Ischia is the largest, and arguably most beautiful, island in the Bay of Naples: a lush, but rocky place with low cliffs, spectacular coves, and a picturesque scattering of spa towns, elegant villa hotels, and gorgeous beaches — which some argue are more perfect than those of near neighbour, Capri. Add to that its reputation for fantastic food, thermal baths and a relaxed atmosphere, and you’re in for a good spoiling when you book a holiday in one of the best places to stay in Ischia. We have found a number of romantic, clifftop hotels overlooking private beaches, a rural retreat and a very five star spa hotel.

Ischia’s spa towns have sprouted up around volcanic springs, which are mainly on the coast — to the extent that some of the beaches even have bubbly waters — but there are a few in the rather rugged, densely growing, mountainous interior. If you’re hoping to find blissful island peace, our Gurus suggest the best places to stay on Ischia will be found on the quieter southern coastline, but if your’e looking for a livelier time look for accommodation around Porto d’Ischia and Lacco Ameno.

Ischia’s mild climate makes for a wonderful array of flora, with tropical-looking plants along the coast, and great chestnut forests in the interior. This isn’t really an island for strolling through open meadows, but if you like hiking then the island will be perfect for you. There are plenty of sights to see too, including a magnificent 15th century castle; a magical Moorish garden based on that of the Alhambra Palace; one of Italy’s oldest churches; and a collection of museums which are definitely worth a couple hours exploration. Of course, Ischia is also a wonderful place for a classic Italian beach holiday!

Just don't forget that if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Ischia during the peak summer months, you'll need to book well ahead. This island is popular with Italians and foreign travellers alike.

The Best Places to Stay on Ischia

For a Romantic Island Holiday

• The Mezzatorre Resort & Spa is the sort of hotel worthy of a special occasion: it's a glamorous villa of a building, overlooking a serenely rocky cove, and private beach. Inside the hotel’s 57 rooms and suites offer restrained beauty, with canopied beds and elegant antiques as standard. There’s also a thermal spa with healing pools, plus a beach club and pool. The excellent Mediterranean restaurant is wonderfully romantic. Chic and secluded.
• La Madonnina is a beacon of white, set atop a low cliff over a charming cove, which is the hotel’s private beach. Inside the hotel are 21 rooms and suites, simply and colourfully dressed, all featuring locally designed majolica tiles, and private balconies or terraces. All of the rooms have wonderful sea views, as do the hotel’s expansive sun terraces, solarium, and restaurant. The pool and spa are beautiful too. Childcare is available, and there are facilities for families.

For Luxury Lovers

• The Terme Manzi Hotel & Spa is an opulent choice, with 58 glamorously luxurious rooms and suites, and plenty of trimmings. If we mention mosaics in lapis lazuli and gold, marble statues, chandeliers, and ornate tile-work you might get the impression this is a fussily decorated hotel, but it’s not really, these luxurious trims are used tastefully, from the statue of Poseidon in the indoor pool, to the tiled ceiling of the elegant bar, and the gold curtains in the guest rooms. To add to the feeling of being Roman royalty, guests benefit from an onsite thermal spring, gym and spa, a library, and Mediterranean restaurant.

For an Island Retreat

• Located just outside the small fishing town of Lac Ameno, the Garden and Villas Resort is an elegant villa hotel, with spacious, beautifully designed grounds and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. The majority of the 43 rooms and suites have a balcony or terrace overlooking the fragrant grounds, and some with an outdoor hot tub too. The hotel also has a spa and gym, and a huge pool. The restaurant specialises in local cuisine, and offers a glorious buffet breakfast daily.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Villa?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Ischia doesn’t have its own airport, so the easiest way to get to the island is by hydrofoil or ferry from Naples. Making the most convenient international airport Naples Airport. From the airport it’s about 20 minutes to the ferry port, and then just under an hour by ferry.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• The holiday season on Ischia starts around Easter and runs through until mid-October. Summer, especially July and August, is the most popular time to visit, with Italian families taking advantage of the summer holidays. The prices, unfortunately, reflect that — and even the island’s buses are crowded come August. If you‘re hoping for a summer island break, but don’t need to visit during school holidays, we recommend September, which is almost as sunny and idyllic as August, but with a lot fewer visitors! If you’re interested in more than the beach, then you might want to opt for spring or autumn. Spring is mild and colourful, with plenty of sunshine — a perfect time to explore the island’s walking trails. While some hotels and restaurants close down mid-autumn, this is still a lively island out of season, with 65,000 local residents, so there’s always plenty open. And autumn is a great time to visit inexpensively.

Still not sure where to stay?

• You could expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Campania
• Or consider neighbours, like Procida or Capri
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.