Ischia, a volcanic island in the Mediterranean Sea located less than 60 minutes from mainland Italy, boasts spectacular views, striking volcanic beaches, and soothing thermal baths. Temperatures reach around 30C in summer and remain mild year-round. Dua Lipa and Natalie Portman have recently visited, with Lipa stopping off on her honeymoon with husband Callum Turner.
Why Ischia Stands Out
Despite its natural beauty and burgeoning reputation as a celebrity haunt, the island does not draw as many UK tourists as its flashy neighbour Capri. As a result, Ischia retains a more authentic feel and is a great place to experience Mediterranean offerings. It is also a foodie's paradise, with fresh seafood, regional pasta dishes, and lush vineyards.
What to Do on Ischia
The first stop on any trip is Castello Aragonese, a medieval castle connected to the mainland by a narrow stone causeway. It is perhaps the most iconic sight on the island, dating back nearly 2,500 years and originally fortified by the Greeks. Today, it is partly in ruins and partly restored, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's colourful history.
Visitors should also plan a trip to La Mortella Gardens, considered one of the most beautiful private gardens in Europe. Open to the public since 1991, the green space is home to thousands of rare and exotic plants, fresh herbs, and cascading water features. From there, head to the car-free village of Sant’Angelo for a postcard-perfect view, with pastel houses tumbling down to a small harbour surrounded by easy-going cafés and quaint boutiques.
Close by is Le Fumarole Beach, accessed by a winding path with panoramic views of Maronti Beach and Capri. The area is famous for its 'Fumaroles of Sant'Angelo', jets of steam created by volcanic activity that rise up through the fenced-off sand. The beach is so hot in places that locals use specially-made containers to cook chicken or eggs outdoors. According to local reports, the sand can reach up to 100C.
Speaking of volcanoes, Ischia is renowned for its thermal waters. More than a hundred natural springs and pools bubble up through the island's rocks. Some have been channelled into hillside waterparks, such as Negombo, which offers twelve different types of swimming pools and baths, each heated to a different temperature ranging from 24C to 38C. These are designed to improve circulation, relieve joint pain, and ease stress.
Another option is to take a boat or ferry trip to Procida, a tiny fishing island near Ischia.
How to Get There
Ischia is easy to reach via a short ferry ride from bustling Naples. Flights to Naples start from around £100 in September and depart from Gatwick, Stansted, and Luton. From the airport, the bus, which costs just €5 per person, takes you directly to the ferry port in about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can set sail from Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, or Pozzuoli, but these will take more time.
