The volcanic island of Ischia (the largest in the Bay of Naples) has been famous for its hot springs since the ancient Greeks first soaked their cares away in the thermal waters. Visitors today are also drawn to the island’s rugged coastline and elegant gardens, postcard-perfect resort towns like Casamicciola Terme and Lacco Ameno, and imposing Aragonese castle—all easy to take in by land or sea on day trips or boat tours that depart from Naples, Sorrento, and other mainland ports.
In summer, locals and travelers flock to the Island of Ischia—Capri’s larger, more low-key neighbor—for swimming and beach time, with the tourist season peaking in July and August. If you can avoid Easter, spring is an ideal time to visit: The weather is mild, crowds haven’t yet arrived, and the water begins to warm. Fall is great for hiking Mount Epomeo and for visiting the island’s famed thermal spas and natural hot springs.
Ischia is connected by ferries to ports along the coast of Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and neighboring islands. The island is the largest and most developed in the Bay of Naples, with a public bus system that goes nearly anywhere. Distances, however, are not always short, and renting a car—or a scooter—makes sense if you want to see more of the island. Need to escape the crowds? Hire a boat to reach beaches and coves accessible only by sea.
Ischia has natural thermal springs said to have healing properties. If you’re interested in taking a soak, try the Sorgeto hot springs near Panza, or the Nitrodi natural springs complex just north of Barano d’Ischia. Or, head to Fumarole Beach in Sant’Angelo. There, the sands near Maronti Beach heat up to 300°F (150°C)—locals sometimes take advantage of the high temps and cook their seafood right on the beach.
