Among the many islands of the Tyrrhenian Sea, there is one that escapes clichés. Ischia, the largest in the Gulf of Naples, doesn’t need to embellish itself with tourist superlatives to attract visitors. Its character asserts itself quietly, with an unexpected combination of ancient thermalism, rugged nature, and understated architecture. Upon arrival, there are no large signs or spectacular receptions. What one finds is something harder to describe: a blend of the everyday and the fantastic.
The different sensations of Ischia
Each season redefines Ischia’s identity. In spring, the days grow slowly and the air carries a vegetal fragrance not found in travel guides. June arrives like a promise fulfilled: mild temperatures, prolonged light, and a silence interrupted only by bells and boats. In contrast, when July comes, the island transforms. Its wonderful beaches fill up, conversations rise, and the hustle takes over the squares. However, just a few steps away from the seafront, peace can be rediscovered. In September, everything returns to its natural pace. It’s the month for those in no rush, for those who prefer to listen rather than just look.
Arriving by boat and observing its fascinating landscape
The journey usually begins from the port of Naples. There are fast ferries and others more contemplative, which allow passengers to observe the coast with stunning views. The trip rarely lasts more than an hour and a half, but that’s not the point. What matters is the transition: leaving urban chaos and entering a more ambiguous geography, where the natural landscape takes center stage.
From Naples airport, there are shuttles that take you directly to the port. From there, it’s a geographical choice: disembark at Ischia Porto, Casamicciola, or Forio. It all depends on what you’re looking for—or what you’re willing to find.
Charming places
The island is not a single landscape. It’s divided into six municipalities, each with a distinct character. Ischia Porto, more urban, concentrates the maritime connections and commercial activity. For those who don’t want to rent a car, staying here makes sense. The streets are organized like a network, and from every corner, it’s possible to smell the sea. On the opposite side, Forio offers a slower pace. The sunsets have a silent theatricality. It’s not uncommon to see solitary travelers sitting for hours facing the horizon, needing neither music nor conversation. Lacco Ameno, with its stately façades and archaeological museum, has an elegance that needs no announcement. In the center of the island, not far from the cobbled streets leading up to Mount Epomeo, there’s a notable reference point for those who prioritize relaxing with a view: the Grand Hotel Excelsior Ischia, a hotel that, without being the main attraction, is strategically located for those seeking a balance between comfort and proximity to the sea.
The right luggage for an island that demands lightness
One common mistake is packing as if heading to a resort. In Ischia, there’s no need to bring too much. Its streets are steep, sometimes narrow, and almost never flat. Bringing more than necessary quickly becomes a practical issue. A pair of good shoes, a durable swimsuit, and a garment for the evening breeze are enough. The rest can be found on the island—or forgotten altogether.
Beauty products, interestingly, are expendable. Ischia’s thermal waters, present in spas and natural pools, have effects no brand can replicate.
A destination for improvisation
Beyond organized tourism, Ischia offers a different kind of exploration. Nameless coves, trails that split without warning, hidden gardens like La Mortella Garden. One could spend days without repeating a landscape and still feel there’s more to see. Rainy days, unexpected even in summer, bring a new dimension. The hills become shrouded in mist, terraces empty, and voices grow deeper. It’s then that the island reveals another face—more intimate, but no less interesting. One of silence, steam, and long conversations.
In conclusion, Ischia is a destination full of charm for visitors, both natural and cultural. It’s the perfect getaway for families, groups of friends, and couples looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of its beaches and nature. The island of Ischia is a paradise to which many visitors return! And for those who choose not to, it remains engraved in memory with unforgettable moments.
