Ischia Island: why Italians choose it over Capri and Amalfi.

Wonderful Italy – Ischia Island

According to The Sun: My taxi driver smiled when I told him where I was going: “AH, that’s more beautiful than Capri – and far less expensive.” His comment turned out to be quite true.

I was returning to Ischia – a charming Italian island in the Tyrrhenian Sea known for its volcanic springs and lush greenery.

This island always welcomes me with open arms. The advantage is that it is significantly more affordable than nearby Capri, where an espresso can cost around £7, and the famous (and crowded) Amalfi coast.

At this time of year, with temperatures ranging from 20-25°C, return flights from the UK cost from £42 to Naples. Then, you can take a taxi or bus from the airport to the Beverello port.

The bus fare is €1.50, and the ferry to the three main ports of the island – Ischia, Casamicciola, and Forio will cost about £29 round trip for pedestrians.

Upon arrival, I noticed the colorful buildings of the port, friends drinking coffee by the beach, and water taxis ferrying tourists to secluded beaches – this immediately brought a smile to my face.

I secured the last deal at the 3-star hotel Don Felipe, which offers a stunning view of the 15th-century Aragonese Castle. My single room cost £45.50 per night – a real find, as the hotel has a pool and friendly staff.

I was so full from the snacks, I decided to cancel my dinner reservation and ordered another spritz while marvelling at a fireworks display over the castle.

Some visitors are likely attracted to the island due to its role in Elena Ferrante's novel 'My Brilliant Friend' and as the filming location for the 1999 movie 'The Talented Mr. Ripley' starring Matt Damon and Jude Law.

Overall, this place attracts Italians from other regions looking to escape the more touristy locations. But one thing all visitors should note is the aperitif: a delightful ritual of pre-dinner drinks and snacks.

My favorite place is Ristorante Bar da Coco, at the foot of the Aragonese Castle. I paid £6 for a spritz accompanied by a whole plate of snacks.

When I felt I had eaten enough snacks, I decided to cancel my dinner reservation and order another spritz, admiring the fireworks over the castle – this is quite a popular sight on the island for saint's day celebrations.

If you fancy a meal, authentic Italian cuisine here doesn’t break the bank. I like Pizzeria di Scala, where pizza costs from £3.45 for takeaway or a little more if eaten on-site at a tiny buzzing venue.

For ice cream, my favorite spot is Ice Da Luciano, where a delicious treat costs only a few euros.

After lunch, it’s worth visiting one of the about 30 beaches, most of which have sandy shores and calm waters. Maronti Beach is one of the most popular and longest on the island, stretching 1.8 miles long. The crystal-clear water here is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

From there, be sure to visit Sant'Angelo – a lovely village with white houses and bright pink bougainvilleas at every turn. I also recommend visiting the Sorgeto hot springs.

Ischia is renowned for its volcanic activity that causes minerals to bubble up to the surface of the sea, creating an effect similar to a natural hydro-massage bath.

Every time I’ve been to Ischia, Sorgeto is my last stop before returning to the hustle and bustle of Naples. It’s the place I always dream of going back to…

While many spas offer kept pools for a fee, Sorgeto is completely free and is one of the most popular natural springs on the island. Descend the stairs down to the picturesque cove and enjoy the natural spa, where the water massages your body and alleviates pain.

Every time I visit Ischia, Sorgeto is my last stop before returning to the urban hustle of Naples. It’s a place I always dream of returning to, and it beautifully characterizes this special island – it is unique, authentic, and not overly expensive.