Day trip from Naples to Ischia

Discovering the largest island in the Gulf of Naples

Do you dream of planning a day trip to the Italian island of Ischia? As it is the largest island in the Gulf of Naples, the team of Ferryhopper is here to guide you through everything, including what to do and see in Ischia in less than 24 hours!

Gather inspiration and book your ferry tickets from Naples to Ischia online on Ferryhopper!

Boats at the port of Ischia, Italy

Boats at the beautiful port of Ischia

Where is Ischia and how do I get there from Naples?

The island of Ischia is located in the northwestern part of the Gulf of Naples, in a very privileged position. Located 30 km from Capri and 10 km from Procida, Ischia is rather easy to reach by ferry from Naples, the capital of Campania.

Catching a ferry from Naples to Ischia is possible year-round. The estimated travel time ranges from 50 minutes and 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on the type of vessel and port of arrival. There are usually more than 30 daily ferries to the 3 ports of the island (Ischia Porto, Casamicciola and Forio).

The Naples - Ischia connections are operated by the ferries and hydrofoils of 4 companies: SNAV, Alilauro, Medmar and Caremar. Please note that the availability and frequency of the crossings may vary according to the day of the week.

Tip: ferries to Ischia from Naples depart from Calata Porta di Massa, while hydrofoils leave from Molo Beverello.

Why should I visit Ischia?

Ischia has a vast territory and many visitor amenities, making it an excellent travel destination regardless of the season. Here, art, history and nature offer a beautiful mix of things to do and see that cater to all tastes!

The imposing Aragonese Castle of Ischia, the colorful village of Sant'Angelo and the numerous pretty beaches on the coast are just some of the reasons to visit the island. Not to mention its famous thermal spas, trekking paths surrounded by nature and delicious cuisine.

It’s hard to discover all the hidden gems of Ischia in one day. By focusing on a few areas, however, you can get your first taste of this mesmerizing island and experience some of its highlights!

Continue reading to find out more about the one-day itinerary in Ischia designed for you.

Un tratto della costa di Ischia

A beautiful stretch of the coast of Ischia

Day trip to Ischia: top attractions and activities

To make the most of your day trip to Ischia, we recommend focusing on one area and exploring nearby natural and cultural wonders. Consider bringing your vehicle as well, as traveling in Ischia by car or motorbike is ideal for one-day excursions.

Among the countless ferry connections from Naples to Ischia, you should choose the earliest one. In 50 minutes, you will arrive at the main port of the island, Ischia Porto, where you can find major attractions nearby.

Our Ischia tour begins with the Aragonese Castle, a symbol of the island and just 2 km from the port. Instead of climbing to the top, take the elevator and save some time. Visit the whole medieval complex, have breakfast at the Caffetteria del Monastero and enjoy stunning panoramic views!

Get back on the road and continue towards the island's south, to the Maronti beach, the largest in Ischia. You can relax here for a few hours and take advantage of the many beach amenities and thermal springs.

Next, we recommend visiting the village of Sant'Angelo. On your way there, consider stopping at the Casa Museo di Serrara Fontana, an interesting testimony of the island’s ancient rock formations and artifacts.

Beautiful viewpoints and restaurants with mouth-watering delicacies are guaranteed to steal your heart during your journey. And once you arrive in Sant'Angelo, you will be awarded generously.

This picturesque fishing village is straight out of a postcard! Begin your exploration from the church of San Michele Arcangelo and continue to the small port. And if you still feel like going for a swim, the beach of Cava Grado (famous for its fumaroles) awaits you!

The village of Sant'Angelo, in the municipality of Serrara Fontana, Ischia

The charming seaside village of Sant'Angelo in Ischia

Your brief adventure in Ischia should end with a visit to Forio, where you will hop on the ferry back to Naples. This suggestive town is renowned for its Saracen Towers, beautiful churches and the characteristic alleys of its historic center.

Usually, the last ferry from Forio to Naples leaves at around 16:30, but with increased ferry frequency in the summer, you can usually find more schedules.

Useful tips for your trip to Ischia

Here are 3 tips for planning your trip to Ischia:

  1. If you plan to visit Ischia in the off-season, make sure to visit the Mortella Gardens and the Archaeological Museum of Pithecusae during your day trip.
  2. If you prefer to relax and avoid walking long distances, you should dedicate half a day to the Poseidon Gardens. This famous thermal park has 22 swimming pools, various bars, restaurants, a wellness facility, and a private beach.
  3. Naples - Ischia ferry tickets tend to sell out easily. It is advisable to book your tickets in advance and find the most convenient schedules for your trip to Ischia.

Traditional alley in the historic center of Forio, Ischia

An alley in the historic center of Forio, Ischia

See? Visiting Ischia for a day is fun, convenient and easy! Take advantage of the numerous Naples - Ischia ferry connections, compare schedules on our Map of ferries and plan your trip to the Gulf of Naples online!