I get so many DMs from you guys asking about specific places you're interested in traveling to, so I'm introducing a Trending in my DMs series to highlight the places you're most curious about. The volcanic island of Ischia, in the bay of Naples, has been trending in my DMs for a while, so I figured it would be a good place to kick things off. As far as I’m concerned, those of you who have reached out about Ischia have good taste and good instincts, as it’s one of my favorite islands in Italy :) Until about a decade ago, people had never heard of Ischia, as it’s often overshadowed by the glitzier (plus pricier and overcrowded) villages along the Amalfi Coast or the neighboring Capri. Ischia stands out for its natural, laidback and authentic charms, articulated by its old timey hotels, sandy beaches swarming with locals, cliffside swims and thermal springs, scenic hillside restaurants, and best of all, affordable prices. There’s an ease here—it’s blissfully elemental in all the ways I love.
Who it’s for: I always get questions like “I’ll be spending a few days in the Amalfi Coast and have a few days to spare before my flight out of Naples, where should I go?” First of all– you definitely need to spend a night or two in Naples, but in addition to that, Ischia would be a great add-on if you want to stay by the sea. Ischia is also a more laidback alternative to Capri; while Capri is known for its luxury stays, designer boutiques, sceney nightlife and pricey beach clubs, Ischia is more natural, relaxed and authentic. That being said, Ischia is NOT for those looking for a scene– that is, of course, unless you’re staying at Mezzatorre Hotel & Thermal Spa. The hotel owned by the family-owned Il Pellicano Group has become a big destination hotel on Ischia since it opened in 2019, where couples, honeymooners and celebs come to escape the throngs of crowds on the Amalfi Coast or Capri and hide away at the cliffside oasis for a couple of nights. (Full disclosure: it’s a beautiful hotel, but doesn’t quite capture the simple spirit of Ischia.)
How to get there: Fly or train into Naples then catch the 1hr ferry from Naples to Ischia. If you’re traveling from somewhere along the Amalfi Coast or Sorrento, many ports have direct ferries to the island, as well as from Ischia’s neighboring islands Capri and Procida.
Getting around Ischia: The best option is to rent a car. Public transportation will fall short of getting you to some places you want to go (specific restaurants in the hills, for example) and taxis can be expensive.
Below, you’ll find my guide to Ischia, featuring my favorite affordable stays with direct sea access, the island’s best local beaches, secret hillside restaurants and seaside eats, and a 2 day itinerary to make your planning a tad bit easier.