This volcanic Mediterranean island has natural thermal springs throughout its rocky terrain. Located near Naples, it draws visitors to its spa resorts and 788-meter Monte Epomeo peak.
Ischia rises from the Gulf of Naples, where you can swim in thermal pools at Poseidon Gardens, explore the 15th-century Castello Aragonese, or hike to Mount Epomeo's 789-meter peak. The island's thermal springs feed into natural rock pools at Baia di Sorgeto, while local vineyards produce unique wines from Biancolella and Forastera grapes grown nowhere else in the world.
Getting to Ischia
You can reach Ischia by ferry from Naples, with boats departing from either Molo Beverello or Mergellina port. The journey takes 50-90 minutes depending on whether you choose a regular ferry or a faster hydrofoil. During summer, additional ferries connect Ischia to Sorrento, Positano, and the Amalfi Coast.
Natural Thermal Springs
The island's 103 thermal springs contain mineral-rich waters heated by volcanic activity. At Poseidon thermal park, you can move between 20 different pools ranging from 28°C to 40°C. Negombo's pools cascade down a hillside garden, with swimming areas overlooking the sea. At Baia di Sorgeto, hot springs mix with seawater in natural rock pools that maintain their warmth throughout winter.
Towns of Ischia
Ischia Porto's main harbor area contains the highest concentration of shops and restaurants. In Ischia Ponte, small squares with cafes and local restaurants lead to the causeway connecting to Castello Aragonese. Forio's streets wind between white Mediterranean buildings toward the Chiesa del Soccorso church, perched on a promontory above the water. In Sant'Angelo, where no cars are allowed, you can walk along the harbor watching fishing boats or climb the steps to the peninsula's viewpoint.
Food and Wine
Local farmers grow grapes and vegetables in the mineral-rich soil. In restaurants across the island, you'll find coniglio all'ischitana - rabbit stewed with garlic, tomatoes, and white wine in clay pots. Fishermen bring their catch to the ports each morning. At Casa D'Ambra and Cenatiempo wineries, you can taste whites made from Biancolella and Forastera grapes, which only grow on Ischia.
Hiking Mount Epomeo
The 789-meter Mount Epomeo rises from the center of the island. The trail to the summit starts in the village of Fontana, winding through chestnut forests and past rock dwellings where hermits once lived. The hike takes 1-2 hours each way. At the top, you'll see the entire island below you, with views extending across the Bay of Naples to Mount Vesuvius.
Getting Around
Public buses circle the island every 20-30 minutes, stopping at all major towns and beaches. Single tickets work for all routes, and you can buy daily passes for €5 or weekly passes for €14.50. While car rental is available, the narrow roads and limited parking in towns make buses a more convenient option.
