How to get from
Naples to Ischia

Naples to Ischia

 

If you’re looking for an idyllic island escape in Italy but find Capri too overrun with tourists, look no further than Ischia. 

Ischia is just as stunning as its neighbors Capri and Procida. It’s located in the Bay of Naples, about an hour away from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Traveling from Naples to Ischia will help you feel like you’re a world away. While it is possible to take an Ischia day trip, you certainly won’t be able to take advantage of everything the island has to offer. Most people visiting the island are Italians who come to enjoy summer on the island. It’s definitely recommended you follow suit and at least plan to spend a few nights so you can partake in some of the amazing attractions there.

One of the best things you can do in Ischia is to enjoy the thermal springs. The island itself is volcanic and boasts well over 100 hot springs, each with its own therapeutic benefit. While all of the springs are unique in their own way, Negombo is probably the most beautiful. 

Of course, a trip to Ischia wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the beach. Maronti beach, Spiaggia dei Pescatori, and San Montano all come highly recommended. The beaches have powder-soft sand and beautiful backdrops, so spending a day there is a dream come true. 

If you happen to plan your trip during the summer, you can also visit Sorgeto Beach, which provides you with a unique experience of swimming in hot, bubbling spring water. The bar even serves drinks and snacks on floaties during the summer. This combines the beach, thermal spas, and aperitivo all in one spot! Is there anything better?

 

About the ride from Naples to Ischia

Even though the distance from Naples to Ischia is only 37 km (~23 miles), options for transport are minimal. The primary way people get back and forth is by ferry. There is a standard foot traffic ferry and a less commonly used car ferry. 

To get to Ischia, you’ll cruise through the Tyrrhenian Sea, and the views along the way are pretty remarkable. Get your camera ready.

Pro Tip – If the weather is nice, sit outside so you can enjoy the sea breeze and incredible views. Even though the ship’s interior is pretty nice, nothing can beat the backdrop of the Mediterranean. 

 

How to get from Naples to Ischia

The best way to get from Naples to Ischia is by ferry. The trip is about an hour and costs around US$30 per person if you go with the high-speed option. There are also cheaper choices available if you don’t mind taking a bit longer to get there.

When considering which ferry to book, it’s a good idea to compare the price and the departure schedule. Otherwise, the amenities are practically the same. 

 

Ferry

The ferry from Naples to Ischia is very convenient. There are two high-speed ferries and two slow ferries to choose from.

It’s important to note that Ischia is a high-tourist season island. Therefore, outside of peak months, it may be difficult to find transportation to the island. Also, many restaurants, hotels, and shops will be closed. 

High-speed ferries take less than an hour, and slow ferries take about an hour and 30 minutes but cost half as much.

SNAV and Alilauro are two companies that offer high-speed ferry services. With several departures per day and multiple companies making the trip, make sure you check the ferry schedule from Naples to Ischia. You want to make sure you find the right boat!

Rides with SNAV take 55 minutes and start at US$30. Amenities include AC, indoor and outdoor seating, a snack bar, and the ability to book extra luggage. You can also bring your pet or bicycle with you for a small fee.

SNAV operates from July 1st to October 31st. 

Alilauro is a crowd favorite. 

Ferries take 50 minutes and start at US$25 per person. They offer the same amenities as SNAV, but their extras, such as luggage and pet fees, are slightly less expensive. Alilauro also has a few more departure times each day.

Alilauro operates from June 8th to August 31st. You can change or cancel your ticket from Naples to Ischia up to ten days prior to departure for a 10% fee. Unfortunately, SNAV’s tickets are non-refundable, so this is important to keep in mind when booking. 

There is also a slow ferry option, which is only thirty minutes longer than the high-speed option.  

Medmar offers tickets for US$15, and Caremar has ferries for US$21 per person. It is always a good idea to double-check the ferry prices from Naples to Ischia, though, especially after all of the changes made due to Covid 19. 

 

Private Transfer from Naples Airport to Ischia

It is possible to organize a private transfer from Naples airport to Ischia. You will take the same high-speed ferry as other tourists, but you will have a private car take you to the dock once you have collected your luggage. You’ll also be able to skip the lines and have your ferry tickets delivered to you. 

Various companies offer this service starting at US$40 per person. However, be mindful that this cost only includes the transfer, so you will need to pay for your ferry ticket as well. 

Ischia Travel is a great place to start, especially if you’re traveling with a small group of people and can ride together privately. A private transfer from Naples to Ischia is a great way to save yourself the hassle of organizing your own taxi to the dock, booking or collecting your ferry tickets, and then making your way to the island. It’s a seamless way to travel if you don’t mind the additional cost.

 

Car Ferry

If you’re desperate to bring your car with you, you can take the car ferry. It requires you to stay overnight in Procida, though, so it’s only worth it if you’re positive you need your car.

Ferries leave Naples at 7 pm and depart Procida at 4:35 am the following morning. Tickets start at US$15 per person, including your car.

Once you arrive on the stunning island of Ischia, it won’t matter how you got there. You are bound to have a fantastic time relaxing at the thermal spas or soaking up the sun at the beach.