Day 1: Ferry from Naples to Ischia (Forio)
The Ferry takes just over an hour, and upon arrival, your private driver will deliver you to your accommodation in Ischia and help you unload your luggage.
Guided Walking Tour of The Southern Part of Ischia
Your private driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you on a journey to discover the southernmost point of the island of Ischia.
Along the way, you will be accompanied by a private guide who will lead you on a tour starting from the picturesque village of Sant’Angelo. This charming Mediterranean village boasts colorful houses perched on a tufa ridge, overlooking the stunning, crystal-clear sea.
The village square is a popular spot for visitors, with shops and cafes lining the streets, providing a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
After strolling through the village square, we will embark on a steep path that will lead us to the top of Sant’Angelo, offering a breathtaking panoramic view. We will pass by the iconic church of San Michele Arcangelo, and after a 20-minute walk, we will reach the renowned “fumarole beach”, a beach where the sand is so hot you can even cook on it!
The walk continues as we hike uphill, and we will reach the ancient thermal baths of Cava Scura and eventually reach the Maronti beach, which is the largest beach on the island.
After visiting Maronti beach, your driver will bring you back to Sant’Angelo for lunch.
Lunch in Sant’Angelo
A lunch in Sant’Angelo on the island of Ischia is a culinary experience not to be missed. Fresh local ingredients are used to create delicious traditional dishes that showcase the flavors of the island.
The meal might start with a selection of antipasti, such as marinated anchovies, caponata, and fried zucchini flowers. The main course could be a pasta dish, such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) made with freshly caught clams from the island’s waters, or a seafood risotto made with a variety of fresh fish.
For the second course, you might be served a grilled fish such as sea bass or swordfish, caught that day by the local fisherman. The dish is usually accompanied by a side of vegetables, such as a caponata or a simple salad of tomatoes, arugula, and basil.
All the ingredients are locally sourced: the fish from the surrounding sea, the vegetables from the island’s gardens, and the fruits from the local farmers. The food is typically cooked using simple techniques to allow the freshness and quality of the ingredients to shine through.
Water Taxi Excursion To “Baia del Sorgeto”
The bay of Sorgeto offers a unique opportunity to experience natural open-air hot springs heated by underground volcanic activity. Even during the colder months, one can find people immersing themselves in the warm waters, as the temperature in the pools can reach a toasty 37 degrees.
With views of the sea and the coast, the heated waters can be found on the left, while on the opposite side, there are a series of boulders for sunbathing. Many tourists use this spot to dry the clayey sediment from the thermal baths on their skin.
Your driver will return you to Sant’Angelo in the evening.
Day 2: Guided Tour of The Forio Municipality: Discovering History & Nature!
Your day will begin with a private driver picking you up from your hotel, along with a private guide.
Your first destination will be the Archaeological Museum of Pithecusae. This museum provides an overview of the history of the island of Ischia, from prehistoric times to the Roman era. It is located on the first floor of Villa Arbusto’s main complex. Additionally, a Geological Section on the ground floor will be visited, which illustrates the impact of volcanic activity on the island and how it has affected the lives of its inhabitants.
Following the museum tour, you will visit the La Mortella Gardens, created by Susana Walton, the Argentine wife of Sir William Walton, an English composer and conductor.
Susana wanted to create an original garden in Forio d’Ischia. After the Second World War, the couple moved to Forio d’Ischia and began building the garden from scratch. Today, a foundation manages La Mortella and organizes concerts and other cultural events within the garden. The garden features an array of unique plants and flowers, and visitors can enjoy the lush greenery and the intoxicating scent of flowers during their visit.
After the tour, you will have the opportunity to stop for lunch.
In the afternoon, you will visit the Church of the Soccorso, known for its location overlooking the sea in Forio. It is one of the most well-known and recognizable churches in the area. Also known as Santa Maria della Neve, the church stands out for its white color and its unique architectural style, which combines different elements. The church was originally part of a convent, but the convent was dissolved in 1653.
To end the day, you will visit some of the most beautiful beaches in the area. You will have the opportunity to visit Chiaia beach, Citara beach, or even Cava dell Isola beach before getting back to your hotel with your private driver.
Day 3: Ischia Boat Tour
A private Ischia boat tour is a great way to explore the beautiful island of Ischia and the surrounding Gulf of Naples.
You will be able to see the island’s rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters up close, as well as visit some of its famous landmarks and hidden gems. Your private boat will be fully equipped with all the necessary safety features and staffed by an experienced captain and crew.
You will start your tour by visiting the famous Aragonese Castle, a medieval fortress built on a volcanic rock in the sea.
After that, you will make a stop at the ancient Roman ruins of Baia, where you can explore the remains of the ancient Roman resort town. As you sail along the coast, you’ll also be able to see the charming town of Ischia Ponte and take in the beautiful views of the island.
Your tour will also include a stop for lunch, and you’ll have the chance to taste some of the delicious local seafood and traditional Italian cuisine.
Finally, you will end the tour by visiting some of the most beautiful beaches in the area, like Chiaia beach, Citara beach, or even the Cava dell Isola beach, before getting back to your starting point.
Day 4: Discovering The Ischia Municipality
Today, your private driver and guide will take you to the eastern part of the island to visit the town that gives the island its name: Ischia!
You will begin with a walking tour of the town of Ischia, which is the most populous town on the island and has a thriving tourist industry. It features a large and vibrant shopping center located between Via Roma and Corso Vittorio Colonna.
You will explore the town, starting from the port, and walking through the most beautiful areas, including the Casina Reale, a residence of King Ferdinand II of Bourbon, then to the bustling Via Roma, the shopping center, and the San Pietro beach.
You will also pass by the Spiaggia dei Pescatori, the Mandra area, and finally, you will reach the village of Celsa in Ischia Ponte, where you will have a chance to see the Piazzale delle Alghe.
Day 5: Hiking On Mount Epomeo
Mount Epomeo is the highest peak on the volcanic island of Ischia, believed to be a volcanic horst. It stands at 789 meters tall, towering above the rest of the island. The mountain is covered in lush greenery, and vineyards occupy its slopes.
A hike to the summit of Mount Epomeo on Ischia typically takes about 50 minutes each way, though this can vary depending on how much time you spend taking photos or enjoying a food or drink break at one of the restaurants along the way.
Your private guide will be with you every step of the way and will adjust the pace to suit your needs and preferences.
Ferry From Forio To Naples & Airport Transfer
In the evening, your private chauffeur will take you back onto the mainland via ferry and to the airport for your next destination.
