Introducing Ischia: Italy’s most underrated island
- Pat Boxall
- Apr 11
- 5 min read
Tourists have long flocked from chaotic Neapolitan streets to the breezy reprieve of star-studded Capri. But savvy travellers are now discovering that the island of Ischia – just an hour’s ferry from Napoli – offers a similar slice of la dolce vita with fewer crowds and at a fraction of the cost.
The popularity of Capri has, so far, allowed Ischia to operate under the radar; that said, the island possesses all the characteristics of a Mediterranean hotspot. Beachside bars? Check. Thermal pools? Check. Mountain hikes, gooey gnocchi alla Sorrentina and boutique shopping under bougainvillea blooms? Check, check and check.
Make no mistake: tourism is alive and well here, especially during the summer. However, walk the streets of Sant’Angelo, Forio or any of the charming towns dotting Ischia’s coastline and the language you’ll most likely hear is Italian. The island remains a low-key destination, with the majority of tourists being domestic. And unlike so many Mediterranean islands, the locals still live in Ischia, lending it an authenticity that’s been lost elsewhere.
Capri remains a stone’s throw away, should you wish to experience both. But once you’re in Ischia, we doubt you’ll be in a hurry to leave.
What to do in Ischia
Explore Castello Aragonese
Perched on a rocky island connected to Ischia by causeway, Castello Aragonese has a history dating back to the 5th century BC. It has changed hands many times over the past 2500 years and is now Ischia’s most-visited attraction, boasting hard-to-beat views of the Mediterranean Sea. The castle plays host to Ischia Film Festival every summer, but remains open throughout the year – spend a few hours soaking up the castle’s history and grounds before retiring to the monastery café for a well-earned spritz overlooking the water.
Hike Mount Epomeo
Mount Epomeo (788m) is Ischia’s highest point. The hike to the summit can be tackled from a number of spots on the island, and though the short walk can be challenging, the views are worth it. Ristorante La Grotta da Fiore is a welcome oasis atop the peak, offering homemade wine, craft beers and friendly Italian hospitality in spades.
Soak in a thermal pool
Ischia is perhaps most famous for its natural thermal pools. You can opt to stay at a hotel with private thermal baths, but there are several thermal complexes open to the public. The largest of these is Poseidon Thermal Gardens, which has 20 thermal pools ranging from 28–40 degrees plus a number of seawater pools, steam rooms and saunas. The complex is sandwiched between the cliffs and the coast, meaning you can also pull up a sun lounger by the private beach area and swim in the sea.
Hire a boat
There are few better ways to spend a day than by hopping around Ischia’s stunning coastline. Whether you’re looking to discover a private beach, explore hidden caves or simply enjoy a swim alongside a glass of wine, there are several companies offering island tours to suit all budgets.
Where to eat in Ischia
Ristorante La Grotta da Fiore
With a dining room carved into the mountain itself, La Grotta da Fiore can be found at the summit of Monte Epomeo and is popular with both locals and tourists. Opt for mouth-watering bruschetta and a glass of homemade wine – you won’t regret either.
Ristorante Montecorvo
Located in Forio, on the western side of Ischia, Ristorante Montecorvo serves up traditional Ischian fare in a lush garden setting. Expect an atmospheric dining experience, with top-tier food served at a casual pace.
Bar Marco
Conveniently positioned at the northern end of the popular Spiaggia dei Pescatori beach, Bar Marco is a casual spot serving up bruschetta and arancini to go with your Peroni or Aperol spritz. It makes for a great aperitivo or light lunch and is within walking distance of Ischia town.
Dani Maison
After an unforgettable culinary experience? Dani Maison operates out of chef Nino Di Costanzo’s own home in the Ischia hills and boasts two Michelin stars. Dinner here is more than a meal; it's a gastronomic journey curated by a master. Expect modern (and highly elaborate) takes on traditional Ischian foods with an impressive wine list bettered only by the service.
Where to stay in Ischia
Mezzatorre Hotel & Spa Resort
Ischia’s Mezzatorre Hotel & Spa Resort is an FBI Travel staff favourite. This five-star resort overlooks the ocean and has a private beach and thermal pool, while the building itself is an unfinished watchtower.
There are 48 rooms and suites located in either the old watchtower or in cottages dotted around a seven hectare park.
You won’t want to leave this stylish resort – and with on-site restaurants and a bar, there really is no reason to.
San Montano Resort & Spa
The secluded 73-room San Montano Resort & Spa has a signature restaurant serving Mediterranean staples with a modern twist and a postcard perfect location on the Neapolitan coast. There's a saltwater pool and a free hotel shuttle bus to take you to the Bay of San Montano beach. The spa has a natural grotto sauna and a wonderful selection of treatments inspired by the surrounding volcanic landscape.
Vittoria Colonna Luxury B&B
Set in a historic building in the heart of Ischia town, Vittoria Colonna is a tasteful lodging offering well-appointed rooms and a delicious breakfast just minutes from both the water and Ischia’s main shopping and dining district. The staff are friendly, attentive and more than happy to help you plan out your stay on the island. A wonderful place to wash off the salt at the end of the day.
How to get to (and around) Ischia
Getting to Ischia
The easiest way to get to Ischia is by flying to Napoli then hopping on a boat at the main port. The ferry to Ischia will take approximately an hour, while the hydrofoil is slightly faster (approximately 45 minutes).
Getting around Ischia
There are a number of places to hire a car or scooter when you arrive in Ischia, though you’ll need an Italian translation of your driver’s license (or an international driving permit) to drive in Italy. There’s also a public bus system that’s easy to use, though it can be unreliable at times. As the locals say, “It’ll come when it comes.” Keep in mind that the buses fill up quickly during the busier months – especially at the end of the day – and you may have to wait another half an hour or more for the next. Leave plenty of time if you need to travel across the island and have dinner reservations.
When to visit Ischia
The best times to visit Ischia are during the shoulder seasons of May, early June, September and October. These months offer a perfect balance of warm weather, fewer crowds and lower rates compared to the busy summer peak. In spring, the island bursts into bloom, with fragrant gardens and mild temperatures ideal for hiking Mount Epomeo or exploring Castello Aragonese.
While the summer months showcase Ischia at its liveliest, the island can be crowded with Italian visitors, which does impact accommodation availability. Winter brings a quiet charm, with many thermal spas remaining open, though some tourist facilities may close.
Next steps
Intrigued by Ischia? It’s hard not to be, given the island was used as a filming location in the 1963 film Cleopatra (starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton) and frequently appeared in Elena Ferrante’s Neapolitan Novels series featuring ‘My Brilliant Friend’.
The island is the stuff of literary and cinematic dreams, so discover Ischia’s charm for yourself by getting in touch with FBI Travel’s team of experts. They’ll happily help you plan your perfect Italian holiday.
Thanks to FBI Travel Advisor Leanne Sheard and to Mezzatorre Hotel & Spa Resort for providing images.