amazing island Ischia is one of the most beautiful islands in Europe, famous for its healing thermal springs and mud. This island has been a real paradise for travelers for centuries, where they could fully relax, improve their health, find peace, tranquility and fully enjoy the life bestowed by the Almighty.

There are not many islands in the world where there are excellent conditions for quality beach holiday and effective recovery - Ischia is just one of these islands. Therefore, rest on the island of Ischia is a bit like (China).
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general description
The Italian island of Ischia (Ischia) of volcanic origin is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, in close proximity to the coast of Italy (7 km from the mainland and 40 km from Naples) and bordering the Gulf of Naples from the northwest. The island belongs to the province of Naples, is part of the Phlegrino archipelago, is located 2.5 km from the neighboring island of Procida, which is also part of this archipelago. (The map can be moved, enlarged, reduced)

Ischia covers an area equal to 46.3 km², with a population of just over 62 thousand people. The administrative center of the island is the eponymous city of Ischia with a population of just over 18 thousand people. To visit the island, you need an Italian visa, which can be ordered online with delivery, without a trip to the consulate, with the help of a well-known company

Climate
The climate of the island is subtropical, mild (Mediterranean), the same as on the other Italian island of Sardinia, see.
Summers on the island are generally very dry and hot. There is very little precipitation, but if there are rains, then they are short-term - the average monthly temperature is + 28 °. Winters are mild and rainy - the average monthly temperature is +15°, and the minimum is +7°. Despite the fact that there are slight differences in temperature indicators even in different parts of the island, in general this climate is typical of southern Italy. Therefore, it is preferable to plan a beach holiday on the island of Ischia, as well as (Greece), for the period from April to October. but best time for a trip, the end of spring and the beginning of autumn are considered, since at this time the temperature indicators of water and air have the most comfortable and pleasant values. For convenience, we offer a weather widget from Yandex, with which you will always be aware of the current weather on the island and a 10-day forecast will be available to you.

Nature
The relief of the island is mountainous.
There are three famous volcanoes on Ischia - Epomeo volcano is located in the center of the island, the highest point of Ischia is located on it - seven hundred and eighty-nine meters above sea level, and Trabobti is also in the center at an altitude of five hundred and twelve meters above sea level.
In the southeast of the island, at an altitude of 512 meters, there is the Monte Vezzi volcano. Ischia last experienced volcanic eruptions in 1301. By the way, if we develop the topic of volcanoes and volcanic activity, information about volcanoes (including active ones) in Hawaii will not be superfluous - see article
Ischia has lush vegetation, which is why it is also called Emerald Isle. After all, there are very fertile soils of volcanic origin and, accordingly, a very fertile climate conducive to the active growth of subtropical and tropical plants.
The island has a huge number of pine, chestnut, lemon-orange, groves that delight the eyes of vacationers and create the coolness that is so desired on a summer day.
thermal springs
This beautiful island, as mentioned above, is known for the abundance of hot springs, the ancient Romans were aware of the miraculous properties of which.
The main advantage, the pride of the island is its thermal parks, with healing mud.
Therapeutic procedures have a calming, tonic, rejuvenating effect on the entire body - there is a complete relaxation (recovery) of the body, stress and irritability are relieved, fatigue that has accumulated for a long time disappears without a trace. A person acquires peace of mind and all this happens without taking any medications, that is, the whole healing process gives a person only pleasure, because you just need to wallow in the mud. (Almost like in Minvody, see)
These parks are located in beautiful places, directly by the sea, in natural bays with magnificent sandy beaches, surrounded by picturesque mountains.
In combination with mud procedures, a huge healing effect is brought thermal springs escaping from the bowels of the earth. These waters are rich in mineral salts, bromine, phosphates, sulfates, bicarbonates. An amazing healing effect has been clinically proven in the treatment of rheumatism, arthritis, gynecological diseases, neuralgia, metabolic disorders, skin diseases, circulatory systems, and the immune system is also strengthened.
It should be noted that almost every hotel on the island has a thermal pool, and all thermal healing centers have the most modern equipment.
Resort areas
As a rule, the swimming season in Ischia, as well as in Sicily (see), covers the period May - October. Therefore, a vacation on the island of Ischia, as mentioned above, is better to plan for this time.
All the numerous beaches along the rugged coastline, bays, capes are well equipped and well maintained - you can rent a sunbed, an umbrella, on most beaches there are restaurants, cafes, pizzerias where you can have a delicious meal - in a word, there is everything for a comfortable, relaxing holiday.
However, every beach resort area) has some of its own characteristics, consider the most popular among them.
Maronti beach
This sandy beach in the south of the island, three km long, is the largest on the entire coast and is located in the town of Barano.
The beach is surrounded by picturesque hills with caves and gorges. In one of these caves there is a thermal spring - Kava Skura. Therefore, the main feature of the beach is that here, in addition to the immediate proximity of the healing spring, the beach sand is also healing. This happens with the help of Fumaroles (holes through which healing hot gases come out of the depths of the earth) located on the Maronti beach, so the sand acquires healing properties, which in turn is used in sand baths.
This place has been popular since ancient times. There is a legend according to which pirates hid their stolen treasures here - after all, the depth in the bay made it possible to moor unhindered to the shore.
sant angelo
This wonderful and tiny beach is located on a long sandy isthmus, west of Maronti.
The whole coast west of S. Fngelo to Punta Imperatore is characterized by the fact that here tiny bays with pebble beaches alternate with sheer cliffs right above the sea, so some places are difficult to access.
Baia di Sorgeto
This pebbly cove is also located on south coast, a little west of the above-mentioned Sant'Angelo beach. Rest here is interesting for the fact that thermal springs are bubbling directly into the sea.
The bay is perfectly protected from the winds by mountains, so this unique place is a kind of pool in natural conditions, under open sky, and even with healing thermal water, you can swim here even in winter.
Forio
Forio is located on the west coast, characterized by the fact that here small coves alternate with rocky shores, therefore, secluded, secluded and very picturesque places are created by nature itself.
Very picturesque northern place coast of Forio - Punta Caruso (P.Caruso), surrounded by abundant wild greenery and rocks of volcanic origin.
Citara beach
The beach is also located on the west coast a little south of Forio near the cape of Punta Imperatore (P. Imperatore), known for its crystal clear waters.
In close proximity to the sea, the popular thermal springs "Gardens of Poseidon" are located, surrounded by abundant vegetation.
San Montano
This bay, located on the north coast, perfectly protected from the winds, is interesting because it is always crystal clear and warm water, and in the immediate vicinity of the beach there is a very famous Negombo thermal park with pools with sea and mineral water.
Lacco Ameno
Located on the north coast.
On this beach, directly by the sea, there are excellent hotels.
Bagitello
Located in the north of the island. This beach also has thermal springs. It should be noted that the northern coast is dominated by beautiful sandy beaches with pine groves, alternating with rocky shores.
Cartaromana
An extraordinarily beautiful beach with a length of only three hundred meters!
From here, a magnificent landscape opens up overlooking the bay in which the famous Aragonese castle is located, in the suburbs of Ischia Ponte. And hot springs, as well as on the beach of Baia di Sorgeto
are located right in the sea, therefore, here you can relax, heal and enjoy in natural conditions, taking pleasant thermal baths even in cool weather.
There are also excellent conditions for diving. Therefore, a vacation on the island of Ischia will not be complete if you do not visit this beautiful place.
To get a better idea of ​​the above resorts, you can wander around almost the entire coast of the island using panoramic photos from Google

sights
Aragonese castle
This medieval castle is one of the main attractions, located on east coast in the bay of Cartaromana.
The castle was built in the Middle Ages on the site of an ancient fortress, which was erected around 470-480. BC. In the 16th century, the famous Italian poetess Vittoria Colonna lived in the castle.
Botanical Garden (Giardini La Mortella)
This two-hectare botanical garden was founded by Susana Walton in 1956. Susana Walton is the wife of William Walton, a famous English composer who settled on the island in 1949 and lived here until 1983.
Villa Mortella is one of the finest private gardens in Europe. There are more than 3 thousand of the rarest species of exotic plants.

The island of Ischia is located in Italy, and is the most big island in the Gulf of Naples,area of ​​the Island of Ischia 46 square kilometers. Tourists love it due to the fact that it combines a variety of picturesque, historical and cultural attractions.

The island itself is relatively small, but very concentrated here. a large number of hotels, parks, spas, beaches. .

If you are traveling by your own car, then you should know that from Easter until the end of summer, only residents can move around the island by car and motorcycle. The rest of the time, it's very hard to find free parking, so basically everyone uses a paid one, a special coupon for which you can buy in tobacco or newspaper stores. In extreme cases, you can use a taxi service, the price of which within the island is 12.00 euros, or you can rent a car (Lasolino street 24, tel. 081985720).

For those who love boat trips must like such a service on the island of Ischia as sea ​​excursions, they provide an opportunity to visit such beautiful places as the island of Capri, Procida, Ventetene, Positano, and Ponza (the agency's office is located at Casciaro 49, tel. +39081983636).

sights

The best attractions on the island of Ischia, are the volcanoes Trabotti, Monte Vezzi and Epomeo which is the most high point on the island. But do not be afraid of them, the last eruptions here were in the 12th century.

Excursions: Great way to spend time in Ischia- this is an order of group or individual excursions. On the site you can find suitable excursions from Naples and Rome to the island of Ischia, as well as Bus tours, transfer and entrance tickets to the thermal parks.

But of course the most important and beautiful attraction of the island of Ischia is Aragonese castle in which at all times only the wealthiest lived and influential people. Perhaps partly thanks to him, the island is very popular with directors.

It is located on a separate island, with total area 56000 square meters. For visitors there are cafes and eateries. It is open every day from 9.00 to 7.30. Entrance fee 10.00 euros.

Another attraction about. Ischia worth a visit Museum of Saint Restituta(Museo Santa Restituta). It is divided into Museum and Antiquarium archaeological sites. The museum houses various cups, jugs, plates, ceramic vases, as well as bronze sculptures of Saint Restituta.

The Antiquarium contains finds from different eras. Here you can see memorial plaques, funerary decorations, coins, statues of the 4th century BC. Clay products are striking in their quantity. Entrance fee 3.00 euros. Opening hours from 9.00-12.30 and 16.00-18.00, except Sunday.

Must visit botanical garden of Villa Mortella(Villa la Mortella). The garden has more than three thousand rare plants brought here from different countries. All these plants in combination with streams, pools, fountains create a very beautiful picture. In addition, a gorgeous view of the bay of Forio opens from here. It also often hosts classical music concerts. Entrance fee: garden 12.00 euros, children from 6-12 years old 7.00 euros, entrance to the concert 20.00 euros.
One of the largest collections of succulent plants in Europe can be seen in the Ravino Gardens (Giardini Ravino) located in the town of Forio on Panza 140.

thermal springs

The Isle of Ischia is also famous for its thermal springs, which have healing properties. Terme Ischia are known all over the world, the ecology and climate on the island contribute to effective treatment and relaxation. I think no one will remain indifferent when they see beautiful hills planted with vineyards or breathing air pine forest, I'm not talking about the sea air and sandy beaches.

The wellness centers of Terme Ischia can indeed offer real medical therapy, under the supervision of experienced professionals. These include: hydroponic baths, mud baths, inhalations, aesthetic and therapeutic massages, saunas, baths, whirlpool baths and a huge number of beauty treatments. .

Hot springs are divided into four groups due to different chemical composition and healing properties: saline, alkaline, bicarbonate and high temperature. On average, the water temperature is from 28° C to 40° C, and high-temperature springs up to 70° C.

Thousands of people come to the island of Ischia for the treatment of injuries, endocrine, gynecological, hormonal, dermatological, vascular, rheumatic and neurological diseases, as well as diseases of the respiratory system. As far as I know, even cosmetics (creams, lotions, masks, scrubs, etc.) produced under this brand (Terme Ischia) can be bought in the CIS countries.

Hotels

There are a lot of hotels on the island of Ischia, they can be divided according to prices, stars and many other criteria, but I decided to write about a few that are located in close proximity to the city center. You can find prices for these and many other hotels in Ischia with the cheap hotel search engine.

Enter the name of the hotel you want and compare prices for hotels in Ischia :

• Strand Hotel Delfini (5 stars) - good hotel, overlooking the Aragonese castle, all services, thermal springs, treatment, etc. Reasonable prices (tel. +39081981341, +39081981842).
• Hotel Terme Parco Verde (4 stars) - the hotel is located 300 meters from the center, 500 meters from the sea, thermal pools, park, beauty salon, Turkish bath and other wonderful services. Address st. Mazzella 43, tel. +39081996999.
• Hotel Terme Principe (3 stars) - the hotel is located in the center, 50 meters from the sea, thermal pools, jacuzzi solarium, spa, garden, etc. Address st. Via Roma 116, tel. +39081994466, mobile: +393661057055.
• Hote Aragonese (3 stars) - the hotel is located within walking distance from the historic center of the island of Ischia, in close proximity to local attractions. Address G. B. Vico 76, tel. +39081992431, mobile +393387272862.
• Hotel Nettuno (3 stars) - a great option for families with children, swimming pool, private beach, is in the center. Address Via Bafile 23, Tel. +390421370301.

And finally, a video that will give an idea about the island of Ischia:

Basic moments

Ischia is of volcanic origin. There are three extinct volcanoes on the island: Epomeo (789 m) and Trabotti (521 m) in the center, as well as Monte Vezzi (395 m) in the southeast. Tourists have nothing to worry about: the last eruption in Ischia was back in 1301.

Rest here has become popular thanks to the unique thermal parks. It is believed that the largest number of thermal pools in Europe is concentrated on the island of Ischia. This is a real natural gift - local dirt and mineral water possess healing properties and are able to relieve fatigue and stress, increase immunity and rejuvenate the skin. The island of Ischia has become a real symbol of beauty and youth in Italy.

The first settlers set foot on the land of Ischia around 4 thousand years BC. Today, more than 6 million travelers visit the island every year. During the high tourist season, not only foreigners come here: Ischia receives a large number of Italians who want to spend their holidays or weekends here with children and friends. It becomes especially crowded in the island resorts in the hottest months of the year - in July and August.

Such an influx of tourists is quite understandable. In Ischia, you can find everything that a sophisticated travel lover can want: magnificent beaches, transparent sea, coniferous forests, groves of olives and lemon trees, vineyards, winding mountain paths, as well as many archeological monuments and ancient temples. It is worth adding also the healthy climate of the Mediterranean and the exquisite local cuisine. In addition, the island of Ischia is famous as a place for family tourism: it is not too noisy and there are comfortable conditions for kids.

island terms

Iskitansky thermal parks have long become a favorite place for tourists coming to the island. These parks are specially equipped and landscaped areas, where there are several pools with thermal water. All day the water in them is constantly cleaned. And when the parks are closed for visitors in the evening, the pools with thermal water are completely cleaned.

In total, there are six parks on the island of Ischia: Poseidon Gardens, Eden, Castiglione, Tropical, Apollo and Aphrodite and Negombo. Almost all of them are located on the seashore in bays protected from the wind and are adjacent to excellent beaches. Such parks have become real health and relaxation centers of island resorts. In addition to medical procedures, tourists can take advantage of professional cosmetology services and massage sessions here.

Most of the island hotels have their own sources of thermal water, so even in the cold season, tourists who come to Ischia enjoy warm healing water in equipped thermal pools. The water in them is saturated with salts of sodium, sulfur, calcium, chlorine and potassium. Some of the island's springs are rhodon, that is, they have a high level of natural radioactivity. They have different temperatures - from +20 ºС to +90 ºС.

Climate

The island of Ischia is located in the Mediterranean zone, characterized by mild climate. Most travelers can be seen at local resorts from late April to mid-October. However, hot radon springs, mixing on the coast with sea ​​water, allow guests of the island to take comfortable baths at any time of the year.

In May, when the swimming season begins, the water in the sea warms up to a temperature of +17...+19 ºС. By the end of the month, the sea becomes even more comfortable (+20 ºС). When the swimming season on the island comes to an end, the sea water temperature reaches +22 ºС. Summer in Ischia is very hot, and the air can heat up to +40ºС, with an average temperature of +25ºС in June, +28ºС in July, and +29ºС in August. For each of the summer months, 5-7 rainy days will fall.

Winter on this Italian island is quite warm, and the thermometer rarely drops below +7 ºС. By nature, the winter months in Ischia are more like the beginning of autumn in middle lane Russia. December is considered the rainiest of the year - about half of this month it rains over the island.

Beaches

Ischia is just made for a comfortable beach holiday and windsurfing! The entire coast of this island is covered with small bays, which have beautiful sandy and pebble beaches, and between them are picturesque rocky capes. In coastal waters, you can watch the movements of several species of dolphins, sperm whales and common whales. In recent years, the number of cetaceans has been sharply reduced throughout the Mediterranean, but near the island of Ischia, dolphins are common visitors. In this regard, the coastal waters of the island are planned to be included in the marine reserve.

The largest beach in Ischia is Marina dei Maronti, which means "quiet beach" in Greek. It is located in the municipality of Barano. The beach is very beautiful and is considered one of the most popular Italian beaches among tourists. Marina dei Maronti stretches in a long sandy arc for 3 km and is protected from the coast by green hills. In addition to excellent sand, it is famous for its healing mud and thermal springs, some of which have been known since the time of the ancient Romans.

The Marina dei Maronti beach was popular with pirates. Due to the nature of the seabed, they could come directly to the shore with their ships. According to surviving legends, the pirates hid their stolen treasures in the surrounding hills.

They get to the Marina dei Maronti beach from the port of San Angelo by sea taxi or by land on buses No. 5, 10 and 11. It is also convenient to get to the beach by car along the road leading to Testaccio. In this case, travelers can use the guarded parking located near the beach.

Another beach popular with guests of Ischia is located at the foot of the Epomeo peak, near Punta Imperatore and is called Citara Beach. It is famous for its exceptionally clear waters and the proximity of the Poseidon Gardens thermal springs.

Not far from the suburbs of Ischia Ponte lies the 300-meter-long beach of Cartaromana. It is very popular with vacationers, thanks to the hot springs that go straight into the sea. Near this beach it is interesting to take unusual baths and dive.

Cartaromana beach

Resort infrastructure

Ischia has a rich tourist life. Many hotels, tourist attractions, night discos and clubs, taverns, restaurants, pizzerias, souvenir shops and small shops have been built on the island. And it's all surrounded beautiful beaches, as well as dense groves and gardens.

Administratively, the island is divided into regions: Serrara, Ischia, Forio, Barano, Lacco Ameno and Casamicciola. Forio is the largest city in Ischia. It houses the popular thermal park Poseidon Gardens. The coastline in this part of the island is heavily indented with small coves, so you can find a lot of cozy beaches for secluded relaxation.

The seaside town of Serrara is very beautiful and is located near the small fishermen's village of Sant'Angelo. Painted in various shades of pink, small houses, modern comfortable hotels, narrow streets, temples, restaurants and small boutiques attract many travelers to this part of Ischia. Moreover, there are two thermal parks near the town.

most popular thermal spa is considered a small and quiet town of Casamicciola, where a park with thermal pools "Castiglione" was created. It sprawled near the crater for a long time extinct volcano Rotaro. Casamicciola is divided into the "upper" part, in which most of the hotels are concentrated, and the "lower" or port, which is considered an excellent place for health promenades.

They go to the smallest island town - Lacco Ameno - for the sake of the Negombo park, which is spread over picturesque beach coastline in San Montano Bay. One of the attractions of this settlement is the Fungo (mushroom) tuff rock, which has become a recognizable tourist symbol of Ischia. Her image can be seen in all guidebooks around the island.

Sights of Ischia

One of the main attractions of the island is the Aragonese castle, located on an island of volcanic lava, 220 meters from the southeastern part of Ischia. Alphonse V of Aragon erected this picturesque fortress on rocky cliffs in the middle of the 15th century. However, she did not appear out of nowhere. Historians know that medieval castle preceded by earlier buildings, the first of which appeared on the island in 474 BC. The Aragonese castle served as a place of refuge for the inhabitants of Ischia during the attacks of sea pirates.

The ancient town of Forio is no less loved by the guests of the island. He is said to be one of the most charming places Ischia. Narrow streets and winding lanes still remind of the pages medieval history. The hallmark of Forio is the snow-white church of Our Lady of the Help, rising high above the sea. It is so laconic and beautiful that many rightly consider this church one of the most beautiful in Italy. The architecture of the Christian church, built in the 18th century, traces the traditions of Moorish and Greco-Byzantine architecture. And from the church square there is a panorama of the city streets and a great view of the sea coast.

In the historical center of Forio there are 12 ancient fortress towers, which at one time served as watchtowers. They were built and fortified from the 9th to the 18th centuries and had cannon armament to repel enemy attacks from the sea.

Church of Our Lady of the Help in Forio

The most famous of the towers - the round Torrione - was erected in the 80s of the XV century. It rises above the port on a high ledge of tuff. From this tower it was convenient to monitor a significant part of the sea coast. And if the ships of Turkish pirates were approaching the island, it was possible to have time to alert the military garrison of Forio in time. Today, inside this tower there is a museum, on the lower floor of which temporary exhibitions are held, and the upper floor is given over to the exhibition of works by the painter Giovanni Maltese.

This is not the only museum in Forio. In the villa "La Colombaia", which belonged to the famous director Luchino Visconti, a museum named after him has been operating for more than 10 years. Here you can see rare photographs capturing the moments of filming famous films and the personal life of the master, as well as a collection of stage costumes in which the most famous heroes of Visconti films were filmed.

In Lacco Ameno, at Villa Arbusto, interesting to visit Archaeological Museum. Its collections are highly valued by experts, as it is one of the few museums in the world that exhibits samples of ceramics from the Neolithic period to the Roman Empire. The real decoration of the museum is the ancient cup of Nestor with Greek inscriptions.

In Ischia Ponte there is a curious museum of the sea, located inside the Clock Palace (XVIII century). The collection of the Maritime Museum includes ancient compasses, navigational instruments and depth gauges, which were previously used by Italian sailors and fishermen.

island festivals

Ischia is famous as a venue for noisy and colorful holidays and festivals. On a relatively small island, there are about 70 churches and places of worship, which speaks of the ardent religiosity of the Iskitans. In island towns and fishing villages all year round there are obligatory celebrations in honor of patron saints, harvesting, religious manifestations and ceremonies.

In the spring, on the day of the celebration of Easter, thousands of inhabitants of Ischia gather for the procession of the Easter angel. In mid-June, the annual fireworks festival takes place in Lacco Ameno, and the sky lights up with bright multi-colored fireworks.

The largest and most crowded holiday is St. Anne's Day, which is celebrated on July 26. During this grandiose festival on the island of Ischia, processions, theatrical performances take place, and boats decorated with flowers are lowered into the sea.

In late September - early October, many tourists specially come to Ischia to participate in the large-scale "Wine Festival", where you can taste young wine. This fun holiday is always accompanied by dances and performances by street musicians.

On the eve of Christmas, nativity scenes appear all over the island of Ischia. Figurines depicting biblical heroes are prepared very carefully and many are real works of art. Large and small nativity scenes are made in the courtyards of houses, in public institutions and in city squares.

Vineyards on the island of Ischia

Features of the Iskitan cuisine

Island cuisine is very similar to the Neopolitan, but retains its own characteristics. In almost all restaurants here you can try deliciously cooked Iskitan rabbit. This dish is considered a traditional dish local residents during Sunday lunches. Rabbits are bred on the island itself in natural conditions.

Bread in Ischia is very fragrant, because here they prefer to bake it according to old traditions - in wood-fired ovens. Italian cuisine is inconceivable without pasta, and on the island they like to use a special sauce for it, for which they grow small round tomatoes - "piennoli", which have a pleasant sweet and sour taste.

Lunch

In Ischia, as in the entire Neopolitan region, excellent pizza is prepared. And local fishermen supply restaurants with mussels, squid, groupers, sea ​​urchins, king mackerel, tuna and octopus. When relaxing in Ischia, it is worth trying potatoes and eggs baked in the hot sands near the fumaroles and wrapped in foil, as well as delicious chicken in a bag - “pollo al cartoccio”.

The pride of the island is delicious sweets, most of which can only be tasted in Ischia. This is a rum baba with ischitan lemon liqueur, rococo, mostacciuoli, chiacchiere and pastiera. On the streets in the island towns they sell delicious crispy pastries - taralli, which are small rings woven from strips of dough, to which almonds and peppers are added.

So many restaurants, pizzerias, bars and cafes have been built on the coast of the Italian island that it is almost impossible to determine which one is the best. A common feature of all places to eat in Ischia is excellent cuisine, outdoor terraces with magnificent views of the Gulf of Naples and a real cult of coffee. This is not surprising, because this part of Italy preserves the oldest coffee roasting methods in Europe. Connoisseurs of aromatic drink will be pleasantly surprised by its excellent quality.

Connoisseurs of fine wines get no less pleasure in Ischia. The culture of Hellenic winemaking was brought to the island in 700 BC. the inhabitants who landed here Greek island Euboea. And today, rare grape varieties are cultivated in Ischia, from which famous brands of wines are then produced: Biancolella, Ischia Bianco, Forastera d’Ischia, Per’e Palummo and Ischia Rosso. One bottle of such a fragrant drink is enough to turn dinner in a coastal restaurant into a gourmet meal!

What to bring from the island

The choice of souvenirs has never been a problem for travelers visiting Ischia. The inhabitants of the island are known throughout Italy as excellent craftsmen in the manufacture of coral jewelry, as well as handicrafts made of wood and wrought iron. On the island you can buy excellent bright ceramics and majolica. The shop at the ancient Manella ceramics factory, where you can buy elegant dishes and jewelry, is distinguished by a special assortment and inexpensive prices for such products. In addition, many tourists try to take away local delicacies from the island - limoncello and rucolino liqueurs, specially packaged rum baba and bottles of fine Iskitan wine.

The production of natural cosmetics is developed on the island of Ischia, so travelers take aromatic soaps, rejuvenating masks and nourishing creams, which are made using fragrant island herbs and healing mud from thermal springs, as souvenirs.

How to get there

Ferries and speed boats run from Naples and Pozzuoli to the island of Ischia. Ferries cover a distance of 40 km in an hour. Boats from Capri and Procida also sail to Ischia. The main island ports are located in Ischia Porto, Forio and Casamicciola. Private boats usually moor at Sant'Angelo and Lacco Ameno.

The Thermal Park of Castiglione is located in picturesque bay between small towns Ischia Porto and Casamicholla. The beauty of the mountainous terrain, proud impregnable rocks complements the consonance of exotic flowers and landscape masterpieces. The waters go to the sea healing springs, which have become the unspoken center of tourism on the island.

Castiglione Park offers its guests to fully relax from the busy everyday life of a traveler, improve their health and relax, enjoying unique beauty local landscapes. Mineral water pools of different temperatures, mud baths, traditional massages from various countries, natural saunas will help you in pursuit of the beauty of your own body. No less pleasure will be given by seafood restaurants located at the pier and a walk through the sky - the funicular will send guests of the resort to air travel through the Castiglione Park.

Aragonese castle

Every traveler who goes to Ischia makes a visit to the famous fortress of Castello Aragonese a must on his itinerary.

Like any such monumental building of antiquity, the castle of Aragonese has a rich and difficult fate. Military historical events, internecine wars and incessant raids could not give peace to either the island itself, or its inhabitants, or, of course, the majestic castle. Romans, Visigoths, Vandals, pirates, Greeks, Germans - many owners proclaimed Aragonese their residence.

Today Castello Aragonese attracts tourists from all over the world. Business card island harmoniously combines the power of a military-defensive structure with naive, ambitious motives. Germanic and Norman styles also found their embodiment in the external and internal decoration of the castle. Of particular note are the unique works of the masters of the school of Giotto, whose frescoes can be seen in the castle.

And what sights of Ischia did you like? There are icons next to the photo, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.

house in the rock

The house in the rock on the island of Ischia is residential, and you can even go on a tour to see the outlandish and neat interior, as well as chat with the owner of the house.

Inside the house, the atmosphere of the ancient dwellings of the island has been completely restored. The building, carved into the rock, is located on one of the steep mountain turns, so large sightseeing buses they can't park here. Only those who are really interested in an unusual house that tells about the life of local residents can look at this attraction.

The house consists of a kitchen and three rooms, which are fully furnished, decorated with sculptures, paintings, shell crafts. The house is heated, so it is habitable.

It is worth saying that houses in the rocks are found throughout the island. Previously, such houses served as a refuge during the invasion of pirates, and today some of them are used as wine cellars and residential buildings.

In all of Italy, it is difficult to find a better place for the location of the thermal park than the island of Ischia - the abode of the pristine beauty of nature. Citrus and pine groves, unique mountain serpentine bends and quiet paths along the coast, an abundance of flowers in parks and modest mountain vegetation.

Traveling in Ischia will certainly lead you to the famous Tropical thermal park. The name opens all cards - exotic plants collected here can compete with even the most famous botanical gardens peace. You can relax and unwind in any of the eleven swimming pools of the complex, open and closed. For lovers of contrasting temperatures, Dr. Kneipe's pool with cold and hot water is provided. Jacuzzis, saunas, therapeutic mud treatments and massages will help you to establish yourself in the opinion that you need to come to Ischia more often.

The town of Ischia Porto

Ischia Porto is the main town of the six cities of the island of Ischia. Everything is arranged here for the convenience of tourists: there are cafes, restaurants, discos, shops, souvenir shops, hotels, thermal springs. All night life centered in Ischia Porto, therefore the best option for have a great holiday This is the town where you won't get bored.

Tourists from all over the world come to Ischia Porto to relax, unwind and receive treatment. For example, thanks to the local sources, skin, heart and other diseases can be cured. Also in the hotels of the city there are various programs for weight loss.

It is best to visit the city in May and June, as well as in September and October, when it is not very hot and not too crowded.

Fungo Reef

Ischia, the most big Island The Gulf of Naples is a wonderful place to relax. This picturesque piece of land with an almost ideal climate and expressive nature has many historical and natural attractions: thermal springs, historical artifacts or natural quirks. For example, Fungo Reef is one of the main attractions of the tiny town of Lacco Ameno.

Fungo is Italian for mushroom. The Neapolitan reef - a rock protruding from the sea - really resembles a mushroom. This tuff outgrowth has long served as a mooring for fishing boats. Over time, the sea level dropped, and the rock became more and more exposed, gradually acquiring more and more distinct mushroom shapes. Now from the shore it looks unusual and very attractive. Fungo gradually became a kind of symbol of the town.

There is a romantic legend associated with an extraordinary natural formation. Once upon a time, two teenagers fell in love, but their parents did not approve of this feeling. Young people decided to escape by sea, but drowned not far from the coast. The earth goddess Gaia, shocked by the story of their love, erected a tombstone in the form of an umbrella on the site of the death of teenagers. They say that lovers to this day rest under a mushroom cap, hidden from prying eyes.

Thermal Park Negombo

NEGOMBO (Lacco Ameno) - in the fabulous San Montano Bay, surrounded by lush southern nature, one of the most beautiful thermal parks of Ischia is located - Negombo Gardens with a magnificent beach with fine sand. There are 12 pools with thermal and sea water, a beauty parlor, a sauna, a Turkish bath in a natural grotto, more than 500 species of exotic Mediterranean plants. It surprisingly combines the untouched pristine beauty of this enchanting corner of the island with "interspersed" in the form of pools of bizarre shapes, sometimes reminiscent of antique containers for collecting rainwater.

Source of Sorgeto

The island of Ischia is famous for its thermal springs, some of which are used in hotels and parks. Healing hot springs with a temperature of +80 ° and above are also located in the bay of Sorgeto - there is a wild spring with free access. So that tourists do not burn themselves with hot water, baths made of boulders are specially arranged for them. The hot springs of Sorgeto Bay gushes into the sea, so tourists can swim not only in summer, but also in winter.

The composition of the source includes phosphates, sulfates, bromine, mineral salts and other substances that have a therapeutic effect on rheumatism, arthritis, gynecological diseases, metabolic disorders, skin and other diseases. Tufa stones, located on the beach and in the water itself, release thermal mud during friction, which can be used to rejuvenate the skin of the face and body.

Torrione Tower

Torrione is the main fortress tower, which was built to protect the city from Saracen raids in the 9th century. Several centuries later, the fortress was equipped with cannons and firearms.

The tower consists of two levels: the first, which had a warehouse for food, ammunition and water, and the second, which housed a garrison of 10 people with a commander. The round shape of the tower allowed the lookouts to have full review. Here was an observer who, seeing enemy ships, gave a signal to the garrison.

Now the lower floor of Torrione is equipped as a city museum, and on the upper floor of the building there is a collection of paintings by the famous artist Giovanni Maltese.

Thermal Park Poseidon Gardens

The Poseidon Gardens thermal park is located in a picturesque bay with a beautiful sandy beach and mountain landscapes overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Also near the park is the volcano Epomeo.

"Gardens of Poseidon" are truly unique and fragrant gardens with eucalyptus, pine, olive, citrus trees, in the shade of which a person connects with nature, sun and sea. Flowers also grow here, among which there are 18 pools with thermal water of various temperatures. For children in the park there are small pools with plain water, and for adults - a huge pool with sea water.

Thermal waters are composed of sulfates, mineral salts, phosphates, bromine, which are useful for the treatment of various diseases. In the grotto there is a sauna built on a hyperthermal spring in the style of ancient Roman baths.

The most popular attractions in Ischia with descriptions and photos for every taste. choose best places for visiting famous places Ischia on our site.

Individual and group

You can rent a car to move around the island. It is better to order it in advance, booking via the Internet will cost much less than ordering in the office. Prices for Europcar, for example, and the amount of the deposit can be clarified at their Moscow office. By car with a Russian international driving license, you can travel around the island, changing the place depending on your mood. Have a good day to rest sea ​​beaches in Sant'Angelo, a town in the very south. The beaches throughout Ischia are predominantly rocky and very narrow. They do not have any qualification marks of quality, but you can swim there.
By evening, you can drive to Ischia Port, Ischia Ponte or Forio, where it is more lively, many bars, shops with local souvenirs and typical products on the main streets are open until midnight.

Thermal and Spa treatments

But mostly people go to the island not to hang out, but for the sake of thermal parks, health and beauty treatments, nature, and the sea. There are dozens of thermal springs and underwater geysers on the island, around which many thermal parks are based.

One of them is the Poseidon Gardens. The park has several pools with hot and cold water, a sauna. Entrance for the whole day costs about 30 euros. For a fee, the services of a thermal beauty center are offered: various facial and body treatments (using the waters of thermal springs and local mud), massages (from 20 to 80 euros per session). Prices can be found on their website www.giardiniposeidonterme.com/ita/poseidon.swf

It is more profitable than a one-time entry to take a subscription for a week, two or three at once. The subscription price includes all springs, pools, saunas in the grotto.

In addition to Poseidon Gardens, you can visit Nitrodi with a beauty spring and 26 degrees water. These baths are located in Barano. The water from the source in Nitrodi was known to the ancient Greeks and Romans. There are also thermal showers that do not close even at night.

In Lacco Ameno there is an analogue of the Poseidon Gardens, but a slightly smaller Negombo Park.
The Baths of Castiglione are open in Casamicciola.
In Serrara Fontana (San Angelo area), the Apollo and Aphrodite thermal parks operate.
In Ischia Porto, the term "Gardens of Eden" awaits tourists.

Thermal parks differ not only in the size of the territory and the number of pools, but also in the chemical composition of the water. If the task is to simply soak up the thermal springs, then this can be done in any park.
For various types of medical procedures, it is better to study the indications and characteristics from different sources. The waters of the island help with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, skin diseases, and the musculoskeletal system.
It is better to look at the information on the site www.terme.ischia.it before the trip and consult your doctor about the treatment with water and mud.

Prices for thermal parks in Ischia are about the same (only Manzi and Mezzatorre are more expensive).
It is recommended to visit mud procedures only in the first half of the day, until 12. In the afternoon, the heat negates the entire healing effect of them.

Hotels

Almost all hotels (starting with three stars) on the west coast in Forio have their own thermal springs and pools. If you take full board, then dinner usually consists of 3 courses, while some hotels even in the morning offer you to choose what exactly you want to get for dinner.
It is better to look for a hotel right by the sea, because the road "400 meters to the beach" on the spot may turn out to be a steep path in the rocks, or along a road without a zone for pedestrians.