rabbit stew, but served with risotto rice too

Another way to get to know the local foodie scene is to book a cooking class like this one. Or, if you prefer for someone else to cook for you, some authentic dining experiences you can have on the island:

• La Sosta di Bacco, probably one of the most romantic restaurants in Italy! Set within magical scenery overlooking gorgeous views of the island, and serving delicious traditional food.
• O Sole Mio, located on the waterfront, this pizzeria is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat some of the most mouthwatering Italian pizza you can imagine.
• Enjoy a drink at da Gisella, overlooking sweeping panoramic views with Castello Argonese in the near distance, the outdoor balcony is a great spot to indulge in a Aperol spritz or a small glass of limoncello.

Sample some local wine

Sun kissed grapes made into delicious wine, Italy is home to some of the finest wine! On the island there are a number of vineyards and wineries that produce delicious wine, just waiting to be tasted. And there’s truly nothing more enchanting than sipping on wine in the very place that it’s been made! Book a wine tour & tasting experience in Ischia here.

Another alcoholic drink to sample while visiting the island is, Rucolino Liqueur, a traditional digestif. Made with arugula leaves, citrus roots and spices, this traditional amaro style liqueur is herbal, bitter and sweet in flavour and is a staple in the Italian lifestyle.

Giardini la Mortella

This is considered to be one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy. This lush green park is set onto the side of the cliff-face and offers views onto the port of Forio and the azure sea beyond.

Created in the 1950s by a couple who lived there, these mesmerising gardens were officially open to the public in 1991. Boasting of gigantic ponds of water studded with even larger waterlilies, little follies, and even its own restaurant on site (where the food was okay, but there are better places to eat on the island).

You’ll need a couple of hours to truly enjoy all that the gardens have to offer! Learn more about the Mortella Gardens and how to visit them via our guide here.

Cactus Garden (Giardini Ravino) 

The Mortadella Garden isn’t the only botanical garden you can visit on the island! Specialising in succulents and cacti, this small hidden treasure is home to one of the biggest and widest succulent collections in all of Europe, as well as many flowers, it’s truly haven for nature lovers.

While wandering through this botanical paradise you can discover Giuseppe D’Ambra’s impressive collection, a lifetime of dedication and passion to cultivate a space where this oasis of colour could flourish.

The gardens are situated on the road between Sant’Angelo and Forio, and you should allow up to 45 minutes to visit! There’s also a small cafe situated within, here we enjoyed a refreshing Caprese salad.

Visit Forio

One of the more populated towns on Ischia is Forio. Once there you can wander around the cobbled lanes and step inside the impressive Basilica Di Santa Maria Di Loreto.

The main highlights of this Italian town is Chiesa del Soccorso, which sits a little bit outside of town and is also the point from which one of the most beautiful sunsets on the island can be enjoyed.

Explore a museum

If you’re the kind of traveller who enjoys heading into a museum to learn more about the history of a place, then you’re in the right place should you opt to visit Ischia. There are a number of museums on the island:

• Archaeological Museum of Pithecusae (Villa Arbusto Museum): showcasing treasures from the prehistoric age to the Roman ages, rediscover the remnants of first Greek settlement in Central Italy
• Santa Restituta Museum: a large indoor archaeological site that shows the excavation works displaying evidence of a former Christian complex
• Museo Diocesan: preserving the history and art of the Ischian Church, visit the collection of marble sculptures, paintings and silverware
• Museo del Mare: this rather large museum of the sea is housed in the clock-tower at Ischia Ponte, delve into the island’s maritime heritage through photographs and a collection of objects

Lighthouse Punta Imperatore

Unfortunately you can’t get all the way down to the lighthouse, but the views from nearby are pretty spectacular!

Coined by locals as the ‘traffic light’ it is located on the tip of the westernmost point of the island and is the biggest lighthouse of the island. Originally built for purpose use by the Royal Navy. The lighthouse was left abandoned for many years, until in 2018 a German company bought it and turned it into a luxury hideaway resort for people to stay in.

Soak in the thermal pools 

Ischia is pretty well known for its thermal pools, and there are a few ways you could go about visiting. You can visit a specific establishment which has turned the thermal pools into a business and get treatments, such as at Negombo or Centro Termale O’Vagnitiello, or you could alternatively head to some free hot springs such as the Baia di Sorgeto.

Visit Saint Angelo 

Pretty as a postcard, this small village is situated within the commune of Serrara Fontana next to a giant rock and small stretch of beach, known to be the most picturesque corner of the island!

Long held in the heart of artists thanks to its beauty, this quaint little fishing town is sure to leave you feeling inspired! Home to a lively and vibrant Piazzetta abundant with boutique style shops, art galleries and cosy cafes to sit in and soak up the tranquility.

There’s also the small stretch of beach which makes for the perfect spot to soak up the sunshine as the sparkling blue waters lap up the shore.

See the mushroom rock (il fungo) of Lacco Ameno

One of the more unusual rock formations on the island can be found located just off the coast of the island’s smallest town, Lacco Ameno. In fact, this mushroom shaped geological form has come to be the sprit and symbol of the town!

You can marvel at this strange and unique rock formation that’s been eroded by the salty sea and strong winds over time, from the beach that’s named after the rock.

Be amazed by the Pilastri Aqueduct

This is one of the greatest feats of engineering on Ischia! Originally built in the 16th century to remedy the shortage of water to the nearby village, this impressive monument is one of Ischia’s most historic sight’s.

Over 500 meters long, this well preserved structure is quite the spectacle to behold. You can find the aqueduct situated on the boundary between Barano and Ischia Ponte, via the main road that circles the island.

Head to the beach

Home to some of the most beautiful beaches, where crystal clear waters sparkle and stretches of beach await you! Here are the top suggestions of where to relax and go for a dip:

• Spiaggia Di Cava Grado: found just outside of the quaint village of Sant’Angelo, this small and quiet beach is tucked away in a pretty little bay, dotted with small caves that make for great pockets to explore while snorkelling.
• Le Fumarole Di Maronti: famous for its fumaroles! (tiny pockets on the floor in which hot volcanic gases and vapors are emitted)
• Spiaggia Di San Montano: set within the cliffside of the craggy landscape, according to legend this is the inlet where one of the patrons of the island, Saint Restituta, arrived from Africa
• Spiaggia Dei Pescatori: offering amazing views of the Aragonese Castle, this is located close to Ischia Port where you can watch the colourful vintage fishing boats sleepily sail by
• Negombo: part of a hydrothermal park, this part of this gorgeous beach is free and you’re just a stone’s throw away from spa treatment

Madonna di Zaro

This hidden gem is nestled in the northwestern corner of Ischia, in the wooded town of Zaro, easily walkable from Lacco Ameno. A sanctuary site where miracles are said to have occurred, this monument is in tribute to the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus.

Climb Mount Epomeo

For the more fitness loving travellers out there, one of the more challenging things to do on Ischia is to hike to the top of Mount Epomeo. Although only a short 3km in distance, the ascent of this mountain can be really steep in some sections.

However, the true reward when you reach its summit is absolutely worth it. The highest peak of the island, at a height of 789 metres, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of Ischia and its surrounding turquoise waters that glisten in the sunshine.

Admire the views

If you can’t make it to the mountain summit, but still want to enjoy a view, don’t worry there are many! Thanks to the volcanic nature of the island, there’s no shortage of beautiful views all across Ischia. Just walking (or scootering) around the island, you’ll easily stumble across spots that offer picture perfect views.

Attend a festival

If you happen to be visiting Ischia at Easter, then you can see La Corsa dell’Angelo procession. A charming religious parade that takes place annually the Monday after Easter.

Truly a sight to behold! The townspeople welcome tourists to join them as they carry statues of Jesus Christ, The Virgin Mary, The Golden Angel and Saint John through the main street in Forio.

Take a boat tour

One of the more memorable things you can do on your trip is see the island from a different angle and go on a boat tour. Cruising along the waters, with the option to explore the hidden coves dotted around the island as well as taking a dip in the sea.

Truly a magical and unique way to explore the island! Book your boat tour here.

Take a day trip to Procida

Nearby the island Procida is a bit more polished than Ischia, but equally as pretty. A tiny vibrant island of ports and pastel colours, this islet is nestled almost half way in between Ischia and Capri.

The best thing to do is simply wander around and soak up the charming ambience of the island, particularly in its picturesque marina area. Procida, like that of Ischia, is also rich with history, home to Greek artefacts from the 16th century BCE which have been found across the island.

Also the perfect spot for lounging on the beach, serene and beautiful, the beaches are of volcanic origin, characterised by dark sand.

The boat ride to Procida is between 15-30 minutes, making it super easy to get to, it’s definitely worth a trip over if you have the time!

How to get to Ischia 

Take a ferry from Naples, this can take anywhere from 50 minutes up to 1 hour 45 minutes depending on which ferry you choose. Either way, you’re sure to have quite the scenic journey!

For high speed ferries be sure to take the ferry from Molo Beverello pier, and for the slower ferry you can take off from the Calata di Massa pier. Check ferry times as well as prices and how to book your ticket on their official website here.

Getting around Ischia

Thanks to the fact that the island is quite small and compact, it only takes 30 to 40 minutes to get from one side of the island to the other driving.

Parking can be a bit of an issue on the island and so if there’s one travel tip I would give you for Ischia, it would be to not rent a car on the island.

Instead, if you want your own transportation on the island, then renting a scooter from one of the many rentals on the island is a fun way to get around- just be warned that it’s not for the faint of heart with all of the hairpin bends and Italian style of driving!

We rented a scooter as we wanted to experience a few of the off the beaten path and hidden gems of Ischia during our long weekend stay.

Alternatively, the bus service is fairly convenient and cheap at €1.60 per ticket, though be warned that the buses most definitely run on Italian time! Also be sure to validate your ticket as soon as you get on the bus, otherwise you could face very steep fines.

Where to stay in Ischia

Personally, I recommend booking a hotel with a view of the castle! But no matter where you stay on the island (or on the small tidal island of the castle) you are sure to be amazed by the stunning scenery and serene ambience of this little pocket along the Italian coastline.

Villa Livia: offering beautiful views of the castle and spacious rooms, this villa even has a gorgeous garden that makes for the perfect spot to soak up the sunshine! Check prices and availability here.

Il Monastero: a bit of a closer view of the castle…this is situated on the small tidal island and set within a 16th-century former monastery. It’s also conveniently a 12 minute walk from the beach, so you don’t have far to go to take a dip. Check prices and availability here.

Hotel Torre Sant’Angelo: situated on a cliff top in the quaint little village of Sant Angelo, offering breathtaking views over the Bay of Sant’Angelo. Take advantage of the hot geo-thermal pools here and even get a massage while sipping on a campari spritz. Check prices and availability here.

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