Ischia is also known as the “Green Island” in Italy and was declared the most beautiful Island in the world in 2022 by American Magazine Travel + Leisure. As a professional traveler and travel designer, I attest that everything you seek in a vacation can be found in Ischia. You can enjoy beautiful beaches, mouth-watering cuisine, charming villages, lush gardens, historic castles, hiking trails, local wine and vineyards, authentic artisan shops, wellness and spas, especially the thermal parks. This Ischia travel guide covers it all to help you plan the perfect getaway.
As someone who visits Ischia yearly, I can tell you that this is one of my favorite places to go, not only because my husband grew up there but also because of the irresistible beauty of this place. Since the soil is volcanic, everything you plant will grow, so that you can see the island as lush and green, with beautiful beaches. That makes you want to breathe deeply and sip their excellent wine. Every year we go here to take some time off from our busy lives, and Ischia never fails to make us fall in love again and again. To my fellow travelers, I will share some insights on what to do, where to eat, how to get there, and what to bring home as a great souvenir.
What to do in Ischia
Porto d’Ischia – If you enjoy nightlife, this is the place to be; it’s the liveliest area during the summer. Here you’ll find a selection of lounges and bars that often offer live music, DJs, and lively crowds. Some of the popular spots include:
- Bar Calise: A historic cafe and bar, where the venue is in the garden with live music events.
- Alchemie Cocktail Bar: Offers a stylish environment and creative drinks
- Porto 51: You can enjoy your delicious drink while watching the harbor.
Thermal Parks: Since volcanoes surround Ischia, there are a bunch of thermal places you can visit, some of which are the following:
- Negombo Thermal Garden: If you have one day to visit Ischia and want to experience luxury, you can see this place in Lacco Ameno. It has 12 thermal pools with different temperature levels, beach access, a wellness center, and artistic installations. You can also enjoy the upscale, tranquil, and scenic vibe.
- Poseidon Thermal Garden: This is the ideal spot for families seeking to unwind in a spacious setting. This popular and family-friendly spot is in Citara Beach, surrounded by a garden and volcanic rocks. This is one of the largest thermal parks in the world, featuring a Roman-style sauna in a grotto and over 20 thermal pools, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 40°C. You can also access private restaurants, a beach, and wellness treatments.
- Aphrodite Apollon Thermal Park: For couples seeking a romantic getaway in Ischia with spectacular views and a serene atmosphere. This is the perfect place to visit with your loved ones. Located at Sant’Angelo, perched by the Maronti Bay. Enjoy their panoramic restaurant, featuring eight romantic pools, direct beach access, and a wellness center.
Those are just a few activities in Ischia, but they will make a big difference in your stay.
What to eat in Ischia
Ishcia is also known for its mouth-watering cuisine. They come to mind when we hear Italy, pizza, and pasta. However, in Ischia, they serve three authentic dishes that will blow your mind with their taste and preparation. Below are the three main dishes you should try on your visit.
- Branzino al Sale or alla Griglia: This fish dish is commonly served in restaurants on the seaside of Ischia. It is native to the Mediterranean Sea, has a moist and tender texture, and a mild taste that is slightly sweet but not fishy. The fish is usually cooked, grilled, or baked with a salt crust, accompanied by herbs and lemon—an elegant and very delicious dish.
- Polpo all’Ischitana: It’s a coastal specialty, influenced by the nearby Naples. This dish is a stew of octopus in olive oil with cherry tomatoes, parsley, garlic, and sometimes capers or olives. It is slightly sweet and salty; some restaurants put them over the pasta with crusty bread to mop up the sauce. It has a tender and saucy taste at the same time.
- Coniglio all’Ischitana: A signature dish from Ischia, it’s made with rabbit, as the island can’t sustain other livestock. This farm-raised rabbit stewed dish is made with tomatoes, chili peppers, garlic, and fresh herbs. Italians traditionally cooked in terracotta pots, often serving them with pasta. Taste rustic, bold, and deeply savory. This iconic dish tells the story of Ischia’s inland farming tradition.
Foods in Ischia are, on the whole, of a completely different level when it comes to flavor. As you are in Italy, wine is always the perfect pairing for every dish. You can try Biancolella paired with Branzino and Polpo all’Ischitana. A white wine mix has a floral, citrusy taste, is slightly salty, and is light-bodied. Next, Per’e Palummo, a red wine, flavors of red berries, with a hint of spice, earthiness, and softness, making it a perfect complement to Coniglio all’Ischinita.
How to get to Ischia
Since Ischia is an Island, you can visit it by riding a boat. There are two main types of ships from the central Island you can take:
- Traghetto Ferry: This large, regular boat can carry people and vehicles. Although it is a bit slower, it is spacious, where you can walk around and enjoy the scenic views. Travel time will take an hour or more. This ride is perfect for families or travelers who want to bring their cars to the Island.
- Aliscafo: This one is much faster than the Traghetto, but can only carry passengers to the Island. It’s a bit bumpier, but it only takes less than an hour to reach the Island, making it suitable for travelers who only want a day trip and light backpackers.
Things you can bring home as souvenirs
The Ischitani, renowned for their skills, are regarded as great artisans, particularly in ceramics, straw weaving, and food and beverage production. Here are some of the top picks to consider:
- Handcrafted Ceramics: Forio offers beautiful, hand-painted pieces, including plates, tiles, and bowls. Visit Franco Calise Ceramics to shop for some of these.
- Thermal Spa Products: If you’re a fan of skin care products, consider purchasing a mud mask or thermal serum to take home. One of the leading brands is Ischia SPAEH, located at Via Nitrodi, 80070 Barano d’Ischia.
- Local Liquors: A limoncello made from the Island is always a hit, but if you prefer something special and unique, try Rucolino. You can find these liquors in Enoteca Perrazo, located at Ischia Port.
Ischia is more than just a place — it will hold your heart. You’ll find yourself drawn back again and again, just like we are. Here is just a glimpse of the best that Ischia has to offer, but the real magic lies in what you will discover on your own. From quiet mornings in thermal waters to evenings sipping local wine as the sun sets over the sea, Ischia wants you to slow down and enjoy the finer things in life. Let the beauty, the tastes, and the warmth of the island become yours to tell. Contact us and let us help you plan the perfect Ischia getaway with our expert Ischia travel guide.
