Ischia Port is the main arrival and departure point for the Italian island of Ischia. Ferries and hydrofoils run at regular intervals to and from Naples. Before seeing the island, explore the surrounding town of Ischia Porto, named after this man-made harbor.
Stand on deck as your ferry approaches Ischia and take in the views of this scenic little port. Marvel at how the ferries squeeze through a narrow gap in the hills to get into this circular-shaped harbor. Ischia Port used to be a volcanic crater lake until the Spanish king Ferdinand II opened it up to the sea in 1854.
Slow your pace right down to “island time” once you set foot on land. Take a seat on a lovely flagstone-paved café terrace beside the water and watch as the old fishing boats and modern yachts drift in and out of the port. The traditional old buildings and leafy trees lining the port add to this authentic Italian vista.
Stroll to the grand old Parrocchia Santa Maria di Portosalvo church, which stands as a good landmark in the center of the port. You’ll recognize it by the statue of Christ out front. Turn to your right from here and head to the Tourist Information Office on Via Baldassarre Cossa to find out what is on at the time of your visit. Book yourself a scenic boat ride, sign up to go scuba diving in the Mediterranean Sea or rent a car from one of the rental offices in the port to see more of Ischia.
Find the cobblestoned path near the docks to walk to nearby English Beach and swim or snorkel in the inlet of Sant’Alessandro.
Return to the port in the evening to sip a cocktail on the water’s edge as the bustle of the port winds down. Dine on sumptuous fish pastas or try the traditional local rabbit dish.
Ischia Port is publicly accessible year-round and can easily be reached on foot, by bus, taxi and car if you are staying elsewhere on Ischia. Tourist information and toilet facilities are available. There is not a lot of signage or information in the port, so practice your Italian and ask the locals for directions.
