As the Italian summer tourist season peaks, seasoned travellers are increasingly bypassing the famed island of Capri for its neighbour, Ischia. Located in the Gulf of Naples and just a 50-minute ferry ride from Capri, Ischia offers a comparable Mediterranean experience with significantly fewer tourists, more reasonable prices, and a focus on local culture.
The island's main port, Ischia Porto, provides direct access to key attractions, allowing visitors to walk to San Pietro Beach, the historic Castello Aragonese, and numerous thermal spas. Efficient bus services from the port also connect to all parts of the island, facilitating easy exploration.
Shopping and Cultural Attractions Without the Crowds
While Capri is renowned for luxury boutiques, Ischia's shopping scene centres on affordable clothing from local designers, particularly along Corso Vittorio Colonna. The island also specialises in unique souvenirs, including ceramics, beauty products made with local volcanic mud and thermal waters, and the herbaceous Rucolino Amaro liqueur.
Cultural and historical sites are readily accessible. The 18th-century Baroque Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie offers free entry with no queues, featuring a distinctive yellow facade. The must-see Castello Aragonese, dating to the 5th century B.C., requires a 30-minute walk from the port and a crossing of a 720-foot stone bridge to explore its convent, church ruins, and panoramic terraces.
Natural Beauty from Gardens to Beaches
Ischia boasts Giardini La Mortella, a sprawling botanical garden considered one of the most stunning in Italy. A 30-minute bus ride from the port, it features subtropical and Mediterranean plants, water features, and a temple, often visited with few other guests.
For relaxation, San Pietro Beach—one of the island's largest—is steps from the port and offers both free public areas and paid loungers. The right bank of the port is lined with restaurants and bars perfect for al fresco dining and sunset views over the marina.
Easy Access to the Pastel Paradise of Procida
A significant advantage of Ischia is its proximity to the smaller island of Procida, just a 20-minute ferry ride away. Visitors can explore its pastel-coloured buildings, cobblestone alleys, and climb to the historic Terra Murata village for spectacular marina views. Procida's culinary highlights include spaghetti al limone at the film-featured Bar Graziella and local pastries at Capriccio Bar.
With its combination of accessible culture, natural splendour, and authentic local atmosphere, Ischia presents a compelling and less hectic alternative for travellers seeking the quintessential Italian island experience.