Ischia Day Trips: 5 Unforgettable Island Escapes

Ischia, that volcanic island sitting in the Tyrrhenian Sea, close to Naples, is, well, pretty well known as an excellent place to set up base. However, from this pretty isle, very awesome day trips await. Each offers a unique slice, very interesting slice actually, of Italian charm, nature, and culture. So, what are these day trips? They’re anything but boring. Seriously, if you want to up your vacation a bit, check out the amazing day trips from Ischia, where you get to soak in more than just its famous hot springs. What could be better?

1. Procida: Ischia’s Colorful Sibling

Just a brief ferry ride from Ischia, Procida feels, that’s true, like stepping into a postcard. What makes it special? It’s really its tiny, colorful houses clinging to the cliffs, something a bit dramatic too. Forget any, at all, perfect, tourist-trap vibes; this little island has an authentic kind of feel that is just really amazing. The island, yeah it’s small, so it makes getting around pretty doable. What to do first? Well, head, for sure, straight to Corricella, the oldest harbor on Procida. What can you do here? Walk along, surely very charming, waterfront. Check out a seafood spot or two (yum!). Or maybe you’ll, might even, spot fishermen hauling in their catches. If you are a fan of the scenery and coastlines then Procida might be a very ideal spot for your day trips from Ischia.

While you are checking this place out, venture up to Terra Murata. This old, fortified town has a lookout giving pretty fantastic views of the Gulf of Naples. So, what’s its story? It had an old prison that now, too, adds some, real, historical weight to the beautiful location. To experience a slice of the island culture, time your visit to happen during one of Procida’s religious festivals. What are these like? Often, these religious celebrations feature, very traditional music, parades, and plenty of delicious local food. It is just very cool to watch and be around the locals, you see.

2. Capri: An Island of Glamour and Grottos

Capri, more or less, screams luxury. Though it is quite near Ischia, it totally delivers a very different vibe. What makes Capri super special? Well, it’s where celebs go to kick back, plus, too, it is dripping in natural beauty. How to start your trip? Take a boat tour. This helps to get some super views of the island’s craggy coast. So, what can you hope to see? The boat glides through the shimmering Blue Grotto, also gives access to more hidden spots. Like what? Some, pretty neat swimming areas found only from the sea. It really is breathtaking and is just, totally, amazing.

When you land, maybe spend some time walking through the Piazzetta in Capri Town, also the heart of the island. Is it fun to explore? Completely! Do a bit of window shopping at stores that are home to designer names. Find a place that serves limoncello. Try this classic lemon booze as people drift by. For a change of pace from the crowds, wander over to the Gardens of Augustus. These pretty gardens feature terraces that, just too it’s almost, overlook the Faraglioni rocks. Very photo-worthy!

After that? Ride the chairlift up to Monte Solaro, the tallest place on Capri. So, what’s up there? Sweeping views that reach over the entire bay of Naples. It’s, in some respects, super magical, a memory you might keep forever. You will love taking some amazing pictures of Capri’s breath taking views from Monte Solaro.

3. Ventotene: A Roman Retreat

A bit, just a bit, further than other islands, Ventotene presents a really, actually, rich mix of history and unspoiled nature. Why go there? Well, it’s quieter. It has way less going on, so to speak, it, arguably, gives people an intimate vibe. What is one of the best spots there? Visit the remains of Villa Giulia. Where is that at? At Punta Eolo. What is the Villa like? You get a bit, definitely, of a chill while exploring these, admittedly, somewhat broken down rooms and courtyards. It is very evocative as a visitor imagines what the ancient Roman retreat used to look like. The architecture is just rather awesome to wonder about too!

Ventotene also has some amazing diving spots. What kinds of spots? Ones near old Roman fish tanks. Scuba divers and snorkelers enjoy swimming, literally swimming, among tons of, very old, sunken ruins, also some pretty amazing marine life. So, where should people hang out who want a peaceful vibe? The black sands of Cala Nave, so totally perfect! The views around there are really fantastic. Another cool place to spend time is around the little harbor. How should you chill out? Hang at a cafe, drink Italian beverages, also just observe people. Do this to truly soak in Ventotene’s, often, relaxed culture. How do Ventotenians approach tourism? They tend to value protection and, too it’s almost, make a kind of conservation of the natural vibe there.

4. Ponza: Beaches and Boat Rides

If you need beaches that, very, seriously, demand being photographed and clear waters, head for sure to Ponza. Why choose this? Very popular for those looking for beach time, but the vibes are, just pretty, quieter than, say, Capri. What to see there? The Chiaia di Luna beach is a spot hugged by a high cliff. So, what happens here? The cove does block some afternoon sun. What should someone keep in mind? Make sure to head there, right away, very early in the day if, clearly, hoping for plenty of sunlight. Or just go at anytime to simply get away from everything. I mean, as a matter of fact, you will fall for Ponza’s charming boat rides!

What to do, that being said, if a person really prefers to be off the shore a bit? There are boats around the harbor giving trips that hug the Ponza shoreline. Why do this? Very amazing opportunity for accessing hidden grottoes, cool swimming spots. As they go around the coast, the boats pass, quite literally, unique rock formations too. Ponza’s harbor has a, too, seriously chill and cool environment to chill in. What might a visitor do? Shop a bit, sample local cooking at nearby trattorias. As people stroll through the town, it’s just also very awesome to soak in the area’s island way of living. A little limoncello after dinner? As a matter of fact, might be what you seek.

5. Naples: A Burst of Urban Energy

Okay, I know, I know… Naples isn’t exactly an island escape, that is that, but the vibe and scene can feel really different. But hey, so why skip it? It presents something truly opposite to Ischia’s pace. Do you feel a burst of energy here? Almost completely! This destination shows a truly awesome cultural history of southern Italy. Naples’ historic area sits now on UNESCO lists. What to discover? Spaccanapoli, for sure. This busy street slices straight down the city. You will not soon forget the vibrant and wild atmosphere and scene here. A feast, truly, also for the senses!

What’s the deal with art lovers? They flock there to see the Naples National Archaeological Museum. Why should you stop there? You get a glimpse of ancient Roman artifacts. How is the display? Quite vast. For any, very, literally underground adventure, go on a guided walk down into the Napoli Sotterranea. Here, too it’s almost, ancient ruins mix with old tunnels under the city. What does Naples offer that totally stands out from the small islands? It has the absolute best pizza in Italy. Yes! No hyperbole. Try a super slice. Sample also classic dishes, often fried in an awesome manner, from any, literally, one of the super popular street food vendors. With that you can actually explore Naples which really has burst of energy and has it all, basically. When you get back on the boat, trust me, Naples has left some kind of imprint.