Ischia porto or forio what to choose. Italy, Ischia, Ischia Porto - "One day in Ischia Porto
Despite its relatively small size, Ischia has a fairly large selection of hotels and various kinds of real estate options, which is designed for living and a comfortable stay on the island during your holidays. And these are not only objects for recreation, but also for spa treatment, since Ischia has long been known for its thermal springs with radon and sodium chloride mineral waters, as well as sulfide silt mud. Therefore, in addition to the sea, it is also a balneological resort. Ischia owes these features to its volcanic origin, the signs of which still make themselves felt in the periodic ejection of steam from its bowels, and sometimes earthquakes. For this reason, the interest of tourists to the island is even greater.
I would like to suggest some options as a place to stay in Ischia that I think you might like and be interested in.
The first to name a wonderful and luxurious five-star hotel San Montano Resort & SPA. It is located not far from the bay and the beach of the same name, in principle, like the hotel itself - San Montano. I will describe some of its features and services provided so that you have a general idea about it.
For guests, there are about a dozen room options to choose from, different in their configuration and comfort. These are from single to two-level quadruple suites. 
I will not describe all the options, as it may take some time and seem boring, I will only say that they are decorated in a classic marine style, there is a TV, a private bathroom with all toiletries, and some rooms are equipped not only with balconies, but also terraces overlooking the sea or the island itself.
From continental Italy, Ischia is separated by only seven kilometers, and about forty kilometers from it is the city of Naples. I said this because the hotel restaurant, which offers a large selection of local delicacies, national Italian dishes and Neapolitan desserts, offers a beautiful view of the Sorrento Peninsula, the city of Naples itself and the majestic volcano Vesuvius. 
I must say right away, so as not to repeat later, that breakfast and any ordered dishes, if desired, can be delivered directly to the room. In addition to the restaurant, the hotel has a bar and a snack bar, where you can taste a variety of local and imported drinks, fine Italian ice cream and light snacks. 
There are two outdoor pools and an onsen, as well as an indoor Kneipp pool (for those who are unfamiliar with what it is, I will explain, this is a knee-deep pool, where water alternates between hot and cold, which is recommended for people varicose veins) and five hot tubs overlooking San Montano Bay. In addition, the wellness center offers various types of showers and steam baths, including a Turkish bath. You can take a course of provided beauty treatments, hydrotherapy sessions, mud baths or massages. There is also a solarium. As you can see, here you can not only have a good rest, but also improve your health a little. 
For sports, there is a gym with modern equipment and the help of a professional and qualified instructor, a fitness center.
From the service provided, we can note the free delivery to the beach of San Montano, where sun loungers, umbrellas and towels await you, also completely free. 
This is a beautiful beach located in the bay of the same name, so the sea is quite calm almost all the time, and the shallow entry into the water is great for relaxing and swimming with children. As for children, I will immediately note the fact that accommodation in the hotel for all children under two years of age is provided free of charge. In addition, the hotel provides a childcare service and, if necessary, a babysitter.
Another free transfer will take you to the village of Lacco Ameno, where there are many attractions that will be interesting to visit. Speaking of transfers, I would also like to mention the free ferry transfer upon arrival and departure from the hotel.
If you want to get to know the island and its interesting places in more detail, you can contact the hotel registrar and book a tour of the island or along the coast, I assure you that there will be something to see. 
The hotel has a beauty salon and a hairdresser, which will always look perfect. Dry cleaning and laundry facilities are available. Those who wish to personally see the sights and beauties of the island can use a car rental.
The Internet on the territory of the hotel is provided free of charge, and in addition there is a photocopy and fax machine. For meetings, conferences or celebrations, there is a conference and banquet halls. 
The San Montano Resort & SPA is open all year round, so there is heating in the rooms and the hotel itself.
Here is an approximate picture of this hotel, and I almost forgot, the staff here speaks several languages, including Russian, so you will not have any difficulties with communication.
I want to say a few words about another good hotel called L "Albergo Della Regina Isabella. 
It is located right on the site of ancient ruins, Greco-Roman era, on the very coast of Lacco Ameno. There is also a wellness center and three swimming pools. In the middle of the last century, this hotel was opened by director Angelo Rizzoli. This is a very solid "five", with rooms furnished in a Mediterranean style, and some even have antique furniture. 
The hotel's Michelin-starred Indaco restaurant serves gourmet international recipes, and there is always live music in the bar. 
I will not talk about the services and procedures of the spa, since they are similar to the description of the previous hotel, I will only say what the above does not have.
There is a rich sports program as there is a tennis court, table tennis, diving and some water sports equipment.
There is also a bridal suite. Otherwise, the services provided and the service are similar to those of San Montano Resort & SPA.
The hotel staff, as in the previous case, speaks Russian. 
Here are a couple of options, out of more than two and a half hundred that are available on the island of Ischia, but the choice, of course, can only be yours, since these are not the best, but one of them. I think they are of interest to you.
You can rent a car to move around the island. It is better to order it in advance, booking via the Internet will cost much less than ordering in the office. Prices for Europcar, for example, and the amount of the deposit can be clarified at their Moscow office. By car with a Russian international driving license, you can travel around the island, changing the place depending on your mood. During the day it is good to relax on the sea beaches in Sant'Angelo, a town in the very south. The beaches throughout Ischia are predominantly rocky and very narrow. They do not have any qualification marks of quality, but you can swim there.
By evening, you can drive to Ischia Port, Ischia Ponte or Forio, where it is more lively, many bars, shops with local souvenirs and typical products on the main streets are open until midnight.
Thermal and Spa treatments
But mostly people go to the island not to hang out, but for the sake of thermal parks, health and beauty treatments, nature, and the sea. There are dozens of thermal springs and underwater geysers on the island, around which many thermal parks are based.
One of them is the Poseidon Gardens. The park has several pools with hot and cold water, a sauna. Entrance for the whole day costs about 30 euros. For a fee, the services of a thermal beauty center are offered: various facial and body treatments (using the waters of thermal springs and local mud), massages (from 20 to 80 euros per session). Prices can be found on their website www.giardiniposeidonterme.com/ita/poseidon.swf
It is more profitable than a one-time entry to take a subscription for a week, two or three at once. The subscription price includes all springs, pools, saunas in the grotto.
In addition to Poseidon Gardens, you can visit Nitrodi with a beauty spring and 26 degrees water. These baths are located in Barano. The water from the source in Nitrodi was known to the ancient Greeks and Romans. There are also thermal showers that do not close even at night.
In Lacco Ameno there is an analogue of the Poseidon Gardens, but a slightly smaller Negombo Park.
The Baths of Castiglione are open in Casamicciola.
In Serrara Fontana (San Angelo area), the Apollo and Aphrodite thermal parks operate.
In Ischia Porto, the term "Gardens of Eden" awaits tourists.
Thermal parks differ not only in the size of the territory and the number of pools, but also in the chemical composition of the water. If the task is to simply soak up the thermal springs, then this can be done in any park.
For various types of medical procedures, it is better to study the indications and characteristics from different sources. The waters of the island help with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, skin diseases, and the musculoskeletal system.
It is better to look at the information on the site www.terme.ischia.it before the trip and consult your doctor about the treatment with water and mud.
Prices for thermal parks in Ischia are about the same (only Manzi and Mezzatorre are more expensive).
It is recommended to visit mud procedures only in the first half of the day, until 12. In the afternoon, the heat negates the entire healing effect of them.
Hotels
Almost all hotels (starting with three stars) on the west coast in Forio have their own thermal springs and pools. If you take full board, then dinner usually consists of 3 courses, while some hotels even in the morning offer you to choose what exactly you want to get for dinner.
It is better to look for a hotel right by the sea, because the road "400 meters to the beach" on the spot may turn out to be a steep path in the rocks, or along a road without a zone for pedestrians.
We were in Ischia Porto only one day to visit the Aragonese castle, feel the atmosphere of the city, compare it with Forio and see if we want to stay here, being in Ischia again.
The city is noticeably larger than Forio, it is also stretched along the coast, but a rather large resort town.
This has both a plus and a minus. Plus, because the infrastructure is richer, there are more offers, there is something to do with leisure. Minus - there are also noticeably more people, there is no quiet cozy atmosphere, as in Forio.
Cozy streets, visiting public and locals:
There are fewer beaches and they are not as spacious and clean as in Forio. Those. in terms of beach holidays, Forio definitely wins.
Tourist shops - souvenirs and packaged sanctioned food on the road:
This grandmother, signora, is probably 80 years old, but she is in a blouse, in bright jewelry and clogs on such heels that I won’t wear on vacation anymore, because I want comfort, but she wants to be elegant:
Charming Iskine:
A peculiar monument (with details):
Churches and colorful old buildings:
Creative chair seats, by the way, are very comfortable:
On the horizon, the Aragonese castle is the main attraction of the island:
Near the castle, people drift on yachts and kayaks, sunbathe, swim:
The place is very beautiful!
Story:
- 474 BC e. - the first mention, the first defensive fortress was erected by Hieron I of Syracuse, an ally of Kum in the war with the Etruscans;
- XIV century - Anjou-Sicilian house builds the Maschio tower;
- XV century - the castle is connected to the island of Ischia by a bridge;
- XVIII century - the population of the island of Ischia hides from pirates in the castle, 1892 families live in the fortress.
The castle flourished in the 16th century. In those days, the Clarisse monastery, the Basilian (Greek) monastery, the residence of the (Catholic) bishop, who was in charge of the cathedral and 12 churches, and the prince (with a garrison loyal to him) were located on its territory.
Currently, the castle is a private property, open to tourists, and a popular attraction of the island.
The entrance to the castle is paid, but it's worth it, there are audio guides (I'm not sure if they are in Russian, there are definitely in English), a tour of about 2-3 hours, which will fly by unnoticed. A completely modern elevator lifts upstairs.
The view from the castle is amazing, of course.
The territory is unexpectedly large, apparently, at one time there was quite a serious infrastructure there. Such a small city on the mountain.
Rising tier by tier, you find yourself in different parts, so different in atmosphere and purpose, only the view of the city from the panoramic platforms is invariably beautiful:
A very unusual church. Absolutely simple decoration and strange pictures instead of holy faces. I haven't seen this yet.
We did not climb to the uppermost tier, we did not find the way there. Maybe I should have gone around it.
The castle had a Catholic convent and a Greek abbey. The cemetery belonged to the monastery of St. Mary Consolatsione. It was founded at the end of the 16th century and was inhabited by nuns of the Claris order (mostly daughters of aristocratic families).
The bodies of the dead nuns were placed in these devices, resembling thrones, under the hot sun, the flesh in the process of decay flowed into special containers placed under them, the rest of the nuns looked after this place, spending hours in prayer, falling ill, including incurable diseases. The ritual symbolized the perishability of the flesh and the immortality of the soul.
They ran from there. It just so happened that this was the last thing we saw in the Aragonese castle, spoiling the impression a bit. Everything about the castle.
What else is good to say? There are two beautiful parks, there are no parks in Forio.
There are a lot of restaurants, we dined everything was very tasty. The price tag seemed to me a little higher than in Forio. Siesta is like in all of Italy - everything is closed at lunchtime (inconvenient, but what can you do).
In terms of housing offers, Ischia Porto definitely wins, because there are many more, but in Forio, decent housing can be found cheaper, but there are no large hotels with good infrastructure.
In terms of location, Ischia Porto is still the capital and main port, but from Forio you can get to Negombo, Poseidon Gardens, Sorgetto, Nitrodi and other main attractions more conveniently and quickly.
Some more photos of the city:
If you want silence, a calm atmosphere and good beaches, and you also want to save a little money, it is better to stay in Forio. Forio is also more conveniently located for traveling around the island.
If you need a good expensive hotel with a great infrastructure, an evening party, or you want to travel to neighboring islands and cities (Procida, Capri, Sorento, Naples), Ischia Porto definitely wins, because. from here you can go anywhere (port and all final stops).
It is known that this island attracts, first of all, with its thermal springs. It has long been proven that hot spring waters have a huge therapeutic effect on diseases such as rheumatism and arthritis, gynecological and skin diseases, including psoriasis - more details at https://1psoriaz.ru/. Therefore, people usually go to Ischia either to improve their health, or to gain new strength, or to get rid of extra pounds. But it will be quite difficult to achieve your goal without first choosing the most suitable hotel. Firstly, not all hotels on the island offer a full range of therapeutic services. Some hotels, for example, specialize only in certain areas of wellness services, but comprehensively. Others are more general and offer more relaxation than cure. Secondly, the range of additional qualities should not be overlooked: after all, no one goes to Ischia just to heal.
There are plenty of hotels on the island. Which is quite natural: in the Gulf of Naples, Ischia is the largest of the islands, and its experience in receiving guests has more than one hundred years. Mostly the hotel complex of the resort consists of hotels, whose facades are crowned with 3 and 4 stars. In the former, the food is often better than in the latter, and the absence of one star is often reflected only in the set of additional services. However, in Ischia, almost all hotels offer an exceptionally healthy diet menu, so those who come here not to trim the lines of the figure, but in order to relax and gain new strength, should eat at local restaurants. And in choosing a hotel - focus on its territorial location. It can be located in one of the 6 regions of the island.
1. - a trading area, a port and a place from where it is easiest to get to any attraction of the island. Here hotels are somewhat more expensive than in remote areas, but the range of their services is the widest. Universal hotels predominate. But there are also specialized hotels with 3 or 4 stars on the facade.
2. Forio- the place where most of the true admirers of the island are advised to stay. It is the largest city in Ischia. It is famous for its thermal hotels far beyond the resort. Only one trend inherent in the hotel complex of this area should be taken into account: the closer the complex is located to the sea, the lower the quality of food will be in it, the less attentive the staff will be to the guests. Of course, everywhere both criteria will be at the level of their 3 or 4 stars. But if the hotel is removed from the coast for 7-10 minutes, then it will shock the guest, and the hotel is closer - it will simply be comfortable and cozy, but will not leave anything special in the memories.
3. Lacco Ameno- the opposite of Forio in size and a great alternative to its rather expensive hotels.
4. Casamicciola- an area loved by many for its beautiful park "Gardens of Castiglione". It is better to stay here for those who like to live in crowded places.
Beautiful park "Gardens of Castiglione"
5. Serrara Fontana- quite economical and beautiful area.
6. Barano- convenient area in terms of transport communication.
to his beloved commander Cornelius Cosse. Today this island is open to everyone. For two and a half thousand years, Ischia has been known as the island of eternal youth and beauty.
How to get to the island of Ischia?
The emerald island of Ischia is the pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea, bewitching with golden sand of incredible softness, beckoning into its warm thermal waters, attracting with numerous historical sights. Anyone who has ever been here comes to the island again and again, because Ischia has an amazing ability to win the hearts of even seasoned tourists.
There are various ways to get to the island, depending on how you decide to spend your holiday in Italy: whether you are going purposefully to Ischia or you want to wander around Rome or Naples first. Based on this, choose where you need tickets. To get to Ischia, as you already understood, you need to land on the mainland - in Rome or in Naples.
By plane
If you do not want to visit Rome, then you can get to the island faster from Naples - from there a boat goes to Ischia. However, it is possible that it will be possible to pick up more successful flights, nevertheless, to Rome Fiumicino Airport. In any case, decide on the dates and go to the Aviasales.ru website, where the system will automatically show you the most advantageous options for the dates you are interested in.
The most convenient way to get to the island of Ischia from the airport is to book an airport transfer. Such a solution can be very beneficial for a group of tourists of 3-4 people. To move around the island, you can order a taxi with a Russian-speaking driver. It is possible to pick up and order a transfer through the convenient Kiwitaxi service: you just need to choose where and where you need to get from. At the specified time, at the specified place, your personal driver will be waiting for you with a sign with your name.
Order a transfer.
By bus
If you landed in Naples:
Arriving by plane at Naples Capodichino airport, you should go to Beverello (from there there are ferries to Ischia) by bus line Alibus or 3S.
If you landed in Rome:
From Fiumicino Airport you need to get to the train station "Stazione Termini" (how to do this, consult the article on the Eternal City). From there, take a ticket to Naples.
By train
The most convenient and fastest way to get to Naples, if you landed in Rome, is to take the Frecciarossa Rome - Naples high-speed train (2 hours, ticket price - about 50 euros).
The main railway stations of Naples: Central station Piazza Garibaldi station Napoli Mergellina. Arriving at the Central Station, we recommend that you go to the historical center of the city, which is located 2 km from the station. You can get there by bus or tram. If you are not interested in Naples, you can immediately go to the port - buses go there every 10 minutes.
You can also get off at the Mergellina station, which is about 300 meters from the ferry.
If you want to travel by boat to reach the island, you must go to Molo Beverello, if you choose the ferry, you must go to the promenade of the port of Calata porta Massa.
By ferry (boat)
By car
For those who have rented a car (we remind you that it is easy and simple to do this with the help of the Rentalcars service) and travels by car: You need to get to the port of Pozzuoli, where the cars are loaded onto the ferry. Follow the motorway (A1), then head towards Naples and continue to the exit for Pozzuoli, at the junction with Via Campana.
Follow the signs for the port of Pozzuoli or (recommended) continue on the motorway until the "Scali Marittimi", "Napoli porto" exits.
You can leave your car in the car park at the port of Naples Beverello.
For more information on how to get to the port of Naples by car, see www.ischiamap.it .
Where to stay on the island of Ischia?
We recommend booking a trip to the island as follows. Buy tickets first. Then immediately decide on a hotel on Ischiabecause there are not so many hotels on the island and there may be problems with the availability of free rooms. You can view your options and inquire about availability at any time on Booking.com. If you have found something that suits you, do not hesitate, book before it's too late!
So, what does the hotel service of the beautiful island offer?
4 star hotels
Address: Piazza Santa Restituta, 1, Lacco Ameno, Ischia
Just a 3-minute walk from the nearest beach, Hotel La Reginella offers guests an endless array of opportunities for sports and relaxation. The hotel is located in the center of the island of Ischia and boasts a modern spa, indoor and outdoor pools, a garden and a tennis court.
The rooms offer beautiful views of Piazza di Santa Restituta or Mount Epomeo, and all have satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, a minibar and classic interiors. Some rooms have a balcony or terrace.
A breakfast of fresh fruit and homemade cakes is served each morning at the hotel. The hotel's 2 restaurants serve local and Mediterranean cuisine.
The Negombo Thermal Park is 800 meters away, while the port where ferries to Ischia land is 8 km away.
Room price - from 160 euros / day. Breakfast is included in the price.
Address: Via Maronti, 43, Barano di Ischia, Ischia
Visitor rating: 8.6 out of 10
Overlooking Maronti Beach, the largest beach in Ischia, Hotel San Giorgio Terme offers guests sunbathing on 2 terraces overlooking the bay, free parking, access to a private beach and a new wellness centre.
Rooms at the San Giorgio are air conditioned and come with satellite TV and free Wi-Fi. Some rooms offer sea views.
Guests have free access to the hotel's wellness centre, beach and artificial grass tennis courts.
The San Giorgio Terme's spa includes a spa pool, spa tub, jet bath, sauna, Turkish bath, mud baths and a wide range of wellness treatments.
San Giorgio Terme serves regional cuisine prepared with fresh, local produce.
Room price - from 140 euros / day. Breakfast is included in the price.
3 star hotels
Address: Via Enea 29, Ischia Porto, Ischia
Visitor rating: 9 out of 10
Situated right on the seafront, Hotel Rivamare offers free parking and a large sea-view terrace where breakfast is served.
The comfortable rooms at Rivamare are equipped with free Wi-Fi, and in some cases have a balcony or private terrace overlooking the sea.
Hotel Rivamare is located near the center of Ischia, a private beach; the hotel is a few hundred meters from the shops, restaurants, pubs and bars on the main street.
The harbor is within walking distance of the hotel, while just 200 meters from Rivamare you will find a bus stop with regular buses to the island's hot springs, museums and castles.
Room price - from 140 euros / day. Breakfast is included in the price.
Address: Via Fumerie 26, Forio di Ischia, Ischia
Visitor rating: 8.8 out of 10
Hotel Torre Sant'Angelo is located on a hilltop with a beautiful view of the Gulf of Sant'Angelo and the Mediterranean Sea, which you can admire even while relaxing in the pool or hot tub.
Torre Sant "Angelo is a quiet place surrounded by greenery and vineyards. You can walk to the famous Sorgeto beach and swim in the thermal waters in the hotel's private pool.
Rooms at the Torre S. Angelo are equipped with satellite TV, air conditioning and some have private balconies with sea views.
Torre Sant'Angelo staff serves breakfast on the terrace overlooking the sea. The hotel also has a bar and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
Room price - from 130 euros / day. Breakfast is included in the price.
Geographic location
The volcanic island of Ischia is located in, in the northern part of the Gulf of Naples. The area of this paradise is approximately 46 sq. km. The closest you can get to it is from Naples: the ferry ride takes about an hour.
The main city of the island bears the same name - Ischia. It, in turn, is divided into two parts: Ischia Ponte and Ischia Port. However, Forio is considered the largest city, which has preserved traces of the Saracen raids in its architecture. The smallest in terms of area is called the settlement of Lacco Ameno. Among tourists, it is popular with a mushroom-shaped reef near the sea.
Volcanoes
There are volcanoes on the island of Ischia: Monte Vezzi (395 m), Trabotti (512 m) and Epomeo (788 m). The last time they woke up was in the 14th century. Now only water vapor and hot thermal springs remind of their past vigorous activity. It is thanks to the latter that a warm holiday is possible at any time of the year. It is no wonder that the inhabitants of this ancient island have learned to create their own cosmetics and medicines that help cure diseases of the back, upper respiratory tract, neurology and skin diseases.
Story
The period of the Roman Empire is the era of development and prosperity of the island. Here arose the trading city of Aenaria. Today, valuable items have been found at the site of its foundation: bowls and dishes from Tunisia and Algeria. Constant raids in the Middle Ages forced the inhabitants of the city to make observation towers throughout the island. Before Ischia became part of a united Italy, it was in the possession of the Napoleonic family. It is known that Giuseppe Garibaldi came here to the island to improve his health with the help of thermal waters.
Transport
If you want to spend time actively, then experts recommend staying at the hotels of the bay: Casamicciola or Ischia Porto. The fact is that from here it is ideal to get to Naples, or. Regular boats ply here. There used to be a donkey trail on the island of Ischia, which is now paved and is about 36 km of good roadbed. However, it is quite narrow, so you won’t be able to ride it with a breeze.
Attractions of the island of Ischia
Archaeological Museum of Pithecusa
It will attract the attention of those who are interested in the life of people who inhabited the island many centuries ago. There are objects made of bronze, terracotta, painted vessels.
The Archaeological Museum is a treasure trove of finds. Photo by incampania.com
Aragonese castle (Castello Aragonese)
The Aragonese castle is rightfully considered the main attraction of Ischia, which is picturesquely located on a rocky island off the coast. Initially, the castle grew back in ancient times, but in the Middle Ages it was a pleasant decision to rebuild it. Since then, the Aragonese castle has been connected to the island by a causeway. It should be noted simply the huge size of the building on this small island: the total area of 543 square meters. m, height - 115 m.
Previously, there were 13 churches on the territory of the castle, but they were destroyed by the British in the 19th century. Despite its difficult history, the castle makes only a positive impression. The entrance to the fortress is approximately 11 euros.
The main attraction of the island is the Aragonese castle.
Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady
The Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady was also heavily destroyed by the British. However, parts of the beautiful chapel, which was decorated with frescoes of saints, are still preserved in it.
Luchino Visconti Museum in the summer residence of Villa La Colombaia (Museo-Fondazione La Colombaia di Luchino Visconti)
This one is dedicated to the work of the famous director, so stage costumes for films and photography are widely presented here.
Gardens of La Mortella
These are two divine hectares, on which 3 thousand species of various plants grow! The gardens were founded by the wife of composer William Waltan. The name comes from the word mortella (Neapolitan for "divine myrtle"). The garden is located at the foot of Monte Zaro. Period to visit: April to November.
Gardens of la Mortella. Photo gardenvisit.com
Ravino Gardens (Giardini Ravino)
Ravino Gardens is another place to have a good time. Exotic plants simply amaze tourists. Be careful: there are living cactus sculptures here.
Thermal waters of Ischia
As already mentioned, the thermal waters, like the network of thermal services itself, appeared due to the volcanic origin of the island. Even the ancient Romans knew a lot about the healing effect of water. However, their active development falls on the 16th century, when the study of thermal springs was carried out by the Calabrian physician Giulio Yasolino.
The water is naturally drinkable. There are also springs here that spring right into the sea and, accordingly, are open to everyone. It is known that the largest number of sources is concentrated on the island, and their composition is super saturated: mineral salts, phosphates, sulfates, biocarbonate, bromine, iron and aluminum. Needless to say, water is indispensable in the treatment of skin diseases, neurosis, arthritis, rheumatism, infertility, and metabolic disorders. For many centuries, the Nitrodi spring in the commune of Barano has been famous for its miraculous effect.
There are also saunas a la Roman baths. They are located in natural grottoes and contribute to the overall cleansing of the body. It is worth remembering the restriction: no more than three times a day for 7-8 minutes.
However, one should also remember about contraindications: thermal baths cannot be taken by people who have diseases of the cardiovascular system.
Thermal parks function on the territory of the island, which will help visitors to Ischia to enjoy and spend time to the maximum. The parks have swimming pools with different water temperatures. Experts recommend starting with cooler pools, gradually raising the temperature. It is also recommended to swim in sea water after visiting the pool.
Heavenly pleasure. Photo lastminuteischiaterme.com
"Gardens of Poseidon" (Giardini Poseidon Terme)
The largest thermal complex is considered to be the Poseidon Gardens in Chitara Bay, which, by the way, is protected. Here, 18 swimming pools are available to visitors. You can imagine the level of service and the diversity of services, since they even offer to use the pool for foot massage.
Cities of the island of Ischia
Ischia Porto and Ischia Ponte
Ischia is considered the main city of the island, which, as we already wrote, is divided into two towns: Ischia Porto and Ischia Ponte. Ischia Porto is the business as well as cultural heart of the island. The main attraction is the port, which began to function in 1853. It is surrounded by houses and cozy restaurants. Boats leave from here to Capri, to Naples, to Procida, Amalfi and Procida. The main street of the city is Via Roma Corso Vittoria Colonna, which is lined with trendy shops, gourmet cafes and restaurants. Along the coast of the city there are beaches that are completely free. Smoothly Ischia Porto passes into another glorious town - Ischia Ponte. The main attraction of this place is the Aragonese castle. The word "ponte", which this place received, is quite understandable: it was the bridge that connected the castle to the island.
Forio (Forio)
Another ancient city on the western coast of the island. It has a rich history: back in the 7th century BC. the Greeks settled here. They built the temple of Venus Chitarskaya. Forio continues to keep traces of the East (Turkish domination), the Saracens and the fierce pirate Ariardeno Barbarossa. It was to protect against the latter that the inhabitants of the city installed the Torrione fortress tower (XV century) and several more lookouts. Today, tourists come there to see the temple of the Madonna the Intercessor, created in the 16th century. Celebrities willingly rest in the city: artists, directors and writers.
Lacco Ameno (Lacco Ameno)
This resort town was in ancient times a Greek colony. In addition to clean water, tourists here celebrate the beauty of pine and citrus groves. Lacco Ameno was famous for its pottery masters, but this art has not been forgotten to this day. The excavations marked the beginning of the opening of the Archaeological Museum. A curiosity for tourists and an object of admiration is a huge mushroom - a bizarre rock. Here is one of the beautiful thermal parks of the island: Negombo Gardens. Poseidon Gardens is a 15-20 minute drive.
Weird mushroom. Photo fotoeweb.it
Casamicciola Terme
Casamicciola Terme is no different from the rest of the island's cities: there are healing springs, developed infrastructure, and, of course, a stunning view. It is located near Ischia Porto and has its own port. In the XVIII century, the Neapolitans built here the thermal center of Pio Monte dela Misericordia. During the earthquake of 1883, the city was badly damaged, so most of the objects had to be rebuilt.
Island cuisine
There is nothing surprising in the fact that it is associated with the Neapolitan. However, there are some peculiarities here, which should be mentioned. One of the popular dishes is the fragrant Iskitan rabbit (coniglio all "ischitana). Many island families traditionally cook it on Sunday. This special breed of "eared" is bred on the island in its natural environment.
Mmm... A wonderful rabbit. Photo cuboimages.it
Well, what island can do without fish? Squid, sea urchin, mussels, king mackerel, octopus, and tuna are perfectly prepared here.
As for desserts, you should try rum baba, to which ischitan lemon liqueur is added. The Iskitans are simply proud of this sweetness. They are sure that, despite the large number of rum baba recipes, they can really cook it only in Italy on this small proud island.
You can have a snack and taralli - local cookies.
The local wine is also famous outside the island. It differs from all others in its extraordinary aroma, which is created through the use of spices: rosemary, dill and marjoram. We recommend Frassitelli, Ambra and Epomeo. Naturally, you should grab a bottle of Limoncello liqueur as a gift.
on the island
June 29 you can witness a solemn procession thanking the sea for its gifts.
Feast of Saint Anne
It is celebrated annually on July 26th. For many centuries, grouse sailed to the island in boats with their wives and children. Everyone gathered at the Church of St. Anne in Cartaromana Bay. It is believed that Saint Anna patronizes pregnant women. Today, on this day, the inhabitants of the island organize competitions, picnics and a parade of boats pre-decorated with flowers.
August, 26th on the day of St. Alexander, the Iskitans traditionally arrange a procession in typical costumes.
Let us conclude that there is hardly a single tourist who would not like this island, which has managed to preserve a large number of sights and traditions. It cannot be called the "Green Island": the landscapes will not leave you indifferent, and the thermal waters will help restore health and beauty.
