Planning a trip to Italy and wondering, Is Ischia worth visiting? The answer is yes! While this volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea isn’t as infamous as its neighbor, Capri, there’s a reason why it’s one of the primary destinations for tourists and locals alike flocking to this island every year.
Are you looking for either spa-friendly warm springs, beautiful beaches, or just a glimpse at Italy’s history? Ischia has something for everyone. Let’s dive into why Ischia should be your next Italian destination.
Key Takeaways:
- Natural Beauty: Ischia is famous for its thermal springs, lush landscapes, and historic sites like the Aragonese Castle.
- Beaches: With beaches like Spiaggia dei Maronti and San Montano Bay, Ischia is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing.
- Affordable Luxury: Ischia offers a mix of luxury resorts and budget-friendly options, making it accessible for all travelers.
- Safe and Easy to Reach: The island is safe for tourists and easy to access from Naples via ferry or hydrofoil.
- Nearby Procida: Don’t miss a visit to the nearby island of Procida, known for its peaceful vibe and colorful houses.
Is Ischia Worth Visiting?
As you plan your next Italian escape, you may wonder, Is Ischia worth visiting? As you thumb through your guidebook or step onto a ferry bound for Italy, you may stop by the tourist information office and wonder if this Tyrrhenian Sea volcanic island is worth your time.
At times, it is considered the poor cousin of its glamorous neighbor, Capri, but Ischia has its charm that draws visitors both nationally and internationally.
From its world-famous thermal springs to pristine beaches and historic landmarks, Ischia is a destination that offers a little something for everyone.
Be it in the name of rest, adventure, or a bit of Italy’s glorious history, Ischia is worth every single minute of your time.
What Is Ischia Famous For?
- Natural Thermal Waters: The “Island of Well-being” moniker applies to the natural hot springs that date back to the volcanic nature of the island, where numerous people have been going for centuries to find respite in healing waters.
- Poseidon Gardens and Negombo Thermal Park: Thermal parks where you can relax in warm pools but also very beautiful gardens.
- Aragonese Castle: A medieval fortress on a rocky isle connected to Ischia by a stone bridge and boasts beautiful sea views and historic events on the island.
- Natural Sceneries of Unspoilt Nature: The island possesses breathtaking natural beauty in the form of lush greenery and coastlines of unmatched beauty.
- Wine Cultivation: Ischia is known for the perfect culture of wine production because of its rich tradition of agriculture.
- Coniglio all’Ischitana: A local culinary specialty, this rabbit stew goes back into the city’s history and traditions.
Is Ischia Expensive?
Ischia can accommodate any budget, so it is suitable for everyone! Some areas, such as Sant’Angelo and Forio, have luxurious resorts that are reserved for high-end tourism.
However, you do not need to be alarmed, because you can easily find affordable hotels and restaurants that won’t break your pocket.
Compared to Capri, Ischia is cheaper, and it’s perfect for a getaway if you want to spend an authentic Italian vacation without breaking the bank.
Some Tips:
- Eating: There are fancy restaurants in Ischia but also simple, good, small places where one can enjoy fresh seafood at the right prices
- Activities: Some thermal parks and castles will be extra, so keep a budget.
If you are wise about where you stay and eat, Ischia can be very affordable and fun for most travelers!
Where to Stay in Ischia
The choice of where to stay in Ischia largely depends on what kind of vacation you are interested in. Here are some of the great options:
- Sant’Angelo: If you want luxuries, stay in Sant’Angelo. This stunning fishing village offers fine hotels, nice restaurants, and fantastic views of the sea. Ideal for a quiet, special experience.
- Forio: For a more colorful place, stay in Forio. There are lots of cafes, bars, and fun places to hang out at night. Here, you will also find Poseidon Gardens, a huge thermal park. Great if you want both relaxation and entertainment.
- Ischia Porto: It’s kind of a central town if you want to be right in the heart of everything. It’s just where the ferries are, shops, and the town center is quite lively. So, there are a lot of guesthouses and mid-range hotels here.
- Lacco Ameno: If you want a quiet, cozy spot on the island, then Lacco Ameno is a small pretty town with nice streets and beautiful waterfront views. This is an ideal place for a very calm and not stimulating rest.
Is Ischia safe?
Indeed, Ischia is very secure for tourists. Crime levels are not very high, and friendly and approachable locals do not betray the general feeling of security.
During the day or at night, you can walk around without any sense of danger or threat. Still, every place has its darker spots, and one needs to be careful and on the lookout for valuables in crowded places or when using public transport.
How to Get to Ischia from Naples
It is very easy getting to Ischia from Naples. Ferries or hydrofoils are running from the Port of Naples to the island. The traditional ferry ride takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on what you choose.
The hydrofoil is quicker but costs a bit more. If you want a cheaper and slower ride, the traditional ferry is good, too.
Most ferries make a stop at Ischia Porto, which is the main port of the island. Upon arrival, you can easily find where the buses or taxis are situated to access every place.
For total freedom, you can rent a car or scooter and explore the island yourself.
Procida: Worth Visiting?
Yes, Procida is worth visiting, especially if you’re already near Ischia! Procida is a quieter and smaller island as opposed to Ischia. It is famous for its colored houses with the calm breath of the atmosphere.
If you are looking for a quiet place where you can spend your day in peace, then you have found it in Procida.
While you are there, you can walk down the narrow streets, walk past these lovely sea views, and dine on fresh seafood at a local restaurant called Trattoria.
Procida isn’t as touristy or crowded as Ischia, so it feels more authentic and not so mass-produced. This makes it amazing if you want to experience something a little off the beaten track yet special during your holiday.
Best beaches in Ischia
Ischia is best known for its wonderful beaches! If you are fond of soft sand or quiet spots, then, for sure, there are many great beaches to visit there. Below is a detailed guide to the best beaches in Ischia.
- Spiaggia dei Maronti: This is one of Ischia’s largest and most famous beaches. It stretches for more than 3 kilometers, providing enough room to stretch out. You can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, playing in the sand, and much more. The waters are also calm and the perfect swimming place. You can also take a walk along the beach or look into the small coves hidden there.
- San Montano Bay: If you desire something even quieter, calmer, and more peaceful, San Montano Bay is your best bet. This is a secluded beach, enveloped by green hills that feels like a secret paradise. The bay is shallow because its water is shallow, thus great if you want your kids to swim somewhere easily without worrying about deep water, while still having enough space in serenity for relaxation away from too many people throngs.
- Citara Beach: Citara Beach is also another popular one in Ischia, known for its remarkable sunset. The beach lies next to the Poseidon Thermal Gardens, so you can easily enjoy the hot springs without much effort. This is perfect for swimming with soft sand where you could spend all your day. Sunset here is a memory that will never fade away.
With every beach on the island, you’ll find something that suits your purpose isolation and relaxation to an inspiring swimming experience and simply a wonderful view of the sea. These beaches are ideal for having a fun yet peaceful day right by the waters!
Conclusion:
Is Ischia worth visiting? Absolutely! Its natural beauty, plus its rich history and charming villages, render it a hidden gem in Italy.
It offers everything ranging from sheer relaxation to adventure, and whatever seems well within one’s budget, in Ischia.
Add this lovely island to your list of places to visit and enjoy all that it has in store. You won’t be disappointed
