Things To Do
15 Best Things to Do in Ischia - Trip Advisor
Trip Advisor Top Things to do including sites, beaches and tours
The Aragonese Castle in Ischia
Castello Aragonese is one of Ischia’s most important attractions. The 15th century castle sits majestically atop an islet, accessed via the Ponte Aragonese from Ischia Ponte. Think St Michael’s Mount with bluer sea and skies! The original Angevin fortress was built in 474 BC, and was rebuilt in the 1400s by King Alfonso of Aragon. You can easily while away a morning exploring the castle inside and out. There is an entrance fee paid as the base of the compound. Wind your way up through the luscious gardens, passing the ruins of the Cattedrale dell’Assunta, destroyed under British fire in the 18th century, until you reach the main buildings of the complex. The 11th crypt with 14th century frescoes still intact and the Carcere Borbonico, a fascinating yet sombre prison, are particularly interesting.
Thermal Springs - Negombo
Ischia’s volcanic origins have sired over 100 thermal springs and given Ischia the reputation as Europe’s premier thermal destination. Over 100 hot springs bubble up from the gases that bubble away under the surface, produced by the island’s volcanic activity. There are natural thermal springs located all over the island, and spa parks where you can enjoy the thermal waters in a relaxing environment, with a host of treatments thrown in. From the scorching sands of the Fumaroles of Sant’Angelo, to the luxurious Poseidon Thermal Gardens, Ischia’s largest thermal park.
La Mortella Botanic Gardens
The Giardini La Mortella (La Mortella Botanic Gardens) in Forio, is one of the most captivating gardens you will ever visit. It’s certainly one of, if not, the biggest attraction on Ischia. The allure of La Mortella isn’t just in the beauty of the gardens; it’s the romantic history of its heritage, which visitors feel as they wander through the pastoral grounds. Once upon a time a British composer, Sir William Walton, fell in love with an Argentinian señora by the name of Susana Valeria Rosa Maria Gil Passo. They married and soon after moved to Ischia. Their love story is told through La Giardini La Mortella. Lady Walton dedicated 50 years to developing the gardens. Today they are open to the public and run by the non-profit cultural organization, Fondazione William Walton La Mortella. A trip to Ischia is not complete without exploring this Idyllic spot.