For our summer getaway last year, we choose a special corner of Italy – the island of Ischia. Just a short flight from Venice to Naples, a ride on waves with a speed boat, and we were at a true paradise. Small Italian towns, green hills, pristine beaches, clear sea, delicious food, and so many corners to explore. We stayed in a small village called Lacco Ameno, in a walking distance to the best beach on the island – Spaggia San Montano. We took a bus to visit other beautiful towns on the island. Before returning home, we took a boat to get back on the mainland, eat our way through Naples and also visited Pompei.
What to see and do on Ischia?
Explore Castello Aragonese d’Ischia
Rising from a rocky islet and linked to Ischia by a 220-meter long stone bridge, Castello Aragonese looks like a location straight out of Game of Thrones series. Built in the 15th century, it hides 2,500 years of history behind its stone walls. Churches, prisons, tunnels, and lush gardens with Mediterranean vegetation. Climb to terraces – one of my favorites was Terrace of the immaculate conception – with sweeping views of Ischia Ponte, Spiaggia dei Pescatori, Mount Epomeo, and even beyond Ischia to the nearby island of Procida and mainland. Then unwind at one of the cafes at the castle. We chose Caffetteria del Monastero. Here you can sip coffee surrounded by fragrant flowers and gaze over the Bay of Sant’Anna. It’s magical.
Stroll around Ischia Porto
Ischia Porto is generally considered the main town on the island. It’s the island’s primary port and commercial hub, where ferries and speed boats from the mainland arrive and depart. In the town where, charming streets offer a mix of shops, cozy cafes, delicious restaurants, and lively clubs. Grab an ice cream and enjoy strolling around the bustling city. Or sit down for an Aperol Spritz and take in some sea views.
Our suggestions for a delicious lunch:
- Bar Epomeo – Choose some delicious freshly made pasta and aperol spritz.
- Giardino di Enzo – Go for an amazing Italian pizza.
Relax at Spaggia San Montano
Tucked into a picturesque half-moon bay, Spiaggia San Montano is a true beach paradise. Soft, golden sand, clear blue sea, easy access to the calm water, surrounded by beautiful flowers, perfect for everyone, including families. The shore is divided into three parts – public beach, umbrellas and sunbeds for rent (a little bit pricey) and a part belonging to the Negombo Gardens thermal park. There is also a bar on the beach to grab a quick snack. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or taking a refreshing dip, San Montano feels like a perfect beach getaway.
Enjoy Lacco Ameno
If we wouldn’t be staying in Lacco Ammeno, we probably wouldn’t visit the town and it would be a pity. We loved strolling its narrow streets, walking the promenade, and enjoying the views of Il Fungo – a mushroom shaped stone formation that rises 10 meters above the sea. A nice stop is also Archaeological Museum of Pithecusae, which is situated in and 18th century Villa Arbusto. We didn’t go inside, but from their terrace you get amazing views of the Lacco Ameno and sea. Next to the museum is also a great children’s playground, which are not that many on Ischia. There are also some nice beaches in the village. We liked the one next to La Sirenella hotel, however, you have to pay to use it.
Two of our favorites in the village:
- Forno Romeo – Amazing bakery with the most delicious focaccia and croissants.
- Cafe Il Triangolo – Great coffee and sweets – try out their cannelloni.
Try out thermal waters at Giardini Poseidon
Ischia’s natural hot springs have been cherished since ancient times for their healing powers. Spread along the kilometer-long Citara beach, Giardini Poseidon is island’s largest wellness park. Founded in 1959, it boasts over 20 thermal and seawater pools, ranging from 26°C to a 40°C. Indoor or outdoor, plus a private beach and hydrotherapy facilities, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget your bathing cap—it’s obligatory here, but they also sell them at the onsite shop.
Get in all the views at Sant’ Angelo
Sant’ Angelo is a charming fishing village that feels like stepping into a postcard. You descent to a village, overlooking the cliffs and dramatic sea waves, if you visit on a rainy day as we did. Its narrow streets are lined with colorful houses, many have beautiful painted tiles. There are small fishing boats in the harbor. Sant’Angelo’s Chiaia di Rose Beach is located in the village’s center, it occupies the space that links the land to the huge rock just over the water. A stroll with ice cream in your hand is a must here.
Visit charming Forio
Forio, Ischia’s western town, is known for its breathtaking sunsets. The Chiesa del Soccorso, perched on a cliff, offers panoramic views of the sea and the town below, making it a perfect spot for evening stroll. The town’s main street is lined with charming shops, cafés, and restaurants. An important information for families – there is also a nice playground in the town.
Need ideas for more activities on Ischia?
On our “must-see list” was also Giardini la Mortella, unfortunately we didn’t manage to visit the gardens. It is very popular also to hike Monte Epomeo – the highest peak of Ischia – for the magnificent views. Many also catch a ferry for a visit to nearby island Procida.
What to see and eat in Napoli?
After charming and calm Ischia, Napoli hits you with busy and loud streets. A city is a little bit chaotic, contrasting from streets full of trash to beautiful historical buildings. We did a lot of walking around, especially in the city’s historic center, and exploring different corners. The best parts were taking funicular up to San’t Elmo castle to get an amazing view of Napoli. And enjoying peaceful gardens at Santa Chiara Monastery.
We loved eating at:
- Antica Pizzeria del Borgo Orefici – A little restaurant in the heart of Napoli with the most delicious homemade pizza and pasta. We went there twice and I can also recommend their octopus. Will have to return to try their tiramisu.
- Stop at any little local shop around the city and get some fresh pasta, tomatoes and basil. Perfect for a cheap but the most delicious homemade meal.
- Take every opportunity for an Italian gelato. We loved the one from Casa Infante.
A day trip to ancient Pompei
Just a short train ride from Napoli—about 35 minutes—Pompei makes for a fascinating day trip. Once a thriving Roman city, it was frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Walking through its ruins feels like stepping back centuries. You’ll wander past ancient villas, detailed frescoes, hidden mosaics, amphitheaters, old statues, and beautifully preserved streets. There’s even a viewpoint overlooking parts of the site. Be prepared—it gets really hot and crowded, even in June, and there’s not much shade. Thankfully, you’ll find water fountains with cool drinking water scattered throughout the site. I was surprised how amazing Pompei is, however, I would suggest visiting in cooler months and without baby stroller.
Visited: June 2024
