My husband and I are doing two Rick Steves' tours in October...Southern Italy, which ends in Naples, and Sicily, which begins in Palermo. We have three nights free between the two trips. I have heard that the island of Ischia is a short ferry ride from Naples and might be a nice place to spend that time. Rick doesn't even mention it in his Italy book, which makes me wonder why not. Does anyone have any input about Ischia? We could also stay longer in Naples, go back to Sorrento, or go over to Palermo early.
Thanks in advance for your suggestions.
Posted by
Bay Area
3551 posts
Capri is relaxing and beautiful.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thanks, I'll add it to our list of possibilities.
Posted by
NYC
490 posts
RS cannot mention everything! LOL
American's don't normally go to Ischia...this is a new thing in the last 5 years...I think online hotel sites have something to do with more awareness. It is 60% Italians, 30% Germans 10% Brits, Aussies, Russians , Nordics and North Americans...
Capri is lovely, and should not be missed, Ischia is less swanky but very BIG with four major towns and hot springs at just about every hotel, real sandy beaches that are very easy to access, as opposed to Capri which has small rocky hard to access beaches. There is a boat that takes you for brief stops in all four towns good to do!
Stay at a hotel on Ischia with a spa pool or stay in Forio the largest town and go to the beach and try Negumbo for a day, over 20 spa pools beach and Olympic sized spring water pool!
Some ferries go directly from Napoli to Forio, others go to Ischia Porto/ main port 25 minute taxi to Forio.
Posted by
Western Canada
3599 posts
Hi
I know nothing about staying on Ischia; but I can tell you that it is absolutely lovely.
We only went over on the ferry for the day, and just adored it.
Very quiet, and loved the Castle on top of the rock.
Very few tourists, and I'm sure way less busy than Capri would be.
I would definitely go back and stay a few nights next time.
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
I would spend a couple of nights on Ischia and get to Palermo the day before the tour starts.