The darling starlet of the Bay of Naples, Ischia is a lush and irresistible rock with its own seductive peculiarities. It’s surprisingly verdant, owing to its volcanic makeup, a fact that the locals have cultivated over the centuries into gorgeous terraced gardens and botanical parks. Green and lush, there’s a refreshing quality to the place, where outdoor pursuits offer some of the best landscapes and views in the bay.
More appropriately, it’s also rife with thermal activity, making it a rather excellent spa destination. Sink into rejuvenating waters and book your treatments, gorge yourself on authentic Campanian dining at every opportunity, and ready yourself for the relaxed and refined island living that Ischia so invitingly offers. If all that sounds a bit too relaxing, then go for a mountain hike, delve into Ischia’s unique and ancient history, or just accept the fact that life moves slower here and so should you. You’ll not regret it.
Head out to the hinterland of this volcanic island and discover an outdoor paradise. If you want a hike with stunning views across the Bay of Naples, head to the summit of Mount Epomeo past hidden caves, lush hillsides and unique rock formations. A little less challenging and even more idyllic are the breathtaking gardens of Giardini La Mortella, a hidden oasis nestled in the hills.
Ischia’s volcanic credentials bless it with some wonderful thermal springs, making it a surprising spa destination. Head for island favourite Poseidon Thermal Gardens, for a dip in the pools and all manner of spa treatments. Alternatively, head for Negombo Thermal Park, where the thermal pools have an untamed quality to complement the beautiful coastal surroundings.
Delve into Ischia’s ancient history at the Museo Archeologico di Pithecusae. It’s home to discoveries from the island’s ancient Greek settlement, the oldest in the western Mediterranean. Notably, the museum’s collection includes the Cup of Nestor from Pithekoussai, which features three lines of Greek - one of two of the oldest recordings of the Greek language.
There’s a few unique culinary traditions worth sinking your teeth into when visiting the island. You’ll find Campanian classics like Paccheri ai Frutti di Mare, Insalata di Polpo, and limoncello, coupled with island staples like Coniglio all'Ischitana (Ischian-style rabbit). There’s also a thriving wine scene, with plenty of vineyards to visit so you can try the island's unique grape varieties, including biancolella and forastera.
Ischia’s Castello Aragonese paints an evocative scene, a medieval fortress slung on its very own rock in the sea. Take the walkway across and discover the buttresses and thick walls, with a history stretching back 1500 years. For all its romance, many of its stories are pretty brutal, often macabre (don’t even ask about the nuns); though you can wash all of this away with the stunning views over Ischia, to Capri, and beyond. Don’t worry, there’s a few bars where you can sun yourself and forget all of that darkness.
It’s quite the hike to get here, but this excellent restaurant right on the summit of Mount Epomeo is arguably the most dramatic of any. Plus the food is great!
With terrace seating and gorgeous sea views, lap up the scene with a gourmet twist on Italian cooking.
In the heart of Forio’s harbour is this low-key and much-loved pizza spot, perfect for a cheap yet quality bite after a long beach day.
Along Italy’s northwestern coast is Liguria, famed for its Riviera. This is the glitzy starlet of the country’s coastline, where dramatic cliffs and irresistible fishing villages have long been a draw for stylish travellers. Though the likes of Cinque Terre are well-travelled, there are still hidden gems to uncover, to beat the tourist trappings. Similarly, there’s a clutch of small towns and villages along the coastline that boast similar beauty, oft overlooked for the more famous five villages. Discover these destinations here, for an authentic experience of Liguria.
Read guideDiscover the road from Calabria to Sicily. This itinerary follows the route of our film with singer-songwriter Jack Savoretti. We’ve added a few extra locations so you can see the best of this corner of Italy, with restaurant recommendations and hidden gems, plus in-the-know tips so you can indulge in an authentic side of this country…
Read guideAt the heel of Italy is this gorgeous coastal region, famed for sandy beaches, remarkable sea grottoes, and beautiful historic towns. Sink into Puglian charms, with the best places to eat, lesser-known coastal picks, and all the insights you need to have the most authentic getaway in this southern corner of Italy.
Read guideNew BIRRA MORETTI
Discover the new BIRRA MORETTI Sale Di Mare, an unfiltered premium lager with a hint of Italian sea salt. Perfectly paired to the flavour and style of the Italian coast, this is full-flavoured refreshment with every sip.
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