Discover the beauties of Ischia: What to see in an unforgettable weekend on the island

Ischia, the queen of the Gulf of Naples, is an island that enchants with its natural beauty, its thousand-year history and its vibrant culture. Located a few kilometers from the Campania coast, it represents an ideal destination for a weekend of relaxation, adventure and discovery. Known for its thermal waters and breathtaking landscapes, Ischia is a place where time seems to stop, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in an atmosphere of pure magic.

This article will guide you through ten unmissable places that make Ischia a one-of-a-kind destination. From the majestic architecture of the Aragonese Castle, symbol of the island, to the lush La Mortella Gardens, each stop on this itinerary offers an unforgettable experience. The famous spas of Ischia, with their healing properties, represent a real cure-all for the body and mind, while the beaches, such as that of the Maronti, invite you to moments of relaxation under the Mediterranean sun.

Sant’Angelo, with its characteristic marina and colorful houses, is the perfect place for a romantic walk, while Mount Epomeo offers spectacular views for trekking lovers. The fascinating history of the island can be discovered at the Archaeological Museum of Pithecusae and in the charming village of Ischia Ponte, which tell stories of a rich and varied past. Finally, you cannot leave Ischia without visiting Forio and the Church of Soccorso, true jewels of art and architecture.

Prepare your trip and let yourself be conquered by the wonders of Ischia: a weekend here will certainly be an experience to remember for a lifetime.

Aragonese Castle

History and description

The Aragonese Castle is one of the main symbols of the island of Ischia and one of the attractions most visited by tourists. Located on a rocky islet connected to the main island by a brick bridge, the castle offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples. Built in the 5th century BC, the castle has undergone several transformations over the centuries, becoming a defensive fortress during Aragonese rule.

What to see

Inside the Aragonese Castle it is possible to visit various structures, including the chapel of San Nicola, the church of Santa Maria della Libera and Michelangelo's tower. Furthermore, the castle also houses a museum which displays archaeological finds and works of art related to the history of the island.

For those who love history and art, the Aragonese Castle is an unmissable stop during a weekend in Ischia. The panoramic view enjoyed from the top of the castle is simply spectacular, and offers a unique opportunity to admire the beauty of the island and the surrounding sea.

La Mortella Gardens

General information

The La Mortella Gardens are one of the jewels of the island of Ischia and represent an unmissable stop for nature and botany lovers. Located in Forio, they were created by the famous English composer Sir William Walton and his wife Lady Susana Walton. The gardens are divided into various sections, each characterized by particular vegetation and a different atmosphere.

What to see

One of the highlights of the La Mortella Gardens is certainly the Valley Garden, an evocative tropical garden with a great variety of exotic plants from all over the world. Here you can admire palm trees, orchids, aquatic plants and much more. Another attraction not to be missed is the Hill Garden, a more Mediterranean garden with a splendid view of the sea and nearby Monte Epomeo.

In the La Mortella Gardens there is also an area dedicated to aromatic and medicinal plants, perfect for discovering the beneficial properties of herbs and flowers. Furthermore, during the summer, outdoor concerts and cultural events are organised, offering a unique experience of art and nature.

How to get there

The La Mortella Gardens are located in Forio, on the western coast of Ischia. To reach them, you can take a bus from the island's main station or rent a car or scooter. There is a fee to enter the gardens, but it is definitely worth it for the beauty and tranquility that can be felt inside.

Thermal Baths of Ischia

The spas of Ischia are one of the main attractions of the island and represent one of the most precious natural resources. Ischia is famous for its thermal springs which have been used since ancient times for their healing and therapeutic properties. The spa offers a wide range of spa treatments, such as hot baths, mud baths, massages and wellness treatments.

The spas of Ischia are located in various locations on the island, and each has its own unique characteristics. The Poseidon spa, for example, is among the largest and best known, offering several outdoor thermal pools immersed in an evocative Mediterranean garden. The Nitrodi Spa, on the other hand, is famous for its sulphurous waters which are beneficial for the skin and respiratory tract.

The spas of Ischia are the perfect place to relax and regenerate, immersed in nature and well-being. The island's spa facilities also offer high-quality services such as spas, wellness centers, thermal pools and personalized treatments. The spa is open all year round and is an essential stop for anyone visiting the island of Ischia.

Maronti Beach

Description

The Spiaggia dei Maronti is one of the most famous and evocative beaches on the island of Ischia. It is located in the southern part of the island, near the municipality of Barano d'Ischia. This beach is renowned for its natural beauty and the crystal clear waters that surround it. About 2 kilometers long, Maronti Beach is characterized by a long stretch of fine, golden sand, ideal for relaxing and sunbathing.

What to do

The Maronti Beach offers numerous opportunities to spend a day of relaxation and fun. Here you can rent deckchairs and umbrellas to enjoy the sun in total comfort, or practice water sports such as windsurfing and kayaking. Furthermore, along the beach there are numerous beach establishments where you can taste typical local cuisine or sip a cocktail at sunset.

What to see

In addition to the natural beauty of the Maronti Beach, in the surrounding area it is possible to visit some attractions of historical and cultural interest. Among these, the charming village of Sant'Angelo stands out, an ancient fishing village with typical colorful houses and winding alleys. From here it is possible to admire a splendid panorama of the bay below and the surrounding islands.

Furthermore, near the Spiaggia dei Maronti there is the Maronti spa complex, where it is possible to indulge in a wellness treatment dedicated to relaxation and body care. The thermal waters of Ischia are famous throughout the world for their therapeutic properties, and a visit to the Terme dei Maronti is an experience not to be missed during a weekend on the island.

In conclusion, the Maronti Beach is an essential stop for those who want to spend an unforgettable weekend on the island of Ischia, between sun, sea and relaxation.

Sant'Angelo

Sant'Angelo is a charming fishing village located on the southern tip of the island of Ischia. This picturesque village is characterized by its white houses, narrow streets and stairways that climb the hill, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding coast. Sant'Angelo is a perfect place to relax and immerse yourself in the tranquility and natural beauty of the island.

What to see in Sant'Angelo

One of the main attractions of Sant'Angelo is the beach, a bay protected by cliffs and surrounded by crystal clear waters. Here you can relax in the sun, swim or practice water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding. From the beach, you can also take a walk along the seafront and enjoy the view of the bay and the village.

Another unmissable attraction in Sant'Angelo is the port, where you can admire the colorful fishing boats and tourist boats offering excursions around the island. Along the port there are also numerous restaurants and bars where you can taste local cuisine and sip a drink while watching the sunset over the sea.

Finally, a visit to the village of Sant'Angelo would not be complete without a walk through its picturesque streets, where you can find local craft shops, fashion boutiques and artisanal ice cream parlors. For lovers of history and culture, it is also worth visiting the church of Sant'Angelo, a religious building that dates back to the 18th century and which houses works of art and sacred furnishings of great value inside.

Mount Epomeo

Description

Mount Epomeo is the highest point on the island of Ischia, reaching an altitude of 788 meters above sea level. It is an extinct volcano that offers breathtaking views of the entire island and the Gulf of Naples. Its conical shape makes it easily recognizable and represents an unmissable destination for trekking and nature lovers.

What to do

One of the most popular activities to do on Mount Epomeo is certainly the hike to the top. There are several well-marked trails that lead to the summit, offering spectacular views along the way. Once you reach the top, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the island and the surrounding sea.

For those who prefer a more demanding challenge, it is possible to take part in organized excursions which include longer and more tortuous routes, but which allow you to better explore the local flora and fauna.

Curiosities

Mount Epomeo is rich in legends and myths linked to its volcanic origin. According to tradition, the Greek god Epomeo, in love with the nymph Tirrenide, created the mountain with a giant rock to protect her from her rivals. Even today, the mountain is considered a sacred and magical place by the island's inhabitants.

Archaeological Museum of Pithecusae

The Archaeological Museum of Pithecusae is one of the most evocative places to visit on the island of Ischia.

This museum is located in Lacco Ameno and is dedicated to the Greek civilization that settled on the island in the 8th century BC. The museum houses a rich collection of archaeological finds that tell the story of the ancient city of Pithecusae, founded by Greek colonists. Among the most important finds on display in the museum are ancient amphorae, statues and the remains of ancient houses.

One of the most famous pieces in the museum is the famous Nestor Cup, an ancient vase dating back to the 8th century BC. which bears engraved inscriptions in Greek. This find is considered one of the oldest examples of Greek writing ever discovered and represents an important testimony to the presence of Greek civilization on the island of Ischia.

The Archaeological Museum of Pithecusae offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the history of the island and discover the ancient traditions and customs of its inhabitants. Thanks to the numerous multimedia installations present in the museum, it is possible to deepen the knowledge of Greek civilization and its influence on the culture of Ischia.

For lovers of archeology and ancient history, a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Pithecusae is an unmissable experience that allows you to get to know the roots of the island of Ischia up close and appreciate its rich cultural heritage.

Village of Ischia Ponte

Description

The village of Ischia Ponte is one of the most evocative and characteristic places on the island of Ischia. Located on the east coast, this ancient seaside village still retains the charm and typical atmosphere of a bygone time. The narrow paved streets, colorful houses and historic buildings create a unique and fascinating atmosphere, which transports visitors back in time.

What to see

One of the main attractions of the village of Ischia Ponte is the Aragonese Castle, an imposing medieval fortress that dominates the entire bay. Inside the castle it is possible to visit several museums and exhibitions, as well as enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the coast and the sea. Furthermore, the village is full of historic churches and buildings, including the Church of Soccorso, a true jewel of Baroque architecture.

Don't miss the opportunity to walk along the ancient walls that surround the village, from which you can admire the crystal clear sea and the boats that ply the waters. And if you are a shopping enthusiast, you can't miss a visit to the village's artisan shops, where you can buy typical products and unique souvenirs.

Finally, the village of Ischia Ponte is also famous for its lively nightlife, with numerous restaurants, bars and clubs where you can taste the traditional cuisine of the island and dance until dawn.

In summary, the village of Ischia Ponte is an unmissable stop for anyone who wants to discover the beauty of the island of Ischia and immerse themselves in its history and tradition.

Forio

Description

Forio is one of the most fascinating and picturesque places on the island of Ischia. Located on the west coast of the island, Forio is famous for its breathtaking beaches, its evocative landscapes and its crystal clear waters.

What to see

Forio boasts a rich history and a unique cultural heritage. Among the main attractions not to be missed in Forio are the Church of Soccorso, an architectural jewel that dominates the bay, and the characteristic historic center with its winding streets and historic buildings.

Another unmissable stop in Forio is the Poseidon Gardens thermal complex, one of the largest wellness centers in Europe, where it is possible to relax and regenerate among thermal pools, saunas and wellness treatments.

What to do

Forio offers numerous opportunities for leisure and entertainment. Nature lovers will be able to explore the beautiful beaches of Citara and Cava dell'Isola, perfect for relaxing in the sun and bathing in the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

For trekking and hiking enthusiasts, Forio is the ideal starting point to explore the suggestive Monte Epomeo, the highest point on the island of Ischia, which offers breathtaking views of the bay and the surrounding countryside.

Gastronomy

Forio is also a paradise for lovers of good food. Here it is possible to taste the delicacies of the Ischia culinary tradition, including the famous "Ischian-style rabbit" and the delicious "linguine with clams", accompanied by a good glass of local white wine.

In short, Forio is an unmissable destination for an unforgettable weekend on the island of Ischia, among art, culture, nature and good food.