Thermal resorts
The island of Ischia, originally a volcanic island, includes on its territory one of the greatest hydrothermal riches in the world. Negombo and Giardini Poseidon are undoubtedly among the most well known.
The Negombo Thermal Resort, an extraordinary location in the heart of the Island of Ischia, was purposely conceived to unite the benefit of the thermal waters with those of entertainment. In fact, besides the 12 pools in the resort wtih thermal water and hydro massage, it's possible to undergo a true wellness program, including heliotherapy, relaxing massages, aerosol and inhalations.
In the majestic surrounding of Thermal Garden Resort Poseidon is an authentic oasis for wellness and peacefulness amongst thermal waters, lush forests, volcanic rock and the sea. The vast area of 60.000 square meters situated in the Citara Bay, hosts 22 thermal water pools. Not only that, but who loves relaxation can go to the fully equipped beach, with all the comfort like beach umbrellas and sun beds, but can also try the famous Japanese wellness path.
Beaches
The Island of Ischia is well known for its enchanting beaches by all the visitors in the world. The Maronti beach is definitely among the most appreciated ones: a wonderful turquise colored sea, 3 km long, and embraced by lush green hills. Situated in the municipality of Barano, the Maronti beach is one of the most important tourism centers of the island. In fact, its beauty and suggestive atmosphere attracts hundreds of tourists, eager to spend even a day in this piece of paradise.
Another amongst the most appreciated beaches of the island is Baia Sorgeto, in the municipality of Forio. It is considered an open thermal resort due to hot springs, minerals, and thermal vapors, which can be enjoyed simply by going to this small beach. Surrounded by rocks and cliffs (sometimes very hot) Baia Sorgeto represents a great alternative to the classical thermal resorts, for visitors who desire a unique experience, immersed in the nature of the island of Ischia.
Night clubs
At nightfall, the island of Ischia comes alive with feasts and music that give color to the streets and small villages. Young people and groups of friends staying on the island can have fun together in one of the many night clubs.The most popular area, where the night life is concentrated is the riva destra or right shoreline. At night, the area of the port, in fact, fills with tourists and visitors that desire to eat in one of the typical restaurants, listen to music, have a good drink at sunset and enjoy partying. Especially here, the night of the island lights up in bars and clubs for young people that want to enjoy themselves all night long. In fact, every night the discoteques organize events and parties to brighten up the evening, and to enjoy music, cocktails and fun surrounded by a suggestive view of the sea. Nonetheless, also young couples and families can find a pleasant spot , where to have dinner, eat an ice cream, take a walk or simply have a drink after a day on the beach.
Restaurants and local dishes
On the island of Ischia, it's possible to taste the most delicious and typical specialities in the numerous restaurants found in the various villages. In regards of local cuisine, the island of Ischia is known for many different dishes, among which are pasta with beans and clams, gnocchi Sorrentina style, and many dishes with fish like pesce all'acqua pazza and frittura di paranza (fish cooked in a spiced sauce and fried fish from the fresh catch of the day). There are many small restaurants scattered around the island and situated in strategic locations, that enable the tourists and guests to enjoy the unique and genuine atmosphere of this place. In addition to the dishes , it's possible to taste the special types of wine from the traditional wine production in Campania. To visit and to stay on the Island of Ischia, does not only give you the opportunity to taste the typical local delicacies, but also those of the region of Campania. In fact, there is no lack of pizzerias that bake delicious pizza every day, using high quality, local grown ingredients, typical for the area.
Excursions
Concerning excursions, the island of Ischia certainly offers a variety of experiences that will satisfy all expectations. Who loves trekking and walking can take the suggestive path Monte Vico in Lacco Ameno, the Fumarole del Bellomo, but also the path Bosco della Maddalena in Sant'Angelo. Walking in the nature of the island, it's possible to enjoy the extraordinary surroundings and admire the beauty from a new perspective. Instead, those who prefer boat tours can book organized excursions that visit Sorrento, Capri, Naples and the island of Procida. Furthermore, for those who love some adventure and the sea can participate in fun excursions in gulet or caique which will take you around the whole island in an extraordinary tour.
Historical sights: The Aragonese Castle and the Archeological Museum of Pithecusae
Among the historical and cultural interests of the island of Ischia, there are the Aragonese Castle and the Archeological Museum of Pithecusae in Lacco Ameno.
Situated on the eastern side of the island, the Aragonese Castle was built in 1441 by Alfonso the V of Aragon. In fact, he decided to base the construction on the remains of the stronghold from the Angevin era, that reminded him of the more renown, and important stronghold Maschio Angioino in Naples.
Given its strategic position, from 1960 on, the castle became a favorite location for the exposition of artworks of the most famous international and Italian artists. Furthermore, each year a festival of art, music and entertainment takes place.
The Archeological Museum of Pithecusae, and more precicely the buildings that are part of Villa Arbusto, was set up in 1947 by the German archeologist Georg Buchner and the Swiss volcanologist Alfred Rittmann. However, the museum was opened to visitors in the form we see it today only in the end of the 90's, hosting professors from the university of Oxford, and important personalities from the museal field in Paris. As the name indicates, the museum collects mostly the ancient remains of Pithecusae and of Greek settlements from 800 B.C.