Long overshadowed by Capri and the Amalfi Coast, the island of Ischia is having a well-earned moment. The largest island in the Gulf of Naples, it has drawn fresh attention in recent years thanks to the HBO-RAI adaptation of My Brilliant Friend, the buzz around its thermal springs, and the lure of its charming seaside hotels.
Known as the “Green Island” for its lush, volcanic terrain, Ischia is beloved for its healing waters, laid-back villages, and unpretentious charm. Unlike its more polished neighbors, it feels refreshingly local — lived-in, rugged and quietly elegant. And while it’s no longer a secret, Ischia still offers plenty of places to slip away from the crowds.
Explore Castello Aragonese
Rising dramatically from a rocky islet off the coast of Ischia Ponte, Castello Aragonese is the island’s most iconic landmark. The fortress dates back to 474 BC and once functioned as a self-contained village protected by defensive walls. Today you can wander through ruined churches, cloisters, terraces, and gardens while enjoying sweeping views of the sea.
Within the castle complex you’ll also find Albergo Il Monastero, an evocative design hotel set inside a 16th-century monastery — one of the most atmospheric places to stay on the island.
Stay at a Boutique Hotel on Ischia
One of the best ways to experience Ischia is by staying in one of the island’s charming boutique hotels or historic spa resorts. Many properties are built around natural thermal springs or set in restored villas overlooking the sea, offering a slower way to experience the island.
From elegant cliffside resorts to intimate guesthouses tucked into fishing villages, the island offers a wide range of memorable places to stay.
Soak in Ischia’s Thermal Baths
Ischia’s volcanic geology has made the island famous for its thermal waters, which have been used for wellness since Roman times. The island is dotted with spa parks and natural springs where visitors can relax in mineral-rich pools overlooking the sea.
One of the most beautiful is Negombo Thermal Gardens, a lush park near Lacco Ameno with multiple pools of varying temperatures, seaside access, and botanical gardens dotted with sculptures. Another classic option is Poseidon Gardens, the island’s largest thermal park, located near Forio.
Sail Around Ischia
One of the best ways to experience Ischia is from the water. A boat tour around the island reveals hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, and secluded swimming spots that are impossible to reach by land. Many tours depart from Ischia Porto and circle the entire island, passing highlights like the Castello Aragonese, the cliffs of Forio, and the geothermal waters of Sorgeto Bay. Some excursions include stops for swimming or snorkeling, while others combine a coastal cruise with lunch at a seaside restaurant.
Eat a panino at Bar Gino
A laid-back spot right by the sea, Bar Gino in Casamicciola Terme has been a local favorite for over 30 years. It’s the kind of place you stumble upon and then find yourself coming back to again and again. The menu is simple but hits the spot — especially the signature Bruschetta Gino, piled high with cherry tomatoes, arugula, prosciutto, Grana Padano, garlic, and fresh herbs. Another crowd-pleaser is the zingara ischitana, a hot pressed sandwich with prosciutto and mozzarella that’s pure comfort food. Whether you’re stopping in after a swim or just looking for a quick bite with a view, Bar Gino delivers.
Walk around Sant’Angelo
Once a humble fishing port, Sant’Angelo has become one of the most charming corners of Ischia. This small village sits on a narrow isthmus connecting the mainland to a rocky promontory, with pastel houses, narrow lanes, and cafés overlooking the harbor.
The town is largely pedestrianized, giving it a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from the busier ferry ports. Come for a slow lunch, browse the boutiques, or walk down to nearby Maronti Beach, where geothermal vents heat the sand beneath your feet.
Go to a beach club in Cartaromana Bay
Just beyond Ischia Ponte lies Cartaromana Bay, one of the island’s most scenic swimming spots. Here, beach clubs are perched along rocky terraces facing the sea, with spectacular views of Castello Aragonese rising in the distance.
We love Giardino Eden and Gardenia Mare, elegant beach clubs known for their terraced loungers, clear turquoise water, and relaxed but chic atmosphere. Reserve a sunbed in advance and arrive by taxi boat from Ischia Ponte for a memorable afternoon by the sea.
Relax at Fonte di Nitrodi
Unlike traditional thermal pools, Fonte delle Ninfe Nitrodi offers a very different type of wellness experience. This ancient spring has been revered since Greek and Roman times for its curative waters, believed to help treat skin and digestive ailments.
Rather than soaking in baths, visitors walk through lush gardens and rinse themselves beneath natural showers fed by the mineral-rich spring. The ritual feels almost mystical — a quiet place to slow down and experience one of Ischia’s oldest healing traditions.
Discover Ischia’s Volcanic Wines
Ischia has a long winemaking tradition shaped by its volcanic soils and steep terraced vineyards. One of the island’s most historic producers is Casa d’Ambra, founded in 1888.
Visitors can taste wines made from native grapes like Biancolella and Forastera, often grown on dramatic slopes high above the sea. Tastings offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s agricultural heritage and the unique flavors created by its volcanic terroir.
Hike to the Summit of Monte Epomeo
Rising 789 meters above the island, Monte Epomeo is the highest point on Ischia and rewards hikers with sweeping views across the Bay of Naples.
The most popular route begins in the village of Fontana and winds through chestnut forests and volcanic rock formations before reaching a small café near the summit. On clear days you can see Capri, the Amalfi Coast, and even Mount Vesuvius in the distance.
Visit the Gardens of La Mortella
Hidden in the hills above Forio, La Mortella is one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy. It was created by Susana Walton, wife of British composer William Walton, who lived on the island in the mid-20th century.
Designed by renowned landscape architect Russell Page, the garden features exotic plants, bamboo groves, lily ponds, and panoramic terraces overlooking the sea. During the summer months, classical concerts are held in the open-air amphitheater.
Watch the Sunset in Forio
Perched on a rocky headland overlooking the sea, the whitewashed Chiesa del Soccorso is one of the most photogenic places on Ischia. At sunset locals gather along the cliffs and piazza to watch the sun dip into the Tyrrhenian Sea — one of the island’s beautiful daily rituals.
Afterward, walk just a few minutes down the road to Umberto a Mare, a beloved seaside restaurant known for its fresh seafood and sweeping views over the water. (The restaurant also has a small hotel – you can discover more in our guide to the best hotels in Ischia.)
