Ischia, Volcanic island in Gulf of Naples, Italy.
Ischia is a volcanic island in the Gulf of Naples that covers about 47 square kilometers and is dotted with small towns along its coastline. Monte Epomeo rises 789 meters (2,589 feet) above the terrain, while thermal springs emerge from the volcanic ground and thread through the landscape with steam and warm water.
Greeks founded their first settlement in the western Mediterranean here in the eighth century BC and called it Pithecusae. Romans, Normans, and the House of Aragon later controlled the island, which suffered repeated earthquakes over the centuries.
The island's pottery tradition continues in workshops where artisans shape clay and glaze it in bright colors using old methods. Visitors can watch these studios at work and buy pieces that preserve the craft heritage.
Ferries depart regularly from Naples and Pozzuoli and reach the ports in 45 to 90 minutes depending on the vessel type. The island is best visited in spring or autumn when fewer travelers are around and the weather stays pleasant.
The island contains 103 thermal springs and 69 fumarole groups that indicate the active volcanic system beneath the surface. Some of these springs emerge directly on the beach where visitors can dig in the sand and bathe in naturally heated pools.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
