Best things to visit during a day trip to Ischia
Situated close to two other popular Italian tourist destinations, Capri and the Amalfi Coast, Ischia is a great option for a boat trip. Let’s find out more!
Some info about Ischia
Ischia is an island off the coast of Naples, in Southern Italy. Its volcanic origin is the reason for the abundant presence of spas and thermal baths on its territory. But the island offers also picturesque scenery, charming pebble beaches, and lively villages in which to spend happy hours. In fact, Ischia is a quite large island compared to Capri or Procida – there are six main towns to visit and tons of things to see! That’s why many visitors decide to spend more days on the island to discover every nook and cranny. However, Ischia is also great for a day trip, the important thing is to choose carefully what to visit. Below we give you some suggestions.
Main tourist attraction in Ischia
- Ischia Porto and Ischia Ponte: Ischia Porto is the place that greets you when you get off the ferry. Here you find bars, restaurants, stores, and people. In short, it is a place full of life! A 10-minute drive away, on a spectacular volcanic islet, is Ischia Ponte, the island’s largest town. Here, you find many attractions including the Aragonese Castle, Ischia’s most iconic landmark. This castle dates back to the 1400s. Not only can you explore the local history inside its walls, but also take in great views of Ischia and its surrounding islands from the castle’s terrace.
- The village of Sant’Angelo and the Fumarole: Ischia’s most stunning village is undoubtedly Sant’Angelo. This quaint little fishing village offers gorgeous views of Ischia and the Tyrrhenian Sea, as well as plenty of charming cafes and restaurants to enjoy. It is located at the southern end of Ischia and is connected to the island by a thin isthmus with a small beach. Here you can enjoy the sun or eat ice cream in one of the many bars. Not far away are the Fumarole. In this area the subsoil gives off puffs of steam that heat the sand, making it therapeutic for curing various aches and pains. Even the ancient Romans knew about and exploited this volcanic phenomenon, which you can also observe by diving into the water, in the form of huge air bubbles rising from the sea bed to the surface.
- Hot springs: of course, Ischia is also home to some renowned hot springs. These hot springs are well-known for their healing properties, and visitors come from all over the world to soak in them. There are spas all over the island for every taste. In each of them, you can enjoy hot water pools and treatments of all kinds.
- Forio and La Mortella Garden: Ischia’s best beaches are located in Forio, Ischia’s second largest town. From here you can also take boats to Ischia’s wonderful islands and little gems like the uninhabited island of Vivara. But Forio is also home to La Mortella Garden, a vast and beautiful private garden created by the wife of the composer Sir William Walton. In the 2 acres of parkland you will find plants of all kinds, ponds and streams, panoramic views of the bay, a museum dedicated to Walton, and a Greek theater that still hosts concerts and events.
- Beaches of Ischia: Ischia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. One is Chiaia Beach, the widest beach on the island, ideal for families and for enjoying the sunset. Another example is Sorgeto Bay, where visitors can enjoy the thermal springs, and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.
How to get to the island
The best way to reach Ischia is by a private boat, but you can also take a ferry or hydrofoil from the port of Pozzuoli, near Naples. The trip lasts about one hour.
Overall, whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Ischia has something to offer everyone. So why not head over and explore this stunning island for yourself? You won’t regret it!
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