Hotels in Ischia

Surrounded by the clear, turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the island of Ischia is Italy’s most idyllic island paradise. Just 30 kilometres off the coast of Naples, this volcanic island is home to more than 100 thermal springs, the sandy beaches of Maronti and Citara, and the picturesque Sant’Angelo fishing village with its excellent restaurants and friendly locals.

Visitors looking for a vacation away from crowded cities come to Ischia to bask in the island’s never-ending supply of sunshine, as well as its relaxing and romantic atmosphere.

How to Get There

High speed ferries operated by Medmar, Caremar, and Alilauro connect Ischia to both Naples and Sorrento. Those who wish to bring private vehicles need to inform the ferry company in advance.

Getting Around

Exploring the island is easy thanks to Ischia’s bus and water taxi system. Bus passes are sold at newspaper stands, cigarette shops, and most hotels. Those who want to take a more scenic route around the island’s coastline can hop onto a water taxi, which carries passengers from Ischia Ponte, Sant’Angelo, and Maronti to stunning beaches that can only be accessed by sea. Scooters are also available for private rentals and can carry up to two passengers.

Top Things to Do

There are lots of things to do and to look forward to on Ischia, chief among them are exploring the winding side streets of the Sant’Angelo fishing village and lounging in the pristine sands of Maronti Beach. Those looking for more private beaches can head on over to Gardenia Mare beach club, which is located by underwater Roman ruins around which visitors can snorkel or scuba dive.

After having one’s fill of the sand and surf, visitors can explore a variety of historical sites, including the Castello Aragonese, a 5th century BC castle with panoramic views of the island. Nature lovers can hike up Monte Epomeo, the highest point in Ischia, and take a leisurely stroll through the La Mortella botanical gardens.

Of course, no one can leave Ischia without indulging in a bit of self-care at one of the island’s thermal baths. Two of the most popular spots on the island are the Cavascura thermal baths, which can be found 300 metres in a cliff, and Negombo, a thermal park surrounded by a verdant garden. The island’s mineral-rich, sulfuric waters are said to help relieve people of respiratory problems, rheumatism, and dermatitis.

Italians hold Ischia’s wines in high regard, so visitors are encouraged to make a stop at one of the island’s many wineries. The most scenic of these wineries is Casa d’Ambra, whose tradition of producing high quality Biancolella wines dates back to 1888. Tours of the winery are typically managed by a member of the d’Ambra family.

Nightlife

La Taverna del Pirata, which is located right by the port, is a popular spot for drinks and free bar snacks, making it an ideal starting point for a night out. Cappuccino bar is also a well-known spot for cocktails, while Bar Maria has been a local favorite for drinks since the 1950s.

The Ischia Port district is home to an impressive selection of nightclubs and discotheques. Discoteca Blu Jane can be found on Pagoda beach, and has both an indoor and outdoor dance floor. Nightclubs Valentino and Alchemie are both nightlife hotspots,while Porto 51 doubles as both a disco and a bar. Forio’s Lucignolo is another well-known spot.

What to Eat

Ischia’s culinary tradition is full of fresh seafood, handmade pastas, and tender pieces of rabbit. Ristorante Deus Neptune, located in Sant’Angelo, prides itself on serving dishes made with local catches of the day, while Cantinando restaurant is a hole-in-the-wall, family-owned eatery that is famous for its tuna tartare and linguine alla vongole.

The restaurant Bracconiere, which sits at 480 metres above sea level, is famous for its Ischian rabbit. Those with a pizza craving should visit Da Pasquale Pizzeria Ristorante. Travelers should book a table at La Cantina di Zio Jack and enjoy some patate e provola in a pizza bread bowl and a view of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Where to Stay

Charming hotels can be found in all of Ischia’s towns. Two of the island’s most popular hotels are Albergo Il Monastero, which is built in a 16th century monastery in Castello Aragonese, and The Pagoda Hotel, which is just minutes away from Ischia Port. Forio, one of the larger towns of the island, is a common choice among tourists as it hosts a wide selection of hotels located by a shopping district with boutiques and small cafes.

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