Ischia offers a variety of attractions that we highly recommend exploring. Here are a few of our favorites, along with brief descriptions to help you pick and choose.
You can do each of these attractions yourself. However, if you would like help arranging a tour or custom experience, please contact our favorite travel agent, Francesco Angelino (Instagram: @angelino_tours), who is based in Forio, Ischia: angelino.tour92@gmail.com +39 346 728 0941.
Ischia Castle
Ischia Castle, known as Castello Aragonese, is a historic fortress located on a rocky islet connected to the eastern side of Ischia by a causeway near the town of Ischia Ponte. To reach the castle, you can walk from Ischia Ponte or take a short taxi ride from other parts of the island. The entry fee is around €10 - €12 for adults, with discounts for children, students, and seniors. Inside the castle, you'll find stunning panoramic views of the island and the sea, ancient churches, the Torture Museum, a monastery, and beautiful gardens. The castle’s rich history, dating back to 474 BC, offers a glimpse into Ischia's past and is a must-see for visitors.
Sant'Angelo
Sant'Angelo is a picturesque fishing village located on the southern coast of Ischia, renowned for its charming streets, colorful houses, and tranquil atmosphere. This pedestrian-only area is best reached by bus or taxi from other parts of the island, with buses running regularly to the nearby parking area. From there, a short walk takes you into the heart of the village. Sant'Angelo is known for its beautiful beaches, the small harbor, luxury boutiques, and thermal springs. The village also offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding cliffs, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying Ischia's natural beauty. Don't miss the thermal park of Aphrodite Apollon and the charming Piazza, where you can enjoy local cuisine with a view.
Thermal Parks
Ischia is famous for its thermal parks, which are scattered across the island, offering a unique wellness experience thanks to the island's natural hot springs. Some of the most popular parks include Negombo in Lacco Ameno, Poseidon Gardens in Forio, and Aphrodite Apollon in Sant'Angelo. These parks feature a variety of thermal pools with different temperatures, saunas, natural steam caves, and wellness treatments, all set amidst lush Mediterranean gardens. You can easily reach these parks by bus or taxi from any part of the island, with buses frequently stopping nearby. Visitors can spend the day soaking in the therapeutic waters, enjoying spa treatments, and relaxing in the serene surroundings. Each park offers its own unique atmosphere and amenities, making them a must-visit for anyone seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
Mount Epomeo
Mount Epomeo, the highest peak on Ischia, rises 789 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding Bay of Naples. Located in the heart of Ischia, the mountain can be reached by hiking trails starting from the villages of Fontana or Serrara, which are accessible by bus or taxi from other parts of the island. The hike to the summit, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, is moderately challenging but rewards you with panoramic vistas, especially at sunrise or sunset. At the top, you'll find a small church, Chiesa di San Nicola, carved into the rock, and a rustic restaurant where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. The journey up Mount Epomeo is a must for nature lovers.
Beaches
Ischia boasts a variety of beautiful beaches, each offering its own unique charm. Maronti Beach, located near the village of Sant'Angelo on the southern coast, is the largest and one of the most popular, known for its golden sands and thermal springs. Citara Beach, in Forio, is another favorite, home to the famous Poseidon Gardens thermal park. Spiaggia dei Pescatori, near Ischia Ponte, offers stunning views of Castello Aragonese.
You can reach these beaches by bus or taxi from any part of the island, with regular services available. Many beaches feature sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, as well as beachside cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes. Whether you're looking to relax, swim, or explore thermal waters, Ischia's beaches offer something for every type of traveler.
La Mortella Gardens (Giardini la Mortella)
La Mortella Gardens, located on the island of Ischia, Italy, is a stunning botanical garden created by British composer Sir William Walton and his wife, Lady Susana Walton. Nestled in the picturesque setting of Forio, the gardens were designed by renowned landscape architect Russell Page in 1956 and feature an extensive collection of exotic and Mediterranean plants.
With terraced landscapes, tranquil water features, and panoramic views of the Bay of Naples, La Mortella offers a serene escape for nature lovers. The garden also hosts concerts, workshops, and cultural events, blending natural beauty with artistic expression, making it one of Ischia’s most cherished attractions.